FX.co ★ Japanese Shares Gain After BOJ Decision

The Nikkei 225 Index modestly increased by 0.04% to close at 51,326, while the broader Topix Index saw a more substantial rise of 0.69%, reaching 3,301 on Thursday. This uptick led Japanese stocks to reach new record levels following the Bank of Japan's decision to maintain its interest rates steady, despite two board members voting for an increase. The central bank opted to keep its policy rate at 0.5%, meeting market expectations, with a voting tally of 7-2. Board members Naoki Tamura and Hajime Takata once again advocated for a rate hike to 0.75%. Looking ahead, markets remain uncertain about potential shifts in policy come December, as the Bank of Japan proceeds with caution. Meanwhile, newly appointed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi continues to support a policy of loose monetary stance. In terms of individual stocks, Advantest, a manufacturer of chip-testing equipment, reached new all-time highs after revising its annual profit outlook upward due to robust demand. Lasertec, a leading player in the semiconductor space, saw its stock surge over 20% in anticipation of its earnings announcement. Other notable advancers included Kioxia Holdings at 8.1%, Fujikura at 3.5%, Tokyo Electron at 1.5%, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at 12%, and NEC Corp at 13.2%.