Yuri Kageyama

SoftBank Group reported an 18% year-on-year decline in fiscal first-quarter profit to 347.3 billion yen, despite an almost 11% increase in sales to 2 trillion yen. Higher costs offset investment gains, underscoring the volatility of its Vision Fund strategy. The company continues to invest heavily in artificial intelligence, including an additional $20 billion commitment to OpenAI, while highlighting strong performance at Arm and pursuing projects in autonomous driving and robotics. SoftBank shares fell 4% in Tokyo.

Honda’s fiscal first-quarter profit more than doubled year over year to 456.9 billion yen, while sales rose 13.5% to 6.06 trillion yen, driven by strong vehicle demand in the United States and India and highly profitable motorcycle operations in Brazil and India. The results follow Honda’s record 423.9 billion yen annual loss, which was attributed partly to costly electric-vehicle plans, weaker-than-expected consumer readiness for EVs, U.S. policy changes and auto tariffs. Honda has scaled back several EV projects, is working to adapt its models to Chinese consumers, and raised its full-year profit forecast to 400 billion yen. The company is also assessing production and supply-chain effects from a major earthquake in southwestern Japan.

Toyota reported a nearly doubled quarterly net profit of 1.48 trillion yen, helped by strong demand in the United States and India and a weaker yen that boosted overseas earnings. Quarterly sales rose 10%, while vehicle sales dipped slightly year over year; the company nevertheless raised its full-year sales outlook and expects hybrid and electric vehicle demand to remain strong. Toyota plans to expand hybrid and battery production through 2030. Risks include Middle East instability affecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a major earthquake in Kumamoto that halted production at a plant, and a lower projected full-year profit than the previous year. Toyota shares fell nearly 2% after the results.

Asian markets mostly declined despite a strong Wall Street rally, as investors assessed the impact of a recent U.S.-backed Japanese intervention to support the yen. Analysts differed on its likely effectiveness, with some citing limited scale and underlying economic pressures while others viewed the move as a meaningful shift in monetary policy. U.S. stocks rose as lower oil prices eased inflation concerns, while oil prices remained volatile because of uncertainty surrounding the war with Iran and shipping through the Persian Gulf.

Nissan returned to profitability in the April–June quarter, posting a net profit of 3.8 billion yen after a 115.8 billion yen loss a year earlier, helped by cost reductions and stronger sales in the United States and Japan. The automaker lowered its annual sales forecast because of intense competition from Chinese electric-vehicle makers, while disruptions from the Iran war, the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, US tariffs, rising material costs and a Japanese earthquake pose additional risks. Nissan maintained its full-year profit and revenue forecasts, though its shares fell more than 3% after the announcement.

Sony Group reported a 32% year-over-year rise in fiscal first-quarter net profit to 342.2 billion yen, driven by strong demand for PlayStation 5 consoles, healthy music results, and solid imaging and sensor performance. The company said semiconductor production at facilities in southwestern Japan was disrupted by the Kumamoto earthquake, although the financial impact had not yet been assessed. Sony sold 1.6 million PS5 consoles during the quarter and maintained its full-year profit forecast of 1.2 trillion yen. The film division underperformed because of fewer major releases, while Crunchyroll subscriptions and television-catalog licensing provided support.

Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s first samurai film, The Samurai and the Prisoner, received an enthusiastic Cannes reception and became his most popular work in Japan ahead of its U.S. theatrical release. The director discusses adapting his slow-burn horror sensibility to the hierarchical, betrayal-driven world of jidaigeki, using historic Kyoto locations and traditional costumes and sets to create an otherworldly atmosphere. Encouraged by the experience, Kurosawa hopes to make another samurai film, explore genres such as musicals, and continue directing horror despite concerns that his deliberately gradual style may seem outdated.

Acclaimed Japanese director Kiyoshi Kurosawa has released The Samurai and the Prisoner, his first film in the samurai genre. The film, which explores power, betrayal and social hierarchy in feudal Japan, received an enthusiastic response at Cannes and is scheduled for a US theatrical release beginning in New York and Los Angeles. Kurosawa said the genre posed new creative challenges because its conventions are less familiar to modern Japanese audiences, but he hopes to make more samurai films while continuing his work in horror.

Japan’s annual Kokuban Art Koshien competition invites high school and junior high school students to create collaborative artworks on classroom blackboards using colored chalk. Supported by blackboard maker Nichigaku, the contest has attracted entries from roughly 300 schools and encourages experimentation, teamwork and artistic skill. Students and educators value the experience both for its creative possibilities and for the relationships built while working together, even though the finished works must eventually be erased—a feature that highlights the impermanence of art and life.

Hirokazu Kore-eda’s new film, Sheep in the Box, follows a grieving couple who commission a humanoid replica of their dead son, using technology to examine loss, family bonds and the possibility of rebuilding relationships. The film continues Kore-eda’s longstanding focus on families and children, premiered at Cannes and is opening in U.S. theaters. The piece also profiles his career, including his award-winning films, his supportive approach to child actors and his strong opposition to harassment on film sets.

