和泉 大樹(Daiki Izumi)

Social Insurance

Explanation of Social Insurance Rules for Part-Time and Temporary Workers | Standards for Fiscal Year 2026

[2026 Edition] A Comprehensive Guide to Social Insurance Eligibility Requirements for Part-Time and Casual Workers. This guide covers all the new standards applicable to companies with 51 or more employees—such as working 20 or more hours per week and earning 88,000 yen or more per month—as well as the rules governing employment insurance. It also clearly explains the benefits of enrollment, including comparisons with National Pension premiums (17,060 yen per month), sickness allowance, and future pension supplements.
economy

List of Price Increases in April 2026 | How Will Food, Electricity Bills, and Pensions Change? Tips for Protecting Your Household Budget

April 2026 marks the return of “Price Hike Season.” With monthly costs expected to rise by as much as 5,000 yen, how should we prepare? In addition to the latest updates on soaring electricity bills and rising food prices, experts will share tips on how to protect your household budget—including strategies for cutting fixed expenses and making the most of private-label products—to help you manage your finances wisely.
Japanese News

[April 1, 2026] Today’s Top News Roundup | Nikkei Average Breaks Through 53,000 Mark as New System Takes Effect

A roundup of key news from April 1, 2026. The Nikkei Stock Average has surpassed 53,000 yen, setting a new all-time high! We provide a detailed breakdown of the day’s developments, from new policies such as the “In-Service Old-Age Pension” and “Child-Rearing Support Allowance” that took effect today, to breaking news on the Japan national soccer team’s match against England.
Social Insurance

Why Pay Raises Don’t Mean Higher Take-Home Pay: The True Nature of This Despair | The Trap of “Invisible Labor Costs” Known as Social Insurance Premiums

Why do employees feel that their take-home pay hasn’t increased even after a pay raise? The reason lies in the rising burden of “social insurance premiums,” which account for approximately 15% of labor costs. This article provides a thorough explanation of how employer and employee contributions work. We’ll also detail the risks posed by statutory welfare costs that strain business operations, as well as strategic measures to maximize take-home pay.
Japanese News

Top News for March 29, 2026: Massive Investments in Next-Generation AI and Major Topics Highlighting Spring in Japan

A roundup of the top news stories from March 29, 2026. From SoftBank’s massive 6 trillion yen investment in OpenAI and the dramatic results of the F1 Japanese Grand Prix qualifying session to information on cherry blossom viewing spots across the country now in full bloom, we provide clear explanations of today’s key topics, covering everything from business to leisure.
Pension・iDeCo

[Essential Guide] What Is the Supplementary Pension? Explaining the “Ultimate Investment Strategy” That Increases Your Pension for Just 400 Yen a Month

What Is the Supplementary Pension? A comprehensive guide to this system, which boasts the “best return on investment” by increasing your future pension benefits with a monthly contribution of just 400 yen. From the pros and cons to how it differs from iDeCo and the National Pension Fund, and how to apply—we clearly explain the strategies for boosting your pension that freelancers and self-employed individuals should know.
economy

Sony and Honda to Halt Development of Their EV, “AFEELA.” The Shock of Honda’s First-Ever Net Loss

Sony and Honda have announced they are abandoning development of their electric vehicle, the “AFEELA.” Due to a slowdown in the U.S. EV market and political factors, this highly anticipated project has been scrapped. Honda has posted its first net loss since going public, recording a total loss of 2.5 trillion yen over two years. We take a closer look at the reality of Honda’s crisis amid drastic changes, including the withdrawal of its goal to phase out internal combustion engines by 2040.
Social Insurance

What Is Unemployment Insurance? A Clear Explanation of Eligibility Requirements, Benefit Amounts, and Duration [Updated for 2026]

Experts provide clear, easy-to-understand explanations of everything from eligibility requirements for unemployment insurance to the amount and duration of unemployment benefits (basic allowance). This guide also covers the latest information, including the differences between voluntary and involuntary termination, as well as the upcoming expansion of eligibility to include those working “10 or more hours per week” by 2028. Check out how to calculate the benefits you’re entitled to before you leave your job!
Japanese News

[March 23, 2026] Today’s Top Stories: Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Kyoto; Outcomes of the Japan-U.S. Summit and Their Impact on Daily Life

[Updated 3/23] Check today’s top stories in just 5 minutes! From cherry blossom forecasts in Kyoto to the economic impact of the Japan-U.S. summit and new features at Hello Work, we’ve compiled news directly relevant to business and daily life. Don’t miss our analysis of changing consumer trends during the Rakuten Super Sale amid rising prices.
Japanese News

[Updated March 22, 2026] Today’s News: Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom in Tokyo! From AI Infrastructure Rollouts to the Latest on the Upcoming MLB and NPB Seasons

A roundup of the latest news from March 22, 2026. Cherry blossoms are in full bloom in Tokyo, marking the official start of hanami season! We’ll also cover today’s must-know stories, including a historic milestone—the world’s first country to exceed a 50% renewable energy ratio—the latest AI translation systems deployed at train stations and airports, and updates on the upcoming professional baseball and MLB seasons.