Japan?s Nikkei extends losses for a fifth straight session

Japan?s Nikkei 225 slipped 0.05% to close at 67,744 on Wednesday, giving up its early gains and extending its losing streak to five sessions. Investor sentiment weakened after Dutch chip-equipment maker ASML said it would not be able to fully meet demand over the next two years, raising concerns about the sustainability of the AI investment boom.

Markets also remained under pressure as rising oil prices and ongoing supply disruptions in the Middle East increased concerns about inflation. Earlier gains were supported by comments from New York Fed President John Williams, who indicated that one more rate hike could be appropriate this year, while suggesting that further tightening may not be needed in 2027.

Technology and banking stocks led the declines. Kioxia Holdings fell 3.2%, Tokyo Electron dropped 2.7%, Lasertec lost 1.6%, Mitsubishi UFJ declined 1.9%, and Mizuho Financial slid 2.9%. Overall, concerns over AI-related demand, rising energy costs and inflation kept investors cautious, pushing the Nikkei lower for the fifth consecutive session.

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