Residents in the northern region of Akita are living in fear after dozens of assaults on humans. Riot police and the army have been sent to help.

Conditions are ripe for a strong rally in the 'safe haven' Japanese yen, with a global stock market selloff sparking volatility across asset classes. But the Japanese currency is falling fast, calling into question its long-perceived role as a preferred hiding spot for spooked investors.

A record 13 people have been killed by bears so far this year. Canada, the U.S. and several other nations have issued warnings for citizens traveling in Japan.

Beijing is flexing its military and economic might to show its displeasure with the Japanese leader’s comments about defending Taiwan. But its aggressive approach risks backfiring.