Japan’s Nikkei and Topix indices experienced a boost, driven by a stabilised yen, which provided a lift to export-focused stocks like Sony and Toyota. The Nikkei climbed by 0.5% to reach 38,288.62, while the Topix increased by 0.7% to 2,680.8. The yen’s steadiness at 143.45 per dollar played a significant role in restoring investor confidence in major exporters. This stability led to gains of 2.8% for Sony and 1.8% for Toyota, reinforcing the positive momentum in Japan’s stock market.
Despite this, the technology sector showed signs of strain, reflecting broader concerns tied to the impending earnings report from Nvidia. This caution was evident in the performance of key tech firms, with Tokyo Electron declining by 1%, Advantest by 1.6%, and Lasertec Corp by 4.3%, marking it as the day’s most significant loser.
The market sentiment generally improved, particularly in sectors tied to exports, as the yen’s pause spurred a rebound in stocks like Honda and Toyota. However, the nervous anticipation surrounding Nvidia’s earnings has kept the tech sector on edge, underscoring investor caution. In contrast, the mining sector saw a 2.2% increase, and the oil and coal sectors rose by 1.6%, buoyed by rising oil prices driven by concerns over supply disruptions.
In the broader context, Japan’s stock market resilience underscores the strong performance of its export sector, largely supported by yen stability. Yet, the cautious approach to tech investments persists, influenced by shifting global market conditions and the potential impacts of Nvidia’s forthcoming earnings. As these dynamics unfold, the interplay between robust export strength and tech sector vulnerabilities will continue to shape the overall economic outlook.
Fidelity Japan Trust PLC (LON:FJV) aims to be the key investment of choice for those seeking Japanese companies exposure. The Trust has a ‘growth at reasonable price’ (GARP) investment style and approach – which involves identifying companies whose growth prospects are being under-appreciated or are not fully recognised by other investors.