The TAIEX, Taiwan’s benchmark stock index, climbed 1,097 points, or 2.5%, to close at 44,733 on Friday, erasing losses from the previous session, primarily supported by gains in electronic technology and technology services stocks. The broader index hit a new record high, surpassing the 44,000 level for the second time after closing at 44,257 on Wednesday, amid optimism over AI demand. A rally on Wall Street overnight also lifted sentiment, buoyed by the extended US-Iran ceasefire. Electronic technology stocks rose 2.7%, while technology services stocks surged 5.9%. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s largest contract chipmaker, which accounts for more than 40% of the market’s total value, advanced 2.6%, while Delta Electronics and Hon Hai Precision Industry climbed 2.3% and 9.0%, respectively. For the month, the index jumped 5.8%, marking its second straight monthly gain, supported by strong AI demand.