Gearoid Reidy リーディー・ガロウド
LightNews LightNews
banner
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Gearoid Reidy リーディー・ガロウド
@gearoidreidy.bsky.social
1.5K followers 230 following 130 posts
Bloomberg Opinion columnist on Japan/the Koreas. “Final Boss of the Japan finance bro dungeon.” ｊａｐａｎｉｆｉｃａｔｉｏｎ. Retweets ≠ endorsements, opinions are mine.
Posts Replies Media Videos
Pinned
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Gearoid Reidy リーディー・ガロウド @gearoidreidy.bsky.social · Aug 15
Today is the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II -- and a decade since Shinzo Abe's landmark statement. It acknowledged the past, looked to the future, and blunted the use of history as a weapon. Ishiba should not undo it. My latest, free to read:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Abe Made the Perfect WWII Declaration. It Should Stand.
Japan cannot live in the shadow of past conflicts forever. If the embattled prime minister can’t recognize that, he should sit this one out.
www.bloomberg.com
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
The LDP was so desperate to restore popularity, they turned to a man they didn't fully understand. Shigeru Ishiba leaves the party, and the country, in a weaker spot than when he took over. The LDP must choose better this time. My latest, free to read:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Japan Deserves Far Better Leadership Than This
After weeks of speculation, Shigeru Ishiba is finally stepping down. Has the embattled ruling party learned its lesson?
www.bloomberg.com
September 8, 2025 at 12:27 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Today is the 80th anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II -- and a decade since Shinzo Abe's landmark statement. It acknowledged the past, looked to the future, and blunted the use of history as a weapon. Ishiba should not undo it. My latest, free to read:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Abe Made the Perfect WWII Declaration. It Should Stand.
Japan cannot live in the shadow of past conflicts forever. If the embattled prime minister can’t recognize that, he should sit this one out.
www.bloomberg.com
August 15, 2025 at 3:30 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Between Superman, Fantastic Four and Jurassic Park, it's another summer of movie retreads. But in Japan, Demon Slayer, a property less than 10 years old, is crushing it at the box office. Hollywood needs to lay off the nostalgia and embrace risk. My latest:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Hollywood Has Lost the Plot on Telling Stories
More reboots of Superman and Fantastic Four show Western pop culture is struggling for new ideas. It should look to Asia for inspiration.
www.bloomberg.com
August 1, 2025 at 6:44 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Markets loved the Japan-US trade deal -- but it leaves a lot of unanswered questions. And who's going to buy all those massive American cars that won't fit on Japanese roads might be the least of them. It's too early to relax just yet. My latest, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Who Buys the F-150s, and More Japan Deal Mysteries
Investors love the trade deal Tokyo struck with Trump. Now for the nagging details.
www.bloomberg.com
July 28, 2025 at 9:53 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
In the end, Shigeru Ishiba blinked. The trade deal is about as good as he could hope for. But it'll be his last major accomplishment as leader.

He'll leave Japan weaker than he found it - and should go now, before more damage is done. My latest, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
‘Mr. Japan’ Bends the Knee — and Falls on His Sword
Shigeru Ishiba’s trade deal with Donald Trump will be his last act as leader.
www.bloomberg.com
July 23, 2025 at 6:13 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
A comic-book prophecy that warns of a massive tsunami has some in Japan bracing for disaster this weekend.

Don't worry -- it probably won’t happen. But someday, something will. My latest on why even false prophecies can sometimes be useful, free to read:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
A Prophesied Disaster (Likely) Won’t Strike Japan This Weekend
Though perhaps there’s no harm in being prepared?
www.bloomberg.com
July 2, 2025 at 4:11 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Less than six months ago, Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba heralded a new “golden age” of US-Japan ties. Now, as trade talk drag on and gaps open between the two on defense spending and Iran, that era is already tarnishing fast. My latest, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Is the Shine Coming Off the US-Japan ‘Golden Age’?
Between tariffs and defense spending, ties aren’t what they used to be.
www.bloomberg.com
June 30, 2025 at 1:55 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Gamers online denounced the Switch 2 as "anti-consumer." That didn't stop Nintendo from selling 3.5 million in four days.

