JAPAN DATA: The average wage at major firms listed in the first and
second sections of the Tokyo Stock Exchange is expected to rise 1.66% in
fiscal 2012, lower than +1.72% forecast for fiscal 2011 about a year
ago, a survey by the Institute of Labor Administration showed. This
indicates the wage gain for fiscal 2012 starting on April 1 will fall
short of the actual increase in the average wage of +1.85% in fiscal
2011. The survey results have correlated closely with actual figures.
Uncertain growth prospects as well as the drag from the March earthquake
disaster and the strong yen are likely to cap wage growth, the institute
said. It surveyed 505 professors, journalists and specialists in labor
economists between Dec. 9 and Jan. 13.