#Japan #Tokyo #Young Adults #Minutes by NIKKEI #news consumption

Insights into News Consumption Habits of Young Adults

In a comprehensive study conducted by the Japanese media entity, "Minutes by NIKKEI," it emerged that a staggering 93.3% of respondents aged 20 to 30 express a daily need for interaction with news media. However, the time they are willing to dedicate to news consumption is remarkably limited, with 74.1% indicating they can spare less than 30 minutes a day, and nearly 25% managing under 10 minutes. This contrast reveals an urgent demand for concise, efficient news delivery that fits within the busy schedules of today's youth.

This survey, overseen by the Digital Editorial Unit of the Nikkei Inc., gathered responses from both paid and free members between August 1 and August 31, 2025, yielding valid feedback from 429 participants.

Daily News: A Psychological Necessity

When asked if keeping up with media news is essential, 56.9% affirmed it is needed daily, with an additional 36.4% stating a desire for daily updates, culminating in over 90% of respondents emphasizing the importance of news in their lives. These findings are underscored by the fact that 87.5% have felt anxiety when they were out of touch with recent developments in the world. It reflects a prevalent sentiment that staying informed is crucial to alleviating feelings of uncertainty and unease in an ever-evolving societal landscape.

Time Constraints on News Reading

Survey participants divulged their news consumption habits, revealing that 49.2% spend between 10 to 30 minutes daily on news, while 24.9% allocate less than 10 minutes. This trend indicates that many prioritize work or personal growth over extensive news reading, which subsequently results in insufficient time to absorb current affairs.

The Burden of Information Overload

Another significant insight from the survey highlights that many young readers experience distress due to the overwhelming volume of available information. The predominant concern cited was the challenge of sifting through excessive news sources to determine what is essential and which information can be disregarded. This challenge of discernment poses a considerable stressor, overshadowing the act of simply reading the news itself.

Trustworthiness as a Key Requirement

When respondents articulated their needs regarding news, 58.7% underscored the importance of trustworthiness in the information they consume. Amidst the flood of unverified information on social media and various online platforms, there is an acute demand for credible news sources. Participants noted uncomfortable situations arising from a lack of knowledge about current events, including social interactions and professional encounters where timely information was essential for effective communication.

Subscription Services: A Disparity in Use

Despite the evident necessity for reliable news, the survey revealed that a majority of young adults are not engaging with paid news services, with only 38.5% currently using such platforms and an additional 21% having used them in the past. Approximately 40% of non-users cited high costs and the belief that free sources suffice as their reasons for abstaining. This highlights an opportunity for companies to explore innovative methods to incorporate news services into employee benefits and training programs.

A striking revelation from the feedback indicates that about 90% of respondents expressed an interest in using services similar to Minutes by NIKKEI if implemented in their workplaces.

The Birth of Minutes by NIKKEI

Minutes by NIKKEI, launched in November 2023, is dedicated to providing an efficient news reading experience tailored for short timeframes. It promotes a concept of "reading media in minutes," focusing on essential themes and keywords, and providing well-rounded articles that explore the background, present implications, and future trajectories of various issues. This approach ensures that even those with minimal prior knowledge can comprehensively understand the news landscape.

Available for a monthly subscription of 980 yen (tax included), Minutes by NIKKEI positions itself as a valuable investment in building business literacy. Continuous exposure to verified information fosters an ongoing accumulation of knowledge, aiding professionals in their career development.

For more details or subscriptions, visit Minutes by NIKKEI.