TOKYO: Japan’s Nikkei share average hit a two-month high on Thursday, tracking Wall Street’s strength, as an in-line U.S. inflation report boosted expectations of a Federal Reserve interest rate cut this month.
The Nikkei crossed 40,000 for the first time since Oct. 15, rising to as high as 40,0091.51, before ending the morning session 1.29% higher at 39,881.1.
The broader Topix climbed 1.03% to 2,777.55.
“U.S. inflation data convinced the market that the Fed will cut rates at its meeting next week,” said Yugo Tsuboi chief strategist at Daiwa Securities.
A Labor Department report showed U.S. consumer prices in November increased by the most in seven months, though broadly in line with market expectations.
Nikkei gains on weaker yen, China’s surprise policy shift
Wall Street’s benchmark S&P 500 index advanced overnight and a rally in tech stocks, following the inflation data, lifted the Nasdaq above the 20,000-point milestone for the first time.
The Bank of Japan (BOJ) will announce its policy decision next week and the market has priced in a rate hike by January, said Tsuboi.
“Whether the BOJ raises rates this month or next month, the market is unlikely to make a drastic move like in August.”
Chip-related stocks gained, with Advantest jumping 4.2% to become the biggest boost for the Nikkei. Tokyo Electron added 0.7%.
Uniqlo owner Fast Retailing rose 1.46%.
Source: Brecorder
