Japan Stock Podcast

SCREEN Holdings Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, is a premier global leader in precision equipment manufacturing. The company operates through four primary business segments: Semiconductor Production Equipment (SPE), Graphic Arts Equipment (GA), Display Production Equipment and Coater (FT), and PCB-Related Equipment (PE). SPE serves as the central growth driver, generating 80.2% of total net sales (¥605.7 billion) in FY2026. SCREEN maintains the No. 1 global market share in semiconductor cleaning equipment, including single-wafer processors, batch-type systems, and spin scrubbers. By leveraging its core proprietary technologies in surface processing, coating, and direct imaging, SCREEN provides highly competitive solutions to propel global AI, a...

Kioxia Holdings Corporation, formerly Toshiba Memory, is a pioneer and global leader in flash memory and SSD solutions. In 1987, the company invented the world's first NAND flash memory, and in 2007, introduced the revolutionary 3D flash memory technology, "BiCS FLASH™". Anchored by its long-standing manufacturing joint venture with Western Digital (SanDisk), Kioxia offers a comprehensive lineup of cutting-edge storage products for smartphones, client PCs, cloud data centers, and generative AI infrastructure. Following its listing on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market in December 2024, Kioxia remains dedicated to advancing storage memory technologies that shape the digital future.

[Future Direction & Ou...

KU Holdings Co., Ltd. is a pure holding company engaged in the sales, maintenance, and repair of domestic and imported automobiles. Its main operating subsidiaries include KU Co., Ltd. for domestic and used vehicles, alongside authorized import dealerships for Mercedes-Benz, BMW, MINI, and Jeep, such as Stern Setagaya, Stern Chuo, and Motoren Tomei-Yokohama. The company leverages a broad dealership network and strong aftermarket services as core strengths. For the fiscal year ended March 2026 (54th term), consolidated net sales reached 169,094 million yen, ordinary profit stood at 8,602 million yen, and net assets totaled 69,902 million yen.

Supporting Data: Revenue expanded...

Idemitsu Kosan Co., Ltd. is a leading Japanese comprehensive energy and materials company guided by its core philosophy of "Respect for Human Beings" and "Truly Inspired". The company operates globally across foundational sectors such as fuel oils and basic chemicals, alongside high-performance materials—including OLED materials and lithium solid electrolytes—power, renewable energy, and resources. Leveraging its extensive technological expertise, Idemitsu ensures a stable energy supply while actively driving business portfolio transformation. In collaboration with strategic partners like Toyota Motor Corporation, the company is accelerating the commercialization of solid electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries, alongside low-carbon initiatives such as Sustainable Avia...

Founded in 1997, Rakuten Group, Inc. is a leading Japanese global internet services company. Guided by its mission to empower individuals and society through innovation, Rakuten operates over 70 diverse services worldwide. Its core business is structured around three main segments: Internet Services (e.g., Rakuten Ichiba, Rakuten Travel), FinTech (e.g., Rakuten Card, Rakuten Bank, Rakuten Securities), and Mobile (Rakuten Mobile). Anchored by the unified "Rakuten Ecosystem," single sign-on ID, and loyalty point program, the company connects approximately 1.9 billion global users and over 100 million members in Japan. Driven by robust cross-use across its multi-service network, Rakuten achieved a record-high consolidated...

ARCHION Corporation is a holding company established through the business integration of Hino Motors and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation, listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market on April 1, 2026 (TSE: 543A). Supported by Daimler Truck and Toyota Motor as key shareholders, ARCHION leverages the extensive production networks, sales channels, and strong customer bases of both brands. Guided by its mission to "connect the mobility of people and goods to create a prosperous future", the company focuses on commercial vehicles and aims to accelerate synergies in zero-emission technologies—such as EVs and fuel cells—as well as autonomous driv...

