MNI BRIEF: Japan Nov Outlook Index Rise First In Four Months

Japan's outlook index for two-three months ahead rose 1.0 point to 49.4 in November from 48.4 in October, its first rise in four months, while the sentiment index remained unchanged at 49.5 after rising over the last three months, according to the Economy Watchers report released by the Cabinet Office on Friday.

Companies noted lower private consumption due to price hikes, while household savings have increased, which has clouded the outlook, a cabinet office official told reporters.

“The economy is recovering moderately as a trend but it is marking time. Looking ahead, a moderate economic recovery is likely to continue, although there is concern over the impact of high prices,” the government noted, keeping its broad assessment unchanged.

Indices linked to business and the labour market fell, while the household index rose.