With Japanese equities continuing to edge higher, buying spread across the Tokyo market, led by AI- and semiconductor-related stocks and bank shares, drawing investor attention to strong-performing companies. Next week, market participants are expected to closely monitor the impact of the Bank of Japan's Tankan survey and the US jobs report.
In the US stock market on 24 September, the Dow fell for a third straight day, while the Nasdaq ended slightly higher. Against this backdrop, buying was dominant across a broad range of stocks in the Tokyo market the following day, led by major AI- and semiconductor-related stocks and bank shares. The Nikkei average rose sharply to close at ¥66,364.20, marking a fifth consecutive gain and recovering to the ¥66,000 level.
Market participants said they believed highly growth-oriented stocks in areas such as AI, semiconductors and financials would support the market. While the specific stocks and individual trends depend on the main article, interest overall increased in strong-performing companies entering a growth cycle.
Looking ahead to next week, buying confidence among market participants may spread, although caution over profit-taking remains, leaving prospects for a steady, uninterrupted rise limited. The Nikkei average is expected to trade in a range of ¥64,500 to ¥67,500, with the Bank of Japan's September Tankan survey and the US employment report expected to be key factors.
A move to test the ¥70,000 level toward year-end is also anticipated, although specific stocks and timing are expected to vary depending on market conditions.