Japan economy minister Motegi on the data earlier today

  • Need to look at more economic data to judge strength of consumer spending
  • Government's assessment is that consumer spending is in gradual recovery
  • Want to closely monitor how North Korea affects financial markets

Also, comments from Japan finance minister Aso:

  • To visit us from September 4 for informal talks with VP Pence ahead of bilateral economic dialogue
  • Don't know yet how North Korea issue will be discussed with Pence

those Headlines via Reuters

On this from Aso:

  • "Don't know yet how North Korea issue will be discussed with Pence"

Crying, lying on the floor prostrate, arms wrapped around Pence's ankles, begging for support, I reckon.