Can comics predict the future? How ‘new Baba Vanga’ Ryo Tatsuki’s prophecies as a manga artist are causing

Manga artist Ryo Tatsuki's prediction of a mega-tsunami striking Japan in July 2025 has triggered significant concern, leading to a 50% drop in travel bookings to Japan and prompting a Chinese embassy advisory. Tatsuki, known for her past accurate depictions of disasters, claims an underwater volcanic eruption will cause the tsunami, though Japanese authorities state there is no scientific basis for the prediction. Despite official skepticism, the prophecy has gained traction online, fueling debates and preparedness measures, highlighting the potential for significant economic and social disruption.

Analysis

Ryo Tatsuki's prophecy of a mega-tsunami striking Japan in July 2025, attributed to an underwater volcanic explosion, has demonstrably impacted market sentiment and consumer behavior, notably within the tourism sector. Hong Kong-based travel agency WWPKG reported a significant 50% year-over-year drop in travel bookings to Japan during the Easter holiday period, with expectations of further declines as the predicted date approaches. This market reaction occurs despite the Japan Meteorological Agency's official statement that there is "no scientific basis for Tatsuki’s claims," although some seismologists concede the described location is geologically plausible. The prophecy's influence is amplified by Tatsuki's past reputation for allegedly accurate predictions, including the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and the Covid-19 pandemic, contributing to over 900,000 copies of her manga being sold. Further underscoring the situation's gravity, the Chinese embassy in Tokyo issued an advisory for its nationals in Japan, citing "potential natural disasters," coinciding with the heightened anxiety. The online spread of the #July2025Prediction hashtag indicates a broad psychological impact, suggesting potential for continued disruption in travel and related industries based on sentiment rather than confirmed scientific risk.

Key Decisions for Investors

• Investors with exposure to Japanese tourism, hospitality, and airline sectors should closely monitor booking trends and related stock performance for sustained negative pressure due to the July 2025 prophecy.
• Consider the dichotomy between the prophecy-driven market sentiment, which has already negatively impacted travel bookings by 50% in some segments, and the official Japanese government stance of no scientific basis, which could lead to a rapid sentiment reversal and market correction if the event does not occur.
• Evaluate potential short-term trading opportunities arising from heightened volatility in Japan-related assets, particularly in the travel and leisure sectors, while being mindful of the unpredictable nature of sentiment-driven market movements.