Hirokazu Kore-eda’s latest film, “Sheep in the Box,” follows a grieving couple who commissions a humanoid replica of their deceased son, using a science-fiction premise to explore family, loss and intangible human connections. The film premiered at Cannes and stars child actor Rimu Kuwaki in a demanding debut role. The profile also examines Kore-eda’s career, his acclaimed films including “Shoplifters” and “Like Father, Like Son,” his collaborative filmmaking style, and his opposition to harassment and exploitative working conditions in Japan’s film industry.

Asian shares mostly advanced after Wall Street rallied, led by technology and artificial-intelligence stocks. Japan’s Nikkei rose sharply, while South Korea’s Kospi also gained, despite declines in Hong Kong. Micron Technology and Nvidia helped drive the S&P 500 higher, even as crude oil prices continued to climb amid attacks involving the United States and Iran. Higher energy costs, compounded by a weaker yen, are renewing inflation concerns and could prompt the Federal Reserve and other central banks to keep raising interest rates, potentially slowing economic growth and pressuring financial markets.

Fujitsu is leading a collaboration with Nvidia and major Japanese robotics manufacturers Fanuc, Yaskawa Electric and Kawasaki Heavy Industries to develop “physical AI”—robots capable of operating autonomously and safely alongside people. The initiative is intended to leverage Japan’s precision-manufacturing expertise while addressing the country’s severe labor shortage and aging population. The companies expect an initial phase later this year but have not set a timetable for widespread deployment or decided whether to form a joint venture. The effort aligns with Japan’s plan to mobilize more than 370 trillion yen in public and private technology investment by 2040 as it seeks to catch up with the United States and China in AI.

Asian shares mostly rose after Wall Street gained on data showing U.S. inflation increased 3.5% year over year, reducing expectations of an imminent Federal Reserve rate hike. South Korea’s Kospi posted the strongest gain, while Japan, Australia and Hong Kong also advanced and Shanghai declined. Technology stocks including Micron Technology and Nvidia rebounded. Gains remained constrained by renewed U.S.-Iran military tensions and the resulting risk to oil and gas shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which pushed crude prices higher. China’s economic growth also slowed to a 4.3% annualized pace in the second quarter from 5% in the first.

Asian shares and U.S. stock futures were mixed after a U.S. holiday weekend, with technology stocks weighing on markets in Tokyo and Seoul while Hong Kong and Shanghai gained modestly. Oil prices declined after OPEC+ announced that Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria and Oman would collectively raise production by 188,000 barrels per day in August. Uncertainty remains over regional oil supplies because talks with Iran about fully reopening the Strait of Hormuz appear paused during funeral ceremonies for Ali Khamenei. Brent crude fell to $71.87 per barrel and U.S. crude to $68.59.

Japan’s business sentiment improved for a fifth consecutive quarter, with the Bank of Japan’s diffusion index for major manufacturers rising to 22 and that for large non-manufacturers edging up to 37. Strong sales and investment plans are supporting the economy, although higher fuel costs, a weak yen, and inflation are putting pressure on profits. The Bank of Japan has raised its benchmark interest rate to 1% as it moves away from decades of near-zero rates, while analysts warn that labor shortages and an aging, declining population remain longer-term risks.

Asian markets traded mixed as uncertainty persisted over implementing an initial Iran-US deal and restoring traffic through the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices edged higher while US envoys held mediated talks in Qatar without meeting Iranian diplomats directly. US stocks finished higher, led by technology shares, although the S&P 500 recorded its first losing month after two strong months as investors questioned whether heavy artificial-intelligence spending would generate sufficient returns. Higher potential US interest rates also supported the dollar and pressured the yen.

At 91, Japanese author Eiko Kadono continues to write daily and remains committed to the imaginative power of books. Best known for the Kiki’s Delivery Service series, which inspired Hayao Miyazaki’s 1989 Studio Ghibli film, Kadono has written around 200 books and received the 2018 Hans Christian Andersen Award. Her writing career began after she documented her experiences living in Brazil, while Kiki was inspired by a drawing made by her daughter. With a second Kiki book due in English and a literary museum dedicated to her work in Tokyo, Kadono hopes new generations of children’s writers will help preserve reading, independent thought and creativity in an increasingly digital world.

Asian shares traded mixed as investors grew cautious about prospects for ending the Iran war and its effects on oil supplies. Japan’s Nikkei and South Korea’s Kospi fell, while Australia and Shanghai edged higher. U.S. markets also ended mixed, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq declining while the Dow gained. Oil prices eased after U.S.-Iran talks, though concerns about the Strait of Hormuz and inflation remain. Rising Treasury yields reflected speculation that the Federal Reserve could raise interest rates, while major technology stocks, including SpaceX, Alphabet, Amazon and Broadcom, fell.

SoftBank is launching an OpenAI-powered cybersecurity service for Japan's 3,000 largest companies, particularly those operating critical infrastructure such as airports, power systems and transportation. The service will diagnose vulnerabilities and recommend measures to patch them. SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son described Japan's exposure to increasingly sophisticated, AI-enabled attacks as a crisis. The offering is being developed through the 50:50 SB OAI Japan joint venture; pricing was not disclosed, although event attendees could apply for a free initial diagnosis.

