Nikkei rises, Focus on Prime Minister Abe’s Health

Japanese stocks closed higher, deriving direction from the gains of their Asian counterparts, but growing speculation over Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s health dented the mood.

The benchmark Nikkei index rose 0.28 percent to close at 22,985.51 points, while the broader Topix index rose 0.19 percent to 1,607.13 points.

Trading volumes were thin in light of the summer absence of many dealers.

Despite concerns about Abe’s health, some analysts say the Japanese market will not be affected much if he resigns.

Nintendo shares led the gains among the 30 largest stocks on Topix, up 4.79%.