Hiroshi Matsuda
Mizuho Securities Group
Repeating in second place is Hiroshi Matsuda of Mizuho Securities Group. “His logical analysis helps me understand these industries, and I appreciate his frequent updates on global companies,” explains one buy-side supporter. Matsuda is optimistic about the year ahead, thanks to “the positive impact of the weak yen and the favorable turn of business conditions” in other sectors, notably automobiles. The analyst is also keeping a close eye on conditions in Europe, where demand for window glass should rise — along with prices — as that region’s housing market revives. Current favorites among the eight companies Matsuda covers: Asahi Glass Co., owing to the Tokyo-based manufacturer’s efforts to boost profitability by lowering production costs, and Nichias Corp., a maker of thermal insulation that is headquartered in Tokushima. — Leslie Kramer