The Nikkei average is up 1218 yen (as of 14:40). In terms of Nikkei average contribution, companies like Fast Retailing <9983>, Advantest <6857>, SoftBank Group <9984>, etc., are among the top positive contributors, while companies like Daiichi Sankyo <4568>, Obayashi Corporation <1802>, Nisshin Flour Milling <2002>, etc., are among the top negative contributors. In terms of sectors, all industries are up. Electric appliances, nonferrous metals, machinery, transportation equipment, and precision instruments are among the top gainers in terms of growth rate.

The Nikkei average is showing a solid performance. Today, the results of the European Central Bank (ECB) Governing Council meeting and a press conference by ECB President Lagarde are scheduled. In the USA, the August Producer Price Index (PPI), weekly initial jobless claims, and the August fiscal balance will be announced.