These investors are investing in Japanese companies (stocks), not the country (bonds)

 These investors are investing in Japanese companies (stocks), not the country (bonds). A recession (negative GDP) has little to do with the profitability of those companies because GDP (Gross Domestic Product), unlike GNP (Gross National Product), does not account for the international profits of the companies. JAPANESE COMPANIES TODAY ARE INTERNALTIONAL CORPORATIONS, such as automobile manufacturers, whose operations are largely abroad. THEY CAN MAKE MONEY REGARDLESS OF THEIR DOMESTIC ECONOMY!