Nikkei at 7-month high

TOKYO - Tokyo's Nikkei gained 0.68 per cent to a 7-month closing high yesterday, led by technology shares such as Toshiba Corp, after a jump in similar US stocks and on hopes for an earnings recovery in the sector.

Nippon Mining Holdings soared on a raised earnings forecast.

Banks, brokerages and insurance firms rose as investors maintained a positive view of the Japanese economy.

Machinery orders data last week beat expectations.

The Nikkei average rose 78.64 points to 11,632.20, the highest close since July 2, 2004.

The broader Topix index was up 0.68 per cent at 1168.61.

- REUTERS