The Japanese stock market ended the trading day with a significant drop, the Nikkei 225 index fell by 2.90%

Trading on the Tokyo Stock Exchange on Friday, February 28, 2025, ended with a decline in the Nikkei 225 index, which lost 2.90%, marking its biggest decline in the past three months. The main factors affecting the market were negative results in the transportation, pharmaceutical, and electricity supply sectors.

Shares of Pacific Metals Co., Ltd. (TYO: 5541) were the top gainers among the index components, rising by 400.00 p. (25.92%) and closing at 1,943.00, which is the highest price in the past 52 weeks. Meanwhile, shares of LY Corp (TYO:4689) also showed positive dynamics, increasing by 21.50 p. (4.43%) and closing at 506.30.

However, the biggest decline was experienced by shares of Advantest Corp. (TYO:6857), which lost 781.00 p. (8.78%), finishing the trades at 8,116.00. Shares of Lasertec Corp (TYO:6920) also showed a decline of 1,030.00 p. (7.15%), ending the session at 13,370.00.

The number of stocks that fell in price significantly exceeded the number of rising ones: 2,878 securities ended trading with a decline, while only 795 stocks showed growth. The Nikkei Volatility Index, which is calculated based on Nikkei 225 options data, rose by 6.81% to 25.24, also marking a three-month high.

In commodity markets, WTI and Brent oil futures also showed a decline, losing 0.90% and 0.80% respectively. In the Forex market, the USD/JPY pair strengthened by 0.12%, and EUR/JPY quotes increased by 0.09%.

Thus, the Japanese stock market ended the day on a negative note, reflecting alarming dynamics in key economic sectors.