Global Stocks Near Record Highs Amid Renewed AI Bets

Global stock markets traded near record highs on August 9, 2026, as investors bet big on artificial intelligence stocks. The MSCI All Country World Index rose 0.1% for a seventh consecutive day of gains.

The rally was fueled by renewed bets on AI stocks after a month of volatility. Asian investors led the charge, driving MSCI's Asian gauge up 0.8%. This surge tracked the Wall Street rally on Friday, which saw the S&P 500 Index reach an all-time high following soft US jobs data.

Meanwhile, oil prices continued to climb as Iran rejected talks with the US and a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz remained elusive.