Nikkei 225 gain of 3% on 2026's first trading day signals tech-led boom

Japan's markets are off to a flyer. On January 5, 2026, the first trading day of the year, the Nikkei Stock Average surged by 3%. This blazing start follows a record-breaking 2025 where the index closed above the 50,000 mark, suggesting that the momentum in Tokyo is nowhere near hitting a ceiling.

Key drivers behind the 2026 Nikkei 225 gain

Investors are doubling down on Japan for two main reasons: a weak currency and the unstoppable AI rally. The Yen has slipped into the 157 range against the dollar, providing a massive tailwind for exporters. Meanwhile, heavyweight tech firms like SoftBank and Fujikura are leading the charge as AI infrastructure demands continue to swell. According to Nikkei reports, the sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive despite some analysts debating the total upside potential for the year.

Optimism spreads across Asian benchmarks

It's not just a Japanese story. Benchmarks in South Korea, Taiwan, and China also trended upward on the same day. This regional rally indicates that the global appetite for Asian tech and semiconductors remains a primary engine for growth in 2026.