FX.co ★ Japanese Shares End Week Higher

The Nikkei 225 nudged 0.18% higher, closing at 50,254, while the broader Topix Index rose by 0.29% to reach 3,378 on Friday. Both indices wrapped up the week on an upswing, buoyed by muted US economic data and dovish tones from policymakers, which have strengthened the anticipation of further interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. This week also saw a resurgence of dip buyers, stepping back into the market after global equities faced downward pressure for much of November due to concerns over inflated valuations in the artificial intelligence sector. Noteworthy performers on Friday included Kioxia Holdings, advancing 4%, Mitsui ES Holdings with a 10.9% increase, Advantest and Lasertec both inching up by 0.8%, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries rising by 1.7%. In economic developments, core inflation in Tokyo remained stable in November, suggesting the Bank of Japan might be gearing up for a potential rate hike in the near future. Additionally, October's industrial production and retail sales exceeded market expectations.