ChainThink report, December 24: Minutes from the Bank of Japan's October policy meeting indicate that one member stated inflation expectations among businesses and households have reached 2%, underscoring the need to remain vigilant against price escalation risks. Another member emphasized that fiscal policy is a critical factor in setting economic and inflation forecasts.

A minority of members noted that core inflation is gradually accelerating but has not yet reached 2%. One member suggested Japan may achieve the central bank's inflation target by early next year, at which point wage growth may be necessary to meet the goal.

Several members warned that yen depreciation could lead to inflation overshoots by pushing up import prices. (Wall Street Insights)