Asian stock markets experienced modest gains, with Japan's Nikkei extending its record streak driven by a weaker yen and reports of a snap election. South Korea's stocks also saw a slight increase. In contrast, US equities dipped, with the S&P 500 falling from its peak as JPMorgan's earnings missed expectations. US inflation data reinforced the likelihood of the Federal Reserve pausing interest rate cuts, while traders await a potential Supreme Court ruling on President Trump's tariffs.