[Economist: Bank of Japan Has Not Abandoned Tightening Stance] Reported by Golden Finance, March 19 news, senior economist Masato Koike from research institution Sompo stated that the weakening yen remains a factor. Despite risks, the Bank of Japan continues to signal its commitment to further rate hikes. Even considering differing opinions among committee members (including Hajime Takata and Naoki Tamura), this perspective is still reflected. Overall, the clearest message is that the Bank of Japan has not abandoned its tightening stance. In terms of financial markets, the Bank of Japan generally believes that it is difficult to proceed with rate hikes during periods of high market instability. Current market volatility, coupled with escalating tensions in the Middle East, may not alter its fundamental policy direction. I will closely monitor the extent to which Governor Kazuo Ueda adopts a firmer stance (during the press conference) and how he responds to questions regarding his relationship with the Kishida administration. (Jin10)