Japan Stocks and Semiconductors Surge to Record Highs Amid Takaichi Optimism
Weaker yen, policy hopes, and strong chip rally drive Nikkei to new milestones
Japan’s stock market soared to record highs as investors welcomed the leadership victory of Sanae Takaichi, boosting expectations for pro-growth fiscal policies and continued monetary easing. The weaker yen provided additional support to exporters and global manufacturers.
Among individual gainers, Toyota Motor and Honda Motor advanced strongly, benefiting from the yen’s depreciation, which enhances overseas earnings. Hitachi and Mitsubishi Electric rose as investors anticipated stronger demand for industrial and automation equipment under a stimulus-friendly government.
The semiconductor sector continued its strong momentum, extending gains from recent weeks. Shares of Disco and Lasertec surged on persistent demand for chip production and testing equipment, while Kioxia — seen as a key player in Japan’s semiconductor revival — drew renewed investor attention ahead of a potential IPO.
Semiconductor stocks soaring again
Advantest (TSE:6857): +14% at ¥17,890
Tokyo Electron (TSE:8035): +7.3% at ¥30,570
Lasertec (TSE:6920): +7.2% at ¥21,445
Disco Corp (TSE:6146): +5.9% at ¥54,000
We wrote about Kioxia less than a month ago when the stock traded at ¥3,485. Today the stock hit a record high of ¥6,520 before closing at ¥6,320.
Disco Corp (TSE:6146): Japan’s Leading Semiconductor Equipment Grower
Lasertec: Japan’s Dividend Champion on the Rise – Can It Reach Record Highs Again?
Japan’s Semiconductor Star Kioxia Holdings (TSE:285A) Needs a Dividend
Financials also joined the rally — Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group and Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group gained as higher long-term yields and renewed risk appetite supported the sector. Meanwhile, real estate developers such as Mitsui Fudosan moved higher on hopes of infrastructure spending and resilient domestic demand.
With the Nikkei hitting new milestones, attention now turns to how effectively the new administration can translate optimism into concrete policy action.
At DividendJapan, we aim to highlight these opportunities and uncover hidden gems that may not yet be on your radar. Stay tuned as we explore Japan’s dividend growth stories and the next generation of market leaders!
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Investors should conduct their own research or consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions.