[Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda Hints at Possible Rate Hike] Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda stated that the Japanese economy has shown a moderate recovery trend, with the inflation rate expected to briefly fall below 2% in the early part of fiscal year 2026 before accelerating again and approaching the 2% target in the latter half of the outlook period. He noted that the trend of wages and prices rising in tandem is strengthening, and the impact of exchange rates on prices is increasing. To achieve the price stability target, the central bank will adjust its easing policy at an appropriate time and consider further rate hikes if the economy and prices continue to improve.