Because I wanted Japan Economy Watch to contribute to the dialogue on Japan, I have always intended to keep it free—and still do. Free subscribers will always receive all posts, have full access to the archives, and be able to comment on the posts. It’s very gratifying that there are now thousands of subscribers after less than two years of existence.
However, I recently received a small flurry of “pledges,” i.e., subscribers who pledged to pay $80 a year for a sub to Japan Economy Watch if I ever started charging. That led me to think I should add a paid subscription option. Paid subscribers will not get any additional posts, just my gratitude and the pleasure of knowing that you are supporting dialogue on Japan. It’s a kind of crowdfunding.
The base price is $50 per year. There is also a “founding subscription” option of $80 per year. Moreover, you can sign up for whatever amount you want, as long as it’s $50 or higher.
Happy to pledge!