Tokyo: Sentiment improved at major manufacturers for the fifth straight quarter despite analyst concerns over business being affected by the Middle East. The sentiment index for large manufacturers came in at +22 points, up 5 points from the previous survey, revealed the quarterly Tankan survey shared by NHK World-Japan.

According to Qatar News Agency, the statistics revealed more companies are optimistic about business conditions than pessimistic. Confidence improved in the machinery sectors thanks to robust demand for artificial intelligence and chip-related equipment, showed the survey covering about 9,000 companies.

In contrast, sentiment took a hit in the petroleum and coal sector due to the situation in the Middle East, with little impact on the overall index. The index for large non-manufacturers improved for the first time in five quarters at +37, up 1 point.

Looking three months ahead, confidence at major manufacturers declined 5 points. The same measure at large non-manufacturers fell 9 points.