新社会システム総合研究所 List of News Articles

[Speaker] Director Yuya Sato, Innovation Management Co., Ltd. [Purpose] Even in today's highly uncertain environment, the fact remains that research and development investments aimed at the future continue to be a source of competitive advantage for companies. By envisioning a desired future based on future hypotheses, we can translate that vision into actionable plans and adapt them flexibly to changes in the environment. To make effective research and development investments, it is necessary to execute this entire series of processes at a high level, and the roadmap is positioned as a management tool that supports this. In this seminar, based on approximately 15 years of consulting experience in formulating and executing technology strategies in the manufacturing industry, including the automotive sector, we will introduce specific methods and case studies on the development and effective use of technology roadmaps. The case studies will also explain the examination processes using generative AI, which has been increasingly utilized in recent years. Additionally, we will discuss the challenges many companies face in implementing and operating roadmaps, as well as solutions to those challenges.

[Speaker] Shogo Yakame, Expert Consultant, Urban Innovation Consulting Department, Nomura Research Institute, Ltd. [Key Lecture Content] In recent years, the space business has garnered significant attention both domestically and internationally. In particular, a new large fund, the "Space Strategy Fund," has been launched in Japan, and the space industry has been selected as one of the 17 key investment areas highlighted by the new administration under Prime Minister Takaichi. In light of these developments, the movement for new entrants into the space business is accelerating; however, voices expressing difficulties in launching and promoting new businesses due to the complexity of the industry structure, high entry barriers, and the current immaturity of the market are not uncommon. This lecture will specifically address the mindset when entering the space business from other industries, as well as the challenges that are likely to be encountered, explaining how to perceive and engage with the space business. [Lecture Items] 1. Overview of recent space business 2. Case studies of new entrants from other industries 3. Understanding the space business as a new venture 4. Challenges and points to consider in business planning and promotion 5. Summary 6. Q&A and exchange of opinions with participants / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Masatoshi Fukuda, Director of the Management Planning Office, Tokyo R&D Corporation [Key Lecture Content] Focusing on next-generation mobility (robot taxis, buses, trucks), this lecture will organize the evolution of technologies and services in various fields based on reports from major exhibitions in Europe and the U.S. and experiences from actual vehicle test rides, following the flow of "overall picture → individual cases → insights," providing an overview of the latest trends. It will cover electrification (EVs, FCEVs, etc.) and the related technologies that support it, as well as the trends in vehicle, software, and sensor technologies for autonomous driving, sharing the changes observed in the field in Europe and the U.S., including new forms of public transportation services (operational forms and service content). [Lecture Items] 1. Introduction 2. ACT (Advanced Clean Transportation) EXPO 2025 Inspection Report 3. UITP Global Transport Summit 2025 Inspection Report 4. Busworld 2025 Inspection Report 5. Introduction of Autonomous Vehicles at CES 2026 6. Robot Taxi Test Ride Report 7. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Speaker] Associate Professor Naoshi Matsuhisa, Center for Advanced Science and Technology, The University of Tokyo [Key Lecture Content] Various soft and stretchable electronic materials that break the common belief that rubber does not conduct electricity are being developed. Electronics made with these materials are expected to be utilized as next-generation wearable devices that are soft like skin, provide excellent wearing comfort, and enable long-term health monitoring. In this lecture, I will introduce the forefront of soft and stretchable electronic material development, as well as the entirely new healthcare human-computer interface development that integrates with the skin. [Lecture Items] 1. Soft and stretchable electronics 2. Ultra-flexible electronics that accompany people 3. The forefront of diverse stretchable electronic material development 4. Sensors and displays that integrate with the skin 5. Ultra-flexible semiconductor devices using stretchable semiconductor materials 6. Next-generation wearable devices that integrate with the skin 7. Summary 8. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Key Lecture Content] 1. Hydrogen Strategy in the Kawasaki Coastal Area Kawasaki City, Coastal Area International Strategy Headquarters, Growth Strategy Promotion Department Project Promotion Manager, Shota Nowada 1. Overview and potential of the Kawasaki coastal area 2. Leading projects in the Kawasaki hydrogen strategy 3. Overview of the Kawasaki Carbon Neutral Complex concept and its three pillars 4. Specific initiatives based on the Kawasaki Carbon Neutral Complex concept 5. Future directions 6. Q&A / Business card exchange 2. Energy and Economic Security Brought by Hydrogen ~ Challenge for Carbon Neutrality by 2050 ~ Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. Executive Vice President Energy Solutions & Marine Company President, Motohiko Nishimura 1. Current situation surrounding energy 2. Movement towards hydrogen utilization 3. Concept of the hydrogen supply chain 4. Efforts towards demonstration 5. Movements towards social implementation 6. Rules and economic security 7. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] EY Strategy and Consulting Co., Ltd. Senior Manager, Advanced Manufacturing & Mobility, Yosuke Ikuide [Key Lecture Content] With the recent advancements in AI, humanoid robots with autonomous control are finally becoming a reality. However, while the technological evolution is remarkable, the market potential and impact on businesses remain uncertain. How much business opportunity will humanoids create in various industrial and service sectors? What timeline can we expect for their social implementation, and what level of impact will they have on the businesses of related companies? Additionally, there is little discussion about the potential for new entrants outside of existing robotics companies. In this lecture, we will revisit the fundamental definitions of automation and robotics to provide guidance on these questions, clarifying the future vision of social implementation based on that. We will also reveal the new markets and business opportunities that will emerge from this.

