---
title: "Nasdaq Jumps 1.00% as Asian Markets Buoyed by Chinese AI Rally"
canonical_url: https://www.stockexpertai.com/journal/2026-01-12/nasdaq-jumps-100-as-asian-markets-buoyed-by-chinese-ai-rally
last_updated: 2026-01-12T12:06:46.255Z
section: "Global Briefing"
author: "Reese Nakamura"
publisher: Stock Expert AI
content_type: journal-article
---

# Nasdaq Jumps 1.00% as Asian Markets Buoyed by Chinese AI Rally

## The Take
- Monitor global AI developments and potential Fed policy shifts, as these factors may influence portfolio allocations and risk management strategies.

_Tech leads U.S. markets higher following positive sentiment from Asia; BBVA seeks to offload sour mortgages._

The global macro picture is shifting. Asian markets closed on a positive note, fueled by a rally in Chinese AI stocks, which carried over into U.S. trading. The QQQ led the charge, gaining 1.00% to reach $626.70. The SPY also advanced, up 0.66% to $694.07, while the DIA saw a more modest increase of 0.51% to $495.02. The IWM also participated in the rally, climbing 0.76% to $260.23.

European financial institutions are also making headlines. BBVA SA is reportedly seeking to sell roughly €380 million in non-performing mortgages, a move that reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen balance sheets amidst an uncertain economic outlook. This comes as investors globally weigh the implications of potential shifts in Federal Reserve policy and their impact on the dollar and U.S. equities. 

Concerns surrounding Federal Reserve independence are also bubbling to the surface, potentially weighing negatively on U.S. assets, according to some analysts. A weaker dollar, however, could provide a boost to other markets by easing financial conditions globally. The traditional 60/40 portfolio is also under scrutiny, with investors re-evaluating asset allocations in light of recent inflation and treasury market volatility. 

Geopolitical tensions and legal challenges against the Federal Reserve are contributing to overall market volatility. Bitcoin, in particular, has seen increased price swings amid these uncertainties. Investors are closely watching upcoming inflation data for further clues about the future path of monetary policy. Macro regimes don't change overnight—but when they do, it matters.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Why did the Nasdaq increase today?
The Nasdaq rose due to positive sentiment from Asian markets, particularly a rally in Chinese AI stocks. This positive momentum carried over into U.S. trading, boosting tech-heavy indexes like the QQQ.

### What is BBVA doing with its mortgages?
BBVA is seeking to sell approximately €380 million in non-performing mortgages. This move reflects the bank's efforts to strengthen its balance sheet amidst an uncertain economic outlook and potential shifts in global financial conditions.

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_AI-generated under human editorial supervision. Educational research, not financial advice._