Tokyo stocks fell on Wednesday as investors faced growing uncertainties related to US monetary policy and geopolitical tensions between Ukraine and Russia. The benchmark Nikkei 225 Index dropped by 62.09 points, or 0.16%, closing at 38,352.34.
Concerns over the US economy’s resilience and inflation reignited fears that the Federal Reserve may slow the pace of rate cuts. Meanwhile, escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia further dampened market sentiment.
However, some major stocks provided support. Sony Group saw gains following reports of acquisition talks with Kadokawa, a leader in video streaming and publishing. Additionally, anticipation around US chipmaker Nvidia’s upcoming quarterly earnings report boosted shares in companies like Advantest, which stands to benefit from Nvidia-driven AI semiconductor demand.
The broader Topix Index also declined, falling 11.74 points, or 0.43%, to close at 2,698.29, according to Xinhua news agency.
Trading on the Tokyo Stock Exchange’s Prime section was subdued, with decliners outnumbering gainers 997 to 600, and 48 stocks remaining unchanged.
