METI’s mixed message: New takeover guidance in Japan
Despite the M&A market reaching records highs in Japan over the past two years, METI seems determined to slow it down.
Jamie Allen
Putting rights in reverse -- where Japan is heading on Companies Act changes
Minority shareholders in Japan will lose some important rights if proposals to amend the Companies Act are adopted.
Rocky horror health show
Stock market darlings get mauled but the boardroom reckoning is hesitant
An unconvincing revision: Japan's new CG Code
The fourth version of the Japan Corporate Governance Code has followed international fashion and undergone a major streamlining. We think this is a mistake.
A quick Firefly update
Travels in the region, upcoming stories, and a recap of our latest articles.
Fudosan finally breaks through
After a battle of wits with activists and minority shareholders, Toyota Fudosan wins the right to fully privatise Toyota Industries. Not the Toyota Group's finest moment.
TICO take-private: And the winner is...
Elliott and Japan emerge from the TICO privatisation saga in front. Toyota has much to learn.
Unshackling investors in Japan (2)
What are the pros and cons of the new large shareholder reporting regime? How might different types of investors respond?
Unshackling investors in Japan (1)
For the past decade financial regulation in Japan has hamstrung collective engagement of listed companies. What was the origin and purpose of these rules?
Keep your eyes on the prize
In May 2026 some rusty old chains constraining collective engagement of companies in Japan will be removed. Though not perfect, the new rules mark an important turning point in regulatory policy. Savvy investors will keep their eye on the big picture and not tie themselves in knots over minutiae.