Furthermore, the downside risk on the outlook for the U.S. and other overseas economies continues to require attention, given that there are some uncertain factors including geopolitical developments and their economic implication. On the domestic side, stock prices remain unstable. Hence, the progress in the disposal of non-performing loans and its effects on stock prices, corporate finance, and the economy, should be carefully monitored.
On the price front, import prices are on the rise reflecting the earlier firmness in oil prices and depreciation of the yen.