Asian Stocks Rise on AI and Trade Talks, Oil Falls as Supply Worries Ease

Asian stocks and U.S. equity futures rose as technology shares benefited from continued artificial-intelligence investment and optimism surrounding upcoming talks between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. U.S. and Chinese officials described preliminary discussions as productive and agreed to establish an AI dialogue, though analysts said markets were likely seeking an extension of the trade truce rather than a comprehensive agreement. Oil prices fell for a fourth session toward $100 a barrel as concerns about Saudi supply disruptions eased, reducing some inflation pressure despite ongoing risks from the Middle East conflict. Trading was subdued with Japanese markets closed for a holiday, while the yen remained vulnerable to possible intervention and elevated bond yields reflected expectations for further central-bank tightening. The improved sentiment remains fragile because of high borrowing costs, geopolitical tensions, heavy AI spending and the possibility that trade or energy disruptions could intensify.