Asian markets kicked off 2026 with a strong performance, driven by a surge in semiconductor and AI stocks, while Bitcoin remained largely unchanged. Shanghai Biren Technology, a Chinese GPU startup, made a remarkable debut on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, with shares soaring 119% from their IPO price. The company raised HK$5.58 billion ($717 million), underscoring robust investor interest despite geopolitical challenges. In South Korea, the KOSPI index hit a record high, buoyed by gains in Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, as semiconductor exports rose significantly. Meanwhile, Taiwan's TSMC advanced on reports of its successful 2nm technology rollout. In contrast, Bitcoin saw a modest 0.3% increase, highlighting a disconnect between the booming AI sector and the stagnant cryptocurrency market.