TOKYO, July 8 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks ended lower on Wednesday as rising crude oil prices reignited inflation worries.
The benchmark 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average dropped 1,437.91 points, or 2.11 percent, from Tuesday to 66,819.05.
The broader Topix index, meanwhile, finished 55.83 points, or 1.37 percent, lower at 4,006.43.
On the top-tier Prime Market, precision instruments, nonferrous metals, and machinery issues were notable decliners.
Oil prices jumped after reports of a fresh round of attacks exchanged by the United States and Iran.
Sentiment soured on concerns that escalating tensions in the Middle East would drive up energy costs and hurt corporate earnings, analysts said.
The prospect of an oil price spike weighed on automaker and airline shares, reversing their recent rebound on easing concerns over the oil market. ■