The Nikkei 225 Index rose 0.56% to close 38,349 while the broader Topix Index jumped 0.82% to 2,687 on Thursday, with Japanese shares ending a two-day decline as risk sentiment improved, while investors took advantage of lower valuations.
However, caution persisted as the yen surged to its highest levels in over five weeks on Wednesday, driven by speculation that the Bank of Japan may raise interest rates again as soon as next month.
Markets are now assigning a 60% chance of a 25 basis point rate hike in Japan in December, up from around 50% a week ago.
Investors are also closely watching Tokyo's inflation data, due Friday, which could provide further insights into the BOJ's monetary policy stance. Notable gainers included major index heavyweights such as Tokyo Electron (+6.7%), Sanrio (5.2%), Screen Holdings (+6.3%), Nintendo (+3%), and Toyota Motor (+1.4%).
Source: Trading Economics
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