TOKYO, May 15 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks ended lower Thursday, as selling of export-oriented auto issues was spurred by a stronger yen.
Japan's benchmark Nikkei stock index, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average, ended down 372.62 points, or 0.98 percent, from the previous trading day at 37,755.51.
The broader Topix index, meanwhile, finished 24.33 points, or 0.88 percent, lower at 2,738.96.
The U.S. dollar fell to the upper 145 yen range in Tokyo, as the yen was bought on speculation that the United States may urge Japan to address the yen's weakness during talks between their finance ministers that could happen next week, analysts said.
Stocks were dragged down by the selling of auto issues on concern about the adverse impact of the yen's appreciation, after automakers forecast lower profits for the current fiscal year, citing uncertainty caused by the U.S. high tariffs. ■
