The Nikkei had been down 1.25% early in the session but has reclaimed 0.5% of that after the resignation of the PM. The ruling Democrats expect to elect a new leader as early as this week.
Wall Street fell heavily in the last 30 minutes of trade on the news that BP were facing possible criminal charges and a break-up of the company but BP is now trying to reassure investors regarding future costs and this is also aiding the improving sentiment on stock markets.
