The uptrend in Tokyo share prices appears likely to gather momentum in the coming weeks amid growing opti- mism about economic prospects.
The Nikkei average hit 17,181.12 at the close of trading Monday, up more than 1,500 points over the Aug. 4 low of 15,667.36.
The 225-issue gauge appears likely to move between 16,800 and 18,000 in the near term.