Reports from Japan indicate that the country’s government is considering nominating Bank of Japan Deputy Governor Amamiya to succeed outgoing Governor Kuroda. However, government officials have refuted these reports. Australia’s Trade Minister is expected to meet his Chinese counterpart in Beijing in the near future in an attempt to improve trade relations.
Australia’s Q4 Retail Sales -3.9% m/m, as expected (last 1.7%); -0.2% qtr/qtr (expected -0.6%; last 0.3%). January MI Inflation Gauge 0.9% m/m (last 0.2%)