Topic: Bank Of Japan

Japan has introduced its first new banknote designs in 20 years, featuring 3D holographic technology to prevent counterfeiting. Despite the government's push for 80% cashless payments, the rollout faces hurdles as only 20% of the country's ubiquitous vending machines can currently accept the new bills.

Professor Jeff Kingston discusses the economic legacy of Shinzo Abe, noting that "Abenomics" is increasingly viewed as welfare for the wealthy. The policies pressured the national pension system to invest in stocks and involved massive ETF purchases by the Bank of Japan, which critics argue accentuated societal disparities.