Tokyo stocks were modestly lower at the midday break. Semiconductor-related shares rose in the morning but subsequently gave up their gains.
The Nikkei 225 was quoted at 66,333.53 in the 11 a.m. hour, down about 0.05% from the previous day. The market remained only modestly lower, with overall trading described as a slight decline.
Semiconductor-related stocks attracted buying in the morning, but gave up those gains toward the afternoon session, and share prices weakened again except for some issues. Market participants pointed to a possible impact from a lack of fresh catalysts and subtle shifts in supply and demand.