In 3½ weeks, Kansai's business leaders will gather in Kyoto for their annual summit. Some of the world's most recognizable firms will send their top executives to the two-day retreat. There, they will rub shoulders with local politicians, academics, and "business consultant" types who, like fortune tellers, cult leaders and foreign policy wonks, will provide soothing answers to the flock's troubled — and troubling — questions.
And they are in particular need of comfort this year. The corporate wizards must figure how, or even if, they can operate under Donald Trump as U.S. president. In a session likely to be standing-room only, the future of Kansai and Japan (meaning, of course, Kansai's, and Japan's, largest corporations) in the Trump era is to be discussed.
Their Power Points will no doubt contain the latest media buzzwords ("alt-right," "fake news," "anti-elite") used to describe Trump's victory. However, there will also be pressure on those in the room to remain upbeat despite the gloomy headlines and dark predictions for life under Trump.