The Nikkei average is down 23 yen (as of 14:50). In terms of contribution to the Nikkei average, Advantest <6857>, SoftBank Group <9984>, and Tokyo Electron <8035> have been the top negative contributors, while Fast Retailing <9983>, Suzuki <7269>, and Kddi Corporation <9433> have been the top positive contributors. In the sectors, Pharmaceuticals, Mining, Glass & Ceramics Products, Wholesale Trade, and Electricity & Gas industries are among the top decliners, while Insurance, Banking, Precision Instruments, Other Financing Business, and Textiles & Apparels are among the top gainers.
The Nikkei average is showing some resistance to falling. In the USA, tonight, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) for November and the fiscal balance for November will be announced. With the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting scheduled for next week on the 17th-18th, there is high market interest in the CPI.
