Bank of Japan raises rates to 1% — highest since 1995 — as inflation and yen weakness bite

ABC News — Money—The Bank of Japan lifted its benchmark rate to 1 percent, a level not seen since 1995, citing persistent inflation risks and yen weakness as the primary drivers. A deputy governor flagged Iran-related geopolitical uncertainty as an added complication for the timing. Markets responded positively: the Nikkei briefly cleared 70,000 for the first time ever — first in anticipation ahead of the decision, then in a relief rally after the hike landed without surprise. The move marks a significant step in Japan's gradual exit from decades of ultra-loose monetary policy.

• ABC News — Money — Japan's Nikkei tops 70,000 as global shares rise ahead of BOJ rate decision
• Financial Times — World — Rate at 1% — first time at that level since 1995
• Financial Times — World — Rising inflation risks explicitly cited as the trigger for the hike
• The Independent (UK) — Nikkei topped 70,000 for the first time ever ahead of the decision
• Semafor — Bank of Japan raises interest rates to their highest level in more than 30 years
• ABC News — Money — Bank of Japan raises interest rate to 1%, its highest in three decades
• BBC — World — Japan raises interest rate to highest level in 31 years as inflation holds firm
• Nikkei Asia — Deputy governor flagged Iran tensions as an added uncertainty factor
• Nikkei Asia — Nikkei cleared 70,000 briefly in relief rally after the hike landed
• Al Jazeera — Bank of Japan raises interest rate to highest level since 1995 over inflation concerns
• CNBC — Yen weakness alongside inflation drove the timing of the decision