[Nikkei Index Hits Record High for Second Consecutive Day, Closes Above 54,000 Points] Odaily Planet Daily News – The speculation surrounding a potential early election by the Japanese government continues to intensify, driving the Japanese stock market to a record high for the second consecutive day. The Nikkei 225 Index closed up 1.48% at 54,341.23 points, marking the first time the closing price has exceeded 54,000 points. On the other hand, the yen and bonds continue to decline, with the USD/JPY hovering above the 159 level, currently up 0.14%. (Jin10)