Hong Kong-based Kuark Capital is preparing to launch a new hedge fund focused on Asian technology and artificial intelligence equities after securing at least $400m in early commitments, according to a report by Reuters.
The report cites unnamed people familiar with the matter as highlighting that the fund, led by Taiwanese investor Kyle Su, is expected to target opportunities across key Asian markets including Taiwan and Japan, as global allocators increasingly seek exposure to the region’s AI-driven supply chain and semiconductor ecosystem.
The launch comes amid a strong rally in Asian technology equities, with markets across China, South Korea and Taiwan benefiting from renewed investor enthusiasm for artificial intelligence themes. The region’s dominance in chip manufacturing, packaging and related hardware has positioned it as a central hub in the global AI investment cycle.
Industry data indicates Asia-focused equity long-short hedge funds have outperformed global peers in the early part of the year, supported in part by concentrated exposure to semiconductor names and related technology leaders.
Kuark Capital plans to deploy a low-net equity long-short strategy, combining long positions in companies expected to benefit from structural AI growth with short positions designed to hedge downside risk and reduce overall market exposure. The approach has gained traction among hedge funds in recent years as volatility and macro uncertainty have increased the importance of risk management and capital preservation.
Su previously managed an approximately $1bn equity portfolio at Hong Kong-based Kadensa Capital, where he spent nearly a decade focused on Asian markets, according to investor materials. Kuark’s strategy highlights its emphasis on local sourcing of investment ideas, particularly in Taiwan and Japan, as well as Su’s engineering background as a differentiating edge in identifying technology-driven opportunities.
The firm has also brought on experienced portfolio manager Hiro Ikeda as head of research. Ikeda, who has worked at firms including Fidelity and T Rowe Price, previously ran a low-net mandate at Optimas Capital in Hong Kong, further reinforcing Kuark’s focus on disciplined, hedged equity strategies.
