Japanese stocks were lower following Thursday’s sharp gains, with the Nikkei Stock Average down 1.0% at 68263.52, as concerns about higher energy costs continue. Tech, auto, and pharmaceutical stocks are leading declines, including SoftBank Group (down 3.6%), Honda Motor (down 1.8%), and Chugai Pharmaceutical (down 2.4%). Investors are closely watching developments in the Iran conflict, crude oil prices, and bond yields.