On the Tokyo Stock Exchange on the 3rd, the Nikkei Stock Average continued its decline, briefly trading at over 1400 points lower than the previous day's close, reaching the 56600 range. This marks the first time it fell below 57000 since February 24, demonstrating the impact of rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly related to potential military actions by the United States and Israel against Iran. As global economic uncertainty rises, investors are adopting a risk-averse stance.

The Nikkei opened at 57729.80, down 327 points from the previous day. The increase in oil prices due to the escalating situation in the Middle East has led to concerns about negative impacts on corporate earnings, prompting wider declines among stocks. Notable losses were seen in prominent companies like Fast Retailing and TDK. However, the trend from the previous New York Stock Exchange session, where tech stocks performed well, provided a degree of support for stocks like Advantest and Fujikura, which are involved in artificial intelligence and semiconductors.

Japanese Finance Minister Katayama stated that there is 'extremely high tension' in the market, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring of the situation. The combination of geopolitical risks and their potential effects on both the stock market and the broader economy are sources of concern for investors, highlighting the delicate balance between geopolitical events and market stability.