Japanese Business Glossary

信託報酬 (shintaku houshuu) refers to the trust fee or trustee fee in Japanese. It is the compensation paid to a trustee for managing and administering a trust. This fee covers the various services provided by the trustee, such as investment management, record-keeping, reporting, and ensuring compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Shintaku houshuu can be structured as a fixed fee, a percentage of the trust's assets, or a combination of both. The specific amount and method of calculation are typically outlined in the trust agreement. These fees are important for maintaining the trust's operations and ensuring that the trustee is properly compensated for their expertise and responsibilities.

In the context of investment trusts or mutual funds, shintaku houshuu is an essential consideration for investors, as it affects the overall returns on their investments. Understanding these fees helps investors make informed decisions about their trust arrangements and investment strategies.

定年 (teinen) refers to the retirement age or the mandatory retirement age in Japan. It is the age at which employees are typically required to retire from their regular employment. In Japan, the standard 定年 is usually set at 60 or 65 years old, depending on the company's policy.

At teinen, employees may receive retirement benefits, pensions, and other post-retirement support. Some companies offer rehiring programs where retirees can continue working in a different capacity or on a part-time basis. The concept of teinen reflects Japan's structured approach to employment and workforce management, ensuring a planned transition from active employment to retirement. It also addresses the need for workforce renewal and provides opportunities for younger employees to advance within the organization.

割印 (wariin) refers to a type of seal used in Japanese documents to prevent tampering and verify authenticity. It is created by placing a personal seal (hanko) across two or more pages of a document, ensuring that the pages belong together and have not been altered.

Wariin is commonly used in legal and business contexts, such as contracts, agreements, and other important documents. The practice provides a secure method to bind the document parts, making it clear if any page is removed or replaced.

Using wariin is an important part of Japanese documentation procedures, reflecting the cultural emphasis on meticulousness and accuracy in formal agreements and record-keeping.

趣旨 (shushi) refers to the main purpose, intent, or gist of a statement, document, or action. In various contexts, it conveys the underlying rationale or primary objective behind an activity, plan, or communication.

Understanding the shushi is crucial for grasping the core message and aligning efforts with the intended goals. For instance, in a business meeting, clarifying the shushi of a proposal ensures that all participants comprehend its fundamental aim and can discuss it effectively. Similarly, in written documents, stating the shushi helps readers quickly identify the document's main point or purpose. This focus on shushi reflects the importance of clear and purposeful communication in Japanese culture, facilitating mutual understanding and efficient collaboration.

障害 (shougai) means "disability" or "impairment" in Japanese. It refers to any condition that limits a person's physical, mental, or sensory functions, impacting their daily activities and participation in society.

Shougai can be congenital, acquired through illness or injury, or result from aging. In Japan, the term encompasses a wide range of conditions, from physical disabilities such as mobility impairments to intellectual, developmental, and mental health disorders.

The Japanese government and various organizations provide support and services to individuals with shougai, aiming to promote inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities. This includes financial assistance, employment support, education, and rehabilitation programs. The goal is to enable people with disabilities to lead fulfilling lives and participate fully in society.

金融機関お届け印 (kinyu kikan otodoke in) refers to the seal (hanko) that is registered with a financial institution in Japan. This seal is used for verifying and authorizing various transactions and documents, such as opening a bank account, withdrawing money, or signing contracts.

The registered seal acts as a personal signature and is an essential part of conducting official and financial business in Japan.