The positive numbers still mean that optimists are outnumbering pessimists, even when companies consider the two quarters ahead.

The survey adds to the view that the economy is making steady improvements and deflationary pressure is waning. It's supportive for the Bank of Japan's bullish scenario.

Growth was slightly better than we had expected, chiefly due to resilient domestic demand such as corporate capital investment and consumption.

It looks like demand for high-quality steel remains strong and supply remains limited.

Overall, the trading is thin due to closure of the U.S. financial markets.

The Nikkei's rise since July has had limited impact on the yen's upside, but for the moment anyway, stock prices are supporting the yen.