[GTS] Tokyo Stock Exchange Visit | Prof. Prajakta Khare
As part of the Introduction to Economics course taught by Associate Professor Prajakta Khare from the Department of Global and Transcultural Studies, students visited the Tokyo Stock Exchange in Nihombashi on December 23, 2024.
We first spent some time learning about the Japan Exchange Group (JPX), the history of the Tokyo Stock Exchange, types of securities and other financial instruments like derivatives. We then proceeded to the Market Center and observed the ticker changing speed as trading increased. Students were surprised by the quiet atmosphere at TSE Arrows, where they expected the noise and chaos of a traditional trading floor. It was exciting to see real time stock prices changing on the big screen. Additionally, we learned about various stock indices like the Nikkei 225, TOPIX and the actual volume traded on the exchange.
Students were especially intrigued by the East entrance of the TSE that features some auspicious items. These include a floor tile with the 12 Chinese zodiac signs with the dragon facing the exchange. This is believed to bring good fortune to the institution.
Finally, all students played a stock investment game that taught them to analyze the impact of real-world events like inflation, interest rate hikes, tariffs, or political upheavals on stock prices and investment decisions.
Comments from students:
“Watching the stock prices update in real time at the Market Center was honestly fascinating and made me realize just how active and high-energy the financial world is. The Stock Trading Experience Corner was particularly memorable. Using an imaginary budget to trade fictional stocks allowed me to test concepts from class in a practical and enjoyable way.” (4th year student, GTS)
“One section of the TSE that left lasting impression on me was the historical bond exhibit. This area exhibited a variety of bonds from different periods, including war bonds issued during World War II. I learned that these bonds were a way for the government to raise funds for the war effort by borrowing money from citizens. Before this visit, I had never considered how financial tools like bonds could play such a significant role in major historical events.” (4th year student, GTS)
“I often watch the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) on TV, and my impression was that many people move around actively in response to stock market changes. However, when I visited, there were very few people. Most stock trading is now conducted online, reducing the need for workers to be physically present. Since the TSE operates as a central hub for stock trading, it no longer requires large numbers of people on the floor. To be honest, I felt a bit disappointed because I had expected to see a bustling trading floor with many workers”. (1st year student, GTS)