Asian markets were mostly higher after Japan’s Nikkei 225 briefly exceeded 70,000, while the Bank of Japan raised its key interest rate by a quarter point to 1%, its highest level in three decades. South Korea reached record territory, while Australian and Hong Kong shares declined. Global stocks had rallied after a tentative United States–Iran agreement raised hopes of reopening the Strait of Hormuz and restoring crude-oil flows, though analysts warned that negotiations and the energy-market recovery remain uncertain. AI-related stocks, including Micron Technology, AMD and Nvidia, gained strongly, while SpaceX rose 19.6% in its second day of trading. Lower oil prices also helped ease Treasury yields and reduced pressure on central banks to raise rates.

Nine-year-old Japanese DJ Rinoka is a celebrated techno performer and was listed by Guinness World Records as the world's youngest DJ at age six. Inspired by Amelie Lens and Nina Kraviz, she began performing after receiving a Pioneer DDJ-200 and now plays at Yomiuri Giants games and events alongside older DJs. Her parents protect her privacy while she balances performances with school and childhood interests, including caring for geckos.

American Honda Motor Co. is recalling 880,514 Honda and Acura vehicles sold primarily in the northeastern and midwestern United States because corrosion at rear-subframe suspension mounting points could cause suspension failure and loss of control. Honda estimates that about 1% of the vehicles have the defect and reports no related injuries, deaths, or warranty claims. Dealers will inspect the vehicles and install reinforcement kits or repair or replace affected components at no cost. The article also notes a separate Stellantis recall of more than 1.3 million Jeep Wrangler and Gladiator vehicles worldwide over wiring that could cause fires.

Asian stock markets fell sharply after a major sell-off on Wall Street, with South Korea’s Kospi and Japan’s Nikkei among the biggest decliners. Concerns about heavy Big Tech investment, stronger-than-expected U.S. jobs data and the possibility of Federal Reserve rate hikes pushed U.S. bond yields higher and weighed on technology shares. Oil prices surged after Israeli airstrikes on Iran and continuing disruption to crude shipments through the Strait of Hormuz intensified fears of a wider regional conflict and renewed inflation.

Sushi-making, traditionally associated with decades of training, is becoming more accessible to amateurs. Veteran chef Tsuneo Suzuki teaches international students at Tokyo Sushi School, where beginners learn to prepare professional-looking seafood sushi. The piece includes basic ingredients and step-by-step instructions for shaping sushi rice, adding seafood and wasabi, and serving it with soy sauce.

Asian markets mostly declined as renewed US-Iran fighting cast doubt on the ceasefire and raised concerns about disruption to oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Oil prices remained well above prewar levels, threatening fuel costs, inflation and refinery operations across Asia and Europe. US stocks nevertheless reached further records, led by Nvidia after CEO Jensen Huang announced product updates, while airlines fell because of higher fuel expenses. Diplomatic efforts involving the United States, Israel and Hezbollah were reported alongside the continuing military escalation.

Chinese robotics companies are increasingly outpacing Japanese developers in humanoid robotics through cheaper, more scalable products, despite Japan's early lead, manufacturing expertise, and culturally positive attitude toward robots. Demonstrations at the Humanoids Summit Tokyo included dexterous robotic hands, dancing machines, delivery robots, and airport applications. Japanese researchers and Honda executives remain confident in the durability and quality of their technology, while Chinese systems from companies such as Unitree are already being incorporated into practical projects in Japan. The competition is intensified by Japan's severe labor shortage and the risk that its innovative but domestically focused robotics industry will repeat the pattern of losing commercial leadership to China.

Oil prices fell sharply after Donald Trump said US-Iran peace talks were progressing, raising expectations that the war could end and the Strait of Hormuz could reopen. US crude declined to $92.25 per barrel and Brent crude to $99.38. Asian stocks generally advanced, while US equities extended a strong winning streak despite consumer pessimism and persistent inflation concerns. A potential agreement would reportedly involve reopening the strait and Iran giving up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, developments that could ease global energy-supply risks.

Toshifumi Suzuki, the executive credited with building 7-Eleven into a global convenience-store empire, died of heart failure at his Tokyo home on May 18 at age 93. He founded the Japanese operating company, expanded its services to include banking and other everyday transactions, and helped make convenience stores central to Japanese retail. Seven & i Holdings later acquired control of the U.S. 7-Eleven business and expanded into department stores and other retail operations. Private funeral services are being held, with details of a public ceremony to be announced.

Japan’s exports rose 14.8% year over year in April, while imports increased 9.7%, producing a 301.9 billion yen trade surplus. Semiconductor shipments surged nearly 42%, with exports to China and the United States also growing. However, oil imports fell almost 50% by value and LNG imports dropped 20% as the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted supplies. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has ordered the release of national oil reserves, but shortages, higher Brent crude prices and a weaker yen are increasing Japan’s energy costs.

Asian markets traded unevenly as uncertainty over the Iran war and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz continued to drive volatility in oil and equities. South Korea's Kospi fell nearly 4%, with Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix among the decliners, while markets in Australia and Hong Kong gained. U.S. stocks were mixed, and crude prices remained well above prewar levels despite Donald Trump's decision to postpone a planned strike while citing negotiations. Investors were also awaiting earnings from Nvidia, Target, Home Depot and Walmart.

