The Japanese Nikkei index closed at its lowest level in a month on Wednesday, affected by a broad wave of selling amid global political tensions and fears that raising interest rates in the United States will lead to a slowdown in the global economy.
The Nikkei index lost 1.34 percent to close at 27,104.32 points, its lowest level since January 23 and its biggest daily decline since January 19.
Of the stocks listed on the index, only 15 rose, compared to a decline of 209, while one stock remained unchanged.
The broader Topix index fell 1.11 percent, recording 1975.25 points.