BOJ debated hastening rate-hike pace in July, summary shows

Bank of Japan policymakers considered speeding up interest rate hikes during their July meeting due to growing inflation risks. Some members of the central bank expressed concerns about inflation potentially exceeding targets and advocated for a more rapid adjustment of monetary policy. This discussion occurred as the U.S. dollar approached a two-month low against other major currencies. Investors were anticipating the release of crucial U.S. inflation data, which could provide insights into the Federal Reserve's future interest rate strategy. Recent employment figures from the U.S. have reduced expectations for a rate increase in September.

Japan experienced its first current account deficit in nearly one and a half years in June, with the deficit reaching 92.3 billion yen. This shift was attributed to a rise in dividend payments made to foreign investors and a significant increase in the cost of oil imports. Despite this monthly deficit, Japan's current account surplus for the first half of the year saw a substantial increase. Japanese business leaders are increasingly vocal about the instability caused by currency fluctuations and the sustained weakness of the yen. They note that while a weaker yen can boost export competitiveness, it simultaneously inflates the cost of imported raw materials and energy. This dynamic negatively affects domestic demand and creates uncertainty for corporate earnings projections.