The Nikkei Average extended its gains sharply. Semiconductor-related stocks led the market, while game stocks remained weak. Ahead of developments in US markets and upcoming events, particular attention is being paid to moves centered on semiconductor stocks.
The Nikkei Average rose sharply from the previous day's close in the morning session, recovering to the ¥64,000 range and remaining there throughout the day. Gains in high-priced stocks such as Advantest and Tokyo Electron lifted the index, with buying concentrated in semiconductor-related stocks, while Konami Group, Nitto Denko and Bandai Namco Holdings fell.
Buying centered on semiconductor stocks is expected to continue in the afternoon session, while profit-taking ahead of earnings announcements and monetary policy developments is also expected to emerge. Advantest and other earnings announcements, as well as developments at the US FOMC, ECB and Bank of Japan, are drawing attention.