Tech sector rally and extended ceasefire in Iran boosted index
The Tokyo Stock Exchange’s main index, the Nikkei 225, lost strength this Thursday (April 23, 2026) after surpassing the 60,000 point level for the first time at the start of trading. The movement reflected profit-taking by investors after a sequence of rises driven by technology stocks and the announcement of an extension of the ceasefire between the United States and Iran.
After reaching an intraday record of 60,013.98 points, the index retreated and the day fell 0.74%, to 59,143.50 points, in a session marked by volatility.
The initial advance was sustained by the decision of the President of the United States, (Republican Party), to establish a truce with Iran for an indefinite period, a measure that would have been coordinated with Pakistan’s mediation. Despite this, uncertainties remain in the geopolitical scenario. The US Navy maintains a blockade of Iranian ports and navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the news agency the combination of these factors led investors to reassess risks and reduce exposure, especially given the fall in North American stock futures during the Asian trading session. According to analysts, the market had been reacting optimistically to the possibility of an end to the conflict, but further progress would depend on more consistent signs in the real economy.
Since , at the end of February, the Nikkei index has recovered all its losses. The recent rise, however, has been driven by a restricted group of companies linked to artificial intelligence, such as SoftBank and Advantest.
In trading this Thursday (April 23), shares in the chip sector gave back part of the initial gains. Advantest’s shares fell 0.16%, while Tokyo Electron’s shares fell 0.53%. SoftBank still registered an increase of 3.91%, although far from the day’s highs.
In the broad market, the negative bias predominated: among about 1,600 stocks listed on the main segment of the Tokyo Stock Exchange, 72% fell, 23% rose and 4% were stable.
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