BoJ Vows to Keep Inflation in Check with Further Rate Hikes

The Bank of Japan (BoJ) has signaled its intention to continue raising its benchmark interest rate, according to comments from board member Kazuyuki Masu. The move is aimed at keeping inflation in check and ensuring that prices do not exceed 2%.

Masu emphasized the importance of maintaining a stable price trend and financial conditions that remain accommodative. He stated that the BoJ will continue to raise its policy interest rate, given the prevailing price trend's proximity to 2% and the current state of financial conditions.

The comments from Masu indicate that the BoJ may not be finished with tightening its settings, even as the policy rate enters the lower range of the estimated neutral level for the first time in the current hiking cycle.