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Since September 29, 2025, Asahi Group Holdings has faced a ransomware cyberattack disrupting its Japanese operations. The attack halted production at most of its 30 factories, suspended orders, shipments, and call center functions. Hacker group Qilin claims to have stolen 27GB of data. Asahi has no timeline for full recovery and postponed its earnings release scheduled for November 12.
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The yen has fallen to an eight-month low of 153.27 against the dollar, driven by receding speculation of a near-term BOJ rate hike. Treasury Secretary Bessent declined to comment on the currency level but praised BOJ Governor Ueda's capabilities. The move reflects market expectations and policy signals as of October 16, 2025.
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Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi departs for Malaysia to attend ASEAN and APEC summits, plans to meet US President Trump, and emphasizes promoting the 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific' policy amid regional tensions and diplomatic sensitivities. She also refrains from visiting Yasukuni Shrine during the autumn festival to avoid diplomatic fallout.
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Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's government is set to strengthen regulations on foreign nationals, focusing on land acquisition, immigration, and tax compliance. The move aims to address public concerns over illegal activities and surges in tourism, with plans to develop a population strategy by 2026.
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Japan's ruling party plans to ease restrictions on defense exports, aiming to boost military capabilities and economic growth. The government intends to revise export principles and increase defense spending to 2% of GDP, amid rising regional security threats and a push for a more active military role.
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Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi, supported by high approval ratings, faces hurdles from coalition partners and political scandals. Meanwhile, Taiwan's KMT elects Cheng Li-wun as chair, signaling a shift toward pro-China policies amid international tensions. Both stories highlight leadership transitions amid complex political landscapes.
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Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi revealed she sleeps only two to four hours nightly, sparking domestic concern amid Japan's long work-hour culture. Her late-night 3 a.m. staff meeting drew criticism. Meanwhile, her meetings with Taiwan's adviser have provoked strong protests from China, complicating regional diplomacy following her recent summit talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
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Japan has announced a ¥17.7 trillion stimulus package to boost its economy amid concerns over rising spending, a weakening yen, and market volatility. The package aims to increase GDP and support consumers, but critics warn it may strain Japan’s fiscal health and push debt levels higher.
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As of early January 2026, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has praised the country's 2025 military and economic progress, including the near-completion of an 8,700-ton nuclear-powered submarine and multiple missile tests. He reaffirmed commitment to nuclear weapons development and sent New Year greetings to North Korean troops fighting alongside Russia in Ukraine, emphasizing the Pyongyang-Moscow alliance ahead of a key party congress.
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Japan's first female prime minister, Sanae Takaichi, plans to call an early election amid high approval ratings. The move follows a diplomatic dispute with China over Japan's stance on Taiwan and China's recent export controls. Takaichi's coalition faces a narrow majority in the Lower House, with regional and international implications.
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Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi is expected to dissolve parliament at the start of the upcoming session on January 23, aiming for a snap election around February. The move seeks to capitalize on her high approval ratings, strengthen her coalition, and address economic and diplomatic challenges, including tensions with China.