Global News Summary: Tokyo Stock Market Rises, European Defense Spending, and JR Central's Enhanced Childcare Support

The Tokyo stock market saw gains on October 18, with the Nikkei 225 closing at 31,927.70 yen, a rise of 96.15 yen from the previous day. This marks the second consecutive day of increases. Defense-related stocks saw increased buying interest following a meeting of European leaders discussing increased defense spending in light of the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Banking and insurance stocks also rose due to expectations of improved interest rates. The TOPIX index closed at 2,275.51, up 8.61 points.JR Central has decided to increase childbirth benefits for employees with three or more children to 500,000 yen, 2.5 times the current amount. This initiative aims to enhance support for families with multiple children. The company also plans to double the child allowance to 20,000 yen per child and extend the availability of shorter working hours to parents of children with disabilities up to the age of 18. Concurrently, spousal allowances will be discontinued due to the increase in dual-income households.