Around the World's Markets: Tokyo

TOKYO ENDED firmer helped by Wall Street's overnight rebound, but the market benchmark pared most of its early gains after a Bank of Japan policy-maker said it may end its zero interest rate policy. The Nikkei average finished a modest 11.13 points, or 0.06 per cent higher at 18,271.85

"Sentiment was getting worn down towards late trade, with players obviously anxious to take profits earlier than in most Decembers because of Y2K issues," said one trader.