The Nikkei 225 index in Tokyo surged to a record high, surpassing the 43,000 mark for the first time in its history during trading on August 13, 2025. This milestone followed a series of consecutive sessions with substantial gains, including a notable rise of over 1,000 points on August 12, when the index closed at 42,718, marking its highest closing level in approximately 13 months. The rally has been driven by easing concerns over U.S. tariffs, particularly those related to trade tensions with China, as well as positive sentiment from the U.S. stock market and a weaker yen benefiting Japan's export-oriented companies. Semiconductor stocks also contributed to the upward momentum. The index's advance extended to a sixth consecutive session, with the latest closing figure at 43,274, representing a two-day consecutive record close and an increase of 556 points from the previous day. Market analysts attribute the gains to reduced uncertainty over U.S. tariff policies, expectations of improved corporate earnings, and favorable currency movements, although some caution about potential short-term overheating remains.