Japan Economy Watchers Outlook Index Climbs to 47.3 in July

Japan’s Economy Watchers Survey showed an improvement in sentiment during July. The current conditions index edged up to 45.2, narrowly missing the consensus forecast of 45.5 but exceeding June’s 45.0 reading. The outlook component rose more sharply to 47.3, beating expectations of 46.4 and marking a gain from the previous 45.9. Although both gauges remain below the 50 threshold that separates contraction from expansion, the figures point to a gradual rebound in confidence among workers who are sensitive to day-to-day economic trends.