Global financial markets showed positive momentum amid easing tensions between the U.S. and China over trade. The Nikkei 225 index in Tokyo extended gains for the fourth consecutive day, briefly surpassing the 36,000 level for the first time in about a month, buoyed by optimism over U.S.-China trade relations and strong performance in U.S. semiconductor stocks. The Tokyo Stock Exchange closed higher by 134 points as concerns over U.S. tariff policies diminished. Meanwhile, the Dow Jones Industrial Average in New York continued its upward trend, rising by 114 points on hopes for progress in trade negotiations. In contrast, gold prices declined by more than 1% as the improved trade outlook reduced demand for the safe-haven metal, compounded by a stronger U.S. dollar. The dollar itself advanced nearly 10 yen following a drop in a U.S. factory index to its lowest level since the pandemic, reflecting mixed economic signals.