Lower rates on loans will create quite tough conditions for consumer lenders because interest income accounts for the majority of their revenue. It’s almost impossible to foresee clearly what their profits will be.

Speculation about an end to interest rate rises is strengthening more than ever. The central bank’s minutes prompted buying of electronics makers today.

Department stores during the New Year holiday looked quite busy, reflecting the recovery in consumer spending. Companies that sell high- quality goods, such as Isetan, are good picks.

TDK faces a long-term struggle to get orders and take back market share, which they will probably lose because of Seagate’s acquisition.

Technology stocks were bought as some news, like that about Toshiba today, surprised investors who weren’t expecting much from the industry.

Investor confidence about profits at exporters is getting much stronger for the coming fiscal year. The dollar’s advance is a major support for the bullish outlook.

The latest GDP figure confirms Japan’s economy is now on a solid recovery trend with consumer spending, wages and employment all showing improvement. There are more than enough reasons to expect that domestic demand-related stocks...

Automakers are still cheap relative to their earnings outlook.