News

Global markets tumbled on Monday as investors grappled with the uncertainty surrounding impending US tariffs, with Asian stocks following Wall Street futures lower and bond yields dropping further. The threat of a global trade war and concerns about the potential impact on the US economy fueled the market anxiety.

Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered that luteolin, a natural compound found in celery and broccoli, may help prevent gray hair by increasing the production of endothelin and improving the function of melanocyte stem cells. This finding could lead to the development of new topical and oral treatments for gray hair.

Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba apologized for giving 100,000 yen ($670) gift certificates to 15 newly elected Lower House members, claiming it was a personal gesture of appreciation and not a violation of the Political Fund Control Law. However, the opposition parties remained unconvinced, viewing the gifts as political donations and demanding a delay in the passage of the fiscal 2025 budget until the matter is resolved.

Nissan conducted experiments with self-driving cars on city roads in Yokohama, aiming to develop transportation services using autonomous driving technologies within three years. The company plans to increase the number of self-driving cars and start transportation services in several municipalities as early as fiscal 2027.

Plant factories are gaining popularity in Japan as a way to grow vegetables indoors, regardless of the weather. These factories use artificial lighting and carefully controlled environments to produce high-quality vegetables year-round, offering a promising solution for urban areas with limited farmland and contributing to a more sustainable food system.