Japan's Nikkei index fell 0.2% to 53,256.62 points, as declines in some electronics stocks offset gains in pharmaceutical and energy shares. Advantest dropped 5.3%, and Keyence declined 3.8%, while Chugai Pharmaceutical rose 4.4% and Eneos Holdings gained 3.0%. The Topix index increased by 0.5% to 3,561.66 points. The U.S. dollar was quoted at 153.39 yen, compared to 152.96 yen at the close of Tokyo trading on Thursday. Investors are closely monitoring corporate earnings reports, with Daiichi Sankyo, Hoya, and Komatsu scheduled to announce their results. Ahead of the general election scheduled for early next month, the economic plans of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi are also a key focus.
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