Japan 3Q GDP Falls 0.5% on Quarter

The transcript discusses the unexpected contraction of Japan's economy by 1.9% in the third quarter, which was more than the initial estimate of 1.6%. This poses a challenge for Prime Minister Abe as he approaches the upcoming election. Key issues include low inflation rates and the yen's depreciation. Abe's economic policies, known as Abenomics, face scrutiny as smaller firms struggle. The planned sales tax hike has been delayed to support economic recovery, with expectations of a slight growth boost.

What was the revised annualized contraction rate of the Japanese economy in the third quarter?

• 2.0%

• 1.5%

• 1.6%

• 1.9%

What is one of the key challenges Prime Minister Abe faces before the election?

• High inflation rates

• Strong yen

• Low core consumer price inflation

• Increased exports

What impact has the unprecedented easing by the Bank of Japan had on the yen?

• Strengthened the yen

• No impact on the yen

• Weakened the yen to 7-year lows

• Stabilized the yen

How long has the planned sales tax hike been postponed?

• 12 months

• 24 months

• 6 months

• 18 months

By how much do economists predict the growth in Japan will increase due to the sales tax hike postponement?

• 0.3 percentage points

• 1.0 percentage points

• 0.5 percentage points

• 0.1 percentage points