Japan's economy grew at a seasonally adjusted 0.5% quarter-on-quarter rate in January-March, equivalent to 2.1% annualized, driven by consumer and business spending as well as higher government demand. Imports rose 0.5% while exports increased 1.7%, but surging oil prices linked to the war in Iran and disruption around the Strait of Hormuz are creating significant risks for resource-poor Japan. The government has released oil reserves and is seeking alternative supply routes, while Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has pledged to secure naphtha supplies. Stronger growth and broader inflation may encourage the Bank of Japan to raise interest rates, although wages continue to lag behind rising prices.

Honda reported a 423.9 billion yen annual loss, its first full-year loss, after incurring an estimated 2.5 trillion yen in EV-related costs. The company has scaled back several electric-vehicle plans, including a venture with Sony, as weaker demand, U.S. regulatory rollbacks and tariffs reduced the strategy’s viability. Strong motorcycle sales supported overall revenue, while Honda forecast a return to profit by the fiscal year ending March 2027 and said it would pursue a broader mix of EVs, hybrids and gasoline-powered vehicles while continuing work toward carbon neutrality.

Nissan reduced its annual loss to 533 billion yen for the fiscal year ending in March, compared with 670.9 billion yen the previous year, despite a 5% decline in sales. The automaker also reported a smaller January–March quarterly loss. CEO Ivan Espinosa said cost controls and faster product development indicate a shift toward growth, but US tariffs, inflation and intensifying competition from Chinese manufacturers remain significant challenges. Nissan expects to return to profitability in the fiscal year ending March 2027, forecasting a 20 billion yen profit.

Nissan reported a 533 billion yen loss for the fiscal year ended March, an improvement from the previous year’s 670.9 billion yen loss, while annual sales fell 5% to 12 trillion yen. CEO Ivan Espinosa said the company had moved from recovery into growth, supported by cost reductions and new model launches. Despite ongoing job cuts, the sale of its headquarters and intense competition from Chinese automakers, Nissan expects to return to a 20 billion yen profit by the fiscal year ending March 2027. Potential merger talks with Honda have ended, although limited cooperation remains possible.

SoftBank Group reported annual profit of about 5 trillion yen, nearly five times the previous year's result, while sales rose nearly 8%. The gains were driven chiefly by its $34.6 billion investment in OpenAI, which produced approximately $45 billion in gains, along with the IPO of Japanese mobile-payment service PayPay and gains from Intel holdings. Losses from Alibaba partly offset the results. Founded and led by Masayoshi Son, SoftBank is also expanding into AI-related electricity infrastructure in Japan and developing aircraft-wing materials with Toppan.

Asian markets traded unevenly as fading enthusiasm for artificial-intelligence and technology stocks weighed on equities. Japan and South Korea gained modestly, while Australia and Hong Kong declined. Wall Street also weakened, with the Nasdaq falling 0.7% and chip stocks such as Intel and Micron Technology dropping sharply. Oil prices remained elevated because the war with Iran has disrupted tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz and a diplomatic breakthrough remains elusive. Rising Treasury yields indicate that traders expect the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates high as inflation risks persist.

Asian markets traded unevenly after Wall Street reached fresh records, with Japan and Hong Kong advancing while South Korea, Australia and Shanghai declined. Investors balanced strong U.S. corporate earnings and a resilient economy against concerns over an AI-driven market bubble, rising oil prices and the uncertain U.S.-Iran ceasefire. The conflict has disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and pushed Brent crude above $105 per barrel from roughly $70 before the war, increasing inflation risks worldwide. Donald Trump’s warning that the ceasefire was on “life support” added uncertainty ahead of his trip to China, a major buyer of Iranian oil.

Nintendo reported a 52% increase in annual net profit to 424 billion yen and nearly doubled sales to 2.3 trillion yen, driven by demand for the Switch 2 and its software. The company will raise the Switch 2 price in Japan and the United States, citing changing market conditions, higher costs and the global business outlook, while forecasting an 11% profit decline for the fiscal year through March 2027. It expects lower Switch 2 hardware sales but continued growth in software sales, supported by upcoming titles and third-party releases. Nintendo also highlighted the strong performance of The Super Mario Galaxy Movie and several recent games.

Toyota reported a 19% decline in annual profit to 3.85 trillion yen after U.S. tariff policies reduced operating income by an estimated 1.4 trillion yen and unfavorable exchange rates pressured margins. Despite this, global vehicle sales increased to nearly 9.6 million and sales value rose 5.5%. Toyota forecast 3 trillion yen in profit for the year through March 2027, citing risks from Middle East conflict, oil prices and potential Strait of Hormuz supply-chain disruptions. The automaker plans to cut costs, increase local procurement and expand beyond vehicles into broader mobility products and robotics.

Sony Group reported a 3.4% decline in annual net profit to 1.03 trillion yen for the fiscal year through March, with the end of its planned electric-vehicle partnership with Honda and higher chip costs weighing on earnings. Annual sales rose 3.7% to nearly 12.5 trillion yen, supported by films including the latest Demon Slayer installment and Kokuho, along with strong demand for games and network services. Sony expects profit to rebound 13% to a record 1.16 trillion yen in the current fiscal year, helped by upcoming films such as Spider-Man: Brand New Day and Jumanji: Open World. The company also announced plans to buy back up to 230 million shares for as much as 500 billion yen.

