Thanks Annemc and matalotsailing for your very different...

Thanks Annemc and matalotsailing for your very different perspectives. Just the kind of information that helps me question my take on things.

I notice Annemc that you are still a holder yet quite pessimistic on the Japanese market. You seem to be very knowledgeable on the situation in Japan and BJT itself and, if you don't mind responding, do you still hold because you see BJT as a long term survivor? Also, could you expand on the exchange rate being a negative when repaying debt. I would have thought that if your rental income was in YEN, then it would not affect loan repayments with Japanese banks. I am obviously missing the point here. What you have mentioned about the banks delaying their bad debts until after March 30 and the lack of transparency in the market is of great concern. How does one make an informed decision when so many factors are manipulated to dupe investors?

Funny though how Tokyo locals think that foreigners paid too much for property, when they themselves created the enormous bubble they did in the 80s. The effects of bubbles are obviously well and truly part of their psyche now after so long in recession. They've already 'lived and learnt'.