Japanese investors sold a record amount of foreign bonds in the week through March 8, turning cautious due to concerns about the Eurozone debt market. Meanwhile, they took advantage of a stronger yen to boost their position in foreign shares, which are available at reduced prices following a recent global selloff in equities.
Researchers were granted rare access to the Daisen kofun, a keyhole-shaped imperial burial mound dating back to the fifth century, marking the first time scholars have been allowed on the sacred site since World War II. This unprecedented opportunity allows researchers to study the mound and its secrets, potentially shedding light on the "golden age" of burial mounds in Japan.
The Bank of Japan decided to maintain its current policy interest rates due to increasing uncertainties surrounding U.S. economic policies under the Trump administration. The central bank will closely monitor these developments and assess their impact on both the U.S. and Japanese economies before making any further policy decisions.
Starbucks Coffee Japan Ltd. is reaching out to older generations with hands-on barista experiences and exercise sessions, aiming to expand its customer base and build stronger community ties. The company is also hosting gatherings for people with dementia and their families, providing a supportive and inclusive environment.
Opposition leader Yuichiro Tamaki ignited a firestorm of controversy with his remarks suggesting measures to prevent foreigners from exploiting medical fee caps under the national health insurance program. His comments, made on a TV program and social media, drew both praise and criticism, raising concerns about xenophobia and the potential impact on healthcare access for foreign residents.