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Bank of Japan Governor hospitalized, will miss next week's policy meeting, Kyodo News reports. The unexpected absence raises questions about decision-making on interest rates and monetary policy. No further details on his health condition have been released.
Japan's Q1 2026 GDP was revised down to 1.8% year-on-year, below the preliminary estimate. The revision reflects weaker private consumption and business investment, highlighting persistent challenges despite recovery signs.
Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda confirmed the central bank will discuss reducing its purchases of Japanese government bonds at the upcoming policy meeting, signaling progress toward normalizing ultra-loose monetary policy. No specific details on size or timing were provided, but the decision will depend on market and macroeconomic conditions. Analysts see this as a sign of growing confidence in the economy and a potential historic shift in BOJ policy.
Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda said Japan's real interest rates are notably low, signaling prolonged monetary easing. The statement was made during a press conference following the BOJ's monetary policy report. Markets are closely watching for any next steps.
Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda warned that rising global oil prices could drive prolonged inflation, not just a temporary spike. He said sustained high oil costs would directly impact consumer prices and inflation expectations. The BOJ is closely monitoring the situation as persistent inflation may force a policy rethink.
Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda warned that long-term interest rates could rise if the central bank does not take timely action to address inflation. The statement highlights challenges to the BOJ's ultra-loose monetary policy amid rising price pressures and a weak yen.
Preliminary data shows Japan's business capital spending barely rose in the first quarter of 2026, signaling cautious investment sentiment. Analysts cite weak domestic demand and global uncertainty as key factors. The data underscores a sluggish economic recovery.
Chicago Federal Reserve President Austan Goolsbee warned that the Bank of Japan could face inflation risks if it continues to delay raising interest rates. He said delaying rate hikes could cause inflation to spiral out of control. The BOJ maintains ultra-low rates while other major central banks have tightened policy.
Japan's core CPI, excluding fresh food, rose 1.4% year-on-year in April, exceeding economists' forecasts and signaling persistent price pressure. The increase is driven by higher energy and imported food costs, prompting close monitoring by the Bank of Japan.
