#Japan #Tokyo #gold #Nikkei CNBC #Japanese Stocks

Insights from the Nikkei CNBC Investment Survey

In a recent survey conducted by Nikkei CNBC, which gathered insights from active investors from May 2 to May 8, 2025, Japanese stocks ranked as the top asset allocation priority, followed by gold. This survey highlights the shifting perspectives of investors amidst a dynamic financial landscape influenced by global trade tensions, particularly surrounding tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump.

Survey Highlights

The question posed was, "Which assets do you intend to allocate your investment funds to in the future?" Participants were given a choice of 13 options, including Japanese stocks, gold, US stocks, and cryptocurrencies. The results were telling: 64.6% of respondents chose Japanese stocks, while 28.6% opted for gold. Other significant choices included small and mid-cap Japanese growth stocks (23.8%) and US stock indices (15.6%).

Japanese Stocks at the Forefront

The strong preference for Japanese stocks can be attributed to a sense of stability and potential for growth in a time when international markets are fluctuating. Investors have expressed that with uncertain trade policies and the unpredictable nature of global financial markets, Japanese stocks present a manageable risk with a strong foundation.

Commenting on the survey's findings, financial analyst Kiyoshi Matsumoto and program host Tomoya Okamura discussed the implications during a segment on their show, “Hiru Express.” Matsumoto noted that the introduction of tariffs had led to a temporary exodus from US assets, which has redirected funds toward more defensive investments in Japan, including REITs and gold.

Investor Comments

The survey also gathered insightful comments from participants that reveal their investment philosophies:

• - One respondent, who chose Japanese stocks, emphasized that the information available about domestic companies far outweighs that of foreign counterparts, making it a sound choice for investment.
• - Another investor described their long-term strategy of balancing stock investments with gold, advocating the idea that gold protects against market volatility while stocks provide growth potential.
• - Additionally, some investors remarked on the untapped potential of small to mid-sized Japanese companies, suggesting that reforms in the Tokyo Stock Exchange could further enhance their appeal.

These opinions reflect a trend where investors are not just re-allocating funds but are actively considering the stability and long-term growth of their investments in light of current economic climates. With Japan's government taking steps to stabilize trade relationships and promote domestic growth, investors' confidence appears to be increasing.

The Road Ahead

As 2025 progresses, the implications of the data provided by Nikkei CNBC may carry significant weight for policymakers and investors alike. The high interest in gold—as a hedge against inflation and uncertainty—further indicates a growing trend towards securing assets that provide security in turbulent times.

Overall, this survey reveals not only the current preferences of investors but also a broader narrative about economic confidence, stability, and strategic foresight in an unpredictable market. The insights gathered will guide future discussions on investment strategies and the potential evolution of market trends as we delve deeper into 2025.

For more details on the survey results and commentary, visit the Nikkei CNBC official webpage or check out their dedicated video segments on Nikkei CNBC online and YouTube.