Japan weighs supplementary budget to shield households from fuel price surge
Investinglive·- The Japanese government is considering a supplementary budget to alleviate increased fuel costs for households during the summer, according to sources from Kyodo News. - This potential measure reflects concerns over rising oil prices and utility bills, with bonds' yields for 30-year and 40-year Japanese government bonds rising due to anticipated debt issuance. - The prime minister has downplayed the need for such a budget, suggesting current subsidies are adequate, creating uncertainty around the plan's status while highlighting the market's sensitivity to fiscal changes.BOJ Remains on Track to Hike Rates Hikes, Opinion Summary Shows
MorningStar·- Bank of Japan policymakers expressed the need to raise interest rates during their April meeting, amid concerns about inflation from rising oil and gas prices due to the Middle East conflict. - Analysts predict cautious decision-making on rate hikes, as the geopolitical situation complicates Japan's economic recovery. - Although the policy rate was kept at 0.75%, board members suggested future increases may occur if inflation risks persist, emphasizing the importance of maintaining price stability.