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 Kazuaki Nagata

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Kazuaki Nagata
Japan Times
BUSINESS / New Normal 2.0
Jun 28, 2022
Japan firms that embraced remote work rediscover value of the office
Despite recognizing the advantages of work from home, some are finding the benefits of in-person communication and collaboration hard to ignore.
Japan Times
BUSINESS
Jun 24, 2022
BOJ sticks to its guns despite inflation, but consumers aren’t so tolerant
While the central bank has so far indicated it will not change its policy, signs are growing that consumers aren't so sanguine about rising prices.
BUSINESS
Jun 17, 2022
BOJ stands pat on policy despite pressure following Fed rate hike
While many economists had said a policy shift was unlikely, the Fed's decision to introduce its largest rate hike since 1994 had fueled speculation that an adjustment might be made.
BUSINESS / FOCUS
Jun 13, 2022
Amid geopolitical tensions, Japan firms put focus on economic security
Mitsubishi Electric, NEC and Hitachi are just some of the companies that have set up divisions to internally coordinate on supply chain resilience and the assessment of geopolitical risks.
Japan Times
BUSINESS / FOCUS
Jun 10, 2022
When will the BOJ act on the yen? Not anytime soon, economists say.
Kuroda's remarks reinforce the growing gap between Japan's monetary policy and other central banks attempting to fend off inflation.
BUSINESS / Economy / FOCUS
Jun 2, 2022
Kishida's 'new capitalism' not so new, economists say, but on the right track
Much of the language in this week's draft economic proposal was familiar, but the new emphasis on human resources could help lift Japan's economy.
Japan Times
BUSINESS
May 31, 2022
Japan approves ¥2.7 trillion extra budget bill to fend off inflation
The entire budget, which will be financed by government bonds, is being directed toward a u00a56.2 trillion emergency relief package put together to fend off rising prices.
Japan Times
BUSINESS
May 27, 2022
Japan preparing to reopen to tourists, but industry's full recovery far off
The sector was a major driver of the economy prior to the pandemic, but the government's gradual approach and public division over reopening will stymie any rapid bounce back.
BUSINESS
May 23, 2022
Japan and U.S. reaffirm chip partnership, but impact seen as limited
The two countries have vowed to increase cooperation in areas such as manufacturing capacity, but experts question how much can be done on a bilateral basis.
Japan Times
BUSINESS
May 20, 2022
Japan loves its minicars. Can it embrace EV versions too?
Mitsubishi and Nissan have unveiled their takes on electrified minivehicles, possibly helping to spark a wider shift toward EVs in the nation.
Japan Times
BUSINESS
May 17, 2022
Japan is looking to strengthen financial education, but are schools ready?
New programs could help with the government's aim of boosting investment by individuals, but teachers are concerned they might not have the time to do the topic justice.
Japan Times
BUSINESS / Economy
May 11, 2022
What's behind Kishida's plan to spur household investment
Considering the cautious stance investors have taken toward his economic policies, the Prime Minister's speech highlighted a more market-friendly side.
BUSINESS
May 6, 2022
Russian wood ban puts further pressure on Japan's lumber industry
Lumber prices have already been high, and now limits on imports of Russian wood are restricting access to crucial items and adding to the inflationary trend.
Japan Times
BUSINESS
Apr 27, 2022
Many have seen a weak yen as being good for Japan. That view is fading fast.
Frustration over the yen's recent slide is growing among policymakers and in the business community, while some economists say the fall is hurting the nation's economy more than helping it.
Japan Times
BUSINESS / Economy
Apr 26, 2022
Kishida unveils economic measures to counter inflation
The government's package includes steps aimed at addressing rising gasoline prices and supporting low-income households with children.
Japan Times
BUSINESS / ANALYSIS
Apr 19, 2022
Japan’s trade shifts mean a weak yen is likely here to stay
The nation is expected to face a chronic trade deficit, putting further downward pressure on the yen.
BUSINESS / FOCUS
Apr 6, 2022
As Japan's politicians call for big spending amid price hikes, some question the timing
With an Upper House election approaching in July, economists have pointed out that the move appears to be politically motivated.
BUSINESS / Markets
Apr 1, 2022
It's almost time for the TSE's restructuring, but frustrations linger
Reforms set to be rolled out on Monday are intended to bring clarity to the roles of the exchange's segments, but critics say bloat is still a major issue.
Japan Times
BUSINESS
Mar 29, 2022
Yen's weakness casts a pall over Japan’s economy
Conventionally, a weak yen is believed to have benefits for the Japanese economy, as it helps exports, but the pandemic and Ukraine conflict complicate things this time around.
Japan Times
BUSINESS / FOCUS
Mar 15, 2022
Japan firms brace for more supply chain disruption after Ukraine war
Despite rarely procuring goods from Russia or Ukraine directly, Japan's manufacturers remain vulnerable to the war's far-reaching repercussions.

Longform

A small shrine perched atop rocks braves the waves hitting the shoreline during a storm in Shimoda, Shizuoka Prefecture. The area is under threat of a possible 31-meter-high tsunami if an earthquake strikes the nearby Nankai Trough.
If the 'Big One' hits, this city could face a 31-meter-high tsunami