Asian stock markets experienced gains following a record-setting performance by US tech shares, which were driven by strong corporate earnings and optimism surrounding artificial intelligence investments. The Nasdaq 100 futures rose 0.5% after Cisco Systems Inc. reported an 18% surge in its shares during extended trading. Chinese equities are poised for a 1% increase, reaching their highest levels since 2021, as attention shifts to the upcoming summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. Despite these positive developments, inflation concerns are mounting, with US wholesale inflation rising 6% year-on-year, the fastest pace since 2022, prompting speculation about potential interest rate hikes by the Federal Reserve. The Senate also confirmed Kevin Warsh as the new Fed chair, marking a significant leadership transition. Analysts remain optimistic about the resilience of US equities, with expectations that the S&P 500 could reach 8,300 in the next year, up from its current level of 7,444.