Topix and Nikkei Hit Record Highs in Japan Stock Rally

Japan’s Topix stock index surged past its bubble-era peak to reach a record high, signaling a broad-based rally beyond just a few stocks. The benchmark index rose as much as 0.6% to 2,890.52, exceeding the previous intraday record set in December 1989. Most of the 33 industry sub-indexes in the gauge, which covers over 2,000 companies, climbed. Automakers provided the biggest boost, while insurers and banks have been top performers since the index hit a low in mid-April, driven by expectations that the Bank of Japan (BOJ) will raise interest rates, improving their profitability.

Initial gains were from the exporter and tech-heavy Nikkei index, so it’s not surprising to see the Topix catching up.

The Nikkei 225 Stock Average reclaimed its all-time high in February, aided by a global tech rally and a weaker yen boosting exporters. Both indices surged over 25% last year as global funds flowed into the market, attracted by ultra-low borrowing costs, booming profits, and the Tokyo Stock Exchange’s (TSE) push for better corporate governance.

Investor sentiment remains strong despite the BOJ’s shift towards tighter monetary policy. Banks have advanced on speculation that higher yields will improve lending margins, while insurers are expected to boost profitability through bond investments. However, the BOJ’s decision to delay plans for reducing bond buying until July caused the yen to fall, disappointing investors who wanted more details. The yen’s fresh multi-decade lows have tempered its boost to exporter shares, with fund managers wary of currency intervention. Concerns are mounting that a weak yen may become a liability for Japanese companies and the economy.

Despite these challenges, Japanese stocks remain a favorite in Asia. Bank of America’s June fund manager survey showed that one-third of respondents view corporate governance improvements as the most important theme. Analysts expect the TSE’s plan to revamp the Topix index to pressure companies further to improve governance.

Goldman Sachs Group Inc. strategists highlighted that Japanese corporations are keen to show their response to governance reform pressure. Activists are starting to see success, as evidenced by recent shareholder victories at annual general meetings. Shareholders of clothing firm Daidoh Ltd. supported three board candidates proposed by Japanese fund Strategic Capital Inc., and the president of Toyo Securities Co. withdrew his candidacy for reappointment due to lack of shareholder support.

The movement of the Topix index indicates the bottoming out and an all-time high of the Japanese market as a whole, unlike the Nikkei 225, which is biased toward certain stocks.