BoJ left monetary policy unchanged today as widely expected, but stepped up its signal for more easing ahead. Under the yield curve control framework, short term policy interest rate was held at -0.1%. Also, the central back will continue to increase monetary base at JPY 80T a year, with purchases of JGB to keep 10-year yield at around 0%. The decision was made by 7-2 vote, with Y. Harada and G. Kataoka dissenting as usual.
The forward guidance was changed to: “As for the policy rates, the Bank expects short- and long-term interest rates to remain at their present or lower levels as long as it is necessary to pay close attention to the possibility that the momentum toward achieving the price stability target will be lost.” Previously, BoJ said its  committed to keep “current ultra-low rates for an extended period of time, at least until the spring of 2020.” It’s a clear message that BoJ is ready to cut interest rates again any time if outlook deteriorates further.
At the post meeting press conference, Governor Haruhiko Kuroda confirmed that the new forward guidance aimed at clarifying the stance that “policy bias is leaning towards additional monetary easing.” Regarding the tools, BoJ could “cut interest rates, increase asset buying or accelerate the pace of increase in base money”.
