GACKT faces criticism over NISA misunderstanding

Japanese musician GACKT has faced significant online criticism following the viral spread of a video clip in which he appears to misunderstand the NISA (Nippon Individual Savings Account) system.

In a discussion originally recorded for the YouTube channel ‘DROPOUT’, GACKT questioned the structure of NISA’s profits and asked for its ‘major stocks’. The clip, which garnered over 7.2 million views on X (formerly Twitter), prompted widespread corrections from users and influencers. Critics pointed out that NISA is not an investment product itself, but rather a tax-exempt framework that allows individuals to choose their own stocks or investment trusts.

Financial influencer Shin-taro Tabata also commented on the situation, noting that NISA provides tax-free accounts rather than being a specific package of assets. The controversy has reignited discussions regarding the distinction between investment vehicles and tax-advantaged accounts.