Around the World's Markets: Tokyo

JAPAN'S BENCHMARK Nikkei 225 index surged 803.97 points, or 6.2 per cent, to 13,825.61, recording its biggest rise this year as the government hammered out the final details of legislation to bolster banks' capital, and began work on a new economic recovery program.

A stronger Japanese yen also boosted prospects for rival exporters in Asian countries such as Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore. The yen strengthened to as much as 125.88 against the dollar, from 132.83 the previous day.

Banking reforms, page 22