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Asian equity markets experienced a significant rally led by the semiconductor sector, fueled by Nvidia's optimistic revenue guidance regarding sustained AI demand. According to reports, South Korea's KOSPI index surged by more than 7% as labor strike threats at Samsung Electronics eased, securing vital supply chains. These developments collectively bolstered investor appetite for large-cap technology stocks across the region.
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Sign InThis sector-specific rally occurred despite mixed regional economic signals, as China's industrial production grew by 4.1% year-on-year on May 18, 2026, missing the 5.9% forecast per market data. While Chinese retail sales growth slowed to 0.2%, the momentum in the chip sector outweighed broader macroeconomic concerns, supported by the ongoing surge in cloud infrastructure spending highlighted in recent industry earnings calls.
Regarding price action, Samsung Electronics (005930) maintained its upward trajectory as supply chain risks dissipated. Investors are now looking toward upcoming catalysts, including U.S. Retail Sales data scheduled for May 14 per the economic calendar, and several Federal Reserve speeches which may influence global liquidity and the valuation of high-growth technology assets in Asian markets.