Japan’s economy expanded in the last quarter of 2024 at a slower pace than reported in preliminary data, giving the Bank of Japan added incentive to hold policy settings steady when authorities gather next week.

TOKYO] Japan’s economy expanded in the last quarter of 2024 at a slower pace than reported in preliminary data, a result that may give the Bank of Japan (BOJ) an added incentive to hold policy settings steady when authorities gather next week.

Japan's economy expanded in the October-December quarter at a slower pace than initially reported, government data showed on Tuesday, weighed by weaker consumption but still likely supporting the case for further interest rate hikes.