Around the World's Markets: Tokyo

THE KEY stock index recorded its first three-day rally in six weeks, led by Sony and Canon, as gains on Wall Street contributed to hopes that a strong US economy will support exporters' profits.

Stocks jumped in the final hour, lifted by soaring futures after media reports said that the government would rush its latest economic recovery programme through parliament by the end of the year.

The Nikkei 225 rose by 240.85 points, or 1.78 per cent, to 13,808.05. The broader Topix index gained 20.1 points, or 1.96 per cent, to 1,043.02.