Japanese stocks eked out another record Tuesday following the weekend election of a pro-stimulus advocate to lead the country's ruling party, while gold also hit a new high amid the US government shutdown and French political upheaval.

The election of Sanae Takaichi -- expected to become Japan's prime minister this month -- ramped up optimism that she will embark on a campaign of monetary easing.

That sent the Nikkei 225 soaring almost five percent Monday and hammered the yen as investors began questioning the likelihood that the Bank of Japan will continue its interest rate hikes.

And the index continued its run-up on Tuesday, though it pared its earlier gains to end marginally higher. The yen also held losses.

Takaichi's victory "removes uncertainty about the country's policy directi

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