Japanese Stocks Remain Strong Despite Global Tensions
The Nikkei 225 rose 1.26% to close at 38,311 while the broader Topix index gained 0.75% to 2,777 on Monday, reversing losses from the previous session as investors appeared to downplay rising geopolitical risks in the Middle East. Clashes between Israel and Iran continued over the weekend, with both sides targeting energy infrastructure and pushing up oil prices.
Local equities also benefited from a weaker yen that boosted the profit outlook for Japan’s export-heavy industries. Meanwhile, investors’ focus shifted to the Bank of Japan’s upcoming policy meeting. The central bank is widely expected to leave interest rates unchanged as it assesses the potential inflationary impact of rising oil prices and awaits further clarity on U.S. trade and tariff developments. Notable gainers included Advantest (+9.6%), Metaplanet (+25.6%), Disco (+4.3%), Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (+2%) and IHI Corp (3.5%).
Source: Trading Economics