[Lecturer] Director of the Public Interest Incorporated Association Security Dialogue Council / Defense Issues Researcher Member of the Defense Industry Working Group, Japan Growth Strategy Council, Ms. Misasa Sakurabayashi [Key Lecture Content] For many years, Japan's defense industry was considered a "non-profitable" sector, but it has suddenly come into the spotlight and is now positioned as part of the growth strategy. On the other hand, the needs for equipment development for the Self-Defense Forces, which is its original purpose, are rapidly changing, and the technologies required of companies are entering a new era. What direction will Japan's "defense industry policy," which includes multifaceted intentions such as the pursuit of sustained combat capability and trends, as well as industrial policy, take? Additionally, what barriers exist? I will discuss these topics. [Lecture Items] 1. The reality faced by the Self-Defense Forces - Countdown to 2027 2. The completely different Japanese "defense industry" and the global military supply industry 3. The structure and usage of defense spending 4. The evolving concept of equipment due to changing needs - DU (Dual Use) 5. What Japanese-style defense equipment transfer entails 6. Q&A

[Speaker] Mr. Li Qiangfu, Senior Researcher, Planning and Research Department, Fourin Inc. [Lecture Topics] 1. Tesla Master Plan: Progress of Existing and New Businesses 2. Strategy as a Technology Trendsetter 3. Initiatives in Purchasing and Supply Chain 4. Efforts as an IT Service Platform Provider 5. Competition with Chinese Companies and Strategies to Differentiate 6. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Key Lecture Content] 1. Tokyo Gas Group's Promotion of DX and the Challenge of Becoming an "AI Native Company" Seita Shimizu, Executive Officer, CDO, Head of Solution Co-Creation Division, Tokyo Gas Co., Ltd. 1. The Journey of Transformation for Tokyo Gas Group and "Third Founding" 2. Overall Picture of DX Promotion and Cross-Group Promotion System 3. Challenge of Becoming an AI Native Company and Evolution of AI and Data Infrastructure 4. Q&A / Business Card Exchange 2. Aiming to Become a Leading Advanced Infrastructure Company in Japan ~Challenge of DX (Agile × In-House Development) in Kyushu Electric Power Transmission and Distribution~ Hideki Moritaka, Head of Digital Transformation Promotion Office, System Technology Division, Kyushu Electric Power Transmission and Distribution Co., Ltd. 1. Changes in the Environment Surrounding the Transmission and Distribution Business 2. The Vision We Aim for with DX 3. Agile × In-House Development 4. Future Initiatives 5. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Speaker] PwC Advisory LLC Senior Manager Toshiya Nakamura [Key Lecture Content] The expected roles of smart meters (AMI) and DER (Distributed Energy Resources) in power systems are increasing both domestically and internationally. The DISTRIBUTECH conference, one of North America's largest exhibitions and conferences for transmission, distribution, and energy-related technologies, will be held in early February 2026 in San Diego, North America. Numerous power companies and manufacturers introduced the latest trends regarding the next-generation smart meter systems AMI 2.0 and the utilization of DER. In this lecture, I will share the latest trends in the utilization of smart meters and DER in the decentralization of power systems gained through participation in DISTRIBUTECH. [Lecture Items] 1. Overview of DISTRIBUTECH 2. Latest trends in AMI 2.0 3. Latest trends in DER utilization 4. Considerations for the utilization of smart meters and DER 5. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Jun Ishikawa, Professor at the Graduate School of Business Administration, Rikkyo University, and Vice President of Rikkyo University [Key Lecture Content] This lecture will provide a clear explanation of the most effective leadership in the VUCA era, focusing on shared leadership based on the latest research. Specifically, it will discuss how everyone can exhibit effective leadership to improve workplace and team outcomes, and how anyone can develop effective leadership skills through training. Additionally, it will explain what is necessary to foster shared leadership in workplaces and teams from both individual and organizational perspectives. To continue achieving results in the VUCA era, let’s challenge traditional views of leadership and explore new leadership concepts. [Lecture Items] 1. Characteristics of the VUCA Era 2. What is Shared Leadership? 3. Effects of Shared Leadership 4. Effectiveness of Personal Leadership Theories 5. How to Foster Shared Leadership in Workplaces and Teams 6. Q&A *This seminar will be held via Zoom meeting.*

[Instructor] Daisuke Imaizumi, President and CEO, Infra Commons Inc. [Key Lecture Content] In the United States, numerous hyper AI data centers with a capacity of 1 million kW are being constructed. This wave is also reaching Japan, and it is inevitable that multiple large-scale AI data center construction projects will be initiated. This seminar will impart essential know-how at the beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels for companies and business professionals participating in AI data center projects. The target industries include power, heavy electrical, general trading companies, telecommunications, IT, gas, construction, real estate, electronics, government and local authorities, finance, and more. The instructor has experience in domestic and international power generation projects and fuel procurement projects, possessing the expertise to foresee everything from the framework of AI data center projects, which are essentially power generation projects, to their constraints. Additionally, he is an AI expert who researches and writes about the latest AI trends and can convey the following topics comprehensively. The main point of this seminar is to clarify, from a practical perspective, how to find domestic brownfield candidate sites that are realistic options and how the selection of sites for AI data centers will change due to NTT's IOWN.

