Yen Rescue Talks: U.S. Treasury chief Scott Bessent said Washington will do “whatever it takes” to back Japan’s yen, pointing to a possible Fed upsizing of the FIMA repo backstop as the joint intervention’s market impact ripples through global finance. Defense & Tech Shift: Japan’s new defense white paper frames AI, drones, space, cyber and closer ties with startups as the core of a “new era of warfare,” while China’s defense spokesperson dismissed the “China threat” framing as cover for Japan’s buildup. Currency-Policy Risk: Reuters analysis warned that expanding Fed facilities could tempt markets to test U.S.-Japan resolve, while bond-market stress is raising broader risks for Treasuries and global portfolios. Diplomatic Footprint: The U.S. State Department notified Congress it plans to close consulates in Nagoya (Japan) and other posts, signaling a rare downsizing of American diplomacy. Immigration Rules: Japan proposed tougher permanent residency criteria, including income above the household average and pension-equivalent contribution levels. Territorial Tensions: South Korea lodged a strong protest over Japan’s renewed Dokdo claim in its defense white paper. Disaster Aftermath: In Kumamoto, two Aeon mall employees died after being ordered back inside to secure cash, reigniting scrutiny of emergency procedures. Climate Pressure: Extreme heat killed three lions at Tokyo’s Tama Zoo, with dehydration and organ failure cited. Tokyo IP Market: TIFFCOM expanded its Tokyo IP Market with AI and anime sessions, aiming to grow Japan’s overseas content pipeline.