Nikkei set to test 23-month high, bank stocks eyed

TOKYO, Jan 7 (Reuters) - Japan's Nikkei share average is set to test a 23-month high on Monday, helped by encouraging U.S. economic data, while a weakening yen will likely buoy exporters and bank shares could gain from a rule change. The Nikkei was likely to trade between 10,700 and 10,850 on Monday, strategists said, after jumping 2.8 percent at 10,688.11 on Friday, its highest close since March 4, 2011. If the index touches the 10,800-mark, it will be the first time since Feb. 21, 2011.