Asian stock markets moved unevenly as investors assessed the uncertain extension of the US-Iran ceasefire. President Donald Trump extended the pause to give Iran time to submit a proposal to end the war, while Vice President JD Vance cancelled a planned trip to Pakistan for negotiations. Oil prices fluctuated but remained below the peaks reached earlier in the conflict, and major US indexes declined modestly. Investors remain concerned about the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial oil-shipping route, though the relative resilience of US equities suggests markets still expect the conflict to avoid a worst-case economic escalation.

Asian markets traded unevenly while oil prices remained volatile as investors awaited potential renewed US-Iran negotiations. President Donald Trump extended the Iran ceasefire at Pakistan’s request while seeking a unified proposal from Tehran, and the US military maintained a blockade of Iranian ports. US stocks fell after Vice President JD Vance canceled a planned Pakistan trip linked to negotiations. Oil prices remained above prewar levels but below their peak, with risks around the Strait of Hormuz continuing to affect global supply and inflation. The IMF raised its global inflation forecast to 4.4% and cut its economic-growth forecast to 3.1%.

Japan posted a ¥1.7 trillion trade deficit in the fiscal year ending in March, extending its deficit streak to five years. Although annual exports increased 4%, exports to the United States fell 6.6%, including a 16% decline in vehicle shipments, as higher U.S. tariffs hurt automakers and manufacturers. March data showed signs of recovery, with exports and the trade surplus rising substantially year over year. Japan is also concerned that the war with Iran and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz could disrupt oil and gas supplies, but the government says it has 254 days of oil reserves and is releasing some stockpiles while pursuing alternative supply routes.

Oil prices rose sharply and Asian stock markets declined as the United States prepared to blockade shipping at the Strait of Hormuz after ceasefire talks with Iran failed. US crude rose 8.7% to $104.95 per barrel, while Brent climbed 7.4% to $102.23, following a rise from about $70 before the war. Major Asian indexes fell, and analysts warned that global trading would remain turbulent as stalled shipping and escalating US-Iran tensions threatened energy markets.

The U.S. and global economies are better equipped to withstand oil shocks than they were in the 1970s because oil represents a smaller share of the energy mix, U.S. production has expanded through fracking, fuel efficiency has improved, alternative energy sources have grown, and countries maintain strategic reserves coordinated by the International Energy Agency. Nevertheless, the current disruption linked to the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz is unusually large, leaving a substantial portion of global oil production unavailable and raising costs for motorists, farmers and businesses. Transportation remains heavily dependent on petroleum, so supply disruptions still transmit globally. The article also argues that President Donald Trump’s rollback of electric-vehicle incentives and fuel-economy measures could make the United States more vulnerable to future oil-price volatility.

Kabuki actor Kazuyasu Terajima is assuming the name of the eighth Kikugoro in a multigenerational succession ritual known as shumei. The tradition reflects Kabuki's emphasis on inherited artistic forms, disciplined childhood training and responsibility to future performers. Despite concerns about the art form's survival, Terajima argues that its core principles, or kata, remain relevant because they communicate human compassion. Kabuki's continuing vitality is also reflected in popular works such as the film Kokuho, while its stylized performance, music, costumes and universal stories draw comparisons with Shakespearean theater.

Asian stock markets mostly rose as oil prices climbed ahead of Donald Trump's deadline for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz or face attacks on power plants and bridges. U.S. stocks also gained, while crude prices remained far above prewar levels amid uncertainty over the conflict and global energy shipments. Iran rejected the latest ceasefire proposal, calling instead for a permanent end to the war, while Iranian and Omani officials worked on a mechanism to administer the strait, through which about one-fifth of the world's oil is shipped in peacetime.

Asian markets mostly rose as investors monitored the Iran war, oil-price increases and President Donald Trump’s threats toward Iran. Japan’s Nikkei and South Korea’s Kospi gained, while several regional markets were closed for holidays. U.S. crude reached $111.92 per barrel and Brent crude $110.74 as fears grew that the conflict could persist and threaten access to the Strait of Hormuz, on which energy-importing countries such as Japan heavily rely. Currency movements were modest, with the dollar edging higher against the yen and the euro weakening slightly.

Wall Street’s New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq are closed on Friday, April 3, for Good Friday, while US bond markets will close at noon Eastern Time. Futures declined modestly after a stronger-than-expected jobs report showing 178,000 new jobs and a 4.3% unemployment rate. Energy markets also remained closed following a sharp rise in oil prices tied to concerns that the US-Israel conflict with Iran could continue and disrupt global supplies. European markets were closed for the holiday, while Asian markets delivered mixed results.

