Nikkei up 2 pct on banks, U.S. inflation woes ease

TOKYO, July 20 (Reuters) The Nikkei average rose 2.18 percent on Thursday as stocks with strong earnings prospects, including banks, gained after easing concerns about inflation in the United States restored investor confidence.

The Nikkei was up 316.39 points at 14,816.65 as of 0006 GMT.

The TOPIX index jumped 2.46 percent to 1,511.70.

Reutersd YA GC0642