Are Shinzo Abe's days as Japan's prime minister numbered? Many will dismiss this question as premature or naive — perhaps both. The architect of "Abenomics" boasts a higher approval rating than any of the eight previous Japanese prime ministers.
Abe's Liberal Democratic Party is heading to a big victory in next month's Upper House election. Supporters are convinced he will use that mandate to end Japan's 20-year deflationary funk with boldness, creativity and panache.
There's just one problem with their thesis: The batteries that have powered support for Abe's revival plan — surging stocks — are running out. Given how quickly the Japanese electorate tends to sour on politicians, the prime minister and his most ardent fans should be worried.