MNI 5 THINGS: Japan Nov Sentiment Rises on Food, Services

--Japan Nov Econ Watchers Current Index 51.0; Oct 49.5 

--Japan Nov Watchers Current Index Posts 2nd Straight Rise 

--Japan Nov Watchers Outlook Index 52.2; Oct 50.6 

--Japan Nov Watchers Outlook Index Posts 1st Rise in 3 Months

--Japan Govt Ups View: Recovering Moderately 

--Japan Govt: Firms Concerned Over Rising Costs, Trade Impact

     TOKYO (MNI) - Japan's current sentiment index rose in November for the

second straight monthly rise, thanks to higher retail sales and increased

services demand, a key government survey released Monday showed.

     The survey indicates whether respondents with jobs most sensitive to

economic conditions -- taxi and truck drivers, department-store sales staff and

restaurant and shop owners -- think economic conditions have improved or

worsened from three months before.

     These are the key points from the latest monthly Economy Watchers Survey,

conducted by the Cabinet Office between Nov. 25 and Nov. 31.

     --The Economy Watchers sentiment index for Japan's current economic climate

rose 1.5 points to 51.0 in November on a seasonally adjusted basis, the second

straight rise after rising 0.9 points to 49.5 in October. The index rose above

the key level of 50.

     --The Watchers outlook index showed sentiment over the situation two to

three months ahead marked the first rise in three months, up 1.6 points to 52.2,

thanks to recovering retail sales, foods and housing after the temporary

weakness in the third quarter. The index fell 0.7 points to 50.6 in October. 

     --The Cabinet Office slightly upgraded its overall economic assessment

based on the Economy Watchers Survey, saying, the DI is "recovering moderately."

Previously, it said, "The gradual recovery continues."

     --"Looking ahead, there are concerns over high costs and the impact of the

trade dispute. But there are expectations for end-year sales," the Cabinet

Office said.

--MNI Tokyo Bureau; tel: +81 90-2175-0040; email: hiroshi.inoue@marketnews.com

--MNI London Bureau; tel: +44 203-586-2225; email: les.commons@marketnews.com

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