Japan's exports and production have shown some weakness recently, having been affected by the slowdown in overseas economies, particularly China. On the other hand, domestic demand has been firm compared with external demand, and business fixed investment has continued on an increasing trend. Private consumption has also been increasing moderately against the background of steady improvement in the employment and income situation.
The decade ahead will see continued rapid change in economies and in the financial system, driven by technology, by changing demographics, the imperative of responding to the climate and biodiversity emergencies, and a more uncertain world. This requires us then to accelerate our own pace of change to deliver on our mandate and to meet the public's expectations of us.