IDOM Inc. (TSE Prime: 7599), founded in 1994, is a leading Japanese automotive company specializing in pre-owned vehicle purchasing and retail sales. Operating primarily under its flagship "Gulliver" brand, IDOM has successfully transformed its core business from a pure purchasing shop network into a high-value retail model backed by large-scale dealerships and integrated maintenance centers. Today, it holds a top-tier market share of approximately 6% in Japan's retail used car market. According to the latest disclosure for FY2027 Q1 (March–May 2026), IDOM generated net sales of 159.61 billion yen (+15.5% YoY) and an operating profit of 4.36 billion yen (+15.4% YoY), driven by a record Q1 re...

Howa Machinery, Ltd., established in 1907 and headquartered in Kiyosu, Aichi Prefecture, is a highly respected Japanese machinery manufacturer with a rich history. The company operates across multiple diverse sectors, including machine tools (machining centers and power chucks), firearms (Type 20 rifles for the Japan Ministry of Defense and sporting rifles), special purpose vehicles (road sweepers), building materials (soundproof sashes), and real estate leasing. Howa holds a leading position in several niche markets. Under its current 6th Mid-Term Management Plan, the company decided in May 2026 to dissolve and liquidate its Chinese subsidiary as part of its drastic machine tool business reform...

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., headquartered in Yokohama, Japan, is a leading global automaker. Led by Representative Executive Officer, President, and CEO Ivan Espinosa, the company designs, manufactures, and sells passenger and commercial vehicles, alongside providing sales financial services worldwide. Operating across major global markets including North America, Japan, Europe, and China, Nissan has historically leveraged its powerful alliance with Renault and Mitsubishi Motors. In response to the industry's rapid intelligence transition, Nissan actively prioritizes software-defined vehicles (SDV) and electrification. By forging smart partnerships with leading global tech companies and domestic competitors, notably Honda, Nissan is driving major technological innovations...

Established in 1896 with rich roots dating back to 1878, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. is a premier Japanese engineering and manufacturing giant. Headquartered in Kobe and Tokyo, the company has a capital of 104.4 billion yen and maintains a massive global workforce of over 40,000 employees. Kawasaki operates across five major specialized segments: Aerospace Systems, Energy Solution & Marine, Precision Machinery & Robot, Rolling Stock, and Powersports & Engine. Its high-tech products range from aircraft, trains, and marine vessels to industrial robots, world-renowned motorcycles, and power products. By integrating its diverse technologies under Group Vision 2030, Kawasaki creates pioneering solutions to resolve social and environmental challenges, fostering s...

Established in Osaka, Japan in 1924, Daikin Industries is a prominent global leader in both air conditioning and fluorochemicals, with business operations expanding across more than 170 countries worldwide. As the world's only comprehensive manufacturer that simultaneously develops both advanced air conditioning equipment and refrigerants, Daikin enjoys a unique competitive advantage from its vertical integration model. The company's key strengths lie in localized "market-adjacent" production, highly robust global dealer networks, and pioneering eco-friendly technologies such as inverter systems and heat-pump systems. Driven by its core "people-centered management" philosophy, Daikin provides comfortable, healthy indoor environments while continuously minimizing overall environmental impact. Today...

NEXTAGE Co., Ltd., established in December 1998 and headquartered in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, is a leading Japanese automotive retailer listed on the TSE Prime and NSE Premier markets, led by Yasuharu Hirota. Dedicated to its philosophy of being “the car shop loved by everyone”, the company provides comprehensive, one-stop services, including vehicle sales, purchases, maintenance, and insurance nationwide. As of May 31, 2026, NEXTAGE operates 364 stores across 248 locations with approximately 9,000 employees. Driven by its core values of "Entrepreneurial Spirit" and "On-site Focus", the company strives to become the region’s most trusted professional car retailer.

The audio and written content of this...

Founded in 1994 and headquartered in Tokyo, NEXON Co., Ltd. is a global leader in the production, development, and publishing of online games. Listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in December 2011, Nexon is a constituent of the Nikkei 225 index. The company operates a diverse portfolio of over 40 games, including iconic franchises such as MapleStory, Dungeon&Fighter, and Mabinogi, across multiple platforms including PC, mobile, and consoles in more than 190 countries and regions. By fully acquiring Sweden-based Embark Studios in 2021, Nexon continues to accelerate its global expansion and strengthen its creative capabilities to deliver immersive virtual worlds to players worldwide.

