Asian Stocks Rise as Japan's Nikkei Hits Record on Snap Election Expectations

Asian stock markets rose, led by Japan's Nikkei 225 reaching record highs amid expectations of a snap election called by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The weaker yen, falling to its lowest since July 2024, supported equities, while investors anticipated increased fiscal stimulus. Other Asian markets like South Korea and Taiwan also hit records, though China's Shanghai Composite declined slightly. Global concerns included US Federal Reserve independence, inflation data, and geopolitical tensions affecting oil and gold prices.