BOJ Shimizu is on the wire saying:

  • Inflation expectations in Japan are still below 2%, so the BOJ must lift expectations and continue to support economic activity.

  • It is not known exactly how Japan’s economy will react to the new environment of higher interest rates, which is why the BOJ must proceed carefully with policy normalization.

  • If the BOJ is sufficiently confident about the future path of the economy, it can proceed with policy normalization.

Shimizu struck a cautious tone, emphasizing that inflation expectations remain subdued and that normalization depends on Japan’s economic resilience. Confidence in the recovery will be key before the BOJ commits to further tightening.