Founded in 1885 and headquartered in Tokyo, Fujikura Ltd. is a leading Japanese manufacturer of optical fibers, cables, and electronic components. Driven by its DNA of "Proactive Spirit" and "Fujikura Technology," the company operates under the mission of contributing to society through its "Tsunagu" (connecting) technologies™. Fujikura's business spans telecommunications, electronics, automotive, and energy sectors. It enjoys a dominant global market share and reputation in optical packaging solutions for AI data centers, particularly with its ultra-high-density optical fiber cables (SWR®/WTC®) and fusion splicers. Through continuous technological innovation and strategic investments, Fujikura is dedicated to enhancing customer value and supporting glob...

AFC-HD AMS Life Science Co., Ltd. is a leading Japanese company specializing in the OEM (original equipment manufacturer) production of high-quality health foods and cosmetics. Headquartered in Shizuoka, the company operates as a comprehensive conglomerate aiming to complete all operations internally, from R&D and manufacturing to retail sales, in close collaboration with its academic research institute. In addition to its core healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors, the company has diversified into new areas including tourism, catering services, and real estate. Positioned for global growth, AFC-HD is actively pursuing international expansion in China and Vietnam, while running a Japanese language...

Kirin Holdings Company, Limited, established in 1907, is a world-leading global group headquartered in Japan. Under its corporate slogan, "Joy brings us together," the company leverages its foundational fermentation and biotechnology expertise to expand new joys of "Food and Well-being" and contribute to a joyful society. Kirin has built a unique business portfolio consisting of four core segments: Alcoholic Beverages (such as its flagship beer brands), Non-Alcoholic Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, and its rapidly growing Health Science business, which fully integrates acquired leaders like FANCL and Blackmores. In fiscal year 2025, the Kirin Group delivered record-high financial performance, achieving consolidated revenue of 2,433.4 billion y...

Nippon Coke & Engineering Co., Ltd. is a leading Japanese resources and materials manufacturer specializing in the production and sale of high-quality coke essential for steelmaking. The company maintains a close strategic alliance with major partners Nippon Steel Corporation (holding a 22.6% stake) and Sumitomo Corporation (19.4%). Its diversified portfolio includes the Coke business, Fuel and Resource Recycling business (handling coal and PKS biomass fuels), and General Engineering business (developing advanced powder processing machinery). In FY2026, the company recorded consolidated net sales of 91.3 billion yen and returned to black with an operating profit of 0.6 billion yen. Nippon Coke is actively transforming its...

Mitsubishi Corporation, established in 1954, is one of Japan's leading comprehensive trading companies. With a global network spanning approximately 76 countries, it operates across diverse sectors including environmental energy, materials, metal resources, social infrastructure, mobility, and the food industry. Recently, the company has transitioned its business model from traditional trading to proactive "business management," deeply engaging in the operation of its enterprises. 

Under its "Management Strategy 2027," the company utilizes an "Enhance, Reshape, and Create" mechanism to strengthen existing businesses and accelerate investments in growth areas like US shale gas. Building on strong recent performance, it forecasts a consolidated net i...

Established in 2015, FOOD & LIFE COMPANIES LTD. is a leading global food service company operating multiple brands, including the flagship revolving sushi chain "Sushiro," sushi izakaya "Sugidama," and traditional sushi brands "Kyotaru" and "Sushi Misaki". Guided by the vision "Discovering new tastiness, Sharing moments of joy," the company has expanded rapidly, reaching 1,263 stores worldwide by June 2026. The company focuses on delivering high-quality sushi at affordable prices while enhancing the customer experience through digital innovations like "Digiro" displays. Furthermore, it actively invests in sustainable aquaculture and supply chain optimization to ensure stable seafood procurement, bringing moments of joy to customers globally.<...

