Nikkei takes a dip

TOKYO - The Nikkei share average fell 0.61 per cent yesterday, weighed down by sharp losses in chip equipment makers such as Tokyo Electron after Intel lowered its forecast for capital spending.

Profit-taking dragged down glass maker Hoya by more than 3 per cent despite its quarterly profit announcement that was largely in line with expectations.

Shares in shipping companies and brokerage firms rose on hopes for better earnings.

The Nikkei was 101.64 points lower at 16,551.36.

The broader Topix index posted a narrower loss, down 0.18 per cent at 1635.77.

- REUTERS