[Speaker] Alphaterra Advisory Inc. Senior Executive Advisor Kenji Matsushima [Key Lecture Content] The economic system worldwide is undergoing significant changes due to the Trump administration's tariff policies, and inflation is rapidly advancing globally. In the United States, environmental policies have also shifted 180 degrees, and the pace of BEV adoption has significantly slowed. The automotive industry must fundamentally change its traditional strategy aimed at carbon neutrality to a realistic strategy focused on profitability, but the polarization between winners and losers is becoming more pronounced. In this turbulent environment, we will consider the conditions for survival in Japan's automotive industry, survival strategies, and scenarios for future industry restructuring. [Lecture Items] 1. Three major changes attracting attention in the stock market 2. EVs experiencing significant slowdown due to the U.S. withdrawal from environmental policies 3. Intensifying competition for the practical application of autonomous driving 4. Urgent need for a shift in management strategy due to advancing inflation 5. Can Japan's automotive industry survive? 6. Scenarios for restructuring Japan's automotive industry 7. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Abeam Consulting Co., Ltd. NewTech Advisor Tomohiro Yoshida [Key Lecture Content] Recently, while more people are taking on the challenge of co-creation with trusted partners, there are also many voices expressing difficulties in the initial steps of new business development, such as "networking" and "idea generation," which hinder progress in co-creation. With the desire to provide hints to overcome these obstacles and support those who are challenging themselves to realize co-creation, we published the book "Grasping the Seeds of New Business - Co-creation Born from Trust Opens the Future." In this seminar, we will explain the trends in new business creation and the differences in the mindset and daily activities required at each step leading to commercialization. We will focus on the necessary mindset for those responsible for new business creation and the key points in the "0→1" and "1→10" phases to ensure that "networking" and "idea generation" are effectively connected to commercialization.

[Speaker] Tadashi Takahara, Ph.D. President and CEO of Tech-T Co., Ltd. (Formerly of Toyota Motor Corporation / Samsung SDI) [Lecture Topics] <1> The Truth Behind the Expected Presidential Transition - Why Kenji Chika is the Right Choice Now - <2> Toyota's Global Sales Power Through Numbers - Its Position in the EV Era - <3> Where is the Future of Japanese OEMs Heading? - The Message from the Japan Mobility Show - <4> The Reality of Mobility Seen from Local Inspections in China - Seeing is Believing - <5> Decarbonization and Energy: Interpreting Toyota's Strategy - Redefining Multi-Pathways - <6> Toyota's Ongoing Transformation - Organization, Technology, Business Model - <7> Toyota's Future Business - A Major Shift to "A Company That Doesn't Sell Cars" - <8> Summary - What Should Japanese Companies Learn from Toyota's Changes? - <9> Q&A