Oil prices rose sharply as investors feared that a prolonged war involving Iran could damage infrastructure, disrupt shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and extend the economic recovery. U.S. crude gained 11.4% to $111.54 a barrel, while Brent crude rose 7.8% to $109.03. Asian markets traded cautiously, with Japan’s Nikkei and South Korea’s Kospi rising while China’s Shanghai Composite declined; several regional markets were closed for Good Friday. Wall Street ended its first positive week since the war began, despite early pressure from higher oil prices, while Treasury yields and major currencies were relatively stable. Japan and other Asian oil importers may face greater exposure because of their reliance on the Strait of Hormuz and possible transport disruptions.

Business sentiment among Japan’s major manufacturers improved slightly from 16 to 17 in March, marking a fourth consecutive quarterly increase, while sentiment among large non-manufacturers held at 36, according to the Bank of Japan’s tankan survey. However, the US-Israeli war on Iran is increasing concerns about Japan’s growth, oil supplies and inflation. Rising energy costs and a weaker yen are putting pressure on consumers and may prompt the Bank of Japan to raise interest rates, despite its decision to keep the policy rate at 0.75% in March. The weak yen, once beneficial to Japan’s export sector, is now increasingly damaging because the country relies heavily on imported energy, food and manufacturing inputs.

Asian stock markets fell as oil prices surged amid fears that the U.S.-Iran war could disrupt access to the Strait of Hormuz, drive global inflation and weaken Asian growth. Japan’s Nikkei led regional losses, while U.S. markets had already posted their fifth consecutive weekly decline, with the S&P 500, Dow and Nasdaq all falling sharply. Crude prices rose above $100 a barrel for U.S. oil and $115 for Brent after briefly easing when Donald Trump extended a deadline concerning attacks on Iranian power plants. Investors are preparing for continued volatility and a potentially prolonged conflict.

Asian stocks mostly rebounded after Donald Trump said the United States and Iran had held productive talks about ending hostilities, though Iran denied that negotiations occurred. Japan's Nikkei, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 and South Korea's Kospi gained, while U.S. stocks also rose and Treasury yields eased. Oil prices remained volatile because disruption in the Strait of Hormuz threatens global energy shipments. Toyota's announcement of a $1 billion investment in Kentucky and Indiana also lifted its shares. Iran's parliament speaker accused Trump of spreading false information to manipulate financial and oil markets.

Japan recorded a 57.3 billion yen trade surplus in February as exports rose 4.2% to 9.57 trillion yen, reversing a large deficit in January. Imports also increased, while shipments to China and the United States fell, with weaker Chinese demand partly linked to Lunar New Year timing and U.S. auto tariffs continuing to hurt Japanese manufacturers. Exports to Europe and the rest of Asia grew. Japan’s trade outlook faces risks from higher oil prices caused by the Iran war and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, although a weak yen may support exports. Investors are monitoring the Bank of Japan’s interest-rate decision and potential trade outcomes from a meeting between Donald Trump and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.

Asian equities mostly fell and oil prices rose as investors assessed the Iran war’s potential to disrupt energy supplies through the Strait of Hormuz. South Korean, Japanese and Australian markets declined, with Japanese energy, defense and airline stocks particularly weak, while airlines across the region faced pressure from higher fuel costs and Middle East travel disruptions. U.S. stocks recovered from early losses, aided by energy, defense and technology shares, and gold gained as a safe-haven asset. Analysts said the market impact could remain limited unless oil prices rise above roughly $100 per barrel or energy disruptions become severe and prolonged.

Asian stock markets mostly advanced after Wall Street rebounded on renewed enthusiasm for artificial intelligence and stronger-than-expected corporate earnings. Japan's benchmark reached a record high despite China's export restrictions on 40 Japanese companies, while major markets in Australia, South Korea, Hong Kong and mainland China also rose. AMD surged after announcing a multiyear chip-supply agreement with Meta, and IBM recovered part of its steep decline after Anthropic introduced new business-focused Claude AI tools. Investors were also watching Donald Trump's State of the Union address, currency movements, consumer confidence and steady Treasury yields.

Traditional Japanese kimonos are experiencing a renewed fashion interest as designers and younger consumers embrace their durability, versatility and sustainability. Businesses such as K’Forward remake inherited garments into jackets, skirts, trousers, bags and dolls, while designers including Tomoko Ohkata reuse discarded kimonos to reduce waste and preserve their histories. Kimono-wearing schools and contemporary performers are also helping revive the tradition, with younger people adapting the garments by pairing them with modern clothing such as boots.

Japan’s exports rose 16.8% year-on-year in January to 9.19 trillion yen, driven by strong shipments to China and broader Asian markets, while imports fell 2.5%. The trade deficit narrowed to 1.15 trillion yen. Exports to China increased 32% and exports across Asia rose 26%, partly because the Lunar New Year fell later than usual. By contrast, exports to the United States declined 0.5%, including a nearly 10% drop in vehicle shipments, amid the impact of higher U.S. tariffs. Analysts expect the export surge to moderate as the artificial-intelligence-driven demand for semiconductors and data-center equipment loses momentum.

Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell about 1% as weak economic data, profit-taking and a 6.2% decline in SoftBank Group weighed on sentiment, while most Asian markets remained closed for Lunar New Year. The decline followed a post-election rally linked to Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s party victory and expectations of increased government spending and tax cuts, though her popularity and confidence in an economic revival have begun to weaken. Australian shares gained modestly, Indian and Thai markets edged lower, and U.S. futures declined ahead of the reopening of American markets. Oil prices were mixed, while gold, silver and bitcoin also fell.

