FX.co ★ Japanese Shares Extend Gains on Tech Rally

The Nikkei 225 Index edged up by 0.3%, surpassing 51,400 on Thursday and marking new record peaks. This growth is fueled by a surge in technology stocks and sustained optimism surrounding artificial intelligence. Notably, Advantest, a chip-testing equipment manufacturer, ascended over 4% to fresh all-time highs after upgrading its annual profit forecast due to soaring demand. Additionally, semiconductor giant Lasertec skyrocketed 17% in anticipation of its earnings announcement. Among other significant gainers were Kioxia Holdings (up 6%), Fujikura (rising 3.6%), and Keyence Corp (advancing 1.2%). Meanwhile, investors keenly anticipated the Bank of Japan's latest policy decision, with expectations largely favoring unchanged interest rates. On the preceding day, the US Federal Reserve enacted the expected quarter-point rate reduction; however, Chair Powell highlighted uncertainty regarding future adjustments in December.