The Nikkei 225 opened up for a fourth straight session. T. Hasegawa's share buyback announcement prompted a reaction in its stock, while Mitsubishi Materials' higher full-year forecasts and Fuji Pream's return to first-half profitability drew market attention.
The Nikkei 225 opened higher for a fourth straight session and rose for a time against the backdrop of movements in U.S. markets, but subsequently lacked direction. By sector, chemicals, construction and metal products rose, while services, pulp and paper, and transportation equipment declined.
T. Hasegawa announced a share buyback. The maximum acquisition is 1.3 million shares and ¥3.5 billion, with the acquisition period running from 12 November 2026 to 30 September 2027. The shares acquired are expected to represent up to 3.2% of total shares outstanding. All acquired treasury shares are scheduled to be cancelled, with the cancellation date set for 29 October 2027.
Mitsubishi Materials raised its full-year earnings outlook. Sales are projected at ¥2.45 trillion and operating profit at ¥165 billion. First-half results benefited from optimisation of selling prices for cement-related products, increased sales of semiconductor-related products and higher metal prices.
Fuji Pream announced a return to operating profitability in the first half, sending the stock sharply higher for a second straight session. It posted first-half operating profit of ¥217 million and maintained its full-year consolidated operating profit forecast at ¥454 million. The results benefited from the development of high-value-added products and increased orders for display mass-production projects.