Japan's economy grew at an annualized rate of only 0.2% in the October-December quarter, while exports fell 1.1% and private consumption rose 0.4%. The quarterly rebound followed a 0.7% contraction in July-September, narrowly preventing a technical recession. Japan's economy expanded 1.1% in 2025, its fastest growth since 2022, but remains weak amid the impact of US tariffs and years of sluggish performance. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to introduce increased spending and a temporary suspension of the sales tax on food, while the government projects near-term average growth of about 0.6%.

Nissan reported a 28.3 billion yen loss for the October–December quarter, roughly double its loss a year earlier, while quarterly sales fell 6%. Restructuring costs, declining demand and U.S. tariffs under President Donald Trump are weighing on the automaker. Nissan expects a 650 billion yen net loss for the fiscal year through March and is cutting jobs, selling assets and closing its Oppama factory as it seeks to return to operating profitability by fiscal 2026. CEO Ivan Espinosa said the company remains on track but must do more to attract consumers to electric vehicles, including through improved battery technology and the new Leaf.

SoftBank Group returned to quarterly profitability in October–December 2025, reporting a 248.6 billion yen profit compared with a 369 billion yen loss a year earlier. The technology investor credited gains from investments including nearly $35 billion committed to OpenAI, while also benefiting from holdings such as Arm and the sale of its Nvidia stake. SoftBank reported a 3.17 trillion yen profit for the first nine months of the fiscal year, although analysts warned that dependence on OpenAI and the company’s aggressive investment strategy could expose it to significant risk. Its shares rose 2.4%, while proposed acquisitions of Ampere and ABB’s robotics business advance amid regulatory considerations.

Honda reported a 42% year-on-year decline in profit for the nine months through December, to 465.4 billion yen, while sales fell 2.2%. The automaker attributed the pressure partly to U.S. tariffs and slowing electric-vehicle demand, prompting it to cut its 2030 global EV sales target from 30% to 20% and cancel development of some EV models. Honda maintained its full-year profit forecast, helped by relatively strong motorcycle performance. The company’s shares rose as Japan’s markets rallied, while Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s election victory was expected to support increased government spending in technology and defense.

Asian stock benchmarks mostly advanced, led by a sharp rally in Japan after Sanae Takaichi’s party won a landslide parliamentary election victory, raising expectations of economic and market reforms. U.S. stocks also gained, with technology and chip shares lifted by artificial-intelligence investment, although concerns remain about high valuations and whether the spending will generate sufficient profits. Investors are awaiting U.S. employment and inflation data for clues about whether the Federal Reserve will resume cutting interest rates. Gold and silver rose sharply, while oil, the dollar and Bitcoin were mixed.

Nintendo reported a 51% rise in profit to 358.9 billion yen for the first three quarters of its fiscal year, while sales nearly doubled to 1.9 trillion yen. Growth was driven by strong demand for the Switch 2, with 17.4 million consoles sold by December and 19 million expected by the end of March. Mario Kart World has sold about 14 million copies, and analyst Atul Goyal said concerns over weakening demand and higher memory costs were overstated. Nintendo plans additional Super Mario and Splatoon releases, alongside third-party titles, while its stock rose 1.8%.

Asian markets rebounded strongly, led by a 5% rise in South Korea’s Kospi and a 3.2% gain in Japan’s Nikkei 225, as technology shares recovered from recent volatility and artificial-intelligence bubble concerns. U.S. stocks also advanced, with Sandisk and Palantir gaining on strong results, while Nvidia and Disney declined. Gold and silver prices rebounded sharply after recent plunges as investors sought safer assets amid uncertainty over U.S. tariffs, government debt and the Federal Reserve’s future independence, including Donald Trump’s nomination of Kevin Warsh as chair.

Asian markets mostly declined after the Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged, while gold surged more than 4% and silver, oil and the Japanese yen also strengthened. South Korea’s Kospi reached a record high, supported by SK Hynix, while Jakarta’s market plunged after MSCI warned of risks in Indonesia. U.S. stocks were broadly stable, with Seagate Technology and Nvidia gaining and Apple falling. Fed Chair Jerome Powell said rates were currently well positioned, despite persistent inflation above the Fed’s 2% target and pressure from Donald Trump for lower borrowing costs.

Asian markets mostly declined as the yen strengthened against the U.S. dollar, pressuring Japanese exporters and sending the Nikkei 225 down 1.9%. South Korean and Hong Kong shares also fell slightly, while Shanghai edged higher. U.S. stock futures declined amid uncertainty over President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, including a threat to impose a 100% tariff on Canadian goods. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney rejected the prospect of a Canada-China free-trade agreement and defended Canada’s recent adjustments to tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles and other goods. Investors were also awaiting the Federal Reserve’s interest-rate decision, widely expected to leave rates unchanged. Oil prices were little changed, while gold and silver rose sharply as investors sought safer assets.

