Markets Eye Japan Elections as Firms Turn Sour on Premier Suga

As Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga heads into weeks that could determine his political fate, a survey shows most firms want him replaced and investors are wondering if they may need to recalibrate their market strategies.

A corporate poll from Reuters published Friday said a majority of firms see the Suga government as a threat to the economy. Public opinion polls have plunged to new lows, with many respondents critical of his virus management as the country battles record infections and is trying to speed up a vaccination program, that -- while rapidly closing the gap -- still ranks last among Group of Seven nations.