失温时为何会感受到“热”︱重阳荐文

Core Viewpoint - The article draws a parallel between human hypothermia and economic conditions, suggesting that just as individuals can misinterpret their body temperature in extreme cold, markets can misinterpret economic signals, leading to potential misjudgments about economic health [1]. Economic Data vs. Perception - Economic data often lags behind real-time events, leading to discrepancies between actual economic conditions and public perception [7]. - Japan's economy has experienced a prolonged period of stagnation, referred to as the "lost thirty years," characterized by minimal inflation and economic growth [10]. Japan's Economic Performance - Japan's CPI index showed only a 7.5% increase from 1991 to 2021, averaging an annual growth rate of 0.25% [10]. - In terms of GDP, Japan's per capita GDP in 2024 is projected to be $32,420, which, when adjusted for inflation, represents a 33% decline from 30 years ago [10][12]. Stock Market Trends - The Nikkei 225 index peaked at 38,900 points in 1989 but fell significantly over the following decades, illustrating the long-term economic decline [13]. - Despite experiencing several technical bull markets, the overall trend remains downward due to a lack of new industries and innovation [21][23]. Policy Missteps - Japanese authorities underestimated the impact of the real estate bubble's collapse, leading to delayed and ineffective policy responses [16]. - The Bank of Japan's slow transition from tight to loose monetary policy contributed to prolonged economic stagnation [16][17]. Infrastructure Investment Issues - Japan's public works spending has often been misallocated, focusing on low-impact projects in declining regions rather than stimulating private consumption and investment [20][29]. - The inefficacy of infrastructure investments has led to increased government debt without corresponding economic recovery [29]. Lessons from Japan's Experience - The article emphasizes the importance of targeted investment in emerging industries rather than excessive spending on infrastructure with diminishing returns [29]. - It highlights the need for coherent and consistent fiscal policies to avoid the pitfalls of Japan's past, particularly in the context of an aging population and rising government debt [32].