At the opening of afternoon trading on the 12th, the Nikkei Average was higher than the previous day. Buying centered on semiconductor stocks, while moves in AI-related stocks also lifted the market.
The Nikkei Average opened the afternoon session ¥255.33 higher than the previous day at ¥67,225.55. Buying in AI-related and semiconductor stocks pushed up the market, while the outlook based on the morning session's movements contributed to a wait-and-see mood.
At the morning close, the Nikkei Average was up ¥69.96 at ¥67,040.18. The stock index remained in positive territory as higher crude oil prices and a weaker yen exerted mixed influences.
Although the index briefly fell more than ¥230 shortly after the opening, buying spread across a broad range of stocks overall, even as some major stocks declined.
Despite the release of U.S. CPI data scheduled for tonight, market participants expect Japanese stocks to remain firm, supported by the weaker yen.
The view was expressed that movements in AI- and semiconductor-related stocks will be key to the market, alongside the impact of crude oil prices and U.S. stocks on the Nikkei Average.