Sanaenomics and a new era for Japan’s economy

The Beyond Markets podcast channel is wrapping up on a high note at the end of 2025. But do not worry! The conversation continues on our podcast Moving Markets by Julius Baer, where we'll be sharing fresh insights and analysis on current market developments.

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Japan is undergoing a profound economic transformation under its first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, whose growth-focused "Sanaenomics" policy drives investment in critical areas such as infrastructure, tech and energy. After decades of deflation, inflation has reached 2.9%, supported by a robust 5% wage growth, boosting consumption and corporate earnings.

In this episode, Ayako Lehmann speaks with Louis Chua, Asia equity research analyst at Julius Baer, about the investment landscape for Japan, against a backdrop of structural corporate reforms, strengthening earnings, and rising shareholder returns, and explores the opportunities and risks to watch ahead.

• (01:25) - What can we expect from Sanae Takaichi’s agenda?
• (02:54) - Japan’s shifting economic landscape
• (04:09) - Green shoots in Japan corporate reform
• (05:50) - Growing influence of activist investors
• (07:19) - Takeaways from Q3 earnings
• (09:08) - Diverging paths between small and large caps
• (10:46) - How does the weakening Yen impact Japanese businesses?
• (12:00) - Risks to watch
• (14:02) - Rising Japanese bond yields – a cause for concern?
• (15:36) - Are Japanese bonds finally attractive for international investors?