Japanese equity markets open flat on Friday amid increasing political uncertainty surrounding an anticipated snap election.
The Nikkei 225 opened flat with a negative bias at 54,071.28.
This follows an announcement that the main opposition party, the Constitutional Democratic Party, will form a new partnership with Komeito, a former coalition ally.
This alliance complicates Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's strategy to expand her party's narrow parliamentary majority.
Reports indicate parliament may be dissolved on Jan. 23, leading to a campaign period ahead of a possible national election on Feb. 8.
Investors are also cautious ahead of the Bank of Japan's policy meeting next week, watching for clues on future interest rate moves.
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