Morning coverage revolved around Trump's economic policies approaching his first 100 days, with his suggestion that tariffs could eventually replace income taxes – an apparent bid to deflect criticism of his protectionist agenda that has cast shadows over upcoming Asian elections. Global military spending reached an unprecedented $2.72 trillion in 2024, rising 9.4% year-on-year according to multiple reports.

By midday, corporate governance dominated as Japanese shareholder activism hit record highs, with activist investor proposals surging particularly across Asia. Mitsubishi Corporation announced AI certification requirements for management promotions by 2027, eventually extending to all employees.

US-Japan automotive trade tensions continued with detailed analysis of why American cars remain scarce in Japanese markets, while the government considered expanding inspection exemptions for imported vehicles – potentially a concession amid ongoing trade negotiations with the Trump administration.