Central bank's rate focus hides urge to taper

TOKYO -- The Bank of Japan's interest rate-based monetary policy seems in part to be aimed at trimming bond purchases without angering easing hardliners or endangering progress toward inflation. Surging U.S. long-term interest rates in the wake of the ... ( read original story ...)

South Korea's Online Banking System Is Stuck In 1996

“[My bank’s] security apps slow my computer to a crawl so I have ... s Edge browser that has been cornered into its dying holdout markets, including Korea, Japan and Greenland. “Compared to the rest of the tech infrastructure, it’s really ironic ... ( read original story ...)

Nikkei scales 11-month peaks on OPEC deal, weaker yen

Higher oil prices power dollar above 114 yen, lifting shares * Oil exploration stocks outperform, with mining sector surging TOKYO Dec 1 A weaker yen helped power Japan's Nikkei share average to 11-month highs on Thursday, while many energy shares made ... ( read original story ...)

Bank Of Japan Opens Pandora's Box

The highly controversial yield curve targeting by the BoJ creates extreme financial distortions. The demand for USD funding surges amidst curtailed supply, making the provision of USD hedging for Asian savers, corporations and banks prohibitive. BoJ’s ... ( read original story ...)

Universal Studios parks to add Nintendo attractions

KYOTO – Nintendo-themed areas will be added to Universal theme parks in Osaka, Orlando, Florida, and Hollywood, California, over the next few years, Nintendo Co. and Universal Parks & Resorts announced. The new areas will have multiple attractions ... ( read original story ...)

Japan trade minister says deals with Russia to be 'win-win'

TOKYO Japan's trade minister on Wednesday dismissed concerns that boosting economic ties with Russia as part of a push for progress on a decades-old territorial row would mainly benefit Moscow, saying any business deals would be "win-win" for both. ( read original story ...)

Yokohama Tire LPGA Classic not returning to Prattville

PRATTVILLE-–The Yokohama Tire LPGA Classic will not be returning to Prattville this year. "The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, the LPGA and the entire River Region have had a very positive relationship in the past," said John Cannon, president of the RTJ ... ( read original story ...)

Murakami's new novel set for release in Japan in February

TOKYO -- Haruki Murakami's new novel is set for release in Japan in February, and that's about as much as his fans are being told. Publisher Shinchosha Publishing Co. made the announcement Wednesday. The book's title, theme and exact date of release remain ... ( read original story ...)