The Nikkei extended its gains in Japan's market on the 18th, with buying of AI-related stocks leading the advance. A rebound in U.S. technology stocks, against a backdrop of lower oil prices and falling long-term yields, spread to Japanese equities, while the yen traded in the low ¥156 range ahead of the Bank of Japan's policy decision.
The Nikkei extended its gains. Momentum in technology stocks has driven the broader market higher.
Lower oil prices and falling long-term yields supported a risk-on stance across the market, while upbeat sentiment in U.S. stocks spread buying to Japanese equities.
Buying of AI-related stocks has been cited as a factor driving the market. Major indices are holding the previous day's highs.
The yen traded in the low ¥156 range ahead of the Bank of Japan's monetary policy decision.