Japan's factory growth slows as cost pressures surge, PMI shows
CNA·- In May, Japan's manufacturing expanded slightly slower, with a PMI of 54.5, down from April's high of 55.1. - Record export order growth was offset by cost surges due to the Middle Eastern conflict and inventory accumulation. - Although manufacturers anticipate growth in sectors like AI and electronics, rising costs and a sluggish global economy may pose challenges ahead.Tokyo inflation eases to 1.3% as Nikkei stays above 65,700
MSN·- Tokyo's core CPI rose 1.3% in May, a decrease from April’s 1.5%, supported by subsidies for energy and education. - The Nikkei 225 index remained robust above 65,700, driven by better-than-expected retail sales, industrial output, and job data. - The Bank of Japan is at a policy crossroads, considering a rate hike in July amid subdued inflation and risks from oil prices and a weak yen.