The Nikkei average is up 837 yen (as of 1:50 p.m.). In terms of Nikkei average contribution, Fast Retailing <9983>, Advantest <6857>, Recruit Holdings <6098>, etc., are among the top contributors, while Disco <6146>, Nitori Holdings <9843>, Mitsubishi Estate <8802>, etc., are among the top negative contributors. In sectors, banking, securities, commodities futures, insurance, other products, and nonferrous metals are among the top gainers, while air transportation is experiencing a decline.

The Nikkei average is trending in the high range. The continued weak yen and strong dollar are supporting factors for stock prices, but profit-taking sales are also likely around the 39,500 yen level.