Bank of Japan Expected to Hold Policy Rate at 1.25% in October

The Bank of Japan (BOJ) is expected to pause rate increases at its Oct. 29-30 meeting, holding the policy rate at 1.25% as officials gauge September's move and consider the timing of another increase.

A hold is expected to draw support from more than half of the nine-member policy committee. The September increase followed a 7-2 vote on Sept. 18 and took effect Sept. 24, bringing the overnight rate target to about 1.25%.

The BOJ is also expected to view underlying inflation, with temporary fluctuations excluded, as having reached the 2% target. Its policy focus is expected to include limiting any further rise above 2%, keeping inflation stable and deciding when another increase is appropriate.