The current interest rate is not yet out of desired range -- it takes more time to determine its effects on Japan's economy. Over-flooding of the market BOJ recently stopped and continuing zero interest rate policy have two completely different policy implications. After all, it is up to BOJ to decide on the interest rate.
Recent statistics figures, including consumer price index and soaring resources prices, shows that deflation is waning.
It was decided at today's Chairman and Vice Chairmen's meeting that Keidanren will not nominate a candidate for 2007 House of Councilors election. The main reason behind this decision is that each member company and member industry of Keidanren is used to having supported its own candidate, and having a Keidanren candidate caused negative impacts in the past, so it must not be repeated.
He has served the post for long, but more structural reforms must come ? making me also to feel that his tenure is not necessarily that long.
Mr. Ozawa should lead the party into a more integrated and intact one so that DPJ could counter LDP and ruling coalition.