The TAIEX, Taiwan’s benchmark stock index, surged 902 points, or 2.3%, to 39,829 in Monday morning trading, as optimism over the development of AI infrastructure continued to drive the index higher. The broader index hit a record high for the second straight session after briefly touching the 40,000 level at the start of trading. Sentiment was also lifted by fresh data showing that the country’s consumer confidence improved in April, albeit marginally. Contract chipmaker Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), which accounts for more than 40% of total market capitalization, remained the main driver of the index and surged 6.2%. Traders largely shrugged off failed U.S.-Iran ceasefire talks and continued to maintain momentum. Electronic technology and technology services stocks led the gains, with SynPower soaring 10%, Nanya Technology Corp jumping 9.2%, and Macronix International surging 8.7%.