Japanese Finance Minister Suzuki Shunichi on Monday emphasized the importance of making decisions calmly, after the benchmark Nikkei 225 stock average posted a record one-day point loss. Suzuki's statement comes as the Japanese government and financial authorities intensify their monitoring efforts following the dramatic plunge in the stock market.

I think it's important to take decisions calmly, and we will continue to monitor developments in the domestic and overseas economies and financial markets with a high sense of urgency, Suzuki told reporters at the finance ministry.

On the yen's rapid appreciation, which is considered a factor behind the stock market rout, the minister said that it is preferable for exchange rates to move in a stable way. He declined to comment on whether the yen's latest jump was an abrupt movement, while noting that he will closely monitor developments. Suzuki emphasized that the Financial Services Agency is actively gathering and analyzing information regarding the crash and collaborating with other entities to tackle the issue.

We will watch it closely with a sense of urgency while cooperating with the Bank of Japan, said Suzuki, who also serves as financial services minister. The minister called on people to make calm investment decisions while considering the importance of long-term, periodic, and diversified investments, particularly for those who began investing in stocks after the Nippon Individual Savings Account, or NISA, tax-exemption program was expanded in January. Investors have expressed growing concerns due to the recent market fluctuations.

Simultaneously, Finance Minister Suzuki highlighted that the Japanese government is watching the markets with grave concern, noting the importance of monitoring exchange-rate movements closely following the significant plunge of the Nikkei stock average. He detailed the collaborative efforts between the government's Financial Services Agency and the Bank of Japan to ensure that foreign exchange rates reflect economic fundamentals accurately.

Suzuki's comments struck a chord with investors and analysts alike, emphasizing the need for stable exchange rates and the synchronized response from various financial authorities to mitigate the potential fallout of the stock market crash. By addressing the media in such proactive terms, Suzuki aimed to instill confidence in market participants while navigating the volatile financial scenario.

Japan's concerted efforts are part of a broader strategy to maintain economic stability and prevent further market disruptions. The Finance Minister's calls for calm and informed decision-making resonate with the growing sentiment that systemic measures are crucial to mitigate the adverse effects of sudden market shifts. The authorities' approach underscores the need for prudence and the balanced handling of financial developments through coordinated actions and robust monitoring mechanisms.

As the situation develops, the Japanese government and financial agencies remain vigilant, reiterating their commitment to ensuring stability and addressing immediate concerns. Market participants are advised to stay informed and consider long-term investment strategies to navigate the turbulent market landscape effectively. The ongoing scrutiny and collaborative efforts reflect a proactive stance in managing economic challenges and promoting sustained growth.