Nintendo shares reach two-year high after China temporarily lifts console ban

Nintendo shares rose to a two-year high Wednesday, after China announced that it would temporarily lift its 14-year ban on selling video game consoles in the country.

As Reuters points out, this move could prove to be lucrative for platform holders like Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft, though that remains to be seen. The Wii U has performed below Nintendo's own expectations, having sold only 3.91 million units as of September 30.

Sony and Microsoft shares fell marginally, but it should be noted that these companies have numerous business ventures, and are not focused only on video games.

The Chinese State Council now allows Nintendo, Sony, and Microsoft to make consoles within Shanghai's free trade zone and then sell them in China, provided they get government approval. China enacted its console ban in 2000, following concerns about potential harm to the physical and mental development of children.