Japan’s Nikkei fell as chip-related stocks fell and tension in the Middle East

Japan’s Nikkei index suffered its most significant daily decline in over two and a half years on Friday, dragged down by losses in chip-related stocks following the downturn in Taiwan’s TSMC. Additionally, escalating turmoil in the Middle East dampened risk appetite among investors.

The Nikkei plummeted 2.66 percent to close at 37,068.35 points, marking its largest daily drop since September 2022. Out of the 225 stocks comprising the index, 206 recorded declines.

During the session, the index hit a low of 36,733.06 points, the lowest level observed since February 8.

Reports from Reuters indicated that Israel carried out an attack on Iran on Friday, escalating tensions between the two countries and prompting increased caution among investors.

Shares of TSMC, listed in Taipei, tumbled approximately seven percent, exerting downward pressure on the Japanese market.

Tokyo Electron, a manufacturer of chip manufacturing equipment, saw its shares plunge by 8.74 percent, while Advantest, specializing in chip testing equipment, experienced a decline of 4.38 percent.

The broader Topix index also faced significant losses, dropping 1.91 percent to close at 2,626.32 points.