Amid growing expectations of a Bank of Japan rate hike and heightened concern over the situation in the Middle East, the Nikkei 225 fell sharply, closing ¥1,889 lower than the previous day at ¥64,325. The decline briefly approached ¥2,000 in the afternoon. The rise in long-term interest rates into the 3% range also had an impact.
The Nikkei 225 fell sharply on the 2nd, closing ¥1,889 lower than the previous day at ¥64,325. The decline accelerated after trading began, and the loss briefly approached ¥2,000 in the afternoon.
In addition to long-term interest rates rising into the 3% range, heightened concern over the situation in the Middle East and rising crude oil futures prices were also said to have affected the market.
Market participants said it would be necessary to assess the market on the assumption that the situation in the Middle East will persist and that interest rates will remain high.