What to Watch in Japan's Upper House Election

The transcript discusses Japan's upcoming election, focusing on the ruling coalition's need for a majority, the impact of Abenomics, and key issues like the sales tax hike and social security reform. The mood is mixed, with optimism from upcoming events like the Rugby World Cup and concerns over geopolitical tensions. The sales tax hike is analyzed, noting its potential benefits for social welfare. Economic indicators, such as exports and CPI data, are examined, highlighting concerns about deflation and trade friction.

Discuss the impact of geopolitical tensions on Japan's economy as mentioned in the text.

What are the implications of the recent export data for Japan's economic outlook?