TOKYO — Japan's Nikkei 225 stock index closed above 70,000 on Tuesday for the first time in about three months, and analysts at major brokerages continue to see opportunities in a market driven by artificial intelligence spending, rising interest rates and corporate governance reforms.

The Nikkei finished at 70,683.98, up 1.05%, extending a rally fueled by strong results from U.S. memory chipmaker Micron Technology and weaker-than-expected U.S. jobs data. The index remains below its record intraday high of 72,831.73 set in June.

Below are 10 Nikkei 225 companies that analysts have rated as buys in recent months, based on published broker research and consensus data. The list reflects analysts' views, not recommendations from this news organization. Price targets are forecasts that can prove wrong, and investors should consider their own circumstances and seek professional advice before investing.

Jefferies raised its price target on the chip-testing equipment maker to 42,000 yen...

Correction in-line: Jefferies raised its target to 41,000 yen from 38,500 yen, citing record results driven by AI demand.

Advantest reported first-quarter sales of 367.5 billion yen, up 39% from a year earlier, and operating profit of 190 billion yen, up 53%, both records. The company raised its full-year guidance to sales of 1.714 trillion yen and operating profit of 846 billion yen.

The stock hit a record high on Monday, closing at 40,220 yen, close to Jefferies' target,........

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