Japan’s Nikkei crosses 60,000 level for the first time on tech rally

Japan’s Nikkei (Japan 225) breached the 60,000 mark for the first time on April 23, 2026 as a tech-led rally and improved risk sentiment following U.S. President Trump’s extension of a ceasefire with Iran lifted investor appetite. Chip-related names and technology stocks drove gains — SoftBank surged ~8.9%, Advantest and Tokyo Electron climbed, while the broader Topix lagged, down 0.7%. Market breadth was mixed (42 advancers vs. 158 decliners), indicating the move was concentrated in large tech names. Geopolitical developments (ceasefire extension, continued naval blockade and seized ships) provided the backdrop for the risk-on tone.