BOJ Expected to Hold 0.75% Rate Amid Inflation

BOJ likely to keep benchmark short‑term rate at 0.75% on April 28, marking a third consecutive hold after December’s 25 bps hike.
Analysts cite rising consumer inflation, oil price spikes and Middle‑East tensions as reasons for a hawkish stance despite expectations of a hold.
Market pricing shows USD/JPY below 160 yen, limiting yen depreciation, while Nikkei 225 climbs to highs on tech, banking and industrial gains.
ANZ expects a 25 bps hike in June, while ING and OCBC consider possible April hikes if inflation pressures persist.