Sanae Takaichi

Sanae Takaichi is the current Prime Minister of Japan and leader of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). She is newsworthy due to an upcoming election on February 8th where her party is predicted to strengthen its majority. Takaichi's fiscally expansionist policies, including a pledge to suspend consumption tax, are causing jitters in global bond markets. She recently met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss defense, security, trade, and the economy. Takaichi's leadership is also occurring amidst strained relations with China, highlighted by the return of Japan's pandas to China, a symbolic gesture given the animal's history in Chinese diplomacy. The election's outcome is significant as it could impact global finance and Japan's economic direction.