Tokyo: Japan's key stock index snapped a four-day winning streak on Wednesday, as investors sought to lock in profits after an earlier gain briefly took the index above the 38,000 level. The benchmark Nikkei stock index, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average, closed at 37,722.40, down 1.71 points from the previous trading day.

According to Namibia Press Agency, early gains were driven by strength in U.S. tech stocks the previous day, which sent the Nikkei up more than 400 points at one stage. However, selling pressure increased as investors sought to lock in profits at the higher level.

The 38,000 range, where trading has been heavy since the market correction in the summer of 2024, triggered selling from those waiting for a rebound. In contrast, the broader TOPIX index managed a slight gain for the fourth consecutive day, closing up 0.02 points at 2,769.51.

Of the listed stocks on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market, 763 declined, 792 advanced, and 76 were unchanged.