TOKYO, Oct 16 (Reuters) - Japan's Nikkei stock average clawed up 0.2 percent on Friday to a three-week closing high as gains in retailers and drug firms narrowly offset losses in banks and Japan Airlines, which tumbled for a second straight day. Cash-strapped JAL fell more than 11 percent, with concerns about the size and content of a rescue package also contributing to pressure on banking shares.
The benchmark Nikkei edged up 18.91 points to 10,257.56 in thin trade, marking its highest close since Sept. 25. The broader Topix fell 0.4 percent to 900.95. (Reporting by Elaine Lies)