21.10.202607:01:12UTC+00Japanese Stocks Advance on AI Optimism

Japan’s Nikkei 225 Index rose 0.85% on Wednesday to close at 64,621, rebounding from one-month lows as AI-related stocks drove gains. Strong earnings from server maker Super Micro Computer bolstered expectations for AI spending, while solid results from SpaceX—underpinned by growth in its AI and satellite internet businesses—further improved market sentiment.

Leading Japanese tech performers included Kioxia Holdings (up 2.8%), Advantest (1.7%), SoftBank Group (1.5%), Lasertec (1.5%), and Taiyo Yuden (1.7%). Financials also advanced, with Mitsubishi UFJ rising 2.4% and Sumitomo Mitsui gaining 2.3%.

The index, however, pulled back from its intraday highs as oil prices climbed again amid renewed uncertainty over US–Iran negotiations, stoking fresh inflation concerns. On the macro front, data showed that Japanese exports in September grew for a 13th straight month, though at a slower-than-expected pace, supported by solid demand for semiconductors and AI-related products.