ForexLive Asia-Pacific FX news wrap: Japan inflation data stays well above target

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Japan’s consumer inflation eased for the first time in four months, as the return of government subsidies helped lower utility costs. Still, all key February CPI readings remained well above the Bank of Japan’s 2% target:

• Headline CPI rose 3.7% y/y (vs. 3.5% expected), down from January’s 4.0%
• Core CPI (ex. fresh food) rose 3.0% y/y (vs. 2.9% expected; prior 3.2%)
• Core-core CPI (ex. food and energy) edged up to 2.6% y/y, topping both expectations and the previous month’s 2.5%

The stronger-than-expected data prompted fresh speculation of a potential BoJ rate hike at its next meeting (April 30–May 1), though the central bank left rates unchanged this week amid ongoing global trade uncertainty—a theme that may linger into the next decision.

In currencies, USD/JPY climbed toward 149.20, with the yen softening slightly on the day. Other major FX pairs traded in tight, subdued ranges.

Elsewhere, gold slipped modestly in a quiet session with limited news or data flow.

This article was written by Eamonn Sheridan at www.forexlive.com.