Nikkei Rises 0.8% as Technology Leads Rally
Japanese stocks rose in early trading on hopes of easing US-China trade tensions ahead of next week's summit. The Nikkei index rose 0.8% to 49,021.37, signaling positive sentiment across the market.
The gains were led by the technology and electronics sectors. SoftBank Group rose 3.2%, and chip test equipment manufacturer Advantest gained 2.3%, driven by optimism about semiconductor demand and a robust AI ecosystem.
In the forex market, USD/JPY was at 152.52 (from 152.43 at the close in Tokyo on Thursday). A weaker yen typically supports Japanese exporters, boosting export-based stocks.
In addition to the US-China trade issue, market participants are also awaiting details of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's economic policy package. If the measures are pro-growth, risk appetite could continue; conversely, surprises from global inflation data or yield movements could dampen the rally. (asd)
Source: Newsmaker.id