[Bank of Japan: Middle East Situation, AI, and Exchange Rates Are Factors to Consider When Assessing the Timing of the Next Rate Hike] The Bank of Japan stated that it will continue to raise interest rates based on economic and price conditions. Price trends are expected to align with targets in the second half of fiscal year 2026 to fiscal year 2027. There is a risk of price trends deviating and exceeding the target. The Middle East situation, AI, and exchange rates are factors to consider when assessing the timing of the next rate hike. Stabilizing price trends around 2% is crucial. Inflation trends are increasingly approaching 2%. Japan's financial conditions have remained accommodative, and financial conditions will continue to stay accommodative.