TOKYO, June 22 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks ended higher on Monday, with the benchmark Nikkei stock index finishing above the 72,000 mark for the first time and setting a new closing high, as expectations of increased investment in growth sectors boosted high-tech shares linked to artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors and robotics.
The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average ended up 1,103.90 points, or 1.55 percent, from Friday at 72,353.96.
The broader Topix index, meanwhile, finished 50.09 points, or 1.24 percent, higher at 4,095.05.
On the top-tier Prime Market, nonferrous metal, glass and ceramic product, and electric appliance issues were notable gainers.
Technology shares related to AI, chips, and robotics advanced following weekend media reports that the Japanese government is considering setting a goal for the public and private sectors to invest around 370 trillion yen (about 2.3 trillion U.S. dollars) in 17 growth areas through fiscal 2040, analysts said.
The Nikkei index briefly surged more than 2 percent during the session before paring some gains in late afternoon trade, as investors locked in profits amid overheating concerns after recent sharp rises, analysts said. ■
