Published on 02/25/2026 at 01:41 am EST
(MT Newswires) -Japanese shares closed higher on Wednesday after former Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda said Japan should continue raising interest rates and tighten fiscal policy, arguing the economy is in strong condition.
The Nikkei 225 rose 2.2%, or 1,262.03 points, to close at 58,583.12.
Kuroda said the Bank of Japan could lift rates about twice a year in 2026 and 2027, moving gradually toward neutral levels, citing solid growth and steady wage gains.
Kuroda cautioned that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's expansionary stance, including higher spending and a planned two-year suspension of the 8% food sales tax, could fuel further inflation. Japan exited Kuroda-era stimulus in 2024 and has raised rates several times, including in December, as inflation has remained above the 2% target.
On the corporate front, Shares of Yomeishu Seizofell nearly 12% after Tsumura & Co. agreed to acquire the company for 6.8 billion yen through a take-private transaction.
Separately, Nippon Steel Corporationslumped 6% after setting terms for zero-coupon convertible bonds due 2029 and 2031. The 2029 bonds have a conversion price of 730.3 yen, a 10% premium to the Feb. 24 close of 663.9 yen, and will be redeemed at 104.16% of principal.
Meanwhile, Tokyo Electron jumped over 4% after the company said it is expanding in South Korea as the country accounts for about 30% of its global sales, Nikkei Asia reported. Demand for DRAM equipment from clients, including SK Hynixand Samsung Electronics is driving growth. The company plans to open a third development center in Gyeonggi province next year.

Sumber : MT Newswires