Bank of Japan keeps short-term interest rate unchanged at 0.75%, as expected, with decision made by 8-1 vote as Takata dissented and voted for a 25bps hike

Says:

• Will continue to raise policy rates if the economy and prices move in line with its forecasts.
• Will conduct monetary policy as appropriate from perspective of sustainably and stably achieving the 2% inflation target.
• Japan's economy is recovering moderately, although some weaknesses are seen.
• Economy is likely to continue growing moderately and inflation expectations have risen moderately.
• Consumer inflation is likely to briefly slow below 2% and re-accelerate due to impact of rising oil prices.
• Price trend is to be in line with goal in second half of outlook.
• Takata and Tamura opposed the description regarding the outlook for inflation as Takata suggested CPI had already generally reached the price stability target and Tamura said CPI was likely to be at a level generally consistent with the price stability target from the beginning of fiscal 2026.
• Risks to outlook include future course of Middle East.
• Global financial and capital markets have been volatile and crude oil prices have risen significantly in the wake of increased tension over the situation in the Middle East, while future developments warrant attention.