Markets traded higher at midday on Wednesday as investors positioned themselves ahead of Nvidia's highly anticipated earnings report. Lower crude oil prices and easing US Treasury yields improved market sentiment, encouraging buying across semiconductor and technology stocks.

Japan:

Japan's Nikkei 225 gained around 0.6%, supported by strength in major technology shares. Advantest and Sony posted solid gains, while Tokyo Electron traded slightly lower. Investors also monitored stronger-than-expected growth in Japan's corporate services inflation.

South Korea:

The KOSPI outperformed regional peers, climbing nearly 2%. Semiconductor giants Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix led the rally as optimism surrounding the global AI chip sector boosted investor confidence.

Hong Kong:

Hong Kong equities continued their upward momentum, with the Hang Seng Index advancing 0.68% and the Hang Seng Tech Index rising over 1.5%. Technology leaders including Xiaomi, Alibaba, Tencent, and Meituan traded higher, while Innovent Biologics surged to a record high.

Taiwan:

Taiwan's TAIEX jumped more than 1.4%, driven by strong demand for semiconductor and electronics stocks. MediaTek recorded notable gains, TSMC edged higher, and Largan Precision reached a new all-time high after hitting its daily price limit.

China:

Mainland Chinese markets also moved higher, with the Shanghai Composite, Shenzhen Component Index, and ChiNext Index posting healthy gains. Financials, non-ferrous metals, and paper stocks were among the day's strongest performers.

Market Outlook

Asian equities remain supported by renewed optimism in the semiconductor sector ahead of Nvidia's earnings announcement. Investors are also benefiting from softer oil prices and lower US bond yields, both of which have improved risk appetite across regional markets.