Japan's Nikkei Index Set to Extend Gains After Record Close

The Japanese stock market is poised to open higher on Monday, January 26, following the Nikkei 225's record-setting close on Friday. The benchmark index surged 1.4% to finish at an all-time high, driven by strong performances in the financial and technology sectors. Investor sentiment remains positive ahead of a busy week of corporate earnings reports from major Japanese firms. The market's recent strength is also supported by a weakening yen, which boosts the overseas earnings of the country's major exporters. Trading is expected to be influenced by overnight movements on Wall Street.