Japan Stocks Surge as Pension Fund Boosts Holdings

Japan's Topix index saw a significant rebound as the nation's pension fund increased domestic equity holdings, ending a three-week losing streak. Meanwhile, Japan's Trade and Justice ministers resigned due to misconduct allegations. Dutch company SHV agreed to acquire Nutreco for $3.4 billion, with the deal expected to close next year. The market anticipates more bidders. French billionaire Vassalboro aims to increase his stake in Ava's, offering a share swap at a premium, though Ava's shares rose only modestly.

What was the primary reason for the recent surge in Japan's Topix index?

• Decrease in interest rates

• Improvement in export numbers

• Boost in domestic equity holdings by the pension fund

• Increase in foreign investments

Why did Japan's Minister of Trade and Industry and the Justice Minister resign?

• Retirement

• Political disagreements

• Allegations of misconduct

• Due to health issues

Which company agreed to buy Nutreco, causing its shares to surge?

• Cargill

• SHV

• Nestle

• Unilever

What is the expected timeline for the completion of the Nutreco transaction?

• By the end of next year

• In the second quarter of next year

• In the first quarter of next year

• By the end of this year

What strategy is French billionaire Vassalboro using to increase his stake in Ava's?

• Issuing new shares

• Share swap

• Merging with another company

• Direct purchase of shares