Key Facts
• August 12: Nikkei Index reached 42,800 yen, surpassing July 2024 record.
• Morning close: 42,849.67 yen, up 1,029.19 yen from last week.
• TOPIX also hit a record, closing at 3,067.96, up 43.75 points.
• August 11: U.S. President Trump extended China tariff suspension by 90 days.
• New tariff deadline set for November 10, avoiding a 24% tariff reinstatement.
• Semiconductor stocks led gains due to reduced trade friction concerns.
• Strong Q2 earnings exceeded market expectations, boosting investor confidence.
• AI demand drove IT-related stock purchases.
• Analyst predicts further gains if domestic fiscal policies expand.
Summary
The Nikkei Index surged to a record high of 42,849.67 yen on August 12, surpassing its previous peak from July 2024. This rise was driven by eased trade tensions following U.S. President Trump’s decision to extend the China tariff suspension by 90 days, avoiding a 24% tariff reinstatement. Semiconductor and IT-related stocks saw significant gains, supported by strong Q2 corporate earnings and growing AI demand. Analysts suggest further market growth is possible, contingent on domestic fiscal policies.
