The Nikkei 225 closed up 0.5%, with electronics and metal stocks leading gains
The Nikkei 225 index closed up 0.5% at 66,422.60 points, with electronics and metal stocks leading the market gains. Japanese stocks ended higher on expectations for rising demand related to artificial intelligence (AI), although ongoing uncertainty over the Iran conflict remained. Alphabet raised its capital spending forecast for this year by $15 billion as AI construction continues. Investors are closely watching developments in the Middle East and crude oil prices after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to destroy Iran's infrastructure if it attacks ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.