Established in 1938 and headquartered in Obu City, Aichi Prefecture, Aisan Industry Co., Ltd. is a global automotive parts manufacturer. The company specializes in the development and production of engine fuel and intake/exhaust system components, such as fuel pump modules and throttle bodies, with Toyota Motor Corporation as its primary customer. Renowned for its advanced environmental technologies and high-quality manufacturing, Aisan is currently expanding its portfolio beyond traditional powertrain components. The company is actively accelerating its transition towards electrification and clean energy solutions, developing parts for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs). With a...

Founded in 1955 and headquartered in Iwata, Japan, Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. is a global manufacturer of transportation equipment. Guided by its corporate mission to be a "Kando Creating Company" and the slogan "Revs your Heart," Yamaha aims to provide experiences that exceed customer expectations. Its diverse business portfolio includes land mobility products like motorcycles and ATVs, marine products such as outboard motors and boats, as well as industrial robots and financial services. As a highly globalized corporation with overseas sales and production ratios exceeding 80%, Yamaha Motor continuously delivers excitement and enriches the lives of people worldwide.

 In Q...

Founded in 1939, Shibaura Mechatronics Corporation is a precision equipment manufacturer listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange Prime Market. Its main business segments include Fine Mechatronics (front-end semiconductor and FPD manufacturing equipment), Mechatronics Systems (back-end equipment and vacuum application equipment), and Vending Machine Systems. The company strongly focuses on Semiconductor Production Equipment (SPE). It boasts high global market shares with its Global Niche Top (GNT) products, such as single-wafer cleaning equipment, high-temperature phosphoric acid etching equipment, and flip-chip bonders for advanced packaging. By providing cutting-edge technological solutions to meet the growing demand for IoT and generative AI, Shibaura Mechatronics continuously...

Founded in 1916 and established in 1950, Daido Steel Co., Ltd. is a world-leading manufacturer specializing in special steel. Headquartered in Nagoya, Japan, the company has a capital of approximately 37.1 billion yen and a consolidated workforce of around 12,000 employees. Operating globally, its business spans five core segments: Special Steel, Functional Materials & Magnetic Materials, Automobile & Industrial Machinery Parts, Engineering, and Trading & Services. Daido Steel supplies high-performance materials and precision components to a wide range of industries, including automotive, aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, and medical sectors. Through eco-friendly manufacturing processes, the company is dedicated to supporting the realization of a sustainable society and continuous...

Panasonic Holdings Corporation, founded in 1918 by Konosuke Matsushita, is a leading global electronics manufacturer. In April 2022, the company transitioned to a holding company system and adopted its current name. Guided by its mission to realize "an ideal society with affluence both in matter and mind," Panasonic operates across diverse sectors. These include consumer appliances, HVAC, electrical construction materials, supply chain software, electronic components, and batteries for EVs and data centers. Recently, under the "Panasonic GREEN IMPACT" initiative, the company has been accelerating its efforts to solve global environmental challenges and enhance the well-being of people and society, continually evolving...

KOKUSAI ELECTRIC is a dedicated semiconductor manufacturing equipment manufacturer specializing in thin-film deposition and treatment processes. 

It holds the world's top market share in batch ALD systems and treatment equipment. 

Over the past three years (FY2024-FY2026), sales revenue reached 180.8, 238.9, and 235.1 billion yen, respectively. 

As for its future direction, the company will focus on expanding sales of high-value-added products to meet the growing demand for high-difficulty deposition caused by the increasing complexity, miniaturization, and 3D structures of semiconductor devices. 

Driven by this strategy, the proportion of high-value-added products will increase. 

The...

Founded in 1935 to commercialize the magnetic material ferrite, TDK Corporation is a world-leading comprehensive electronic components manufacturer. 

Guided by its corporate motto, "Contribute to culture and industry through creativity," TDK operates in four core segments: Passive Components, Sensor Application Products, Magnetic Application Products, and Energy Application Products. 

With approximately 100,000 employees globally and an overseas sales ratio exceeding 90%, TDK provides innovative solutions worldwide.

