Japan's Economy Returns to Growth, Clearing Way for Rate Hikes

Core Viewpoint - Japan's economy experienced growth in the final quarter of 2025, despite challenges posed by U.S. tariffs, which provides the central bank with the opportunity to continue increasing interest rates [1] Economic Performance - The Japanese economy returned to growth in the last quarter of 2025, indicating resilience against external pressures [1] - The growth allows the central bank to maintain a favorable environment for further interest rate hikes [1]