Tokyo opened higher on Friday, with the Nikkei 225 rising sharply in early trade as investors responded to stronger Asian sentiment, Wall Street support and hopes of progress in US-Iran diplomacy. The move added to Japan’s recent market strength.
A firm start
The Nikkei 225 was quoted up more than 1% shortly after the open, with official index data showing the benchmark at 62,466.79 at 09:10 local time, up 782.65 points, or 1.27%.
Risk appetite returns
Japanese shares benefited from a broader Asian rally. Exporters and large-cap industrial names were supported by improved global risk appetite, while investors continued to monitor the yen, oil prices and US rate expectations.
Market focus
The key question is whether Tokyo can hold early gains through the session. With the Nikkei already near elevated levels, profit-taking remains possible, but Friday’s open showed that investors are still willing to add exposure when geopolitical risks appear to ease.
Newshub Editorial in Asia – 22 May 2026
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