Nikkei Falls 1%; Tech Stocks Weigh on Japanese Market
Japanese stock markets closed lower in Wednesday's trading (July 29). The Nikkei 225 index fell 1.03% to hit a one-month low, pressured by the paper, transportation, and communications sectors.
Dainippon Screen shares were the biggest drag, plunging 17.25%. Kioxia Holdings fell 13.85%, while Murata Manufacturing dropped 12.89% amidst pressure on technology and semiconductor stocks.
On the other hand, several stocks still posted strong gains. Konami surged 12.74%, Keyence rose 9.36%, and Komatsu strengthened 7.63% by the close of trading.
Overall, 1,960 stocks advanced, 1,573 declined, and 214 remained unchanged. However, the Nikkei volatility index spiked 26.94% to 41.14, signaling rising investor anxiety.
Oil prices also rose, with WTI climbing to US$82.09 per barrel and Brent reaching US$84.64. Meanwhile, gold remained relatively stable at US$4,039.90, and the USD/JPY exchange rate fell to 163.53. Pressure on tech stocks is likely to keep the Nikkei volatile in upcoming trading sessions. (asd)
Source: Newsmaker.id