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Japanese technology and semiconductor stocks rallied sharply on Thursday, driven by growing global optimism surrounding artificial intelligence and strong momentum in the AI chip sector. The surge followed impressive performances from global tech shares during Japan’s Golden Week holiday, helping push Japan’s Nikkei 225 index nearly 6% higher to a record level.
Among the top gainers was SoftBank Group Corp. (TYO:9984), whose shares jumped 18% and hit the daily upper trading limit. Investors showed renewed confidence in the Japanese conglomerate due to its strong exposure to the artificial intelligence industry through investments in OpenAI and chip designer Arm Holdings. The rally reflects increasing market enthusiasm for AI-related companies expected to benefit from the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure and services.
Japanese semiconductor stocks also posted significant gains after Advanced Micro Devices (NASDAQ:AMD) delivered stronger-than-expected earnings earlier this week. AMD highlighted that AI data centers had become its largest source of revenue and provided an upbeat outlook for future demand in the sector. The positive guidance boosted investor sentiment across global chip markets and spilled over into Japanese equities.
Renesas Electronics Corp. (TYO:6723) led gains among Japanese chipmakers, while Advantest Corp. (TYO:6857), Tokyo Electron Ltd. (TYO:8035), and Lasertec Corp. (TYO:6920) climbed between 4% and 13%. The strong rally in semiconductor stocks underscores growing confidence that AI-driven demand will continue supporting chip manufacturers and technology suppliers worldwide.
Investor sentiment also improved after signs of easing geopolitical tensions between the United States and Iran emerged. Reports that Washington paused plans to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz helped calm concerns about potential disruptions to global trade and energy markets.
The combination of AI optimism, strong global tech earnings, and easing geopolitical worries created a powerful boost for Japanese technology stocks, positioning the sector for continued investor attention in 2026.
