Crazy rich returns lure cabbies and even kids to red-hot Asian markets

Trillions of dollars are flowing into AI’s global build-out, which relies on semiconductors and chip-making technology from a handful of Asian exporters. The worldwide surge in chip demand is swelling exports, corporate profits and the bank accounts of many investors, seemingly without end. Even after recent pullbacks, Taiwan’s main stock market has doubled in value over the past year. South Korea’s has tripled. Japan’s Nikkei has surged more than 80% over the same period—triple the returns of the S&P 500. Accelerating demand for AI-related goods has spurred investors—in Taipei, taxi drivers trade stocks mid-ride—and boosted salaries. A surefire pickup line…