Bank of Japan raises interest rates to 31-year high, flags concerns over inflation

The decision was split 7-2, with board members Toichiro Asada and Ayano Sato dissenting from the hike.

Bank of Japan raises interest rates to 31-year high, flags concerns over inflation

TL;DR

  • The Bank of Japan increased its policy rate by 25 basis points to 1.25%, the highest since 1995.
  • This hike represents an acceleration in the BOJ's rate increase cycle.
  • The decision was split 7-2, with Toichiro Asada and Ayano Sato dissenting.
  • The BOJ cited concerns that inflation may exceed its 2% target.
  • The move comes amid rising inflation and a historically weak yen.
  • The U.S. has pressured Japan to continue its rate-hiking cycle.