BOJ pressured after core inflation dropped to 2-year low amid slow price momentum

Japan’s core inflation dropped at a two-year low in July that puts pressure to the central bank as the price momentum slows down and extend to radical stimulus program. 

The world markets’ attention is now focused on the global central bank to determine whether they will further amp up stimulus amid the Sino-US trade war and higher demand in the second half of the year. 

Expectations for further easing of the Bank of Japan has increased based on the recent poll from Reuters after the last meeting as they intend to expand the stimulus program if the global slowdown continues that could negatively affect Japan’s economic recovery. 

The core consumer price index grew by 0.6% in July year-on-year, including oil products but excludes fresh food prices, which met economists’ median estimate. It matched previous gain and increased by 0.5%, which has been the slowest since July 2017. 

Also, the core CPI grew to 0.6% in July compared to a year ago, excluding volatile food and energy costs. This was carefully monitored by the central bank to know the price figure. 

However, the numbers show that the central bank is still far from the two percent inflation target given the 8-month low on exports amid the tariff war between the US and China and slow global demand that affects Japan’s economy. 

Japan’s economy grew by 1.8% in annualized rate in the second quarter due to strong household consumption and business investment. However, even if the signs are positively strengthening, analysts are still wary and warns that stronger momentum is necessary for growth.