TOKYO, Feb. 15 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks extended gains Wednesday morning following a strong lead from Wall Street with market sentiment further lifted by U.S. Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen suggesting rates in the U.S. may be raised earlier than expected.
The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average gained 234.52 points, or 1.22 percent, from Tuesday to 19,473.50.
The broader Topix index of all First Section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, meanwhile, added 17.10 points, or 1.11 percent, to 1,556.22.
Bank, insurance and securities issues comprised notable industry categories that advanced in the morning session.
