Tokyo, September 16 (QNA) - The Japanese Nikkei index closed at a record high for the fourth consecutive session on Tuesday, supported by investor interest in chip-related stocks ahead of tomorrow's crucial monetary policy decision by the Federal Reserve (US central bank).

The Nikkei index rose 0.3 percent to close at 44,902.27 points, after surpassing the 45,000-point threshold for the first time to reach an intraday high of 45,055.38 points.

The broader Topix index increased 0.25 percent to close at 3,168.36 points on Tuesday.

Shares of chip-testing equipment maker Advantest rose 1.29 percent.

Chip-making equipment giant Tokyo Electron's shares increased 1.9 percent.

Chip manufacturer Sumco's shares surged 9 percent, marking the largest percentage gain on the Nikkei index.

Shares of chip-related companies Disco and Renesas Holdings rose 8.23 percent and 6.13 percent, respectively.

In contrast, Fast Retailing's shares declined 1.99 percent.

Among the more than 1,600 stocks traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange's main market, 66 percent rose, 30 percent declined, and 2 percent remained unchanged. (QNA)