Japan's Lost Decades

SOURCE npr.org
Japan's central bank raised interest rates for the first time in 17 years, marking a significant event in the country's economic history after experiencing a prolonged period of stagnation. This episode of Planet Money explores Japan's Lost Decades, shedding light on how one of the most advanced economies in the world faced a sudden economic downturn and struggled to recover.

Key Points

  • Japan's rapid economic growth in the 1980s
  • Sudden downturn in the early 1990s leading to decades of stagnation
  • Implications for modern economies and new approaches to economic challenges

Pros

  • Insightful analysis of Japan's economic history
  • Exploration of the factors contributing to Japan's economic stagnation

Cons

  • Limited focus on potential solutions to Japan's economic challenges