The Nikkei average is 515 yen higher (as of 14:40). In terms of the Nikkei average contribution, First Retail <9983>, Toyo Electric <8035>, and SoftBank Group <9984> are among the top positive contributors, while NTT Data Group <9613>, KDDI <9433>, and Trend <4704> are among the top negative contributors. In terms of sectors, the banking industry, oil & coal products, mining, wholesale trade, and electric appliances are among the top gainers, while land transportation, electric & gas industries, marine transportation, air transportation, and real estate are among the top decliners.

The Nikkei average is showing some slight growth. Later today, there is a scheduled press conference by Governor Ueda of the Bank of Japan, which is of high interest to the market.