The Nikkei stock average fell to a new 19-year closing low Wednesday in thin and narrow trading, as the market ignored new data showing the Japanese economy maintained growth from the start of this year.

The 225-issue Nikkei fell 26.25 points, or 0.31 percent, to close at 8,438.52, its lowest finish since April 8, 1983.

The broader Tokyo Stock Price Index (Topix) of all first-section issues on the Tokyo Stock Exchange shed 3.19 points, or 0.38 percent, to 836.43.