Iran War Uncertainty Inhibits BOJ From Sending Clear Rate Signal

The Bank of Japan’s messaging has given traders the impression it will raise the benchmark rate this month even as authorities cite the Middle East conflict as a source of uncertainty, with a key question being whether it will send a clear signal, as it did on recent occasions before a move.

There may not be many opportunities to do so ahead of the April 28 decision. The central bank hasn’t scheduled any major speeches by board members this month, and Governor Kazuo Ueda’s lone speaking engagement comes on April 13 as one of several keynote speakers at a conference where the governor’s remarks are typically brief.