Chip Crisis Unfolds: How Markets Are Responding

Global markets were shaken by the U.S. Consumer Price Index report, which showed a softer-than-expected 3.5% annual inflation rate, below economists' 3.8% forecast. This eased pressure on the Fed's rate-hike plans, though markets remain positioned for a 25-basis-point hike later in 2026. IBM's AI infrastructure shift sent shockwaves through the semiconductor sector, with memory makers SK Hynix and Micron surging 20%. Meanwhile, Wall Street's Q2 reports revealed a 15% boost in banking profits, reinforcing market optimism. Brent crude prices climbed 5% amid renewed tensions between the U.S. and Iran. The Dow Jones %0.3, S&P 500 %0.4, and Nasdaq %0.9 rallies closed the session, though IBM shares plunged 25% amid AI infrastructure concerns.

In this volatile landscape, the surge in AI-driven chip demand could further strain supply chains, with memory chips—critical for data centers—potentially raising operational costs in 2026's second half.