The Nikkei 225 rose 0.9% to above 49,600, while the broader Topix Index gained 0.5% to 3,265 on Tuesday, extending their record rally ahead of a parliamentary vote that set to position Sanae Takaichi to become the country’s next prime minister. The ruling Liberal Democratic Party was able to forge a coalition with the Japan Innovation Party, where they are expected to push for expansionary fiscal policy and spending reforms. However, questions about the partnership’s sustainability and whether Takaichi could pursue more extreme policies remain. Meanwhile, Bank of Japan board member Hajime Takata said Monday that the time was ripe for raising interest rates, keeping sentiment in check. Leading gainers included SoftBank Group (2.3%), Advantest (2.9%), JX Advanced (3.3%), Mizuho Financial (1.7%), and Fast Retailing (1.1%).