Archive | October, 2009

Domestic and overseas factors a plenty for Japan

More often than not, it is overseas factors that have the largest influence on trading in Japan. However, from time to time there is enough commotion domestically that also warrants the attention of investors. Unfortunately, the cacophony coming out of the government these days is more concerning than usual (e.g. Japan Post management/reform, debt moratorium, [...]

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Relief for Japanese exporters?

This brief post was inspired by a Bloomberg story on Asian currency strength — a good read, by the way. My thoughts: an even stronger Korean won would bring some relief to Japanese exporters. However, it’s not clear just how much (for instance, consider the volume of autos sold by JP vs SK) with such [...]

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Global Central Bank Rates – October 16, 2009

Global central bank rates (Brazil 8.75%, South Africa 7.0%, Mexico 4.5%, Australia 3.25%, New Zealand 2.5%, ECB 1.0%, UK 0.5%, USA 0.25%, Canada 0.25%, Switzerland 0.25%, Japan 0.11%) as of October 16, 2009. See chart image below. [Source: Bloomberg; Central Bank web sites]

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Top Foreign Holders of U.S. Treasuries

Below is an extract of the latest data from the U.S. Treasury concerning foreign holders of U.S. Treasuries (year-to-date through the end of August). At least for now, the fear of foreigners dumping Treasuries can be allayed, although it is clear there is some month-month volatility from a key buyer (see the figures for Mainland [...]

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Upcoming talks at Japan Society New York

For those in the area, below is a list of upcoming talks hosted by Japan Society New York. Click the respective link for additional information and for registration. Oct. 20   Financial Reporting Reliability & Transparency: Activities of FASB & the ASBJ during the Financial Crisis Oct. 27   Boeing & Japan: A Strategic Partnership [...]

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