Japanese equities ended slightly lower on Friday, with the Nikkei 225 down 0.12% to close at 65,607, marking a second consecutive session of losses. Technology stocks struggled as investors worried about AI-related valuations. Oil prices rebounded due to new tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fears about global energy supplies and shipping. Japan's household spending fell 3.3% annually in June, missing expectations of a 1% rise. SoftBank Group fell 2.5% despite good earnings, while Nintendo rose 5.3% due to strong quarterly results.