BOJ’s shift away from decades of ultra-accommodative monetary policy
The US Federal Reserve (US Fed) raised its benchmark interest rate for the first time since 2023, underscoring its continued focus on controlling inflation and maintaining price stability. The Bank of Japan (BOJ) increased its benchmark rate in September to its highest level since 1995 as it continued its gradual shift away from decades of ultra-accommodative monetary policy. Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump met at the White House, marking the second in an exchange of reciprocal presidential visits within six months. China’s economy slowed notably in the second quarter of 2026, while Eurozone inflation rose to 3.8% in September, the highest reading since September 2023. The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) increased the repo rate by 25 basis points at its September meeting, in line with market expectations.