Japan’s Nikkei eked out small gains on Thursday but the market was hampered by concerns about the U.S. trade war with Mexico and China, prompting investors to buy domestic-demand oriented shares.

The Nikkei share average rose 0.27% to 20,832.46 though the index was propped up disproportionately by rises in its top two heavyweights, Softbank Group and Fast Retailing, which rose 3.4% and 2.8% respectively.

The broader Topix, which investors say more accurately reflects the market, was almost flat, up 0.03% at 1,530.59.

Source : Reuters