Tokyo stocks end mixed on caution over U.S. economic data

TOKYO, Sept. 3 (Xinhua) — Tokyo stocks ended mixed on Tuesday as a weaker yen supported exporter issues, while gains were locked in as cautious investors waited for U.S. economic data later this week.
Japan’s benchmark Nikkei stock index, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average ended down 14.56 points, or 0.04 percent, from Monday at 38,686.31.
The broader Topix index, meanwhile, finished 17.28 points, or 0.64 percent, higher at 2,733.27.
Shares opened higher in the morning as the yen’s weakness lifted export-related auto and electronics issues. But the benchmark Nikkei turned negative in the afternoon as the yen strengthened and investors grew cautious ahead of a slew of U.S. economic data, including employment figures for August due out Friday, analysts said.
Market watchers here noted that the outcome of the employment data could lead to significant market volatility, including a potential decline in interest rates and a strengthening of the yen. ■