TOKYO, July 30 (Xinhua) -- Japan's key stock index fell for the fourth consecutive session on Wednesday as investors remained cautious ahead of key monetary policy announcements from the U.S. Federal Reserve and the Bank of Japan.
The benchmark Nikkei stock index, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average, closed at 40,654.70, down 19.85 points or 0.05 percent, from the previous trading day.
The market lacked clear direction throughout the day, with selling pressure intensifying at times to push the index down.
Adverse earnings reactions weighed on the market. Advantest fell despite revising up its full-year outlook, as investors moved to secure profits. Murata Manufacturing also declined significantly after reporting results during trading hours.
In contrast to the Nikkei, the broader Topix index rebounded, gaining 11.54 points, or 0.40 percent, to close at 2,920.18.
Of the listed stocks on the Tokyo Prime Market, decliners numbered 482, while 1,071 stocks advanced and 71 remained unchanged. ■
