JapanOwnership & classification
Founded: 2013
Ownership
Nikkei Asia (originally the Nikkei Asian Review, launched in 2013) is owned and published by Nikkei, Inc., the Tokyo-based media group behind Japan's flagship business daily The Nikkei (Nihon Keizai Shimbun). Nikkei, Inc. is a large privately held Japanese publishing company; in 2015 it also acquired the Financial Times Group from Pearson, so Nikkei Asia, The Nikkei and the FT share the same corporate parent.
Funding
Nikkei Asia is financed mainly through digital and print subscriptions plus advertising, operating a subscription/paywall model as part of Nikkei's commercial business-news operation. It receives no state funding or party subsidy.
Affiliation & stance
Nikkei Asia is owned by a commercial media corporation with no party or government control, which makes it INDEPENDENT. As a business and economic title its outlook is pro-market and broadly establishment-friendly, fitting the site's INDEPENDENT / CENTER_RIGHT classification, but its editorial stance reflects its business focus rather than external political direction.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Conservative
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 456
79/100
Factual
78/100
Objective
613
Articles
613
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
Alibaba to raise $10bn via new Hong Kong shares to fund AI investments
Alibaba Group has announced plans to raise 80 billion Hong Kong dollars ($10.2 billion) through a new share placement, targeting investors outside the U.S. The funds will be exclusively allocated to enhance the company's full-stack AI capabilities. This move aligns with the growing global competition in developing advanced AI models and supporting infrastructure, particularly between China and Western countries.
Vietnam assembly ends, China oil and gas earnings, BOJ deputy speech
The article covers several geopolitical and economic updates from Asia. It reports that Vietnam's National Assembly, which convened in August 2026, is concluding after discussing various legislative matters, including energy policy and potential nuclear power development. The session is noted for its focus on energy initiatives such as nuclear power plants and renewable energy projects. Meanwhile, Chinese oil and gas companies are preparing to release earnings amid reduced oil imports linked to the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran, which has influenced global oil prices. Data from China's National Bureau of Statistics indicates a slight increase in crude oil refining but a significant annual decline. Additionally, the article mentions upcoming economic data releases, a forum in Sydney focusing on Australia-Japan relations, and a monetary policy meeting in Thailand.
India's 'cockroach' movement exposes cracks in Modi's political machine
The article discusses the impact of youth-led protests, known as the 'cockroach' movement, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's political standing. These protests, which took place in New Delhi on June 20, challenged the perceived strength of Modi's government and exposed internal weaknesses within his administration. The movement gained traction through social media and grassroots organizing, highlighting growing dissatisfaction among younger citizens with policies related to economic opportunities, corruption, and democratic freedoms. While the protests did not achieve immediate legislative changes, they signaled a shift in public sentiment and raised questions about the sustainability of Modi's leadership.
Preservation of Japan's A-bombed buildings faces cost challenge
The article discusses the increasing difficulty of preserving historic buildings damaged during World War II's atomic bombings in Japan, particularly in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Rising construction costs are making it harder to maintain these structures, with examples like the former Bank of Nagasaki headquarters facing potential demolition due to financial constraints. The piece highlights the broader challenge of balancing historical preservation with economic realities.
Taiwan's security council quietly steps up as architect of China strategy
The article discusses the increasing role of Taiwan's National Security Council under President Lai Ching-te, highlighting its expanded responsibilities in defense and resilience reforms, as well as key diplomatic initiatives. The council, previously seen as a 'government within a government' during the tenure of Taiwan's former leader, is now playing a more central role in shaping Taiwan's strategic approach to countering Chinese influence. This shift reflects broader efforts by Taiwan's leadership to enhance national security and international engagement amid rising tensions with China.
Manila airport aims to shed 'world's worst' label with upgrades
Manila's international airport is undergoing significant renovations led by a San Miguel-led consortium. The project includes the recent opening of a new food court in Terminal 3, aimed at improving infrastructure and services. These upgrades are intended to address the airport's longstanding reputation as 'the worst' globally. The improvements reflect efforts to enhance passenger experience and modernize facilities.
Japan release of new breast cancer, diabetes drugs delayed over pricing
Japan has delayed the release of newly approved breast cancer and diabetes medications from overseas pharmaceutical companies due to ongoing negotiations over sales prices. These treatments were approved at least six months ago but have yet to reach Japanese patients. Foreign drugmakers are concerned about Japan's state-mandated pricing system, which keeps medication costs low. This delay reflects broader tensions between international pharmaceutical firms and Japan's regulatory framework regarding drug pricing. The situation may be influenced by global discussions around drug price controls, including policies proposed by U.S. politicians like former President Donald Trump.
Footloose in Baku: East meets West in Azerbaijan's capital
The article describes Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, highlighting its blend of modernity and historical influences. It mentions the city's prosperity due to oil wealth and its distinctive architectural style. The piece also notes the cultural and historical layers present in Baku, including Zoroastrian traditions, Silk Road heritage, Soviet influence, and its position within the Turkic world. The article emphasizes the convergence of European and Asian cultures in the city.
Less sea urchin, more tuna: Change comes for Japan's seafood bowls
The article discusses how declining fishery production in Hokkaido, Japan, is leading to higher prices and reduced availability of traditional seafood ingredients used in kaisendon bowls. As a result, some restaurants are substituting these ingredients with more affordable and stable alternatives such as tuna. The shift reflects broader challenges facing Japan's seafood industry due to environmental and economic factors.
Anime and manga pass on Japan's wartime memories to Gen Z
The article discusses how anime and manga are being used to convey Japan's wartime history to Generation Z. It highlights the work 'Peleliu: Guernica of Paradise,' created by Kazuyoshi Takeda, which portrays a compassionate Japanese soldier during World War II. The piece aims to preserve historical perspectives and encourage reflections on peace. This approach is part of a broader trend where Japanese fictional works address wartime experiences, fostering dialogue about war and peace among younger audiences.
Global oil inventories on the decline again amid Hormuz stalemate
Global crude oil stockpiles are declining again due to the disruption of shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, which has effectively shut down Middle Eastern exports. This development is contributing to rising oil prices. Japan's crude oil inventory has dropped by 18% since the beginning of the Iran war, highlighting the impact of geopolitical tensions on global energy markets. The situation has raised concerns about the United States' ability to increase oil production to stabilize prices, adding uncertainty to an already volatile market. The ongoing conflict has prompted discussions about new partnerships between the Middle East and Asia to ensure continued oil flow.
Japan to offer loan insurance to Latin America development lender
Japan's state-backed Nippon Export and Investment Insurance (NEXI) has announced it will provide loan insurance for infrastructure projects funded by the Inter-American Development Bank in a southeastern Brazilian state. This marks the first time NEXI has offered coverage to a non-Japanese organization, aiming to support Japanese companies seeking to expand their operations in Latin America. The move reflects Japan's broader strategy to strengthen trade and investment ties with emerging economies while diversifying its international partnerships beyond traditional allies.
Refurbished Ueno Station paints itself as Tokyo art hub
Ueno Station in Tokyo has undergone a major renovation after nearly two years, transforming the space into a cultural and artistic hub. The station now features a large LED display providing information on nearby attractions and includes a mural titled 'Freedom' by painter Genichiro Inokuma, located at the Grand Concourse. This artwork welcomes visitors to the station, highlighting the area's growing focus on integrating art into public spaces. The renovation reflects broader efforts to enhance Tokyo's appeal as a tourist destination through creative and cultural initiatives.