Nikkei reaches record 40,000 

Japan's Nikkei index crossed the 40,000 threshold for the first time early Monday on robust technology issues following the advance of their U.S. counterparts late last week, according to a report by Kyodo News.

The Nikkei benchmark quickly topped the 40,000 line after the market opening. In the first 15 minutes of trading, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average rose 237.73 points, or 0.60 percent, from Friday to 40,148.55. The broader Topix index was down 1.55 points, or 0.06 percent, at 2,707.87.

The index reached the milestone after registering all-time closing and intraday highs on Feb. 22 for the first time in 34 years on the back of favorable corporate earnings amid a weak yen, attracting domestic and foreign investment.

On the top-tier Prime Market, gainers were led by precision instrument, mining and electric appliance issues, while marine transportation, and electric power and gas issues were among decliners.

At 9 a.m., the U.S. dollar fetched 150.11-14 yen compared with 150.08-18 yen in New York and 150.49-50 yen in Tokyo at 5 p.m. Friday.

The euro was quoted at $1.0840-0844 and 162.72-81 yen against $1.0835-0845 and 162.64-74 yen in New York and $1.0811-0813 and 162.70-74 yen in Tokyo late Friday afternoon.