Japanese stocks closed marginally lower on Friday as investors remained cautious ahead of the US jobs report, which may influence the Federal Reserve's interest-rate hike decision.
The benchmark Nikkei 225 closed down 76.55 points, or 0.12%, at 65,606.71.
Oil prices gained with no breakthrough on a possible US-Iran deal to end conflict in the Middle East, raising concerns about energy supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz as Iran plans to bar US and Israeli vessels from transiting Hormuz.
On the corporate side, Kirin Holdings (TYO:2503) agreed to acquire Canada-based wellness and integrative health services provider Jamieson Wellness for 218.3 billion yen, according to a Friday filing with the Tokyo Exchange.
Also, Bridgestone (TYO:5108) posted a 79% year-over-year rise in profit attributable to owners of the parent to 206.1 billion yen for the first half ended June 30 from 115.2 billion yen.