Why Tokyo Stocks Hit Record High During Obon

Aug 13, 2025 | News On Japan

TOKYO - Tokyo's Nikkei surpassed its previous all-time high set in July 2024 when trading resumed this week, a move attributed to eased trade concerns, a weaker yen, and investor momentum driven by fear of missing out.

Market analysts noted that thin holiday trading can magnify price swings. Recent developments reducing uncertainty over US-Japan and US-China tariffs provided a sense of relief, while the yen’s depreciation raised expectations for stronger earnings among export-oriented companies.

The rally has also been fueled by a ‘FOMO’ (fear of missing out) mindset, with investors eager not to miss gains, sustaining buying pressure. Higher stock prices can help companies raise funds more easily, potentially leading to business expansion and wage growth, although benefits to households depend on whether firms pass profits on to employees.

Some caution remains, with concerns that prolonged high US tariffs could lift inflation and weigh on global growth. Domestic political uncertainty, including the outlook for the Ishiba administration ahead of the LDP leadership race, also poses risks to sustaining the upward market trend.

Source: FNN

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