Japan's Nikkei 225 share average climbed on Thursday, buoyed by a sharp rally in Advantest shares following the chip-testing equipment maker's decision to raise its annual profit forecast.
The semiconductor equipment giant's positive outlook provided a key lift to the benchmark index, offsetting weakness in other sectors.
The broader TOPIX index, however, faced headwinds from the financial sector, with major banks dragging the gauge lower.
This divergence highlighted a rotation in investor sentiment, where technology and semiconductor-related names outperformed traditional financial heavyweights.
The move extends a recent period of strength for Japanese equities.
The Nikkei had previously extended a three-session winning streak, tracking overnight gains on Wall Street.