Economists Anticipate Interest Rate Hike by Bank of Japan

According to BlockBeats, a recent survey conducted by Reuters between December 2 and 9 reveals that a majority of economists expect the Bank of Japan to raise interest rates by 25 basis points to 0.75% during its December meeting. This move is anticipated to be the first rate hike since January, driven by inflation risks and the weakening yen. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's government is expected to tolerate this decision, considering the economic factors at play. The survey indicates that 90% of economists, or 63 out of 70 respondents, foresee the central bank increasing short-term rates from 0.50% to 0.75% next week. This marks a significant rise from last month's survey, where only 53% predicted such an increase. Furthermore, slightly over two-thirds of the participants, 37 out of 54, believe that by the end of September next year, interest rates will reach at least 1.00%. This expectation reflects growing concerns over inflation and currency depreciation.