Japan's benchmark Nikkei share average crossed the 68,000 mark for the first time on Wednesday, extending its record-setting rally as strong gains in artificial intelligence and semiconductor-related stocks outweighed investor concerns over escalating tensions in the Middle East, Reuters reported.
The Nikkei advanced 2.2% to 68,203.79 in morning trade, just two days after surpassing the 67,000 level. The broader Topix index also climbed 1.5% to 3,982.89.
