和泉 大樹（Daiki Izumi）

With the spread of self-checkout, QR code ordering, and touchscreen ordering, there’s been a sharp rise in the number of people feeling exhausted because “customers are being made to do the store’s work.” Why does self-service cause stress? From inconsistent user interfaces (UI) and the burden on customers to challenges faced by stores, we’ll explain the background of “self-service fatigue” and what the future of service looks like.

[2026 Update] A comprehensive guide to determining whether you need to file an inheritance tax return. The number of taxable estates is rising due to the reduction of the basic deduction! We clearly explain key topics—such as the "7-year rule" for lifetime gifting, situations where a return is required even if the tax due is zero, and three inheritance planning strategies you can implement right now.

“Specialty buyback stores” are proliferating at a rate even faster than convenience stores. While they are attracting attention due to the expansion of the reuse market and franchise (FC) systems that allow even inexperienced entrepreneurs to enter the industry, serious risks—such as competition for inventory and cash flow shortages—lurk behind the scenes. This article provides an easy-to-understand explanation of everything from the background behind the rapid growth of buyback stores to the five pitfalls that new entrants often fall into, as well as the key factors that distinguish success from failure.

“Disney’s Price Hikes Show No Signs of Stopping.” “Is the Loss of Customers Real?” Based on the latest financial results and visitor trends, this article provides a thorough analysis of the story behind Tokyo Disney Resort’s “high-pricing strategy.” We examine the reality of its performance in the era of 12,000-yen tickets and explore the future risks posed by the decline in young visitors.

Is the 79.8 billion yen in losses from social media-based investment scams in the first half of 2026 really not the “worst on record”? We provide a thorough explanation of when losses actually peaked, the latest and increasingly sophisticated scams, and typical scam scenarios involving YouTube and LINE. We’ll also share specific steps you can take right now to protect your hard-earned assets.

This report examines the tough reality facing Okinawa’s “Junglia” theme park one year after its opening. We’ll conduct a thorough analysis—accompanied by genuine feedback from viewers—covering everything from the factors behind its slumping attendance, such as the challenges of its location, the mismatch with the surrounding natural environment, and the suspension of its flagship attractions, to the park’s prospects for recovery.