Tag "Japan"
2014: a balance between global optimism and latent risks
The World economy is on the mend, but recovery will not happen everywhere at the same pace. Here are some of the risks that will play a large role in
Abe’s Yasakuni trip was a successful political gamble
The visit of Japanese prime minister Abe to the Yasakuni Shrine fueled tensions between Japan and its neighbors, drawing harsh rebuke for the glorification of militarism and a lack of
Tokyo is passing its first TPP test with agricultural reform
The recent break by the ruling Liberal Democratic Party from the traditional partner, the agricultural lobby, and following announcements of a new agricultural policy heighten hope for the Trans-Pacific Partnership and
One year in, is the honeymoon over for Abenomics?
Shinzo Abe celebrated his first year as Japanese Prime Minister in December, which also marked one year with Abenomics. For many, this will be a dismal anniversary, as the latest
What to watch for in the TPP trade negotiations
An ambitious free trade agreement between twelve Pacific Rim countries could mirror NAFTA negotiations, with added wrinkles from China and new technologies. U.S. trade delegations are currently reaching across both
Fed mulls taper, possible changes in guidance
A strong December U.S. jobs report has fueled speculation on the possibility of a taper of asset purchases in December or January. However, job numbers are not clear-cut for a
Japan’s electricity sector reform passed in wake of Fukushima
Shinzo Abe has overcome his first obstacle in liberalizing Japan’s electricity sector by securing passage of a key piece of legislation. Yet, whether this reform can reach its goals is
China’s air-defense zone ratchets up risk for trade and investment
With the announcement of China’s Air-Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) and the following rise in tensions in the East China Sea, economic—and global—catastrophe may be just a shot away. Beijing’s November
TPP delayed as US auto makers push for currency clause
As the year’s end deadline for the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) deal nears, US lawmakers press to include a provision on currency manipulation – in part to support US automakers. Including
Fukushima amplifies Japanese energy import dependence
The Fukushima disaster demonstrates Japan’s reliance on energy imports as Tokyo shuts down its reactors and spends billions on stop-gap energy production. When Typhoon Wipha flooded Japan with heavy rains last
