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Rising Sun: Nikkei 225's Historic Economic Climb

Rising Sun: Nikkei 225's Historic Economic Climb

Rising Sun: Nikkei 225's Historic Economic Climb

Bellevue, Washington resident itemizing her tax deductions
Bellevue, Washington resident itemizing her tax deductions

Japan: One Page Update

Last June in 2023, while visiting Japan, I wrote a lengthy blog regarding the boom and bust of the Nikkie 225 and the aftermath of the 1980s bubble economy. It is a rather lengthy blog. Please see link:

Japan Blog II – Can a Strengthening Currency Bring a Recession? Imagine: Nikkei 225

Rather than being predictively less optimistic regarding various economic challenges Japan has been working through for over 30 years, we argued that it is time to take a deep dive as there are many green shoots. We are optimistic about the recovery and suggest that the Nikkie 225, which has been waiting for over 30 years, might finally reach its all-time high, which has not been seen since 1989, in the next 18 months. This implied a 15 percent increase from when we wrote that blog. We did not have to wait 18 months. Eight months later, on February 22, 2024, the Nikkie 225 closed at 39093.

Please see chart:

Our argument is simple. The price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) was about 20, their interest rates were not too far from zero, and the earnings growth rate for the Nikkie 225 was above 18%, making this market seem attractive, especially considering the valuations they once traded in the 1980s.

So, now what? Some analysts predict the Nikkie 225 could trade above 50,000 in the next few years. We will increase our price target for the end of 2024 to 43,000. We believe Japan offers a broad-based return. Their central bank has abandoned negative rates, yet the Yen remains favorable for exports and tourism. In short, we remain bullish on Japan.

DISCLOSURE:

The Nikkei-225 Stock Average is a price-weighted average of 225 top-rated Japanese companies listed in the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. The Nikkei Stock Average was first published on May 16, 1949, when the average price was ¥176.21 with a divisor of 225. *We are using an official divisor for this index.” Bloomberg

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Where applicable, material conflicts of interest and whether compensation was provided in connection with a testimonial or endorsement are disclosed in accordance with applicable SEC regulations. Testimonials, endorsements, and ratings are not a guarantee of future performance or success.

Tax and Legal Disclaimer: FWA does not provide tax or legal advice. Information on this website should not be construed as tax or legal advice. You are encouraged to consult with qualified tax and legal professionals regarding your specific situation.

Third-Party Links: This website may contain links to third-party websites for convenience or informational purposes. We review the links when they are added and periodically thereafter and have a reasonable basis for believing they convey accurate information relevant to our clients. FWA does not control or assume responsibility for the content, ongoing accuracy, security, or privacy practices of any third-party websites. Accessing such links is at your own risk, and you are not required to link to any information we make available on our website.

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Fulcrum Wealth Advisors
10940 NE 33rd Pl.
Suite #210
Bellevue, WA 98004

(877) 400-0260
info@fulcrumwa.com

Fulcrum Wealth Advisors, LLC (“FWA”) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training.

This website is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is intended to provide general information about FWA, its services, and investment-related topics. Nothing contained on this website constitutes investment advice, nor should it be construed as a recommendation, solicitation, or offer to buy or sell any security or investment product. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

Investment advisory services are provided only pursuant to a written investment advisory agreement entered into between FWA and its clients.

Jurisdictional Limitations: FWA provides investment advisory services only in jurisdictions where it is appropriately registered, exempt, or excluded from registration requirements. The information on this website is not directed to, or intended for use by, any person in any jurisdiction where such use would be contrary to applicable laws or regulations.

Any subsequent, direct communication by FWA with a prospective client shall be conducted by a representative who is either registered or qualifies for an exemption or exclusion in the jurisdiction where the prospective client resides.

No Personalized Advice: The information presented on this website is general in nature and does not take into account the individual financial circumstances, investment objectives, or risk tolerance of any specific person. Visitors to this website should not rely on any information herein as a substitute for personalized advice from FWA or from their own financial, tax, or legal professionals.

Testimonials, Endorsements & Third-Party Ratings: This website may include testimonials, endorsements, or third-party ratings. Such testimonials or endorsements are not representative of all clients, and no assurance is given that a current or prospective client will experience the same or similar results.

Where applicable, material conflicts of interest and whether compensation was provided in connection with a testimonial or endorsement are disclosed in accordance with applicable SEC regulations. Testimonials, endorsements, and ratings are not a guarantee of future performance or success.

Tax and Legal Disclaimer: FWA does not provide tax or legal advice. Information on this website should not be construed as tax or legal advice. You are encouraged to consult with qualified tax and legal professionals regarding your specific situation.

Third-Party Links: This website may contain links to third-party websites for convenience or informational purposes. We review the links when they are added and periodically thereafter and have a reasonable basis for believing they convey accurate information relevant to our clients. FWA does not control or assume responsibility for the content, ongoing accuracy, security, or privacy practices of any third-party websites. Accessing such links is at your own risk, and you are not required to link to any information we make available on our website.

© 2026 Fulcrum Wealth Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved.​

Website design: Radically Distinct

Fulcrum Wealth Advisors
10940 NE 33rd Pl.
Suite #210
Bellevue, WA 98004

(877) 400-0260
info@fulcrumwa.com

Fulcrum Wealth Advisors, LLC (“FWA”) is an investment adviser registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training.

This website is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is intended to provide general information about FWA, its services, and investment-related topics. Nothing contained on this website constitutes investment advice, nor should it be construed as a recommendation, solicitation, or offer to buy or sell any security or investment product. All investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no assurance that any investment strategy will be successful.

Investment advisory services are provided only pursuant to a written investment advisory agreement entered into between FWA and its clients.

Jurisdictional Limitations: FWA provides investment advisory services only in jurisdictions where it is appropriately registered, exempt, or excluded from registration requirements. The information on this website is not directed to, or intended for use by, any person in any jurisdiction where such use would be contrary to applicable laws or regulations.

Any subsequent, direct communication by FWA with a prospective client shall be conducted by a representative who is either registered or qualifies for an exemption or exclusion in the jurisdiction where the prospective client resides.

No Personalized Advice: The information presented on this website is general in nature and does not take into account the individual financial circumstances, investment objectives, or risk tolerance of any specific person. Visitors to this website should not rely on any information herein as a substitute for personalized advice from FWA or from their own financial, tax, or legal professionals.

Testimonials, Endorsements & Third-Party Ratings: This website may include testimonials, endorsements, or third-party ratings. Such testimonials or endorsements are not representative of all clients, and no assurance is given that a current or prospective client will experience the same or similar results.

Where applicable, material conflicts of interest and whether compensation was provided in connection with a testimonial or endorsement are disclosed in accordance with applicable SEC regulations. Testimonials, endorsements, and ratings are not a guarantee of future performance or success.

Tax and Legal Disclaimer: FWA does not provide tax or legal advice. Information on this website should not be construed as tax or legal advice. You are encouraged to consult with qualified tax and legal professionals regarding your specific situation.

Third-Party Links: This website may contain links to third-party websites for convenience or informational purposes. We review the links when they are added and periodically thereafter and have a reasonable basis for believing they convey accurate information relevant to our clients. FWA does not control or assume responsibility for the content, ongoing accuracy, security, or privacy practices of any third-party websites. Accessing such links is at your own risk, and you are not required to link to any information we make available on our website.

© 2026 Fulcrum Wealth Advisors, LLC. All rights reserved.​

Website design: Radically Distinct