TOKYO, March 16 (Xinhua) -- Tokyo stocks extended losses for a third consecutive trading day on Monday, weighed down by persistent fears that rising crude oil prices could drag down economic growth.

The benchmark Nikkei stock index, the 225-issue Nikkei Stock Average, ended down 68.46 points, or 0.13 percent, from Friday at 53,751.15.

The broader Topix index, meanwhile, finished 18.30 points, or 0.50 percent, lower at 3,610.73.

Stocks remained under selling pressure after the benchmark West Texas Intermediate crude oil futures surpassed 100 U.S. dollars per barrel in New York on Sunday, stoking fears of a further surge in energy costs and its knock-on effect on the broader economy. Shares related to petroleum products mostly finished lower as a result.

In contrast, stocks with a domestic focus, such as food and agriculture issues, bucked the trend and emerged as notable gainers on the day. ■