The Nikkei 225 was sold off at the start of the week, led by AI-related and semiconductor stocks, closing at ¥64,916, down ¥407 from the previous day. The decline briefly exceeded ¥1,400 at the start of trading, and the index fell into the ¥63,000 range during the day.
The Nikkei 225 was sold off at the start of the week, led by AI-related and semiconductor stocks, and closed on the 19th at ¥64,916, down ¥407 from the previous Friday. The index at one point fell by more than ¥1,400, prompting a heightened sense of caution across the market.
During trading hours, the Nikkei 225 briefly fell into the ¥63,000 range, reaching a level not seen since 17 September. Some observers pointed to the possibility that the market correction following the previous day's sharp decline was continuing.
Market participants said concerns over the massive investments being made by AI-related companies remained a factor behind last week's steep decline, while developments in Europe and the United States and fluctuations in crude oil prices were also weighing on the market.
With corporate earnings announcements set to gather pace, the market will focus in particular on whether AI-related companies' investments are generating commensurate profits. The fact that WTI crude oil futures had risen above $100 again was also cited as a source of concern.