Daily Briefing · 2026-10-15

The U.S. Consumer Price Index for September, announced in the United States, rose 3.7%, exceeding market expectations. In response, the Nasdaq Composite Index in the U.S. stock market fell approximately 1.9% amid concerns over fundraising for AI-related companies. Stock price declines among U.S.-listed semiconductor-related companies have also continued, expanding investor losses. This trend spread to the Japanese market as well, with the Nikkei Average plunging more than 3000 yen. In the foreign exchange market, speculation has also emerged over a Bank of Japan policy rate hike above 2%, drawing attention to its impact on borrowing costs and deposit interest rates. On the structural side of the economy, a forecast was presented showing that Japan's gross domestic product will be overtaken by India and the United Kingdom in 2027, falling to sixth place in the world. In corporate developments, U.S.-based GlobalFoundries revealed plans to cooperate with Japanese companies to build a new semiconductor plant in New York State on a scale of up to 3 trillion yen. Streaming giant Netflix announced job cuts of approximately 1000 people worldwide, proceeding with its largest cost-cutting move since 2022. On the international political front, the G20 finance ministers' meeting held in Thailand discussed global inflation and rising interest rates, as well as the impact of AI on the financial system. Regarding the Middle East situation, reports conveyed a claim by the Houthis of an attack on Riyadh Airport, raising concerns over the risk of rising crude oil prices. China's Premier Li Qiang reiterated that the Taiwan issue is an inviolable red line, and the risk of instability in trade relations continues. In the Black Sea, a cargo ship sank off the coast of Bulgaria, raising concerns over maritime transport risk and rising insurance costs. In Germany, the pursuit of legal responsibility over Nord Stream has begun, drawing attention to its impact on Russia-Europe gas supply costs. The EU is adjusting its blocking regulation as a countermeasure against U.S. sanctions, moving to protect companies subject to international sanctions. In domestic corporate moves, restaurant chain Saizeriya will implement an average price increase of 6% in response to rising ingredient and labor costs. Hankyu Railway plans to end its hanging advertisement business next April, with a resulting decline in advertising revenue expected. A Hamamatsu confectionery maker, the manufacturer of Unagi Pie, is proceeding with a review of its management structure aimed at reducing losses in its food division.