Tokyo stocks open mixed on weak tech shares, strong tourism issues

Tokyo stocks opened mixed Thursday as selling of technology shares was offset by buying in inbound tourism-related shares after data showed that the estimated number of foreign visitors to Japan jumped in October from a year earlier.

In the first 15 minutes of trading, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average fell 58.32 points, or 0.21 percent, from Wednesday to 27,969.98. The broader Topix index was up 4.55 points, or 0.23 percent, at 1,967.84.

On the top-tier Prime Market, decliners were led by wholesale trade, marine transportation, and nonferrous metal issues, while land transportation, service, and air transportation issues were among major gainers.

At 9 a.m., the dollar fetched 139.32-33 yen compared with 139.50-60 yen in New York and 139.37-39 yen in Tokyo at 5 p.m. Wednesday.

The euro was quoted at $1.0392-0396 and 144.78-85 yen against $1.0390-0400 and 144.93-145.03 yen in New York and $1.0402-0404 and 144.98-145.02 yen in Tokyo late Wednesday afternoon.

© Kyodo News