Japanese Stocks Rally on AI Optimism

2026-10-21 00:39 By Jam Kaimo Samonte 1 min. read

The Nikkei 225 Index jumped 2% to above 65,000 on Wednesday, rebounding from one-month lows, with AI-related shares leading the gains as strong results from server manufacturer Super Micro Computer boosted the spending outlook for AI spending.

Robust earnings from Elon Musk’s SpaceX, driven by growth in its AI and satellite internet businesses, also supported sentiment towards the sector.

Among the top tech performers in Japan were Kioxia Holdings (5.1%), Advantest (4.8%), SoftBank Group (3.5%), Lasertec (3.2%), and Taiyo Yuden (2.7%).

Financial stocks also rebounded, with Mitsubishi UFJ rising 1.6% and Sumitomo Mitsui gaining 1.4%.

Meanwhile, data showed that Japanese exports increased 16.7% in September, falling short of the 20.1% forecast and marking the slowest growth since April.

Still, exports extended their growth streak to 13 consecutive months, supported by strong demand for semiconductors and AI-related products.



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