[Speaker] Naoto Ikeda, President and CEO of Granite Co., Ltd. / Automotive Economic Commentator [Key Lecture Content] In 2025, the extreme policies of various countries to "ban internal combustion engines by a certain year" were successively retracted, and the ambitious policy to convert all cars in the world to EVs has been shattered. However, the goal of "carbon neutrality by 2050" is still being upheld. As a result, the world has arrived at a "multi-pathway" approach. This framework allows everyone in the world, with different economic, infrastructural, and usage environments, to participate in CO2 reduction that suits their circumstances by intertwining various technologies. The most significant force expected within this framework is bioethanol. We invite you to participate in this opportunity to consider how the bioethanol technologies that the world is currently working on will change our future. [Lecture Items] 1. Reasons why EVs are not breaking through 2. Basic knowledge of carbon neutrality 3. What is bioethanol? 4. Japan's technology: "Toyota Yeast" 5. Specific strategies for dissemination: Drop-in 6. Challenges and solutions for bioethanol 7. Summary 8. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Ryōhei Nomoto, Director, GLOBIS Capital Partners, Inc. [Key Lecture Content] This lecture will dismantle the myth that new businesses and innovations are "creations from scratch" and will elucidate the mechanisms of "value transfer," which is a source of immense wealth. The essence of excellent business lies in mediating resources that are undervalued in one place to another place where they are highly valued, thereby generating profit. Through practical frameworks such as "separation of ecosystems," "redefinition of resources," and "building checkpoints," this presentation will comprehensively analyze everything from large global corporations to domestic startups, offering key insights on how to build "strong" businesses in the AI era and beyond. [Lecture Items] 1. The trap of "zero-one faith" and the assumptions of business "common sense" 2. The mechanisms and theoretical background of "value transfer" 3. The "three pillars" that establish "value transfer" 4. Three tools for building "checkpoints" 5. Dissection of modern business (case studies) 6. The "side effects" of value transfer and future frontiers 7. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Ichiyoshi Economic Research Institute, Inc. Senior Analyst, Corporate Research Department, Mitsuru Ozawa [Key Lecture Content] Optoelectronic fusion is a key area of enhancement included in several items of the government's Japan Growth Strategy Council's 17 priority strategies, and there is an urgent need to address issues such as the power demand of data centers, which is driving the need for accelerated implementation in the future. This lecture will organize the key technological themes and challenges related to optoelectronic fusion, explain the trends of global players centered around CPOs, and discuss the positioning of Japanese companies, exploring the direction we should aim for in the future. We will also examine national projects in the semiconductor industry and introduce a wide range of Japanese companies beyond just the major players, providing a comprehensive explanation of the current status and prospects of optoelectronic fusion. [Lecture Items] 1. Overview and technical points of optoelectronic fusion 2. Trends of global companies regarding optoelectronic fusion 3. Japanese players and their positions 4. Optoelectronic fusion as a national strategy 5. Summary 6. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Masayuki Fukuoka, Partner Attorney at Nishimura & Asahi Law Office, Foreign Law Joint Enterprise, New York State Attorney Member of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry's AI Business Guidelines Study Group [Key Lecture Content] In the current era where generative AI can intricately mimic an individual's likeness and voice, protecting these elements for the mimicked individuals is an urgent issue. On the other hand, when companies utilize generative AI for image and voice applications, there is a concern about infringing on others' rights related to likeness and voice. This lecture will organize the legal issues surrounding the unauthorized use of likeness and voice. In addition to explaining copyright law, rights of publicity, and the Unfair Competition Prevention Act, it will also present guidelines for the protection of likeness and voice, including ethical perspectives and risk management that companies should adopt. [Lecture Items] 1. Introduction: Current Status and Legal Issues of Likeness and Voice Use by Generative AI 2. Limitations and Possibilities of Protection under Copyright Law and Trademark Law 3. Protection under Tort Law: In-depth Exploration of Rights of Likeness and Publicity 4. Unfair Competition Prevention Act 5. Compliance and Ethical Judgment in Practice 6. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Speaker] Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Innovation and Environment Bureau Deputy Director, GX Investment Promotion Division, Yuki Kamitani [Key Lecture Content] In the rapidly changing international situation surrounding decarbonization, I will introduce the overall policy of Japan's GX (Green Transformation) policy. One of the pillars of the GX policy is the GX Strategy Regional System, which was established in August of last year. This system aims to create new GX-type industrial clusters centered around industrial resources such as complexes and decarbonized power sources by integrating support through GX financial resources with regulatory and institutional reforms. I will provide an overview of this system. [Lecture Topics] 1. International situation surrounding GX 2. Overall picture of Japan's GX policy 3. About the GX Strategy Regional System 4. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Lecturer] Koichi Iwama, Professor, Faculty of Economics and Management, Wako University / Chairman, Resource Economics Committee, Petroleum Technology Association [Key Lecture Content] The latest trends surrounding hydrogen and ammonia, including household fuel cells, fuel cell vehicles, fuel cell trucks, fuel cell buses, hydrogen stations, hydrogen power generation, hydrogen engines, hydrogen-reduced steelmaking, and ammonia ships. The lecture will clearly explain the optimal business strategies for Japanese companies towards a hydrogen and ammonia society by 2030, in the context of the headwinds from the Trump administration and the fierce competition from Western countries and China.

[Key Lecture Content] 1. Where is railway town development headed? ~Understanding next-generation urban development through TOD and smart cities~ SOMPO Institute Plus Co., Ltd. Senior Researcher, Public Policy Research Department, Mariko Miyamoto 1. Trends in compact town development 2. What is TOD (Transit-Oriented Development)? 3. Why TOD now? 4. Next-generation urban development through TOD and smart cities 5. Q&A / Business card exchange 2. Latest trends in TOD at TAKANAWA GATEWAY CITY General Incorporated Association Takanawa Gateway Area Management Executive Director, Yoshinari Amano 1. Collaborative town development centered around the Greater Shinagawa area stations 2. Takanawa Gateway What is the "Ekima-chi Smart City Concept"? 3. Collaboration between urban and railway OS ~Concept of data governance~ 4. Sustainable + mobility creating regional public transportation 5. Summary 6. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Instructor] Professor at Waseda University Graduate School of Political Science and Economics / Director of the Institute for Environmental Economic Management Visiting Researcher at Sciences Po Paris Faculty Fellow at the National Institute of Economic and Industrial Research Mr. Toshihide Arimura [Key Lecture Content] Starting in the fiscal year 2026, participation in the GX-ETS will become mandatory for some companies in Japan. Carbon costs will become an increasingly important factor in considering long-term value creation for businesses. This seminar will explain the impacts of the full-scale implementation of the GX-ETS on Japanese companies and the economy. Additionally, we will introduce the future outlook for the GX-ETS and the paths that should be taken, from the perspectives of comparison with overseas emissions trading systems and its economic significance.

