Japanese Stocks Soar as US Inflation Data Boosts Investor Sentiment

Japan's stock market ended on a high note Thursday, August 13, 2026, as investors' sentiment improved following softer-than-expected US inflation data. The Nikkei 225 index rose 1.16% to close at 68,308, while the Topix gained 0.89% to 4,176 and hit a fresh record high.

The improved sentiment reduced expectations of an interest rate hike by the Federal Reserve in the near term. This development also had a positive impact on Japanese producer prices, which rose 7.2% in July, slightly easing from June's 7.3% and coming below the forecasted 7.4%.

Technology and artificial intelligence-related stocks led the gains, with Kioxia Holdings rising 3.9%, Taiyo Yuden 6.5%, Advantest 4%, Ibiden Co 5.3%, and Murata Manufacturing 10.3%. Banking stocks also advanced, with Mitsubishi UFJ gaining 2.9%, Sumitomo Mitsui rising 1.6%, and Mizuho Financial climbing 3.2%.