News

Seven & i Holdings, the Japanese operator of the 7-Eleven convenience store chain, has appointed its first foreign CEO, Stephen Dacus, and announced a major restructuring plan in response to a $47 billion takeover bid and investor pressure. The company aims to fend off the bid, improve capital allocation, and pursue an independent path to recovery under Dacus' leadership.

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba apologized for giving gift certificates to newly elected lawmakers, but opposition parties and his coalition partner criticized the move, questioning its legality and ethics. The controversy has raised concerns about Ishiba's leadership and the LDP's culture of gift-giving.

Asian shares mostly rose on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, as investors were encouraged by another rally on Wall Street and awaited decisions from the Bank of Japan and the U.S. Federal Reserve on interest rates. Meanwhile, trading on the Indonesia stock exchange was suspended temporarily due to a sharp decline in the benchmark JSX.

Russia has permanently banned nine Japanese citizens, including Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, from entering the country in retaliation for Japan's sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict. This follows similar measures taken against other countries, including the U.S. and Canada, as Moscow employs entry bans as a tactic against those who oppose its military campaign in Ukraine.

iR Fresh, a groundbreaking technology developed by the Shikoku Research Institute in Japan, utilizes near-infrared light to preserve the freshness of fruits and vegetables, extending shelf life, reducing spoilage, and minimizing the need for pesticides. This innovative approach holds immense potential for revolutionizing food preservation and contributing to a more sustainable future.