Nikkei falls to 6万4916円 as AI investment worries linger

The Nikkei's decline extends a volatile stretch for Japanese equities. The index had already fallen for six consecutive sessions from October 7 to 15, including a drop of about 3,300 yen on the 15th — the third-largest point decline on record. A rebound on the 16th gave way to renewed selling at the start of this week.

Beyond AI investment concerns, market participants also pointed to rising crude oil prices as a source of unease. WTI futures in New York again topped $100 per barrel amid the prolonged Middle East situation, adding to the cautious mood.

With the earnings season approaching, attention is shifting to whether AI-related companies can show profits commensurate with their heavy spending. That question is likely to shape sentiment toward the sector in the near term.