The Nikkei stock index soared over 2 percent early Thursday, lifted by export-oriented issues on a weaker yen against the U.S. dollar as stronger-than-expected U.S. jobs-related data reduced expectations of a sharp interest rate cut. In the first 15 minutes of trading, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average rose 839.14 points, or 2.22 percent, from Wednesday to 38,647.90. The broader Topix index was up 40.69 points, or 1.53 percent, at 2,692.65. On the top-tier Prime Market, gainers were led by real estate, insurance, and marine transportation issues. At 9 a.m., the dollar fetched 146.54-55 yen co…