The Nikkei continued to rise, while defense-related stocks were bought against the backdrop of the FOMC’s interest-rate outlook. The megabanks’ shift in stance became a key focus, and Sanrio announced its first appearance at Tokyo Game Show.
The Nikkei Stock Average continued to rise, with buying leading the market as investors focused on short-term interest-rate trends against the backdrop of movements in the US market on the 16th and the FOMC’s rate-hike decision. By sector, most Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market sectors rose, and high-dividend stocks were also actively traded.
The megabanks’ shift in stance attracted market attention as a factor driving defense-related stocks higher. Reports that defense spending would be increased as a percentage of GDP were also viewed as a positive catalyst, broadening gains among related stocks.
In addition to the Nikkei’s performance, Sanrio formally announced that it will exhibit at Tokyo Game Show 2026. The company plans to showcase mainly new titles under its own game brand, “Sanrio Games,” prompting increased activity in related stocks.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Shibaura Machine and Sanrio attracted market attention among the stocks covered today. Reports that an activist investor had increased its stake in Shibaura Machine have put the company’s future developments under close scrutiny.
Across the market, movements in growth stocks and IT-related shares, as well as the Nikkei, provided support. Investors are watching the market outlook and developments related to companies’ interim earnings.