Asset Formation

What is a Mutual Fund? For beginners, we explain the mechanism and pros and cons with diagrams, free of jargon. We thoroughly cover everything from how to choose funds under the new NISA to starting with as little as 100 yen. Worried about “losing a lot of money” or “not knowing what to choose”? This article solves those concerns!

Should you prioritize savings or investments? We'll solve that question for you. Starting with the appropriate amount for your “emergency fund”—the foundation of asset building—we explain the 3-step sequence for saving and investing to avoid mistakes. Includes reference tables for singles and families. Check out this roadmap now to ease future anxieties and grow your money wisely!

Amid the current boom in index investing—popularized by products like the “Orkan” fund under the new NISA system—we dare to question its “sin.” Based on a column by Ryu Sawakami of Sawakami Investment Trust, this piece thoroughly examines the “essence of investing” and the “mindset of supporting companies” that tend to be lost in the pursuit of efficiency. We explore hints for achieving true asset building and social contribution—not merely ending up in a money game.

Can't sleep at night worrying about investment price fluctuations? Discover the decisive difference between those who feel stressed by investing and those who grow their assets, revealed by a survey of 10,000 people. Learn the benefits of long-term diversified investing that can create a ¥15 million difference, and master the secrets to building wealth with peace of mind.

Is Foreign Currency Savings Really Worth It During Yen Weakness? Popular Financial Planner Takashi Mizuno thoroughly explains the pitfalls lurking behind the expectation that “high interest rates will easily grow your assets.” From disadvantages like exchange rate fluctuation risk, fees, and lack of deposit insurance coverage, to choosing recommended online banks for beginners. We clearly explain the concept of “currency diversification” to avoid losses—without bullet points.

How much do you need for emergency savings? We thoroughly explain this question using the latest 2026 price data and household-specific guidelines. Covering simulations for singles, dual-income couples, and families with children, we explore everything from a sustainable “pre-emptive savings” system to the ideal timing for starting investments like NISA. This definitive guide to defensive asset building transforms future anxieties into peace of mind.

With index investments like “Orkan” dominating the new NISA, what warning is Sawakami Investment Trust's Ryu Sawakami sounding? He explains the risk of a “total collapse” lurking beneath the boom and the true value of active management that shines precisely in turbulent global conditions. We explore hints for reframing investment not just by numbers, but by “corporate growth.”

Is receiving life insurance as an annuity really advantageous? In reality, it comes with a pitfall: not only does inheritance tax increase, but income tax and social insurance premiums also rise, drastically reducing your take-home pay. We thoroughly explain the exit strategy to avoid failure, as taught by financial planners, including comparisons with lump-sum payments and the impact on survivors' health insurance premiums.

The 2026 (Reiwa 8) Tax Reform Outline explicitly states the transition to “separate taxation” for virtual currencies (crypto assets)! Based on explanations by Tax Accountant Serina Hayami, we clearly introduce key changes investors must know—including a tax reduction from up to 55% to 20.315% and a three-year loss carryforward deduction. We also include a simulation showing how much your taxes could decrease.