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The Bank of Japan is leaning toward raising its benchmark interest rate by a quarter point this month in response to upward price risks, while leaving open the possibility of accelerating the pace of hikes thereafter, according to people familiar with the matter. Bloomberg's Skylar Montgomery Koning has more.
The Nikkei 225 Index continued its strong downward spiral, reaching its lowest level since August 5 this year, and 11.80% from its highest point this year. This retreat happened as the US-Iran tensions and Japan's bond yields continued the bull run.
The recent coordinated effort by U.S. and Japanese monetary authorities to prop up the sagging yen understandably rattled global markets. While critics claim that the positive effects of the US/Japan “salvation” effort were short-lived, Japanese equities aren't worse for wear.
The overnight index swaps market is pricing in nearly a 90% chance of a rate increase at the upcoming Bank of Japan meeting.
The Nikkei 225 Index jumped sharply this week, reaching its highest level since July 6, and 15% above its lowest level this month. This rebound was driven by the ongoing technology stock gains as investors bought the recent dip.
A weakening yen has helped to boost the country's exports. Japan's dependence on foreign oil remains a risk, however.
The Nikkei 225 Index retreated by over 1.52% on Monday as investors reacted to several events, including the Japanese yen rescue and the upcoming corporate earnings. It dropped to 63,390, down by 12.9% from its peak this year.
The decision comes as speculation continues to swirl around whether the Bank of Japan will hike rates at a faster pace.