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The Japan Times
Half of economists still see BOJ waiting until December to hike
According to a Bloomberg survey, half of the surveyed economists believe the Bank of Japan (BOJ) will postpone its benchmark interest rate hike until December. The survey involved 52 economists, with 50% predicting this timeline following the BOJ's previous rate increase last month. The government's stance, particularly under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, is thought to act as a barrier to more aggressive monetary policy changes. Additionally, a growing number of economists suggest that rate hikes may occur approximately every six months.
MonitorConfidence: HighMid term horizon
Published 23 Jul 2026, 07:45 UTC1 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- 50% of economists foresee a BOJ rate hike in December
- 40% predict a possible increase in October
- 82% anticipate rate hikes every six months
- Prime Minister Takaichi's government viewed as a deterrent
- Survey involved 52 economists from Bloomberg
Interesting facts
- The frequency of expected rate hikes has increased from 71% in June.
- 59% of economists believe government influence will delay policy normalization.
Coverage gaps
- Further insights into specific economic indicators influencing these predictions.