1.   Daiwa Securities Co. President Motoo Esaka will step down following a widening gangster payoff scandal that has forced mass resignations at three other major financial companies this year.

2.   Last year it tumbled to fifth place as companies shunned the brokerage because of its involvement in the gangster scandal.

3.   The brokerage could face further penalties for the gangster payoff scandal.

4.   The brokerage also faces penalties for the gangster payoff scandal.

5.   The gangster rap scandals blew over.

6.   The gangster scandal spread to other companies, including Dai-Ichi Kangyo Bank and Yamaichi Securities.

7.   The three largest brokerages, for instance, face the same gangster scandal and shrinking stock market.

8.   Many reporters, particularly younger ones, express frustration at the tight controls, and viewed the gangster scandal as an opportunity to expand press freedom.