Bank of Japan Anticipates Further Rate Hikes Amid Inflation Concerns
As Japan's inflation remains above target, the BOJ prepares for potential rate increases to stabilize the economy.
- Two-thirds of economists expect the Bank of Japan to raise interest rates again in 2024, with most predicting hikes in the second half of the year.
- Japan's core inflation cooled to 2.6% in March, staying above the BOJ's 2% target for two consecutive years.
- The weak yen, hitting a 34-year low, complicates monetary policy, potentially influencing further rate adjustments.
- BOJ Governor Kazuo Ueda signals possible rate hikes if the yen's decline significantly impacts inflation.
- Market expectations and recent wage increases support the likelihood of continued policy normalization by the BOJ.