News

Asian markets were mostly lower on Thursday after US stock indexes drifted to a mixed finish, with the S&P 500 closing just an iota higher. The mixed performance in US markets came after some weaker-than-expected economic reports, including data showing US households growing pessimistic about inflation and higher tariffs.

Officials are considering new laws to publicly name AI companies responsible for severe human rights violations, while avoiding financial or criminal penalties to protect innovation. The proposed regulations focus on government investigations and mandatory cooperation from companies, though experts differ on the effectiveness of public naming alone.

Japan's ruling coalition and Nippon Ishin have reached an agreement regarding revisions in the draft budget for fiscal 2025, aiming to eliminate income-based restrictions on financial aid for high school education. This marks the first time in nearly three decades that Japan’s budget is revised through bipartisan negotiations, signaling the ruling coalition’s effort to ensure passage amid a lost majority in the Lower House.

Japan's ruling coalition has struck an agreement with the opposition Nippon Ishin party to secure passage of the fiscal 2025 budget by implementing free senior high school education and reducing social insurance premiums. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is set to formally announce this bipartisan agreement next week.

Nissan is actively developing self-driving technology, aiming to catch up with global leaders like Google's Waymo. Their driverless technology utilizes 14 cameras, nine radars, and six LiDAR sensors to navigate city streets, highlighting Japan's growing commitment to catching up in the global autonomous driving race.