News

Opposition parties in Japan are increasing pressure on the ruling LDP to explain the unreported political funds within the party's largest faction, once led by former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. They are demanding further investigation into the matter, including the identity of the executive who instructed the resumption of the practice and the purpose and use of the excess funds.

Seven & i Holdings announced a leadership change and restructuring plans, including a share buyback program, listing of its North American subsidiary, and sale of its superstore unit, in response to a $47 billion foreign takeover bid. The company will continue to engage with the potential acquirer while pursuing its own turnaround plan.

Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered that luteolin, a natural compound found in celery, broccoli, and other plants, may help prevent gray hair. Their findings, published in the journal Antioxidants, show that luteolin can alleviate hair graying in mice by maintaining the levels of important chemicals in hair-growing follicles and improving the function of melanocyte stem cells.

Tokyo officials plan to subsidize smartphones for elderly residents who don't own one and expand tech assistance workshops to bridge the digital divide and ensure equal access to public services. This initiative aims to address concerns that elderly individuals will be excluded from future services accessible primarily through a government app.

The Supreme Court of Japan has ruled that companies can be held liable for patent infringement even if their servers are located abroad. This landmark decision was made in a case involving Dwango Co., the operator of the popular video-sharing site Nico Nico Douga, and U.S.-based FC2 Inc., which offers a similar service.