Japan's Nikkei falls for second day as tech rally loses steam; Eisai jumps

Japan's Nikkei fell sharply for a second straight session on Thursday as investors locked in profits from a recent run-up in technology shares.

The Nikkei accelerated losses in the afternoon, sliding 0.85% to close at 31,641.27. The broader Topix dropped 0.67% to 2,191.50.

Sony Group declined 1.65%, while semiconductor materials supplier Hoya sank 3.89%. SoftBank Group fell 1.47%.