Japanese shares dropped to three-week lows on Tuesday as a broad range of stocks came under pressure from the spread of the coronavirus that could curb global economic growth.

At midday close, the Nikkei share average was down 0.94% at 23,124.51, hitting the lowest level since Jan. 8.

The Topix, which includes all listed shares on the Tokyo Stock Exchange's main board, lost 0.92% to 1,686.83.

Losses were widespread, with 80% of the main board shares in the red, an unusually high ratio.

Selling spread to companies seen as having strong growth prospects such as Keyence and Shin-etsu Chemical , which fell 2.9% and 2.0%, respectively.

Source : Reuters