[Speaker] Naoki Eguchi, Attorney at Baker McKenzie [Lecture Topics] 1. Utilization of Storage Batteries (1) Storage Batteries for Renewable Energy Integration (2) Grid-Side Storage Batteries (3) Hybrid Power Generation with Solar, Wind, and Storage Batteries 2. Positioning of Grid-Side Storage Batteries 3. Subsidies for Grid-Side Storage Batteries / Long-Term Decarbonization Power Source Auctions 4. Practical Aspects and Contracts for Grid-Side Storage Batteries - Offtake Model, Merchant Model 5. Current Status of Corporate PPAs (Overseas and Japan) 6. Types of Corporate PPAs (Physical and Virtual) 7. Contracts for Corporate PPAs 8. Corporate PPAs and Project Finance 9. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Lecturer] Mr. Kenji Kimura, Chief Researcher, Nuclear Group, Power Unit, Japan Energy Economics Research Institute (JEA), and Research Strategy Group, Research Strategy Unit [Key Lecture Content] In recent years, the role of nuclear power has been highlighted in the context of global warming countermeasures and energy security, and more recently, in response to the increased electricity demand due to the use of AI and the expansion of data centers. Under these circumstances, new movements are being observed in countries that utilize nuclear power. In the United States, investments in nuclear power by IT companies are becoming more active, while in Europe, measures are being promoted to enhance the feasibility of new projects. In Japan, the role of nuclear power has been clarified once again, and discussions surrounding specific institutional measures are gradually progressing. This lecture will provide an overview of these movements and organize the trends that should be noted in the future. [Lecture Items] 1. Global Situation and Nuclear Power 2. Trends in Other Countries 3. Trends in New Reactor Development 4. Domestic Trends and Challenges 5. Key Points to Watch After 2026 6. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Speaker] Shinya Okimoto, Founder & CEO of Okiwa Studio LLC [Lecture Topics] Part 1: The tectonic shifts in the display industry and the market potential of QDEL Part 2: Business solutions to the "three major technical challenges" for the practical application of QDEL Part 3: Winning strategies for Japanese companies: Targeting the "high value-added components" sector Part 4: Redefining the business portfolio towards 2030 Part 5: Q&A

[Speaker] Andy Mochizuki, Director, Deloitte Tohmatsu TMT Division / Monitor Deloitte [Key Lecture Content] In an era where thinking is commoditized by AI, the source of value is determined not by "information" but by "existence," that is, "the meaning of your being." This course will start from the environmental changes surrounding the AI era, exploring the concept of redesigning work in a purpose-driven manner, the type of thinking required in the AI era (QADI cycle), and delving into the absolute differentiating factor that only humans possess—"embodiment." We will update our sense of purpose in the AI era and our collaborative relationship with AI, initiating a transformation to "live anew" from here. [Lecture Items] 1. Mapping Environmental Changes - "From the Era of Information Asymmetry to the Era of Existence Asymmetry" 2. Redesigning Work in a "Purpose-Driven" Manner 3. The "Thinking Models" Necessary in the AI Era 4. The "Body" as an Absolute Differentiating Factor 5. How to "Live Anew" in the Coming AI Era 6. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Speaker] Yuki Kobayashi, CEO/Co-Founder of MESON Inc. [Key Lecture Content] In this presentation, we will explore "AI glasses," which have recently begun to attract significant attention as the next-generation user interface, explaining their essence and business impact. We will clarify the differences from previous XR devices and organize representative products currently available, while interpreting why AI glasses are becoming a realistic option against the backdrop of the evolution of generative AI and changes in societal acceptance. Furthermore, through market expansion and case studies primarily overseas, we will demonstrate why the years 2026 to 2028 will be a turning point for technology and business, and discuss the issues and risks that Japanese companies should currently address. [Lecture Items] 1. What are AI glasses? 2. Why AI glasses now? 3. Changes happening globally 4. How AI glasses will change work 5. Experience design as a decisive factor 6. The turning point for Japanese companies (Closing) 7. Q&A / Business card exchange *The content of the lecture may change based on the latest trends.

