The Bank of Japan (BOJ) released minutes of its April meeting showing that some members in April believed it was necessary to raise interest rates as soon as possible. One member even suggested that if inflation risks intensify, the pace of rate hikes could be accelerated. The minutes quoted members as saying that even though the future trajectory of the Middle East conflict remains uncertain, the BOJ is highly likely to begin raising interest rates from its next meeting.The BOJ kept interest rates unchanged last month, but three out of the nine members supported a rate hike. According to the minutes, some members mentioned that while there is no need for hasty action at present, the BOJ should raise rates as soon as possible unless clear signs of an economic slowdown emerge. (mn/a)
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