The audio and written content of this podcast are intended to help listeners understand the general business conditions and publicly available information of major listed companies in Japan. They do not co...

Japan Securities Finance Co., Ltd. (JSF), established in 1927, is Japan's sole licensed securities finance company, listed on the TSE Prime Market. 

While margin transactions remain its core business, its security finance segment (e.g., bond and stock repos) has driven recent rapid growth. 

Key financial data affecting performance forecasts show significant upward momentum.

Following the Bank of Japan's lift of negative interest rates, rising lending rates and increased funding demand are expected to positively impact JSF's future performance.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Li...

Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd., headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, is a global leader in advanced electronic components. Its flagship product, Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors (MLCCs), holds approximately 40% of the global market share. Recently, Murata's performance has been heavily influenced by smartphone and PC inventory adjustments, AI server demand, and foreign exchange fluctuations. In the fiscal year ended March 2024, revenue fell to 1.64 trillion JPY with an operating profit of 215 billion JPY due to sluggish demand,. However, aided by a weaker yen and AI-related growth, revenue for the year ended March 2025 recovered to 1.74 trillion JPY, with operating profit at 279 billion JPY,. In the...

Founded in 1925, Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. is a global comprehensive chemical company headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. 

The company operates through five core business sectors: Agro & Life Solutions, ICT & Mobility Solutions, Advanced Medical Solutions, Essential & Green Materials, and Sumitomo Pharma. 

With overseas sales accounting for approximately 70% of its total revenue, Sumitomo Chemical possesses a robust global presence and network.

The audio and written content of this podcast are intended to help listeners understand the general business conditions and publicly available information of major listed companies in Japan. They do not constitute investment advice, investment re...

Oriental Land Co., Ltd., established in July 1960 and headquartered in Urayasu, Chiba, was founded to develop a large-scale leisure facility and contribute to Japan's cultural and social well-being. 

Operating under a long-term license agreement with Disney Enterprises, Inc. signed in 1979, the company successfully opened Tokyo Disneyland in 1983 and Tokyo DisneySea in 2001. 

Today, its core operations encompass the Theme Park segment, the Hotel segment, and other resort businesses including the Ikspiari shopping complex and the Disney Resort Line monorail. 

Guided by its corporate mission to "offer wonderful dreams, moving experiences, delight and contentment," the com...

Established in 1919 from the merger of eight celluloid manufacturers, Daicel Corporation is a leading global chemical company. 

The company operates globally across five business segments: Medical/Healthcare, Smart, Safety, Materials, and Engineering Plastics. 

Daicel is recognized as Japan's sole manufacturer of acetic acid and holds top global market shares for unique products such as cellulose acetate, automobile airbag inflators, engineering plastics, and chiral columns. 

The audio and written content of this podcast are intended to help listeners understand the general business conditions and publicly available information of major listed companies in Japan. They do...

Tokyo Electron Limited (TEL), established in November 1963 and headquartered in Akasaka, Tokyo, is a leading global manufacturer of semiconductor production equipment. Led by President and CEO Toshiki Kawai, the company has a capital of 54.9 billion yen. TEL specializes in the development, manufacturing, sales, and maintenance of semiconductor and flat panel display (FPD) production equipment. Its core product lineup includes coater/developers, etch systems, deposition systems, and cleaning systems. Notably, TEL holds a significant global market share in various equipment categories, especially in coater/developers. 

The audio and written content of this podcast are intended to help listeners u...

Established in 1999, SUMCO Corporation is a world-leading specialized manufacturer of silicon wafers, the essential substrate materials for semiconductors. The company boasts an integrated production system, from high-purity polysilicon to final wafer products. SUMCO holds the world's top market share in cutting-edge 300mm epitaxial wafers for logic semiconductors, which require highly advanced technology and stringent quality control. These products are indispensable for a wide range of applications, including smartphones, PCs, automobiles, and data centers. Guided by its vision to be the "World's No.1 company in technology" and to "ensure stable earnings even during economic downturns," SUMCO continues to meet the...