[Lecturer] Professor Hiroyuki Kato, Faculty of Sociology, Department of Social Policy Science, Hosei University [Key Lecture Content] In this lecture, I will introduce perspectives on the shipbuilding industry. Japan's shipbuilding industry has a long history and can be seen as a "microcosm" of Japanese industry. Within about ten years after World War II, Japan's shipbuilding industry became the world leader in construction volume, and at one point, the construction volume of the seven major domestic companies accounted for more than half of the world's share. Although it has since been surpassed in construction volume by latecomers such as South Korea and China, it still maintains a certain level of competitiveness. Reflecting on the path taken by the shipbuilding industry, which serves as a "microcosm," the reasons for its continued strength, and the challenges it currently faces may provide insights when considering the future of various Japanese industries. [Lecture Items] 1. Characteristics of the shipbuilding industry 2. Shipyards seen through photos and videos 3. The shipbuilding industry depicted in films 4. Why is it still strong? 5. Points to consider for future developments 6. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Lecturer] CES 2026 Innovation Award Judge Special Researcher / IT Journalist, Zhao Zhang-eun, KDDI Research Institute [Key Lecture Content] At CES 2026, the world's largest technology exhibition, Hyundai Motor Group's Boston Dynamics showcased the humanoid "Atlas," which was publicly unveiled for the first time as a representative example of physical AI. This humanoid is not merely a laboratory-level imitation of human movement, but a humanoid designed to surpass humans for use in manufacturing environments. LG also presented a home robot that continues to be developed to free people from household chores. It can take ingredients out of the refrigerator and put them in the oven, as well as take laundry out of the washing machine and fold it. The humanoids from South Korea feature a national representative foundation model that understands Korean and have distinctive hands and fingers. South Korean companies such as Samsung, LG, SK, and Hyundai Motor aim to become the global leaders in physical AI by 2030, and they have begun preparations for AI factories where AI robots understand the environment and perform tasks. Let's find business insights from South Korea's strategy, which actively collaborates with global big tech companies and engages in industry-academia-government partnerships.

[Speaker] Yukari Nagata, CEO of Data Viz Lab Inc. [Key Lecture Content] The use of AI in companies often remains at the "point" level (PoC, partial use), and there is insufficient advancement in utilizing it through "lines" across business and operational processes. This year, it is expected that many companies will focus on balancing "offensive" and "defensive" strategies. We will explain practical data management concepts and specific measures, covering data strategy design, quality management, governance, and organizational embedding. [Lecture Items] 1. Reasons why corporate AI utilization stops at "points" 2. Overall design for AI utilization that operates on "lines" 3. Data strategy calculated backward from business value 4. Practical data quality management 5. Governance design: Balancing offense and defense 6. Data infrastructure and metadata utilization in the AI era 7. How to create organization, roles, and embedding 8. Implementation roadmap 9. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Ryo Shu, President and CEO of Marketing Eyes Inc. [Key Lecture Content] In 2026, AI will become the "eyes" of customers, allowing them to compare and select before meeting. BtoB sales will find it increasingly difficult to achieve results through "selling." This lecture will focus on designing how to be "chosen," which influences sales, covering (1) customer understanding (surface intentions, true feelings, latent desires), (2) hypothesis development (preparing to decide the outcome before negotiations, creating materials to advance internal approvals, positioning for high added value), and (3) organizational strength (eliminating dependency on individuals to create a successful cycle), illustrated with examples of corporate successes and failures. Please apply the three takeaway sheets to your actions starting tomorrow. [Lecture Items] 1. Why will traditional "sales" no longer be effective in 2026? 2. Enhancing customer understanding - how to capture their hearts. 3. Developing strategic planning skills - how to design by working backward from goals. 4. Organizational strength (eliminating dependency on individuals and creating reproducible models). 5. Conclusion. 6. Q&A.

