Headline: Markets Roundup: Asia Rises on U.S. Optimism as AI Power Needs Lift Energy Storage
Global equities opened the week with a firmer tone as signs of progress on a U.S. government funding deal buoyed risk appetite. Hong Kong’s technology names led gains across Asia, while Japan’s market lagged after weakness in SoftBank weighed on sentiment. In the U.S., the Dow Jones Industrial Average notched a fresh record, even as investors reassessed risks in high-flying artificial intelligence shares.
Across sectors, energy and commodities were back in focus. Artificial intelligence data centers continue to drive a rapid build-out of U.S. battery energy storage, with forecasts pointing to roughly 40% growth in global demand by 2026, a shift that could challenge Chinese export momentum in related hardware. The International Energy Agency raised its long-term oil demand outlook, projecting growth through 2050 as energy security takes precedence over climate goals. Meanwhile, China’s record soybean buying spree has produced a supply overhang—stockpiles near 10.3 million tons and negative crush margins are curbing hopes for a rebound in U.S. agricultural exports despite an easing in trade tensions.
In corporate and funding news, REG reported a 7.5% increase in funds from operations to $1.15, topping estimates, though the stock slipped 3.1% as investors locked in gains; analyst targets still imply double-digit upside. In Europe, AI application startups are attracting substantial U.S. investor capital, with some scaling to $100 million in annual recurring revenue within just a few years. Even so, bubble concerns linger across the AI trade, underscored by SoftBank’s sale of a multibillion-dollar stake in Nvidia, which contrasted with a 0.4% rise in Japan’s Nikkei and fresh records on Wall Street.
Key Points – Asia stocks advanced on signs a U.S. shutdown may be averted; Hong Kong tech outperformed, while Japan lagged on SoftBank weakness. – Dow Jones hit a new record amid ongoing debate over AI stock valuations. – AI data centers are accelerating U.S. battery storage buildouts; global demand could grow about 40% by 2026, with risks for Chinese exporters. – IEA lifted its long-term oil demand outlook, projecting growth through 2050 as energy security priorities rise. – China’s soybean imports have created a glut, with stockpiles around 10.3 million tons and negative margins, denting U.S. export hopes. – REG’s FFO rose 7.5% to $1.15, beating estimates; shares fell 3.1% even as analysts see roughly 12% upside. – European AI apps are drawing strong U.S. funding support, with some reaching $100 million ARR in a few years.
