| The Nikkei 225 advanced 0.9% to surpass 64,600 on Friday, marking a third consecutive session of increases. The index found support following the Bank of Japan’s decision to increase its policy rate by 25 basis points to 1.25%.
Market participants are currently assessing indications regarding a potential for additional interest rate adjustments by the Bank of Japan, given sustained inflationary pressures and wage growth. Focus is also directed toward commentary from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent.
Japan’s annual inflation rate held steady at 1.9% in August, while core inflation remained below the BOJ’s 2% target for a seventh consecutive month, registering at 1.7%.
Technology and artificial intelligence equities propelled the market upward, mirroring advances in US technology shares during overnight trade. Kioxia appreciated by 3.2%, SoftBank Group advanced 4.1%, Advantest increased by 4%, Lasertec rose 5.5%, and Ibiden Co gained 3.3%. |