[Speaker] SOMPO Institute Plus Co., Ltd. Research Department Senior Researcher Kan Hanano [Key Lecture Content] At the world's largest tech exhibition "CES2026," held in January 2026, there was a succession of displays featuring "Physical AI," which merges AI and robotics. In particular, over 40 types of humanoid robots were showcased, hinting at the arrival of a genuine Physical AI era. However, as I walked around the venue, I could also see the technical limitations and hurdles to on-site implementation lurking behind the glamorous demonstrations. I will share insights gained from my on-site visit regarding the latest trends in the rapidly expanding Physical AI and the "walls" of social implementation. [Lecture Items] 1. Overview of CES2026 and this year's trends 2. The abundance of Physical AI at the venue 3. Current state of technology levels as seen in the exhibits 4. Trends in "infrastructure" for social implementation 5. Hurdles and possibilities for social implementation 6. Lessons from the past and future outlook 7. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Key Lecture Content] 1. Initiatives to Promote the Introduction of Next-Generation Fuels Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Agency for Natural Resources and Energy Resource and Fuel Department Fuel Supply Infrastructure Division Assistant Manager Kaori Higashitani 1. The Necessity of Carbon-Neutral Fuels 2. Synthetic Fuels and Biofuels 3. Current Status and Challenges of Introducing Bioethanol into Gasoline 4. Initiatives for Expanding the Introduction of Bioethanol into Gasoline 5. Q&A / Business Card Exchange 2. Decarbonization of Automotive Fuels - Directions and Challenges for Decarbonizing Gasoline Vehicles - Professor, Aichi Institute of Technology Member, Subcommittee on Decarbonized Fuel Policy, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Member, Carbon Management Subcommittee, etc. Motohiro Kondo 1. Direction of Automotive Powertrains 2. Effects of Bioethanol Blended Gasoline - Adoption Status and Future Outlook in Other Countries - Market for Bioethanol Blended Gasoline 3. Response Measures and Challenges for Vehicles and Infrastructure - Vehicle Adaptation - Supply Chain Response - Standards and Regulatory Compliance 4. Technological Trends in Decarbonized Fuels 5. Summary 6. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Speaker] President and CEO of ICT Solutions Consulting Co., Ltd. / Creator, Takashi Tominaga [Lecture Topics] 1. The era where past common sense becomes nonsense - The AI industrial revolution accelerated by Trump - What are disrupter companies? - What is considered nonsense? - How past common sense has become nonsense 2. The impact destroying various industries and the remaining time - What is happening in the defense industry - What is happening in the financial industry - What is happening in the manufacturing industry 3. What is different? - Thinking like a disrupter (e.g., Elon Musk) - How to compete with disrupters 4. Towards survival - How to survive by 2030 5. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Kazunori Kitagawa, Director of Eco-Management Center, Japan Productivity Center for Socio-Economic Development [Key Lecture Content] European circular economy policies are poised to have a significant impact on the automotive industry. In particular, the regulations on end-of-life vehicles scheduled to be issued this year may necessitate fundamental reforms in raw material procurement, information collaboration, and product recycling related to the manufacturing and resource circulation of automobiles in the future. This lecture will explain the policy trends related to these regulations, an overview of the system, countermeasures, trends among European manufacturers, management of recycled material procurement, and the upcoming timeline. [Lecture Topics] 1. Policy trends of the circular economy in the EU 2. Transition from recycling to resourcing in the EU End-of-Life Vehicle Directive and regulation amendments 3. Supply chain management related to the supply of recycled plastics 4. Overview of the End-of-Life Vehicle Regulation bill 5. Current status of circular economy business models among European automobile manufacturers 6. Future challenges and countermeasures 7. Q&A / Business card exchange *The content of the lecture may change based on the latest trends.

[Instructor] Shunsuke Suzuki, President and CEO, Management Techniques Co., Ltd. [Key Lecture Content] In a rapidly changing business environment, we are compelled to collaborate with people from various backgrounds every day and to push our proposals and ideas through amidst the intersection of diverse opinions and values. However, for some reason, good ideas are often not understood or accepted. Why is that? To implement new initiatives within an organization, it is necessary to overcome multiple barriers and unify stakeholders with differing opinions and values. In this seminar, we will explain a "management theory" that has not been commonly addressed, based on various perspectives such as organizational theory, psychology, communication theory, and political economy. We will cover communication techniques that promote changes in people's behaviors and attitudes, storytelling that generates empathy, and the building of trust relationships, all aimed at achieving transformation within organizations. This will be beneficial not only for proposals within organizations but also for improving interpersonal skills in a wide range of situations, including BtoB sales negotiations and the building of everyday human relationships.

[Lecturer] Professor Yoshiharu Nishimura, Senior Researcher, Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc. Graduate School of Engineering, Osaka University, Business Engineering Program [Key Lecture Content] The examination of the next-generation power infrastructure conducted in 2025 has entered the implementation phase, including amendments to the Electricity Business Act, towards a new power policy standard (a sustainable framework by responsible players) in 2026. This lecture will outline the content and related policy adjustments for businesses involving renewable energy and storage batteries, and consider the correct business concepts, necessary timelines, and how to create business models moving forward. [Lecture Items] 1. What is the 2026 Next-Generation Power Infrastructure Reconstruction? 2. Renewable Energy and Decarbonization Policies and Issues with Chinese Products 3. The Latest Status of Storage Batteries and the Timeline and Vision for DER Business 4. Q&A / Business Card Exchange

[Instructor] Shinichiro Takiguchi, Senior Specialist, Innovation Strategy Center, Japan Research Institute, Inc. [Key Lecture Content] With the increase in renewable energy, the introduction of energy storage systems has progressed in two forms: renewable energy co-located systems to adjust power generation fluctuations, and demand co-located systems to secure electricity during grid outages. However, the landscape is changing significantly. The "Supply and Demand Adjustment Market" has been established by OCTTO (Organization for Cross-regional Coordination of Transmission Operators), and particularly due to the continued high pricing agreements in the short-term response market (primary adjustment power responding within 10 seconds), there have been numerous cases where battery storage profits are secured through market transactions. In the grid energy storage business, two capabilities are required: "trading power" and "financial power." This lecture will explain the business structure and key points of profitability. Additionally, based on this business structure, we will classify the companies entering the grid energy storage business and organize the market structure of this sector. As this business is influenced by regulatory trends, we will also discuss regulatory outlooks. Finally, we will talk about future prospects.

