February 2, 2026: In Japan, political parties are intensifying their verbal battles ahead of the 2026 House of Representatives election, while the business community is growing tense as major corporations prepare to announce their earnings.
Meanwhile, new developments have emerged in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip in the Middle East. Here is a clear explanation of today’s key topics.
- 1. Domestic Politics: Debate Intensifies After “Election Sunday”
- 2. International Situation: Drone Attacks on Ukraine and Reopening of Gaza Checkpoints
- 3. Economy & Markets: Markets Focus on Toyota Earnings and U.S. Employment Data
- 4. Society & Weather: Heavy Snowfall Damage Alert and Living Information
- 5. Sports: NBA Game Results and Stellar Performance in the Student Ekiden Relay Race
1. Domestic Politics: Debate Intensifies After “Election Sunday”
With the 2026 House of Representatives election set for this weekend,
yesterday’s “Election Sunday” has brought each party’s economic and foreign policies into sharp focus.
- Prime Minister Takaichi’s Moves
She abruptly skipped the NHK party leader debate, citing an arm injury sustained during campaigning.
Meanwhile, she held an afternoon street speech, strongly advocating “ending fiscal austerity.” - Opposition Arguments
Representative Noda of the Constitutional Democratic Party and Chairman Tamura of the Japanese Communist Party criticized the current administration for insufficient measures against rising prices and yen depreciation.
They are calling for thorough implementation of wealth taxes and wage increases. - Key Points to Watch
The focus is on whether the Liberal Democratic Party can maintain its absolute majority, or how much ground the opposition parties can gain in seats.
2. International Situation: Drone Attacks on Ukraine and Reopening of Gaza Checkpoints
The global situation remains tense.
- Tragedy in Eastern Ukraine
A bus carrying workers at a coal mine in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast was struck by a Russian drone attack, killing 16 people.
Russia had suggested a temporary halt to attacks, but this resulted in a tragic outcome. - Gaza-Rafah Crossing Reopens
The Rafah crossing connecting the Gaza Strip and Egypt reopened today, February 2nd.
It is expected to allow the passage of 150 people per day, including the sick and wounded, and is being watched as a potential foothold for humanitarian aid.
3. Economy & Markets: Markets Focus on Toyota Earnings and U.S. Employment Data
This week is packed with important economic events in both Japan and the U.S.
- Domestic Market
The Bank of Japan’s Monetary Policy Meeting “Key Opinions” were released, heightening interest in future interest rate policy.
Additionally, earnings announcements from major domestic companies like Toyota Motor are set to begin in earnest. - U.S. Market
The Dow Jones Industrial Average continued its decline amid caution over the next Federal Reserve Chair nomination.
With the U.S. employment report due this weekend, tech stocks in particular are showing weakness. - Topic
News of successful rare earth mud recovery off Minamitorishima Island has drawn attention to related stocks, fueled by expectations for improved resource self-sufficiency.
4. Society & Weather: Heavy Snowfall Damage Alert and Living Information
- Heavy Snow Warning
Arctic cold air lingers near Japan, bringing above-average snowfall primarily to northern Japan.
Accidents during snow removal continue to occur, requiring ongoing caution throughout February. - Signs of Spring
The Meteorological Association has begun releasing pollen forecasts.
Unstable atmospheric conditions today in western and eastern Japan call for caution against lightning and sudden gusts.
5. Sports: NBA Game Results and Stellar Performance in the Student Ekiden Relay Race
- NBA
With high hopes for Japanese players like Rui Hachimura, the Lakers and Wizards took the court.
The Wizards defeated the Kings 116-112. - Student Ekiden
At the “Japan Student Half Marathon,” held alongside the Kagawa Marugame International Half Marathon, Soka University runners delivered impressive performances, setting new personal bests.
Editor’s Note:
A crucial week has begun where the outcome of the election campaign directly impacts the market and people’s livelihoods. In particular, the debate over “tax increases or tax cuts” in economic policy significantly affects personal household management.
