和泉 大樹(Daiki Izumi)

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.
Asset Formation

The Pitfalls Behind the Popularity of Index Funds? The “Sins” of Index Investing and the Risk of “Social Stagnation”

“Orkan” and the “S&P 500” are popular choices under the new NISA program. Ryu Sawakami of Sawakami Investment Trust is sounding the alarm about this trend! What is the “sin” of index investing—that it dampens corporate growth and leads to societal stagnation? He offers a sharp analysis of the risks hidden behind wealth accumulation and the true meaning of investing.
Asset Formation

Why Gold Is Called the “Ultimate Safe-Haven Asset” and How to Invest Wisely

Why is gold called the “ultimate safe-haven asset”? We explain the reasons in a way that’s easy for beginners to understand. Covering everything from the pros and cons of investing in gold as a hedge against inflation and geopolitical risks to recommended investment strategies like gold savings plans and ETFs. Discover asset protection strategies for these uncertain times today.
Japanese News

What Is the “Consumption Tax Cut,” the Key Issue in the 2026 House of Representatives Election? An Explanation of the Significance of Measures to Combat Rising Prices and the Challenges of Securing Funding

March 2026 Update: Satoshi Osanai of Daiwa Securities provides an in-depth analysis of the “consumption tax cut”—the central issue in the House of Representatives election. Drawing on his expertise, he examines the measure’s immediate effectiveness as a countermeasure against rising prices, the factors behind the rising Engel coefficient, the financial hurdle posed by the estimated “13 trillion yen revenue shortfall” that stands in the way of implementation, and the likely trajectory of discussions within the newly established National Council.
Psychology for the Workplace

Transform Your Meetings with Psychology! Secrets to Seating Arrangements Using Stinzler’s 3 Principles

The key to running a smooth meeting lies in “how you sit”! This guide explains how to arrange seating based on the “Three Principles of Stinzler” from psychology, techniques to speed up consensus-building, and how to create a meeting room environment (size and color) that sparks lively discussion. Use these business psychology techniques starting tomorrow to steer the meeting toward the conclusion you want.
Asset Formation

Why Platinum Has a Higher Downside Risk Than Gold: The Trap of Scarcity and Liquidity

With the sharp rise in gold and platinum prices attracting attention, why does platinum harbor such a high risk of a price drop? We conduct a thorough analysis of why platinum—despite its greater scarcity—has seen its price overtaken by gold, as well as the presence or absence of foreign exchange reserves held by central banks and differences in volatility. We explain the distinction between physical demand and speculation—something you should understand before investing.