Fujitsu Limited, founded on June 20, 1935, is a leading global information and communication technology (ICT) company headquartered in Kawasaki, Kanagawa, Japan. Led by President and CEO Takahito Tokita, the company operates with a capital of approximately 325.6 billion yen and employs 112,743 people globally on a consolidated basis as of March 31, 2025. Fujitsu's business operations are primarily divided into three main segments: Service Solutions, Hardware Solutions, and Ubiquitous Solutions.

The company's core purpose is to "make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation". Guided by its 2030 Vision, Fujitsu aims to become a "technology company that realizes net...

JINS HOLDINGS Inc., led by Representative Director and President COO Ryo Tanaka, is a leading Japanese eyewear company. The company operates on a globally evolving SPA (Specialty store retailer of Private label Apparel) model, seamlessly integrating the planning, production, distribution, and retail of its eyewear products. In addition to its strong presence in Japan with over 500 stores, JINS is actively expanding its business globally, with operations in Mainland China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, the United States, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Guided by its sustainability vision, "Changing the scenery of the future through eyewear," JINS offers highly functional and fashionable products...

AMIYAKI TEI CO., LTD. is a Japanese restaurant chain company headquartered in Kasugai City, Aichi Prefecture. Operating as a "group of meat professionals," the company leverages its extensive knowledge and precise meat-cutting techniques to provide high-quality meat at affordable chain-store prices.

The company primarily operates three core business segments: the Yakiniku (grilled meat) business, featuring brands like "Amiyaki Tei" and "Yakiniku Suehirokan"; the Yakitori (grilled chicken) business, including "Ganso Yakitoriya Minoji"; and the Restaurant business, which offers steak and hamburgers through brands like "Kando no Niku to Kome".

To ensure freshness and cost-effectiveness, AMIYAKI TEI...

Founded in 1915 and headquartered in Kitakyushu, Japan, YASKAWA Electric Corporation is a global leader in mechatronics. The company's core businesses include Motion Control (AC servo motors and inverters) and Industrial Robotics.

According to the latest financial results for the fiscal year ending February 2026, YASKAWA achieved a consolidated revenue of 542.12 billion yen, representing a 0.8% year-on-year increase. This growth was driven by steadily converting new orders into sales. However, despite the increased value-added from higher sales, operating profit decreased by 5.7% year-on-year to 47.30 billion yen due to adverse foreign exchange impacts and rising overhead costs. Guided by its "technology-oriented" philosophy...

KUSURI NO AOKI HOLDINGS CO., LTD., headquartered in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, is a prominent retail company operating drugstores and dispensing pharmacies. Founded in 1985, the company's management philosophy is to "contribute to society through health, beauty, and hygiene".

In recent years, the company has aggressively pursued a "Food & Drug" strategy by introducing fresh foods to its stores, offering customers a convenient one-stop shopping experience. Additionally, it focuses on increasing the ratio of stores with dispensing pharmacies to serve as trusted community healthcare hubs.

This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice...

Olympus Corporation, established on October 12, 1919, initially aimed to domesticate microscope production in Japan. Today, headquartered in Tokyo, it has successfully transformed into a leading global MedTech company. Driven by its core purpose of "Making people’s lives healthier, safer and more fulfilling," Olympus is dedicated to advancing medical standards and improving patient outcomes.

Since developing the world's first practical gastrocamera in 1950, the company has become a dominant force in the medical field, commanding approximately a 70% global market share in gastrointestinal endoscopes. Operating primarily through its Endoscopic Solutions and Therapeutic Solutions divisions, Olympus provides innovative medical devices centered on...

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) is a world-leading comprehensive shipping and social infrastructure corporate group headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo. With shipping as its core business, MOL operates a fleet of over 900 vessels, providing global marine transport services for various cargoes such as dry bulk, energy (crude oil and LNG), automobiles, and containers.

In recent years, the company has actively diversified beyond traditional maritime transport into a broad range of social infrastructure fields, including offshore businesses, comprehensive logistics, cruises, ferries, coastal RoRo ships, and real estate. The company celebrated its 140th anniversary in 2024.

This...