BoJ Expected to Raise Rates by December, Poll Shows

According to a Reuters poll, most economists surveyed anticipate that the Bank of Japan (BoJ) will raise its benchmark interest rate again by December. Some analysts see a potential hike as early as October, with further tightening expected through next year.

The survey reflects growing confidence that the BoJ will continue normalizing monetary policy after ending its negative rate regime earlier this year. The timing and pace of future hikes remain data-dependent, with the central bank closely monitoring inflation and wage trends.

For currency markets, a rate increase would typically support the yen. However, the exact market reaction will depend on the magnitude of the move and forward guidance from the BoJ.