Japan stock market ended lower on Friday, with losses across various sectors, including real estate and printing, leading to a decline in shares.
At the close of trading in Tokyo, the Nikkei 225 index fell by 0.22%. Despite some gains in select stocks, market sentiment was weighed down by losses in major sectors.
Top Performers
Among the day gainers, Sumitomo Realty & Development Co. (TYO: 8830) stood out, rising 5.49% or 249 points, closing at ¥4,781.00. Mitsubishi Estate Co. Ltd. (TYO: 8802) followed with a 4.10% rise, adding 84.50 points to settle at ¥2,145.50. Tokyu Fudosan (TYO: 1721) also posted a solid gain, increasing 4.06% or 36.50 points to ¥936.60.
Biggest Losers
On the flip side, Toppan Printing Co., Ltd. (TYO: 7911) saw the biggest decline, falling 7.29% or 303 points, ending at ¥3,855.00. Resona Holdings, Inc. (TYO: 8308) dropped by 5.02% or 58.50 points, closing at ¥1,106.50, while Yamato Holdings Co., Ltd. (TYO: 9064) saw a 3.77% decrease, losing 67.50 points to close at ¥1,723.50.
Market Breadth
The overall market sentiment was negative, with 2,190 stocks declining, 1,439 advancing, and 257 remaining unchanged on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
Volatility and Commodities
The Nikkei 225 volatility index (VIX) rose by 7.92% to 21.12, indicating higher market uncertainty.
In commodity markets, Crude oil for January delivery dropped 0.29% to $69.03 per barrel, while Brent oil for February delivery fell by 0.52% to $72.50 per barrel. Meanwhile, Gold futures saw a slight uptick, rising 0.46% to $2,620.11 per ounce.
Currency markets saw the USD/JPY dip 0.31% to 156.95, while the EUR/JPY declined 0.15% to 162.88. The US Dollar Index dropped by 0.12%, settling at 108.02.
With significant losses in key sectors, particularly in real estate and printing, Japanese stocks experienced a tough day. Volatility remains elevated, and traders will closely monitor developments in both global and domestic markets.
