Investors have little enthusiasm for well-run old Japan firms, such as Kirin Beverage, a soft-drinks maker that has not yet found a new-Japan marketing angle.

ECONOMIST: Fairy tale

Suntory, the food and beverage giant run by Japanese billionaire Nobutada Saji, has backed away from plans to merge with rival brewer Kirin.

FORBES: Nobutada Saji's Big Deal is Called Off