News

Japanese investors sold a record amount of foreign bonds in the week through March 8, driven by concerns over Germany's plans for increased fiscal spending and a selloff in Eurozone debt markets. Meanwhile, they took advantage of a stronger yen to boost their position in foreign shares, which were available at reduced prices following a recent global selloff.

Global stock markets rebounded slightly on Tuesday after Ukraine agreed to a ceasefire with Russia, but concerns about the economic impact of U.S. tariffs continued to weigh on investor sentiment. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed down 0.45%, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite rose 0.2% and 1.05%, respectively.

Billions in government subsidies have fueled industrial park development in Fukushima, but attracting workers back to these areas remains a major challenge. Despite generous subsidies and job opportunities, most workers commute from nearby cities, highlighting the ongoing labor shortage and the need for innovative solutions to revitalize the region.

Japan's Lower House passed the initial budget for fiscal 2025, marking a significant victory for Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's minority government despite revisions to secure opposition support. The budget includes measures for free high school education and an increase in the minimum annual taxable income.

Intuitive Machines' Athena lander successfully touched down on the moon, but encountered difficulties during its final approach, raising concerns about its orientation and the potential impact on scientific objectives. This landing marks the second lunar touchdown this week under NASA's commercial lunar delivery program, highlighting the growing capabilities of private companies in lunar exploration.