With stocks locked in a crosscurrent between optimism and fears over events in store for the rest of the year, activity on the Tokyo stock market has been subdued.
The market is searching for a direction, keeping shares on a roller-coaster ride.
Further volatility appears to be inevitable for the rest of the year amid concern over corporate earnings and economic prospects and the government's fiscal condition.
With your current subscription plan you can comment on stories. However, before writing your first comment, please create a display name in the Profile section of your subscriber account page.