Across business and politics, it’s vital to separate the signal of online outrage from the noise. My latest column, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Nintendo’s Secret for the Switch 2? Ignore the Extremely Online
The internet gives consumers a voice they once didn’t have. But separating signal from noise is a challenge — just look at the Switch 2.
www.bloomberg.com
June 25, 2025 at 4:40 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Ten years after Japan's corporate governance code was introduced, the country's boardrooms are forever changed. But with activists circling, M&A surging, and the best firms up for grabs, not everyone likes the changes. My latest, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
A Decade On, Has Japan’s Corporate Revolution Worked Too Well?
M&A activity is frenetic in Tokyo thanks to reforms initiated in 2015. But be wary of going too far.
www.bloomberg.com
June 20, 2025 at 5:15 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Sumo, Japan's national sport, is grappling with a generational shift. As the greatest wrestler of all time departs the game, can a newly crowned hometown hero lead sumo into a new era?

My latest, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Japan’s National Sport Wrestles With a Generational Change
As one legend departs, another star is rising. In a new era, sumo is grappling with its future.
www.bloomberg.com
June 16, 2025 at 5:11 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
A famous voice actress warns Japan’s identity is being eroded by immigrants, threatened by "invasive species." It's a sign that concern over newcomers is growing -- and an issue authorities must stay ahead of to avoid the mistakes of the West. My latest, free read:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
‘Invasive Species’? Japan’s Growing Pains on Immigration
A celebrity’s controversial remarks have thrust the subject of Japan’s small-but-growing foreign population into the spotlight.
www.bloomberg.com
June 12, 2025 at 1:34 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
The soaring price of rice has toppled Japanese governments before. It could also be the making of a new leader.

Like his father before him, Shinjiro Koizumi can use a battle against a powerful vested interest to tell a story of broader reform. My latest, free:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
How ‘Vintage’ Rice Is Shaking Up Japan’s Politics
It’s not just the grocery bill. The fate of the government might rest on the surging price of the staple.
www.bloomberg.com
June 9, 2025 at 1:37 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Akio Toyoda’s role in the $33 billion Toyota Industries buyout is up for debate. His leadership record isn’t. Despite the relentless hounding he gets from critics, investors should hand him the keys.

My latest, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
For Toyota, More Akio Would Be a Good Thing
The $33 billion buyout of Toyota Industries may be a power play by former Toyota CEO Akio Toyoda. If so, skeptical investors should welcome his involvement.
www.bloomberg.com
June 4, 2025 at 6:42 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Stop the steel!

Determination got Nippon Steel this far in its audacious US Steel bid. But now it’s looking like desperation: a golden share, a US-run board, and $14 billion more in spending. The Japanese firm is giving away too much. My latest, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Stop the Steel! Japan’s Giving Too Much Away in This Deal
Nippon Steel risks handcuffing itself giving Trump a golden share.
www.bloomberg.com
May 30, 2025 at 3:09 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Foreign buyers face zero barriers for property in Japan: no additional taxes, no limits, no residency needed.

With Tokyo apartment prices soaring and locals starting to get priced out, it's time for a rethink.

My latest, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
It’s Too Easy for Foreigners to Buy Property in Japan
Despite the stereotypes, Japan is one of the most permissive places for non-residents to buy property. That’s a problem when locals are being priced out.
www.bloomberg.com
May 27, 2025 at 8:03 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Tell me more, tell me more... did he really say Greece?

Japan is up in arms about an ex-minister's comments about rice. But PM Ishiba's comparison of the country’s finances to Athens are just as ill-advised - and potentially far more damaging. My latest, free:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Greece Is (Not) the Word in Japan
The situation in Tokyo bears no similarity to the euro-zone crisis era in Athens. The comparison drawn by Shigeru Ishiba is reckless and irresponsible.
www.bloomberg.com
May 22, 2025 at 2:37 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
The “demon’s gate” is open again: Japan’s consumption tax debate is back.

In the past it has derailed governments and triggered recessions. Now it risks distracting from bigger concerns. Japan can't afford to relitigate this argument.

