Nikkei slips as energy stocks down, Mitsui OSK falls

TOKYO, Aug 15 (Reuters) The Nikkei average ended down 0.26 percent on Tuesday as energy stocks fell on lower oil prices, but Credit Saison Co. Ltd. and other consumer loan firms rose on a news report of a possible rate cap exemption.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Ltd. sank after it said one of its tanker's had leaked oil in the eastern Indian Ocean in what is the biggest leak ever involving a Japanese ship owner.

The Nikkei was down 40.92 points at 15,816.19, after hitting its highest close since May on Monday.

The broader TOPIX index, on the other hand, added 0.26 percent to 1,605.12.

REUTERS VJ HS1746