On topic: Who will win the race to become Japan’s next prime minister?

Sanae Takaichi is the most popular choice among stock market pros to become Japan's next leader, according to a monthly survey. Takaichi led the poll with 29% of responses, as market participants were hopeful the lawmaker would pursue economic policies similar to "Abenomics" -- those of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Read more.

Nikkei Gains Fade Amid Firmer Yen After BOJ Holds Rates

Japan's Nikkei share average saw early gains fade as the yen firmed following the Bank of Japan's decision to keep interest rates unchanged. The central bank upgraded its assessment on consumption, while Governor Kazuo Ueda is expected to cautiously hint at future rate hikes,