Japan recorded a 2.65 trillion yen trade deficit in 2025, marking its fifth consecutive annual shortfall, although the deficit was nearly 53% smaller than the previous year. Exports rose 3.1% while imports increased by less than 1%. December produced a 105.7 billion yen surplus, but exports to the United States fell 11% amid a 15% U.S. tariff on most Japanese imports. Japan also faces potential manufacturing disruption from China's restrictions on rare-earth exports, introduced after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested Japan could respond militarily to a Chinese move against Taiwan. Despite price pressures and stagnant wages, Japan's economy has remained relatively resilient and its Nikkei benchmark has reached record highs.

Asian shares mostly declined after European markets fell amid concern over President Donald Trump's threat to impose additional tariffs on eight European countries opposing U.S. control of Greenland. Japanese stocks and government bonds were pressured by expectations that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's snap election could produce a mandate for higher spending and worsen fiscal concerns. Investors are also awaiting U.S. inflation data, corporate earnings, and policy meetings by the Federal Reserve and Bank of Japan.

Asian stock markets traded unevenly as Wall Street retreated from record highs amid political uncertainty involving Iran and speculation over a possible Japanese election. U.S. equities declined after mixed corporate earnings, with JPMorgan Chase and Delta Air Lines falling while Moderna rose on an improved revenue outlook. Investors interpreted near-consensus inflation data as supporting expectations for at least two Federal Reserve rate cuts in 2026, though inflation remained above the Fed’s target. President Donald Trump’s proposed 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Iran and his conflict with the Federal Reserve added to concerns about longer-term economic and inflation risks.

Asian stock markets traded mixed after U.S. equities reached fresh records, with technology shares leading gains on Wall Street. Japan, South Korea and Hong Kong declined while Australia and Shanghai advanced. Investors focused on interest-rate expectations, with markets anticipating that the Federal Reserve will hold rates steady at its January meeting after three cuts in late 2025. Geopolitical uncertainty linked to the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and Donald Trump’s threats involving Greenland also weighed on sentiment. Treasury yields rose, while oil, gold and silver prices declined.

Emperor Naruhito and members of Japan’s imperial family greeted thousands of New Year well-wishers at Tokyo’s Imperial Palace. Naruhito emphasized peace, dialogue and mutual understanding amid continuing global conflicts, while also acknowledging recent earthquakes, heavy rain, snow and wildfires. The appearance resumed after cancellations caused by the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic. Princess Aiko’s attendance highlighted Japan’s ongoing debate over male-only succession rules, while Prince Hisahito’s presence drew attention to his position as a possible heir.

Asian markets traded unevenly ahead of New Year holidays, with Tokyo and Seoul closed and gains in Taiwan and Shanghai offset by declines in Hong Kong and Australia. U.S. stocks also slipped in thin trading, although the S&P 500 remained on track for an annual gain of more than 17%. Technology shares were mixed, while Meta Platforms rose after agreeing to buy AI startup Manus. Gold, silver and copper prices advanced sharply, driven by economic uncertainty, supply constraints and growing demand related to artificial intelligence infrastructure. Treasury yields were broadly steady, while investors continued to weigh the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cuts against persistent inflation, slowing employment and the possibility of a January pause.

Asian stock benchmarks mostly declined ahead of an expected third US Federal Reserve interest-rate cut of the year, while Wall Street remained close to record highs. Investors are focused on whether the Fed will signal fewer cuts in 2026 amid inflation above its 2% target and a slowing labor market. Treasury yields rose after US job openings reached their highest level since May. Exxon Mobil gained on a stronger profit outlook, Home Depot fell on a potentially shrinking market forecast, and Nvidia edged lower after Donald Trump authorized sales of its H200 artificial-intelligence chip to approved Chinese customers.

Japan’s economy contracted at a revised annualized rate of 2.3% in the July–September period, equivalent to a 0.6% quarter-on-quarter decline and worse than the previously reported 1.8% annualized contraction. Exports fell 1.2%, while private residential investment declined 8.2%, partly because building-code changes caused housing starts to plunge. U.S. tariffs, particularly on automobiles, have pressured Japan’s economy and strained bilateral relations, prompting Japan to pledge $550 billion in U.S. investment during tariff negotiations. Private consumption rose slightly, but the outlook remains uncertain under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s new government.

Japan's exports rose 3.7% year over year in October, but exports to the United States fell 3.1% for a seventh consecutive month as President Donald Trump's 15% tariffs took effect. Stronger shipments to China, Hong Kong and Taiwan helped offset weaker US sales, while increased imports from the United States narrowed Japan's trade deficit to 231.77 billion yen. Trade tensions with China have also intensified after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi made comments about Taiwan, prompting Beijing to issue a travel advisory against Japan.

The film ‘Rental Family,’ starring Brendan Fraser, draws attention to Japan’s real-life businesses that provide paid stand-in relatives, friends and event attendees. Ryuichi Ichinokawa, founder of Heart Project, describes services ranging from fake reporters and family members to surrogate husbands, while noting that the roles require careful preparation and can pay up to 30,000 yen per person. The businesses meet demand shaped by loneliness, social withdrawal, mental-health stigma and pressure to preserve social appearances. Experts say rental relationships can offer comfort and temporary relief, but may function only as a Band-Aid unless clients also pursue deeper, lasting connections.