MNI BRIEF: BOJ Ueda: To Raise Rate If Econ, Prices Improve

The BOJ will raise its benchmark interest rate to adjust the degree of easy policy if the improvement in the economy and prices continues, Governor Kazuo Ueda said on Monday, the Nikkei reported.

 

Ueda, speaking at the new year party of Japanese Bankers Association, said that the timing of policy adjustments will depend on future economic, price and financial conditions and the BOJ must pay attention to various risk factors.

He also said the uncertainties over policy under the new U.S. president are high and he also cited the momentum toward the spring wage negotiations as a point.

 

BOJ Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino will speak to business leaders in Yokohama on January 14 and the BOJ’s policy-setting meeting is scheduled for January 23-24. (see MNI BOJ WATCH: Ueda Keeps Jan Hike Alive, Notes Risks  )