BOJ Policy Rate Hold January 2026: Why Kazuo Ueda is Pausing at 0.75%
The Bank of Japan is expected to hold its policy rate at 0.75% in January 2026. Explore why Governor Ueda is opting for a pause despite a likely growth upgrade and weak yen benefits.
The brakes are on, but the engine is still humming. The Bank of Japan (BOJ) is set to keep its policy rate steady at 0.75% during its two-day meeting starting this Thursday. This pause comes after a landmark hike in December 2025, signaling that Governor Kazuo Ueda wants to monitor the market's pulse before the next move.
BOJ Policy Rate Hold and the 2026 Economic Outlook
According to Nikkei, the BOJ isn't just standing still; it's looking up. A growth upgrade is likely on the cards. Government measures have bolstered domestic spending and capital investment, creating a safety net for the economy. Internal sentiment at the BOJ remains optimistic, fueled by a resilient U.S. economy and export gains driven by the weak yen.
Tightening Liquidity and Business Sentiment
Business mood in Japan has stayed bright for the 3rd straight quarter, but there's a catch. Surplus funds in Japanese banks have shrunk to a 4-year low. This squeeze on investment capital could pose a challenge if the central bank decides to tighten further in the coming months.
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