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Core Viewpoint - The Bank of Japan (BOJ) decided to maintain the interest rate at 0.5%, aligning with market expectations, while raising its inflation and economic growth forecasts for the year [2][4]. Summary by Sections Interest Rate Decision - The BOJ has kept the interest rate unchanged for the fourth consecutive meeting, which was anticipated by the market [2][4]. - Following the decision, the USD/JPY exchange rate saw a short-term increase, reported at 148.90 [4]. Inflation Forecast - The BOJ has revised its core Consumer Price Index (CPI) forecasts upward, expecting potential consumer inflation to align with the 2% target in the latter half of the fiscal years 2025 to 2027. The new median core CPI forecasts for these years are 2.7%, 1.8%, and 2.0%, compared to previous forecasts of 2.2%, 1.7%, and 1.9% [4]. Economic Growth Outlook - The BOJ has also increased its economic growth forecast for the fiscal year 2025, adjusting the GDP growth expectation from 0.5% to 0.6% [4]. Economic Risks - The BOJ noted that the economic outlook carries downside risks, particularly due to uncertainties surrounding trade policies. Despite a mild recovery in the Japanese economy, some weaknesses persist [5]. - Recent progress in trade agreements between Japan and the U.S. is highlighted, with Japan committing to invest $550 billion in the U.S. and the U.S. imposing a 15% tariff on certain Japanese imports [5]. Future Rate Hikes - There is a consensus among various institutions that a rate hike in October is likely, with HSBC predicting a 25 basis point increase to 0.75% [6]. - Other institutions, such as the Netherlands International and Mizuho Bank, also view October as a potential time for a rate hike, with Mizuho suggesting it could be the last hike of the year [7]. - The BOJ Governor is scheduled to hold a press conference to explain the rate decision, indicating ongoing communication regarding monetary policy [7].