[Speaker] Naoki Toda, Chief Economist, Management Strategy Research Office, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings, Inc. [Key Lecture Content] Since the 1990s, the global advancement of power system reforms has aimed for efficiency and optimization in both the operation and investment of facilities through active market competition. However, with the progress of DX/GX, the anticipated scenarios for electricity demand have led to the emergence of underinvestment issues worldwide. The IEA's report "Electricity Market Design," published last year, provides a comprehensive review of the reform situations in various countries and indicates that the underinvestment problem is a common issue across the globe. In this lecture, I will explain the current state of the underinvestment issue and potential responses from a business system perspective, referencing the IEA report and others. [Lecture Items] 1. Background of power system reforms and the underinvestment issue 2. About IEA "Electricity Market Design" 3. Reflecting on the thoughts of Akihiro Sawa on the 10th anniversary of his passing 4. Possible solutions to the Tenor Gap issue 5. Outlook for Japan's power system 6. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Cabinet Office, Government of Japan Science and Technology Innovation Promotion Office Planning Officer Takayuki Sato [Key Lecture Content] Japan's AI policy is structured around the fundamental directions of "balancing innovation promotion and risk response" and "international cooperation." In the AI Basic Plan established at the end of last year, we aim to pursue "trustworthy AI" that maintains a human-centered AI society where individual dignity is respected, enabling continuous collaboration between humans and AI. Our goal is to make Japan "the easiest country in the world to develop and utilize AI." This lecture will provide an overview of Japan's AI policies, including examples of initiatives. [Lecture Items] 1. Evolution and development trends of AI 2. Japan's AI policy (background of the AI law enactment, promotion system, etc.) 3. AI-related initiatives (AI Basic Plan, AI guidelines, etc.) 4. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Key Lecture Content] 1. The current status of geothermal heat in our country and the Ministry of the Environment's initiatives for its promotion Ministry of the Environment, Water and Air Quality Bureau, Environmental Management Division, Environmental Pollution Control Office Assistant Director Matsui Tatsu 1. About geothermal heat 2. About groundwater heat 3. Utilization for energy conservation 4. Utilization for decarbonization 5. Q&A / Business card exchange 2. Technological trends of geothermal heat pumps and advanced examples from Japan and abroad Non-profit organization Geothermal Utilization Promotion Association Chairman Sasada Masakatsu 1. Overview of geothermal heat pumps and their energy-saving and environmental properties 2. Trends in closed-loop technology 3. Trends in open-loop technology 4. Technological trends of air conditioning systems using geothermal heat as a heat source 5. Future prospects for geothermal heat pumps 6. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Speaker] Kazuki Kimura, Attorney at Marunouchi General Law Office [Key Lecture Content] As the importance of utilizing personal data is being emphasized, companies are urged to establish "data governance" and ensure "privacy protection." But what do privacy protection and data governance really mean? Currently, the Personal Information Protection Act is undergoing a review every three years, and it is necessary to advance the establishment of privacy protection and data governance with an eye on those amendments. Based on recent specific cases and practical experience at the Personal Information Protection Commission, this lecture will explain the fundamental aspects and the contents of the three-year review while highlighting key points. [Lecture Items] 1. Overview of personal data and the laws surrounding it 2. Contents of the three-year review of the Personal Information Protection Act 3. Impact of the three-year review of the Personal Information Protection Act on practice and matters to address now 4. Basic concepts of data governance 5. Specific methods for establishing data governance 6. Key points for utilizing personal data based on recent actions by the Personal Information Protection Commission 7. Q&A / Business card exchange

[Lecturers] RAUL Inc. President and CEO Kenji Eda Clover Technologies Inc. President and CEO Yuzuhiro Asaoka [Key Lecture Content] With the expansion of renewable energy, the market for "grid-scale batteries" that support the stabilization of the power grid is experiencing rapid growth. This seminar will clearly explain the basic concepts of the grid-scale battery business, business models, domestic and international market trends, actual examples of battery storage facilities (high voltage/special high voltage), and the process from consideration of introduction to the start of operation. "I am interested in the battery business but don't know where to start learning..." "I want to know the market size and opportunities for entry..." "I want to learn about specific business models and success stories..." This seminar is designed for those individuals, making it easy for beginners to understand. By learning about the key players in the grid-scale battery sector and the latest industry trends, let's seize new business opportunities! [This seminar is a basic seminar for beginners.]

[Speaker] Tomoya Kuno, Expert, Network Virtualization Infrastructure, Cloud Design Office, Service Design Department, NTT Docomo, Inc. [Key Lecture Content] Traditionally, base stations were highly complex devices that required the deployment of dedicated equipment at thousands of distributed locations to meet the real-time processing demands unique to wireless technology, necessitating specialized maintenance methods to operate a large number of devices. With the evolution of virtualization technology and accelerators, vRAN, which virtualizes base stations using general-purpose equipment, has been realized, significantly transforming the operational methods of mobile operators from construction to fault response. In this lecture, we will introduce examples of vRAN implementation, explain the forefront of O-RAN standardization that contributed to the realization of vRAN, and discuss the challenges faced by mobile operators and their solutions through the case study of Docomo. [Lecture Items] 1. Explanation of vRAN 2. Explanation of O-RAN, which led vRAN 3. Challenges of vRAN 4. Efforts of mobile operators towards virtualization 5. Q&A / Business card exchange