On Wednesday Japan's Nikkei 225 rose 0.35% after earlier losses; the broader
TOPIX gained about 0.24%. Nomura equities strategist Maki Sawada said a
multi‑billion‑dollar Verizon‑Corning deal to supply high‑density fiber for AI
infrastructure lifted confidence in Fujitsu and other Japanese cable makers,
helping semiconductor- and AI-related stocks and adding to the Nikkei's gains.
The market was also influenced by a firmer yen as investors priced a higher
chance the BOJ could accelerate rate tightening as early as next week's meeting;
the yen traded near a seven‑month high. A Sony Financial Group analyst said
markets appear to have largely priced in yen appreciation and that, once initial
selling pressure eases, flows are likely to turn to buy‑the‑dip.
