TOKYO: Japan’s Nikkei share average posted its highest close in more than six weeks on Thursday, after robust earnings from Micron Technology fuelled optimism over AI-related investment.
The Nikkei 225 Index rose 3.3 percent to close at 68,956.72, its highest since August 17. The broader Topix edged 0.57 percent higher to 4,131.98.
Micron forecast quarterly revenue above estimates and said customers had increased commitments under its long-term supply agreements to USD32 billion, signalling unabated demand for AI memory chips.
Chip-related shares led gains on the Nikkei, with chip inspection equipment maker Lasertec surging 11.14 percent to a two-month high.
Semiconductor testing equipment maker Advantest jumped 9.78 percent, electronic component maker Murata Manufacturing rallied 8.43 percent and memory chipmaker Kioxia climbed 5.55 percent.
Market breadth was mixed, with 108 of the Nikkei’s 225 names closing higher and 116 lower.