Global Market | Hawkish Turn: BOJ policymakers push for timely tightening amid rising prices

Bank of Japan policymakers are increasingly favoring interest rate hikes, citing persistent inflation and a strengthening wage-price cycle. Despite a pause in January, the central bank maintains an upward inflation bias. Geopolitical tensions and a weaker yen add complexity, but underlying inflation is nearing the 2% target, suggesting continued normalization.