Around the World's Markets: Tokyo

SPURRED BY the Dow's record high and positive news on the domestic front, the Nikkei broke through the psychological 15,000 barrier for the first time in three months.

The 2.6 per cent gain, which saw the Nikkei close at 5,114, was led by Japanese global companies, who stand to benefit from a robust US economy.

Sony ended the day at 9,200 yen, a 600 yen rise, while Honda added 180 yen to 4,780 yen.

It was reported yesterday that the government will pour 87 trillion yen into the property market.