WTO upgrades goods trade outlook as AI demand bolsters Asia
The WTO expects Asia to contribute 4.0 percentage points to global goods trade growth in 2026, while conflict-related disruptions weaken the services outlook.
Japan records ninth straight annual drop in household spending
August spending fell 3.1% from a year earlier, less than the 3.6% decline in the median market forecast.
Figures published October 9 by Japan's internal affairs ministry put household spending in August 3.1% below its year-earlier level. It was the ninth consecutive month of annual declines, though the fall was smaller than expected.
The median market forecast had called for a 3.6% decrease. Spending increased 0.1% from the previous month after seasonal adjustment, falling short of the estimated 0.5% rise.
The Bank of Japan will examine the spending indicator among other factors in deciding whether to lift interest rates over the coming months.
Separate wage figures showed an August increase in real wages, their eighth consecutive monthly gain.