A Bank of Japan official remarking on the just released Tankan survey report for the September quarter.

Main pints here:

Note that at -27 the result is still awful, but the official is correct in saying it was an improvement (from -34 in Q2)

Comments:

  • Japan automakers' sentiment improved due to pick up in domestic, overseas sales as well as exports, output
  • many Japan manufacturers said pickup in sales, profits remained slow
  • service-sector firms saw confidence improve as shops reopened, business hour curbs removed