Japan's Nikkei Approaches 70,000 Amid AI Stock Surge

Japan's Nikkei stock index rose for a third consecutive session, closing just below the 70,000‑point milestone at 69,902.25 after reaching an intraday high of 70,125.75. The rally was driven by continued buying in AI‑related shares as concerns over Middle‑East tensions eased and investors awaited the Federal Reserve’s policy decision. Semiconductor and AI firms such as Lasertec (+13.2%), Murata Manufacturing (+3.2%) and Yaskawa Electric (+2.9%) posted notable gains, while insurers and SoftBank Group slipped. The Tokyo Stock Exchange’s TOPIX also rose 0.6% to 4,013.23. Market participants highlighted expectations that AI demand will boost earnings, and they are closely watching the upcoming Fed press conference for clues on future monetary policy.