Japan's Nikkei share average rose on Monday morning following a US market rally, with chip-related stocks and insurance firms leading gains. The Nikkei gained 0.5 per cent to 23,737.38 in midmorning trade.
Silicon products maker Shin-Etsu Chemical jumped 4.7 per cent after raising its net profit forecast and dividend payout outlook for the year ending March, while silicon wafer maker Sumco soared 4.3 per cent. Chip-making equipment manufacturers also outperformed the overall market, with Tokyo Electron rising 2.0 per cent and Advantest Corp advancing 1.9 per cent.
Insurers also staged rallies, with T&D Holdings up 1.9 per cent and Dai-ichi Life Holdings surging 1.5 per cent. The broader Topix added 0.4 per cent to 1,885.95.