Leo Lewis

Raya Jalabi, Middle East correspondent covering Syria’s energy revival, and Leo Lewis, Tokyo bureau chief reporting on Japan’s snap election. They discuss Syria courting oil majors and the risks to rebuilding its battered energy sector. They also cover Sanae Takaichi’s landslide win, her broad promises, and the political and economic tensions shaping Japan’s next term.

Leo Lewis, FT Tokyo Bureau Chief, discusses Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her potential call for a snap election to bolster the ruling party's fortunes. He highlights her popularity and key focuses like industrial policy and stimulus. Meanwhile, Akilah Quineo, FT U.S. banking correspondent, elaborates on the backlash against Donald Trump’s proposed 10% cap on credit card interest rates, detailing banks' concerns about its implications and the need for Congressional support to enact it. Tune in for insights on these pressing issues!

David Keohane, Financial Times Tokyo correspondent, and Leo Lewis, Tokyo bureau chief, delve into the evolution of private equity in Japan. They discuss the dramatic shift from skepticism in the early 2000s to mainstream acceptance today, highlighting how firms like Bain and KKR have reshaped corporate landscapes. The duo explores the impact of an aging workforce, rising deal activity, and government policies favoring PE. They also address potential risks, including the cultural clash in management styles and the need for sustainable practices in the Japanese market.

David Keohane, FT Tokyo correspondent, and Leo Lewis, Tokyo bureau chief, explore the evolving landscape of private equity in Japan. They discuss the shift from initial skepticism and media criticism to mainstream acceptance of PE, highlighting key demographic changes and labor shortages that make PE's role crucial. The duo delves into Japan’s unique corporate culture, softer takeover methods, and the government's newfound support for PE, while also addressing concerns about potential risks and the future of investment in the region.

David Keohane and Leo Lewis from the Financial Times dive into the evolution of private equity in Japan. Keohane discusses how global firms initially faced backlash, labeled as 'vulture funds.' Lewis explains Japan's risk-averse corporate culture that clashed with private investors’ methods. They highlight major deals and the current surge in private equity activity, driven by demographic shifts and government support. The duo also flags potential risks, pondering how the future landscape of Japan's corporate world might transform.