economy
February 12, 2026
Japan stocks extend post-election rally with Nikkei 225 breaching 58,000 for the first time
Other markets in Asia also shrugged off strong U.S. payrolls data that has dampened expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts and sent Wall Street lower overnight.
TL;DR
- Nikkei 225 reached a historic high of 58,000, driven by political confidence in the ruling administration's economic agenda.
- Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's strong electoral mandate is seen as supportive for Japan's markets and corporate sector.
- Intervention risks may increase if the yen weakens further against the U.S. dollar.
- South Korea's Kospi and Australia's S&P/ASX 200 also reached record or significant highs.
- U.S. stocks declined after a stronger-than-expected January jobs report, dampening hopes for Federal Reserve rate cuts.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported 130,000 nonfarm payroll gains in January, revised December figures showed lower growth.
- Weaker consumer spending data for December in the U.S. contrasts with the strong jobs report.
Continue reading the original article