Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has resigned less than a year into his term, aiming to avert a leadership revolt within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). His departure follows mounting internal dissent and public dissatisfaction after July's upper house election setback, driven in part by inflation concerns. The LDP, long dominant in Japanese politics, now governs via fragile coalitions amid growing pressure from rising populist parties. Ishiba's resignation comes shortly after securing a trade deal with the US that reduced proposed auto tariffs, in exchange for a major investment pledge. Markets were steady following the news, with investors now watching closely for policy continuity and leadership stability as contenders prepare for a new LDP election.