Russell 2000 Index & Advantest

Russell 2000 Index: The Russell 2000 Index touched intraday record highs, indicating a broad market rally.

Advantest: Shares for chip testing equipment maker Advantest gained, benefiting from the overall surge in AI-related technology stocks.

Russell 2000 Index: The Russell 2000 index of smaller U.S. stocks jumped significantly, benefiting more from lower bond yields than larger rivals, as smaller companies often rely more on borrowing for growth.

Advantest: Advantest gained, contributing to the Nikkei 225's gains, as a testing equipment maker benefiting from the AI boom.

Russell 2000 Index: The Russell 2000 index of smaller U.S. stocks fell more than the broader market, as higher interest rates disproportionately affect smaller companies' borrowing costs. Its decline highlights the vulnerability of smaller firms to rising yields.

Advantest: Advantest's shares jumped, supporting the overall rise in the Japanese stock market, fueled by the AI demand.