Reported about 19 hours ago
Inflation in Tokyo surged for the second consecutive month in December, driven by rising energy costs after the removal of government subsidies. Consumer prices rose 2.4%, and despite a tight labor market with a steady jobless rate of 2.5%, the Bank of Japan is likely contemplating an interest rate hike early next year, contingent on wage growth. While deeper inflation indicators suggest moderate price increases, the weak yen may add further inflationary pressures, placing more urgency on the central bank’s decision-making.
Source: YAHOO