Market Overview - Japan's benchmark Nikkei 225 index surged over 4%, reaching record highs following the election of Sanae Takaichi as the new leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) [4] - The broader Topix index advanced 2.3%, driven by investor optimism regarding Takaichi's continuation of pro-market and stimulus-heavy economic policies [4] - The yen weakened against the US dollar, falling to 149.79 from 149.33, amid expectations of higher public spending measures potentially increasing inflationary pressures [4] Economic Policies - Takaichi, a protégé of Shinzo Abe, is expected to strengthen Japan's defense, boost industrial competitiveness, and address demographic challenges such as an aging population and rising debt burden [4] - The market is optimistic about Takaichi's spending policy, but uncertainty remains regarding her ability to achieve these goals due to the LDP being a minority party [3][4] Automotive Sector - Shares of Japanese automakers rose significantly, with Toyota Motor Corp. jumping 4.9% and Honda Motor Co. gaining 4.7%, partly due to unconfirmed reports of potential tariff easements on auto parts and manufacturing materials by the US President [4] US Market Performance - Wall Street ended the previous week mostly higher, with the S&P 500 edging up 0.1% to 6,715.79, marking its seventh winning week in nine [3] - The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 0.5% to 46,758.28, both indices setting new records [5] Oil Market - Oil prices strengthened after OPEC+ announced a smaller-than-expected increase in output, with Brent crude rising 1% to $65.16 per barrel and US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) climbing 1% to $61.46 [5] - OPEC+ agreed to add just 137,000 barrels per day in November, matching October's increase to avoid oversupply and maintain price stability [5]