BOJ Policy Board member Takata Hajime (高田創) spoke positively about an early rate hike, and a view was reported that consecutive rate hikes in October and December could take place within the year.
At a press conference following a financial and economic meeting held in Sapporo, BOJ Policy Board member Takata Hajime (高田創) said that a nimble response was needed, without being bound by the assumption that rate hikes would take place twice a year. He also said, "We have entered a new phase in which rate hikes are carried out nimbly, without being bound by a set pace," and commented on the size of rate hikes, saying, "There is a broad range of options depending on conditions, not only 0.25%."
While the possibility of a rate hike at the monetary policy meeting on 17-18 September is being discussed in the market, attention is focused on whether 2 rate hikes will be implemented within the year. Professor Nakamuro Makiko (中室牧子) of Keio University pointed out that the BOJ's policy decisions are determined by the composition of the Policy Board and hawkish and dovish views, and expressed the view that the key issue this time would be whether consecutive rate hikes are possible.
The issue in this case comes down to whether rate hikes will be carried out consecutively at the October and December meetings. While emphasizing the need for an early rate hike, Policy Board member Takata Hajime (高田創) has suggested a flexible response in line with changes in conditions going forward.