Japanese stocks extended losses on Thursday as geopolitical tensions and energy cost concerns rattled markets. The Nikkei Stock Average slid 1.2% to close at 67,603.09, with technology and metals shares bearing the brunt of selling pressure.
SoftBank Group tumbled 5.8% while Fujikura shed 6.7%, leading the broad market decline. Tech stocks faced renewed pressure as investors reassessed valuations amid rising uncertainty over Middle East developments.
The dollar-yen exchange rate held steady around 159.95, little changed from Wednesday's Tokyo close of 159.94. Traders kept a close watch on regional stability after Kuwait endured missile and drone attacks, reigniting fears over energy supply disruptions.
Japanese equities face headwinds from multiple directions: geopolitical risk, commodity price volatility, and persistent concerns about global growth momentum. The selling pressure reflects investor caution rather than panic, suggesting markets are pricing in continued uncertainty.
Source: Wall Street Journal Markets · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing