Weak Yen Drives Surge in Japanese Bankruptcies During First Half of 2026

Forty-five Japanese companies went bankrupt during the first half of 2026, citing the weak yen as a key factor behind their financial collapse. This marks the highest figure recorded for a first half since 2022. Bankruptcies Rise Sharply The total represents a 32.4 percent increase from the 34 companies that failed during the first half of 2025 and is 27 companies higher than the figure recorded in 2023. The increase comes as the yen once again traded above 162 per U. S. dollar this week, its weakest level since 1986.