Tokyo Nikkei 225 closes down 2.36% at 40,126 points (Il Sole 24 Ore Radiocor) - Tokyo , 18 Jul - Japanese shares closed sharply lower, leading the way south amid mixed Asian markets.

In Tokyo stock market dealings technology shares led the losses as chipmakers tracked their US peers lower concerns over US-China trade and profit taking after a recent rally.

The Nikkei index closed down 2.36% at 40,126 points, slipping from near all-time highs.

Tokyo shares rose in recent sessions as figures pointing to a weaker economy added to doubts over Japan's economic health, easing pressure on the Bank of Japan to increase interest rates.

The yen hit a six-week high against the dollar following suspected interventions by Tokyo.

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(RADIOCOR) 18-07-24 08:36:50 (0173) 5 NNNN