Japanese markets ended in the red as investors braced for Nvidia's earnings, seen as a critical test for AI investment sentiment.
The Nikkei 225 dipped 0.16% to close at 38,352.34, shedding 62.09 points.
Options markets are bracing for a nearly $300 billion swing in Nvidia's market value post-results, implying an 8.5% move - on par with recent reactions.
At a $3.44 trillion valuation, such a shift eclipses the market cap of most S&P 500 firms.
Japan's trade deficit shrank to 461.25 billion yen in October, down from 702.86 billion yen a year earlier, as exports rose 3.1% to 9.427 trillion yen, buoyed by shipments to Asia and the Middle East.
Imports edged up 0.4% to 9.888 trillion yen, lifted by gains from China and the UAE. Exports to China increased 1.5%, while shipments to the US dropped 5.1%, the Ministry of Finance said.
In corporate news, Nippon Electric Glass (TYO:5214) and Via Mechanics are collaborating to develop advanced glass-ceramic substrates for semiconductor packaging, targeting miniaturization and improved performance.
Nippon is spearheading development, with Via contributing laser technology for crack-free vias.
MediPal Holdings (TYO:7459) plans to merge subsidiaries ATOL and MVC in April 2025, consolidating operations in Kyushu and Okinawa. ATOL will remain the surviving entity with no changes to shares or capital.
Prima Meat Packers (TYO:2281) declared a 40-yen interim dividend for FY2025, totaling 2.01 billion yen, doubling last year's payout and aligning with forecasts.