My latest, free to read:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Don’t Reopen the ‘Demon Gate’ Debate in Japan
Tokyo is mulling its consumption tax for the umpteenth time ahead of summer elections. Policymakers need some fresh ideas.
www.bloomberg.com
May 21, 2025 at 2:30 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Hollywood’s new blockbuster formula? Less spandex, more pixels

With Minecraft a hit and audiences tiring of superhero flicks, it's clear videogames can be the next big IP well with studios finally learning the key to successful adaptations. My latest, free to read:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Minecraft’s Success Shows the Future of Movies Is Games
With the surprise hit of the year, Hollywood has learned how to make successful movies out of video games — just as interest in comic-book adaptations is fading.
www.bloomberg.com
May 16, 2025 at 7:16 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Want to invest like Warren Buffett? Try Japan.

Buffett recently revealed not only what inspired him to buy Tokyo shares now worth $25 billion -- his largest overseas investment -- but also showed a view of Japan that's surprisingly bullish. My latest, free to read:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Buffett’s Little Japan Handbook, and Other Lessons
The legendary investor recently revealed what inspired his interest in Tokyo’s trading houses — and offered a host of tips for would-be followers.
www.bloomberg.com
May 13, 2025 at 4:57 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
The Bank of Japan painted a far gloomier picture of the economy and its chances of hitting the 2% inflation goal than anyone expected.

Combined with the risk from Trump's tariffs, that means the hurdle just got higher to lift rates again.

My latest, free to read:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Bank of Japan Will Struggle to Justify Hikes After This
With an unusually gloomy outlook for both the economy and inflation target, the central bank has just made it more difficult to keep raising rates.
www.bloomberg.com
May 1, 2025 at 9:05 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
It finally time for my hay fever debut?

That's how the onset of pollen allergies is often described in Tokyo, where it afflicts nearly 2 in every 3 people. I looked at the ailment that debilitates not just individuals, but the economy as a whole. Free to read!
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Did I Fall Victim to Japan’s Stealth Productivity Killer?
Hay fever isn’t just a nuisance, in Japan it causes serious economic damage. And the number of sufferers is only increasing.
www.bloomberg.com
April 18, 2025 at 5:29 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Japan's negotiators are headed to DC for trade talks, with the country the canary in the global tariff coal mine.

If Tokyo can’t secure a good deal, there's little hope for others. But can it find common ground with an antagonistic ally? My latest, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
If Japan Can’t Get a Good Trade Deal, Can Anyone?
Talks between Tokyo and the Trump administration are about to get underway — and the world should be watching.
www.bloomberg.com
April 16, 2025 at 2:58 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
After budget overruns, methane explosions and concerns over its many-eyed Lovecraftian mascot, Osaka's World Expo finally opens Sunday.

But history suggests it'll do just fine despite the negativity - and show a changing Osaka to the world. My latest, free link:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Japan’s Second City Is Hosting a $66 Billion Coming-Out Party
Osaka's hosting of the World Expo has faced a torrent of negativity. But it's a chance to showcase the city to the world.
www.bloomberg.com
April 11, 2025 at 5:22 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
“They don’t take our cars, but we take MILLIONS of theirs!” Trump says to justify tariffs he's slapped on US ally Japan.

But it's just not true. US cars don't sell because of barriers to entry, but because Japan's drivers just don't want them. My latest, free read:
www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
The Japan Tariff Myth That Just Won’t Die
Why are Japanese streets empty of US cars? It’s no mystery — they're not good enough.
www.bloomberg.com
April 8, 2025 at 1:09 AM
gearoidreidy.bsky.social
Nintendo’s Switch 2 presentation was bombshell after bombshell - a throwback to a more delightful age of tech announcement.

But it saved the biggest until last: the hefty price, a two-tier pricing structure in Japan and $80 games. My take, free to read:

www.bloomberg.com/opinion/arti...
Nintendo's Switch 2 Reveal Had a Big Surprise: the Price
Nintendo showed its trademark ability to delight with its console’s unveiling. But some of what it showed was a little head-scratching.
www.bloomberg.com
April 2, 2025 at 4:36 PM