Japan's Nikkei Index Drops 716 Points to 38,474.30, Down 1.8%, Amid U.S. Chip Restrictions

Japan's Nikkei Stock Average experienced notable volatility in mid-January 2025, largely influenced by U.S. restrictions on advanced semiconductor technology. On January 14, the index fell by 716 points, closing at 38,474.30, marking a decline of approximately 1.8%. The drop was attributed to fears surrounding the impact of the Biden administration's proposed chip regulations, which affected tech and semiconductor-related shares. The following day, January 15, the Nikkei saw a slight recovery, opening 288 points higher but ultimately closed down by 29 points at 38,444.58. The fluctuations reflect ongoing concerns about the U.S. market's influence on Japanese stocks, particularly in the tech sector.