Morning Session Key Headlines - April 8, 2026

■ Market Overview: Nikkei Surges Over \2,600 in Historic Rally

The Nikkei 225 skyrocketed by \2,649.27 to finish the morning session at \56,078.83. Market sentiment shifted into full "risk-on" mode following reports that the U.S. and Iran agreed to a two-week extension for ceasefire negotiations, triggering massive short-covering.

■ Energy & Bonds: Oil Plunges on Geopolitical Relief; JGB Yields Slide

U.S. crude oil futures tumbled as fears of immediate military escalation ebbed. In response, JGB futures extended their rally, with the benchmark 10-year yield falling to 2.370% (down 3.5 basis points) as inflation concerns receded.

■ Sector Highlights: Chip Stocks Soar While Energy & Shipping Slump

Semiconductor-related heavyweights like Advantest and Lasertec led the charge, alongside a sharp rebound in Marumae <6264>. Conversely, the plunge in oil prices weighed heavily on the mining and marine transportation sectors, with INPEX and major shipping lines seeing significant sell-offs.

■ Individual Investor Sentiment (Minkabu Rankings):

- OPTiM <3694>: Ranked 5th in rising "buy" predictions following a string of positive DX and infrastructure service announcements.

- Sankyo Tateyama <5932>: Ranked 5th in rising "sell" predictions as investors reacted to a sharp downward revision in its operating profit outlook.

■ Corporate News:

- Rakus <3923>: Extended gains for a fourth day on news of JAL adopting its email marketing solution.

- Okamoto Glass <7746>: Continued its sharp ascent after unveiling a breakthrough high-efficiency LED concentration technology.

Source: MINKABU PRESS