"The stock markets are being swayed by the currency"
- Naoki Fujiwara, a fund manager at Shinkin Asset Management Co.
Japanese stocks declined on Thursday as the yen edged higher, dimming the outlook for exporters.
The Nikkei 225 decreased 0.16%, or 15.87, to 9,707.37. The broader Topix erased 0.53%, or 4.42, to 831.54.
"The yen is driving down equities this afternoon," said Hiroichi Nishi, an equities manager in Tokyo at SMBC Nikko Securities Inc.
"Investors have been sensitive about overheating in the market and they are selling to lock in profits after the market digested major factors."
© Dukascopy Bank