why Japan invests a lot of money abroad?

Question

I've read that Japanese investment is helping to improve the economies of several countries worldwide. Some even say that as long as Japan has this cash surplus, a specific country's economy will do well. Why is Japan driven to invest a lot of money (FDI and FII) in foreign countries?

Answer 1

Japan is driven to invest a lot of money through Foreign Direct Investments and Foreign Institutional Investor for the same reason China and India are: Increase profits and influence the financial and political position of their country and others.

Venezuela owns Citgo; Nestle was founded in a foreign country, and its headquarters are in Vevey, Switzerland.

The U.S. invests in other countries, too: China, Russia, India, England, etc., etc.

Answer 2

Political leverage. If I give you money, at a later time when you come to a crossroads, I remind you I gave you money to get this far, and thus you are obliged to take the path I choose for you.