Japan followed the US lead after a burst in AI and semiconductor names there put a charge into related stocks in Tokyo. Tech was doing the heavy lifting, echoing gains in a US semiconductor-focused gauge. Signs that interest rates are finding their footing helped, too, keeping nerves in check.
By mid-morning, the Topix had gained 0.8% to 4,136.89. Of its 1,635 constituents, 842 were higher, 732 lower, and 61 flat. At that point, the Nikkei was higher by 2% at 66,292.71. SoftBank Group Corp. was the top contributor to the Topix's gains, climbing as much as 7.3%.
According to Shoji Hirakawa of Tokai Tokyo Intelligence Lab, where he serves as chief global strategist, "A sign of stabilization in yields will help lift high-tech shares, particularly semiconductor-related stocks." He added that later this week, the market's gaze will be on the US CPI and PPI, a development that could dampen conviction and cap sharp swings. Hirakawa also pointed out that Treasury yields in the US ticked up only slightly even after stronger-than-expected jobs numbers on Friday.
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Today's pop in Japan is a reminder that AI and chips are still setting the tone globally, and that calmer bond yields make it easier for growth stories to shine. The near-term swing factor is US inflation data this week. If it keeps rate jitters subdued, the tailwind for tech-heavy indexes could stick around a bit longer.
