Although the stock market has reacted positively to the inauguration of the reformist Cabinet of Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi, doubts linger.

In order for the Tokyo stock market to stage a strong and lasting rebound, investors must be convinced of Koizumi's political clout.

Uncertainty about his political future could keep the 225-issue Nikkei average locked within the 13,000-15,000 range.