植田和男：宽松政策调整步伐取决未来数据，但若加息行动过迟，未来或被迫大幅快速加息

Core Viewpoint - The Bank of Japan's Governor, Kazuo Ueda, reiterated the intention to further raise interest rates, but emphasized a high degree of data dependency, indicating significant uncertainty regarding the timing and pace of future rate hikes [1][3]. Group 1: Interest Rate Decisions - This marks the first interest rate hike by the Bank of Japan since January, with the decision being unanimously approved [2]. - Ueda stated that if the economy and prices develop as expected, the central bank will continue to raise policy rates, but warned that delayed actions could necessitate rapid increases in the future [3][9]. - The pace of adjustments to the accommodative policy will depend on economic, price, and financial conditions at each meeting [5]. Group 2: Neutral Interest Rate - Ueda highlighted the ambiguity surrounding the neutral interest rate, which is a key factor limiting the clarity of the policy path [8]. - The central bank's estimate of Japan's neutral interest rate remains broad, making precise estimations difficult, and any adjustments may not significantly narrow this range [8]. - Even with a rate increase to 0.75%, the policy rate would still be some distance from the lower end of the neutral rate range [8]. Group 3: Wage Growth as a Key Indicator - Wage growth is viewed as a critical indicator for determining future rate hike potential, with initial momentum in next year's wage negotiations appearing positive [10][11]. - Sustained wage increases are necessary to prevent a decline in core inflation, and if wage growth continues to transmit to prices, further rate hikes could be possible [11]. - Ueda noted that while small businesses show overall stable profits, there is a divergence among the smallest firms that requires careful monitoring [11]. Group 4: Yen Dynamics and Market Reactions - Recent depreciation of the yen has raised concerns about upward price pressures and its impact on core inflation [12]. - Following Ueda's remarks, the dollar rose against the yen, reflecting the market's immediate reaction to policy uncertainties [12]. - The central bank will closely observe the potential transfer of tariff impacts to consumers and the sustainability of growth related to artificial intelligence [12]. Group 5: Market Credibility Concerns - The credibility of the Bank of Japan is being questioned as inflation rates have exceeded the 2% target for four consecutive years [14]. - Analysts suggest that while there is room for further rate hikes next year, the timing remains uncertain and will depend on the progress of annual spring wage negotiations, with low likelihood for hikes before June [14]. - Ueda reiterated that future policy decisions will rely on data available at upcoming meetings, emphasizing a collaborative approach with the government to guide monetary policy [14].