Core Viewpoint - Japan's national debt is projected to reach a record high of 1,323.7155 trillion yen by the end of the fiscal year 2024, reflecting a significant increase due to rising government expenditures amid inflation and insufficient tax revenue [1][2]. Group 1: National Debt and Budget - The total national debt, consisting of government bonds, loans, and short-term securities, has increased by 26.554 trillion yen compared to the end of the fiscal year 2023, marking the ninth consecutive year of record highs [1]. - The Japanese Diet approved a budget of 115.1978 trillion yen for the fiscal year 2025, which is the highest in history [2]. Group 2: Defense Spending - The defense budget has risen to approximately 8.7 trillion yen, surpassing the previous year's record of 7.9496 trillion yen [3]. - Criticism has emerged regarding the prioritization of military spending over addressing the impact of rising living costs on citizens [3]. Group 3: Economic Growth Data - The Cabinet Office has revised down the actual GDP growth for the fourth quarter of the previous year from 0.7% to 0.6% quarter-on-quarter, and from 2.8% to 2.2% year-on-year [4]. - There are indications that Japan's economy may experience negative growth in the first quarter of this year, according to economic analysts [4].