Japan's Nikkei index rises 0.4% to 35,839.99 at close

Japan's Nikkei index rises 0.4% to 35,839.99 at close

The Japanese stock market continued its winning streak, with the Nikkei 225 index closing at 35,839.99, a 0.4% increase from the previous session [1]. This marks the third consecutive day of gains for the Nikkei, which has added nearly 1,500 points or 4.2% over the past three days. The index now hovers just above the 35,700-point mark and is expected to open higher on Monday.

The positive momentum in the Japanese market is buoyed by global optimism, particularly in the Asian region, where easing tariff tensions between the United States and China are seen as a positive development. The European and U.S. markets also closed in the green, contributing to the upbeat sentiment in Asia.

Key drivers of the Nikkei's performance include gains from financial shares, automobile producers, and technology stocks. Nissan Motor, Mazda Motor, Toyota Motor, Honda Motor, Softbank Group, and other major Japanese companies saw notable increases, with some stocks surging by more than 5% [1].

The lead from Wall Street was also upbeat, with the major averages closing in the green. The Dow rose 0.05%, the NASDAQ rallied 1.26%, and the S&P 500 climbed 0.74% [1]. The week saw the NASDAQ spike 6.7%, the S&P 500 surge 4.6%, and the Dow gain 2.5% [1].

Traders kept a close eye on trade developments, with President Donald Trump refuting China's claims about trade negotiations and several reports citing U.S. businesses that China has exempted some U.S. imports from its 125% tariffs [1]. Additionally, the University of Michigan reported that consumer sentiment in the U.S. deteriorated less than previously estimated in April [1]. Crude oil futures also moved modestly higher on Friday amid easing trade tensions, with West Texas Intermediate crude for June delivery rising $0.23 or 0.4% to $63.02 a barrel [1].

In a separate development, the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) is encouraging listed companies to reduce their minimum investment thresholds to attract more retail investors. The TSE aims to lower the minimum investment threshold from 500,000 yen to around 100,000 yen to make it easier for a diverse range of investors, including young people, to invest in individual stocks [2]. This move is part of efforts to stimulate the development of the Japanese economy by attracting more retail investments.

References:
[1] https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/japan-stock-market-may-extend-winning-streak
[2] https://www.cnbc.com/2025/04/24/tokyo-stock-exchange-japans-wooing-more-retail-investors-by-making-it-cheaper-for-them-to-invest-in-the-local-stock-market.html