[The Bank of Japan Sends Subtle Signals, Avoids Committing to Rate Hike Before April Meeting] Jin10 News, April 6 – The Bank of Japan (BOJ), in its two quarterly regional economic reports, maintained highly subtle signals, avoiding fueling market expectations of a possible rate hike this month. In another press release summarizing the views of branch managers, the BOJ stated that looking ahead, amid increasing uncertainties, there are concerns about rising prices, particularly energy prices, and their negative impact on corporate profits and private consumption. These comments suggest that the BOJ is reluctant to commit to a rate hike just three weeks ahead of its next rate decision on April 28. According to overnight swap market pricing, as of Monday, traders estimated the probability of a rate hike this month at approximately 66%, as the Iran war could pose greater upside inflation risks for Japan in an already persistently high inflation environment. The BOJ also noted that many reports indicate companies continue to pass on rising costs, such as labor and logistics expenses, to sales prices. At the same time, businesses are responding to consumer inflation fatigue by limiting price increases and expanding their lineup of low-priced products.