TOKYO, May 12 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks closed higher Tuesday, lifted by solid earnings results from technology companies, though gains were capped by profit-taking amid rising crude oil prices.
The benchmark Nikkei stock index, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average, ended up 324.69 points, or 0.52 percent, from Monday at 62,742.57.
The broader Topix index, meanwhile, finished 31.97 points, or 0.83 percent, higher at 3,872.9.
On the top-tier Prime Market, consumer credit, nonferrous metal, and oil and coal product issues were notable gainers.
Stocks linked to artificial intelligence and semiconductors stood out as strong performers after earnings results pointed to growing demand in the sector.
Technology shares also gained on expectations that they would be less affected by higher crude oil prices stemming from persistent tensions in the Middle East.
However, both the Nikkei and the Topix indexes briefly dipped into negative territory as investors locked in gains amid concerns about an overheated market following a rise in crude oil futures. ■
