The 225-issue Nikkei average sprung to a 14-month high Friday, boosted by gains in value stocks such as banks and steel-makers on hopes of a U.S.-China trade deal that would herald robust global growth.

The Nikkei surged 2.55 percent to end at 24,023.10, hitting its highest levels since October last year and marking its biggest daily gain in 10 months.

The index made a decisive break above resistance around 23,600. Its next target is seen at 24,448, a 27-year peak marked on Oct. 2 last year.