(Updates to midsession)
TOKYO, May 23 (Reuters) - The Nikkei average gained 0.41 percent on Wednesday as shares of Japan's three largest banks extended gains on expected higher profits this year.
Shares of Advantest Corp. (6857.T), Toyota Motor Corp. (7203.T) and other exporters gained on a weaker yen.
The Nikkei .N225 was up 71.69 points at 17,751.74 by the close of morning trade. The broader TOPIX index was up 0.78 percent at 1,745.01.
WASHINGTON/NEW YORK (Reuters) - The U.S. pay czar on Friday expanded a crackdown on pay packages at four companies rescued with taxpayer money, limiting most cash salaries at $500,000 for a second tier of top earners.
Brides and grooms are opting for cosmetic surgery and other procedures, supplementing veils and cummerbunds with Botox and liposuction. Women say they want to look good for photos, but men are a different story. Full Article
Beyond the hype and buzz, James Cameron's $400 million "Avatar," one of the most expensive films ever made, is being closely watched for its impact on the future of movies. Full Article
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