japantimes.co.jp, as data

Japan’s secondhand smartphone market has expanded for seven consecutive years, hitting record highs of 3.6 million units and a 10% market share in fiscal 2025.LPG suppliers asked to inspect equipment after fatal shopping mall blastThe industry ministry has reported that leaked gas was “highly likely” to have caused the explosion that killed seven people following last week’s powerful earthquake.Japan’s winning sports tradition shouldn’t include abuseJapan needs to establish an independent Safe Sport Center to address abuse in athletics and ensure that recent legal reforms translate into meaningful protections for athletes.## JAPANJapan’s police to monitor ‘*tokuryū*’ use of confidential messaging appsThe method involves remote-controlling smartphones and other devices of high-ranking tokuryū members to access communication records and other information.NHK president apologizes for improper response to sexual assault of workerThe public broadcaster failed to allow an employee who was sexually assaulted by a program cast member to work in another department after a leave of absence.Will Takaichi’s consumption tax cut break the LDP?Opposition leaders voice concerns over Takaichi’s Hiroshima addressMan with sleep apnea diagnosis involved in fatal Tokyo accidentAs hibakusha age, storytelling mantle passes to the next generation## BUSINESSSoftBank beats profit expectations as chip bets compensate for muted AI gainsThe Tokyo-based technology investor’s net income fell 18% to ¥347.3 billion in its fiscal first quarter, compared with a market estimate of about ¥166 billion.Bank of America sees yen jumping 6% by end of 2026Analysts at the bank see the Japanese currency advancing to ¥149 per dollar on joint action between Tokyo and Washington, and the prospect of a rate hike in coming months.Summer bonuses average record ¥1.04 million among major Japan firms