This month's rate hike is widely seen as certain, while concern over upside risks to prices is growing. US pressure to correct yen weakness is being discussed, and BOJ Governor Ueda (植田) said he would ensure discussions move forward thoroughly.
Expectations are spreading that this month's rate hike is all but certain. Market participants are closely watching the BOJ's monetary policy decisions while assessing the economic recovery and price trends.
Concern over upside risks to prices is growing, and reports indicate that a period of pronounced increases in price indexes may continue. The focus is on the distance from the BOJ's price stability target.
US external pressure is being cited in connection with efforts to correct yen weakness. International factors surrounding exchange-rate stabilization are reportedly influencing discussions of monetary policy as well.
BOJ Governor Ueda (植田) indicated that he would “ensure thorough discussion,” and is said to be emphasizing the way discussions proceed and the process for making policy decisions going forward.