Credit Suisse's Shirakawa on Japan Inflation Data

The transcript discusses Japan's monetary policy, focusing on inflation challenges and the Bank of Japan's efforts to reach a 2% inflation target. It highlights the impact of energy prices on inflation and consumer behavior, particularly the sensitivity of Japanese consumers to food prices. The discussion also covers the moderate wage growth in Japan and its effect on purchasing power.

What is the current core inflation measure in Japan according to the Bank of Japan's report?

• 3.0%

• 1.0%

• 0.2%

• 2.0%

How do energy prices influence inflation in Japan?

• They only affect consumer behavior.

• They are crucial for both headline and core inflation measures.

• They only affect the core inflation measure.

• They have no impact on inflation.

How do Japanese consumers typically respond to rising food prices?

• They increase spending on other products.

• They limit spending on other products.

• They are unaffected by food price changes.

• They save more money.

What is a significant difference between Japanese and American consumers regarding gasoline prices?

• Japanese consumers are more affected by gasoline prices.

• American consumers are less affected by gasoline prices.

• Japanese consumers are less affected by gasoline prices.

• Both are equally affected by gasoline prices.

What is the current state of wage growth in Japan?

• Wages are decreasing.

• Wages have bottomed out but growth is moderate.

• Wages are unaffected by inflation.

• Wages are rapidly increasing.