The Shanghai Composite edged up 0.1% to around 4,135, while the Shenzhen Component climbed 0.4% to 14,220 on Thursday, as mainland equities extended this week’s gains, led by technology and artificial intelligence firms. The momentum followed Chinese Premier Li Qiang’s call on Wednesday for a comprehensive push in technological innovation and AI applications, urging breakthroughs across the entire AI industry chain to unlock the sector’s potential. AI start-up Zhipu AI surged nearly 20% after unveiling its latest AI model. Other notable gainers included Suzhou TFC Optical (+8.9%), Wangsu Science & Technology (+6.3%), Leo Group (+5.8%) and BlueFocus Intelligent (+2.5%). Separately, reports indicate that ByteDance is developing its own AI chip, adding to optimism around the country’s growing AI ecosystem.
