The Nikkei average is down 678 yen (as of 1:50 p.m. Japan time). In terms of Nikkei average contribution, First Retail <9983>, Toho Electric <8035>, Advantest <6857>, etc., are among the top negative contributors, while Mitsui & Co. <8031>, Daikin <6367>, Sumitomo Metal Mining <5713>, etc., are among the top positive contributors. In sectors, electric appliances, air transportation, information & communications, retail trade, and chemicals are among the top declining sectors, while mining, oil & coal products, marine transportation, iron & steel, and electric & gas companies are among the top gaining sectors.

The Nikkei average is moving in the low range. The increasing geopolitical risks in the Middle East seem to be causing buyers to hold back. On the other hand, the Dow futures, which were soft in the morning, are now showing a strong downside, and the Hong Kong Hang Seng Index's significant rise is providing support to stock prices in the Tokyo market.