Nikkei Notches Another Record. SoftBank Surges as AI Hopes Drive Bull Run.

Group 1 - The Nikkei Stock Average reached a record high of 44,372.50, increasing by 1.2% [1] - SoftBank Group was the top gainer, surging 10% to a record close following Oracle's billion-dollar AI deals [2] - Other AI-related stocks also saw gains, with Disco rising by 6.5% and Advantest increasing by 4.4% [2] Group 2 - Domestic political changes are contributing to the market's positive momentum, with Takaichi advocating for stronger fiscal stimulus and a tougher national defense [2] - The anticipated policies are viewed as creating a friendlier investment environment [2]