The source of a Cyclospora illness outbreak affecting over 1,600 people remains unknown after the FDA declared a previous positive test on Taylor Farms de Mexico lettuce a false positive. Despite the false positive, the FDA maintains its recall recommendation for Taylor Farms' Mexican-grown iceberg lettuce, based on epidemiological data.
Japan's core inflation fell to 1.4% in April, the lowest since March 2022, below economists' expectations. Headline inflation also declined, further below the BOJ's target, potentially delaying a rate hike despite economic growth.
Japan's core inflation accelerated to 1.8% in March, the first rise in five months, driven by Iran war-fueled higher energy prices. Headline inflation remained below the Bank of Japan's 2% target at 1.5%. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is considering capping gasoline prices at 170 yen per liter. The BOJ is expected to hold rates at 0.75% at its April 27-28 meeting, with Citi noting the hold will likely be hawkish.
Japan's core inflation accelerated to 1.8% in March, the first rise in five months, driven by Iran war-fueled higher energy prices. The figure matched economist expectations and exceeded February's 1.6%. Headline inflation remained below the Bank of Japan's 2% target at 1.5%. The BOJ is expected to hold rates at 0.75% at its April 27-28 meeting, with Citi describing the hold as likely "hawkish" due to yen depreciation concerns and inflation risks. The central bank will cut its FY2026 growth forecast while revising up inflation projections.
