日本央行行长首度回应提前大选风波：立场不变，加息计划未受影响

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles indicates that the Bank of Japan, led by Governor Ueda Kazuo, plans to raise interest rates if conditions allow, despite speculation about an early election by Prime Minister Kishi Sanae [1][2] - Ueda's recent statements suggest that the central bank remains committed to its rate hike path, with most economists expecting the Bank of Japan to maintain current rates during the policy meeting on January 23, while the next potential rate hike could occur around June [1] - The Japanese stock market has reacted positively to expectations that Kishi may implement more expansionary fiscal measures following a potential early election, while the yen and bonds have weakened [1] Group 2 - The yen has fallen to its lowest level since July 2024, trading at approximately 159.20 yen per dollar, which has increased import costs and intensified inflationary pressures [2] - Ueda noted that wages and inflation may continue to rise gradually, and appropriate adjustments to monetary easing will help achieve price stability and promote long-term economic growth [2] - The Bank of Japan raised the benchmark interest rate to 0.75%, the highest level since 1995, with expectations of rate hikes approximately every six months, although the weakening yen may accelerate the pace of future increases [2]