Markets Climb: Nikkei Hits 59,000, Wall Street Gains Continue & AI Momentum Strengthens
Daily Market Update | 26 February 2026
Global markets extended gains as strong momentum in technology stocks and easing AI concerns lifted investor sentiment. Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions, tariff developments, and central bank signals continue to shape the broader economic outlook.
1. Japan’s Nikkei Crosses 59,000 for the First Time
Japan’s Nikkei 225 surged 1.1% to a record 59,199.31, extending its winning streak to a third session, driven by the “Takaichi trade.” The broader Topix rose 1.45%, also hitting a new peak. Gains were supported by dovish central bank board appointments aligned with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s policy stance, boosting investor confidence across Japanese equities.
2. S&P 500 and Dow Extend Gains Led by Nvidia
U.S. markets rose again on Wednesday, with the S&P 500 gaining 0.81% to 6,946.13 and the Nasdaq climbing 1.26% to 23,152.08. The Dow added 307.65 points to close at 49,482.15. Nvidia rose 1.4% ahead of earnings, while investors reassessed valuations amid rising AI investment expectations.
3. Gold Holds Above $5,180 on Geopolitical Tensions
Gold remained steady above $5,180 per ounce, hovering near a four-week high as investors monitored Middle East tensions and evolving U.S. trade policies. Tariff plans to increase rates to 15% and ongoing Iran-related developments continued to support safe-haven demand.
4. Oil Rebounds Toward $66 Amid Supply Concerns
WTI crude oil rose toward $66 per barrel, snapping a three-day losing streak as markets focused on U.S.-Iran nuclear talks. However, gains were capped by a sharp 16-million-barrel rise in U.S. crude inventories, the largest increase since February 2023.
5. Tariff Uncertainty Persists Despite Trump’s Assurance
President Trump defended his tariff strategy despite a Supreme Court ruling limiting his authority. A new 10% tariff under the Trade Act of 1974 has already taken effect, though global partners remain uncertain about long-term trade stability.
6. China Consumer Spending Shows Gradual Recovery
China’s Lunar New Year spending data संकेत a steady recovery, with record travel activity and rising demand for experiences. The trend suggests current stimulus measures may be sufficient, reducing the need for large-scale economic support.
7. South Korea Holds Rates, Signals Policy Pause
South Korea’s central bank kept rates unchanged at 2.50%, signaling an extended pause as inflation stabilizes and export growth strengthens. Most policymakers expect no change in rates over the next six months.
8. CIA Makes Rare Public Call for Informants in Iran
The CIA issued an unusual public appeal in Farsi, inviting Iranians to share intelligence. The move signals intensified U.S. efforts to gather information amid rising geopolitical tensions with Iran.
9. Nvidia Earnings Beat Driven by AI Boom
Nvidia reported strong earnings with revenue surging 73%, driven by a 75% jump in data center sales. The company projected first-quarter revenue of $78 billion, exceeding expectations and reinforcing AI-driven growth momentum.
10. Salesforce Drops Despite Strong Results and Buyback Plan
Salesforce shares fell 5% after issuing mixed guidance, despite strong revenue growth. The company announced a massive $50 billion share buyback program as part of its long-term strategy.
11. OpenAI Hires Top AI Talent from Meta
OpenAI hired AI researcher Ruoming Pang from Meta, strengthening its position in next-generation AI model development. The move highlights intensifying competition for top AI talent across major tech firms.
12. Snowflake Forecast Disappoints Despite AI Demand
Snowflake projected strong long-term revenue growth driven by AI demand, but its outlook failed to impress investors. Shares dipped as concerns persist over AI potentially reducing reliance on traditional software solutions.
