(Il Sole 24 Ore Radiocor) - , 16 mar - Japanese shares closed lower, as escalating conflict in the Middle East fueled investor concerns over rising energy prices and a weakening yen. Market players remained cautious after US and Israeli air strikes on Iran's oil export hub over the weekend disrupted petroleum shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, sparking fears of a global economic slowdown and potential stagflation.

Sentiment was further pressured by the yen sinking toward 160 per dollar, prompting Finance minister Satsuki Katayama to signal potential government intervention, while the Bank of Japan is widely expected to maintain steady policy rates this week amid the geopolitical uncertainty.

Losses were led by utility and auto stocks, as the Nikkei 225.

closed down 0.13% at 53,751.15 points.

(RADIOCOR) 16-03-26 08:21:24 (0112) 5 NNNN