Tokyo’s equity market opened higher on Friday, with Japan’s benchmark indexes gaining ground as the Bank of Japan (BOJ) held its key policy rate steady. The decision provided relief to investors concerned about tightening monetary conditions, supporting a modest uptick in the Nikkei 225 and TOPIX early in the trading session. The Japanese yen showed slight weakness versus major currencies amid the BOJ’s continued ultra-loose stance. Market breadth was positive, with technology and export-oriented stocks among the early leaders. Investors now look ahead to the BOJ governor’s press briefing for further guidance on future monetary policy and economic forecasts.
Sentiment was bolstered by broader gains across Asian equities, reflecting improving risk appetite and easing geopolitical uncertainties that weighed on Asian markets earlier in the week. Trading volumes were moderate in the morning session, while investors balanced optimism on corporate earnings with caution around external demand pressures. The market opened with notable interest in exporters, though cyclicals showed mixed performance as oil prices exerted pressure on energy stocks.
The BOJ’s hold on interest rates marked a continuation of its supportive monetary policy, even as inflation forecasts were nudged higher. Analysts suggested that the bank’s decision could sustain liquidity in equities in the near term, but emphasized that wage growth and consumer spending figures will remain key for market direction.
Newshub Editorial in Asia – 23 January 2026
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