Japan Market Daily | Kabutaro & Friends

On April 23, 2026, the Nikkei 225 briefly surpassed the historic 60,000 mark for the first time during trading hours. Initial buying focused on semiconductor and AI-related stocks amid hopes for continued passage through the Strait of Hormuz. However, the index reversed its gains to close at 59,140 yen, down 445 yen, as investors locked in profits and reacted to reports of ship seizures by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. In currency markets, the dollar strengthened to the upper 159 yen range due to safe-haven demand. In the real economy, rising costs of crude oil and raw materials remain significant downside risks for corporate earnings. Consequently, the Japanese government held an emergency task force meeting to ensure the stable supply of essential medical goods and materials affected by the Middle East tensions.