BOJ Holds off on More Stimulus

The Bank of Japan (BOJ) has decided to maintain its monetary base target at 80 trillion yen and keep the policy balance rate at -0.1%, continuing its negative interest rate policy. Despite expectations from economists for some action, the BOJ has not changed its policy but has delayed the timing for reaching its 2% inflation target. The yen has strengthened, and economic data indicates deflationary pressures, with the economy struggling to recover. The BOJ acknowledges downside risks to the price outlook and is prepared to add easing if necessary. Economists anticipate more stimulus by the end of June.

What is the policy balance rate maintained by the BOJ?

What are the downside risks mentioned by the BOJ regarding the price outlook?

What has the BOJ said about the timing for reaching the 2% inflation target?

What is the current monetary base target set by the BOJ?

How have economists reacted to the BOJ's decision not to act today?