Japan's Mixed Trade Data, AI Sector's Strong Momentum, Geopolitical Tensions Rise

1. Japan's trade data indicated exports grew better than anticipated, but the trade balance recorded a larger deficit than expected.
2. Super Micro Computer reported a record backlog of over $60 billion in AI orders for Q4 FY2026, despite revenues projected at the lower end of guidance.
3. Geopolitical tensions escalated as Kuwaiti military intercepted Iranian drones, with Iran warning the U.S. of war expansion if its nuclear sites are attacked.