Asian markets opened the new trading week with a sharp divide on Monday, as technology shares powered strong gains in Japan and South Korea while Chinese and Hong Kong equities struggled. Investors are balancing optimism over global growth against higher oil prices and renewed expectations that US interest rates could rise.
Tokyo and Seoul lead the advance
Japan’s Nikkei 225 opened around 0.9% higher before accelerating, with the index gaining roughly 2% during the morning session. Technology and semiconductor-related companies were among the strongest performers as investors followed renewed enthusiasm for artificial intelligence and chip demand.
South Korea delivered an even stronger opening. The Kospi jumped about 3.3% at the start of trading, driven by major semiconductor companies. Samsung Electronics gained around 4.5%, while SK Hynix advanced more than 6% as investors continued to position themselves for expanding global AI infrastructure investment.
China and Hong Kong more cautious
The picture was weaker in Greater China. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng opened almost unchanged at 25,652 before quickly turning lower, while the Hang Seng Tech Index began the session down around 0.3%.
Mainland Chinese shares initially performed better. The Shanghai Composite opened approximately 0.3% higher, while Shenzhen gained around 0.7% and the technology-heavy ChiNext advanced more than 1%.
Oil and interest rates remain the risk
Energy markets are adding another layer of uncertainty. Brent crude traded above $96 a barrel on Monday following escalating tensions between the United States and Iran around the Gulf and Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices had already risen almost 10% during the previous week.
At the same time, stronger-than-expected US employment figures have increased speculation that the Federal Reserve could raise interest rates again. Markets are now focused on Friday’s US inflation figures, which could materially influence expectations ahead of the Federal Reserve’s 16 September meeting.
A technology-driven start to the week
The broader Asian picture therefore remains constructive but uneven. MSCI’s broadest Asia-Pacific index outside Japan gained around 0.9%, with the powerful semiconductor rally offsetting caution elsewhere.
Monday’s opening suggests technology remains Asia’s strongest market driver, but oil prices, inflation and interest-rate expectations could determine whether the early gains survive through the week.
Newshub Editorial in Asia – 7 September 2026
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