Tokyo stocks end essentially flat as investors opt for profits

TOKYO, April 4 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks ended essentially flat Thursday as investors took to profit-taking to lock in gains after technology shares advanced on their U.S. counterparts' solid gains overnight.

The 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average edged up 11.74 points, or 0.05 percent, from Wednesday to close the day at 21,724.95.

The broader Topix index of all First Section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange, meanwhile, shed 1.72 points, or 0.11 percent, to finish at 1,620.05.

Marine transportation and transportation equipment issues led notable gainers, while pulp and paper, and mining-liked issues comprised those that declined the most by the close of play.