0316 GMT - The timing of the BOJ's next move is more unclear than usual, given the uncertainty related to the Middle East conflict and energy prices, Macquarie analysts say. The central bank opted to keep rates on hold earlier this week, while leaving the door open to more tightening over the next months. Gov. Ueda noted the risk that rising crude oil prices could worsen terms of trade, weigh on the economy and push up inflation expectations. The Macquarie team expects the BOJ to remain patient through the current episode uncertainty, seeing the next rate-hike as likely to come in July. That said, risks are skewed toward an earlier move, especially if the yen continues to depreciate.(fabiana.negrinochoa@wsj.com)
(END) Dow Jones Newswires
March 19, 2026 23:16 ET (03:16 GMT)
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