Nikkei Asia

Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party officially announced the start of its two-week presidential race on Thursday to pick the largest political party's next leader. Here's what you need to know. https://lnkd.in/gqjsgjcn

Good morning, America. This was our most read story while you were sleeping. https://lnkd.in/gvhje5Q6

A flood of foldable smartphones released by Chinese companies will help boost local display makers' market share in the segment to over 50% this year, according to U.K. market researcher Omdia. https://lnkd.in/gE-j_sSx

"It is time for both South Koreans and Japanese to focus on quality of life and happiness, rather than just income," argues Kang-Kook Lee. "The IMF's World Economic Outlook projects that South Korea's GDP per capita will reach $34,165 this, ahead of Japan on $33,138. While this is partly due to the recent sharp depreciation of the yen, it is fundamentally because South Korea's economic growth rate has long been faster than its neighbor." "However, comparing per capita income levels between Japan and South Korea may not be so meaningful now as both countries are already advanced by international standards. Instead, we should talk about the actual quality of life." "Although South Korea's GDP per capita is now higher than Japan's, it's hard to say that South Koreans are necessarily happier. Many face intense pressure from competition and constant comparison with others, which, paradoxically, may also fuel their rapid economic growth. " "South Korea should look at how Japan is preparing for slower growth and demographic changes, and in achieving social consensus with minimal conflict. Conversely, Japan can learn from South Korea's dynamism in new industries, such as information and communication technology, as well as previous efforts to raise wages and strengthen labor unions' bargaining power."

During the U.S. presidential debate this week, the candidates received no question on China or Taiwan. "It's odd for sure that the world's most consequential bilateral relationship didn't merit much air time," one political scientist said. https://lnkd.in/gzDYbyJG

Indonesian coal companies are snapping up high-grade assets in Australia and North America, as better access to financing and less climate pressure at home give them an advantage over Western rivals. https://lnkd.in/gREPPGPW

A Swiss court has frozen $311 million from a company that allegedly laundered money for India's Adani Group through offshore funds in Mauritius and Bermuda -- claims that the ports-to-telecom conglomerate has blasted as "absurd." https://lnkd.in/gRYJvZN7

Many anticipated policies of a second Trump administration would increase scrutiny of foreign workers from Asia, lawyers say. To prepare, companies are renewing and extending work visas while also applying for permanent residency on employees' behalf. https://lnkd.in/giVr2Nhb

Global real estate investors are rushing to develop data centers in Japan, as they bet on massive demand for computing power from businesses turning to artificial intelligence to cope with labor shortages. https://lnkd.in/gfnF2HHD

China will raise its retirement age, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress decided on Friday, as the country attempts to address its shrinking workforce. The retirement age will be gradually increased over the next 15 years. https://lnkd.in/ge_YsrU2