Global stock markets reach near record levels as geopolitical tensions ease and US tech remains strong
Global equity markets hovered near record peaks on January 16 as geopolitical tensions eased. Strong US tech earnings and shifting rate expectations followed.
Insights:
Global equity markets hovered near record peaks on January 16, 2026, as geopolitical tensions eased following a decision by donald trump to adopt a wait-and-see attitude towards IR:[IR]. This move reduced the perceived probability of immediate 
US military intervention in the Middle East. Against this backdrop, the US Dollar Index held near a six-week high of 99.28, just below Thursday's peak of 99.493, marking its highest level since early December.
US military intervention in the Middle East. Against this backdrop, the US Dollar Index held near a six-week high of 99.28, just below Thursday's peak of 99.493, marking its highest level since early December.In Asian markets, tech-heavy indexes notched all-time peaks as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company reported stellar earnings results. The Taiwan Weighted Index and the 
KR KOSPI both hit record highs, bolstered by a trade deal between 
TW and the US concluded on Thursday. This agreement, which cuts tariffs on semiconductor exports and directs investments toward the US technology industry, provided a necessary shot in the arm for the AI sector. The AI trade had been struggling on Wall Street in recent months, though the deal risks infuriating 
CN.
KR KOSPI both hit record highs, bolstered by a trade deal between TW and the US concluded on Thursday. This agreement, which cuts tariffs on semiconductor exports and directs investments toward the US technology industry, provided a necessary shot in the arm for the AI sector. The AI trade had been struggling on Wall Street in recent months, though the deal risks infuriating CN.
