‘Pick Japanese companies that are improving capital efficiencies over high-growth stocks’

(Video Transcript Summary)

Japanese economy returning to normal

In this video, Masaki Taketsume, fund manager of Japan Trust at Schroders, talks about the future of Japanese stocks. He explains that while the rest of the world is concerned about inflation and interest rates, Japan is actually returning to normal levels. This is good news for Japanese stocks in 2024.

Taketsume agrees that some people have had trouble finding companies that are growing in Japan, but he believes that corporate governance has improved. This means that companies are making more money, which is great for investors.

He gives an example of Toyota, who improved their balance sheet and made more money. This shows that Japanese companies are getting better at using their money wisely to make more profits.

Upcoming inflation will boost Japanese stocks

Looking ahead, Taketsume sees two positive things for Japanese stocks. First, inflation is coming back, which is good for companies that can raise prices and make more money. He uses Kyorichi Maintenance, a company in the hotel industry, as an example.

Second, corporate governance is improving, which means that companies are making more money and are more attractive to investors. Toyota is an example of a company that has gotten better at running their business.

Taketsume also mentions that he is cautious about companies that are growing quickly or are valued very high. He thinks that inflation and higher interest rates could be a problem for these companies.

Japan not focusing on renewables yet

When it comes to environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues, Japan is taking a different approach than other leading countries. Instead of focusing on renewable energy right away, they are first getting rid of coal-fired power plants. Taketsume says that Japan is somewhere in the middle when it comes to ESG compared to other countries.

Overall, Taketsume is positive about Japanese stocks. He thinks there are opportunities with companies that can raise prices, have good corporate governance, and care about ESG. However, he is cautious about companies that are growing too quickly or are valued too high.