Japanese business mood splits: factories down while services hit new heights
Latest business survey shows Japanese factories facing tough times due to global trade issues‚ while service sector enjoys tourism boom. GDP data brings mixed signals for economic outlook
Japanese business confidence shows a split path this winter-season‚ with factory mood dropping below zero for first time since early-23 (while service companies report strong growth)
The latest business check-up shows manufacturers index at -1 vs last months +5; marking the first negative score in about 10 months. Electronics steel and metal-making companies showed the biggest drop in confidence. “Many investment plans are now on-hold due to trade uncertainties“ [[machinery company manager noted]]
The non-manufacturing sector tells a different story: its showing a jump to +30 from +19 last time. “Our business is getting better thanks to lots of foreign visitors“ [[service sector respondent wrote]]
- US trade rules worry
- Chinese market slowdown
- Driver shortage issues
- Cost-passing success
Recent GDP numbers got a small boost to 1‚2% yearly rate (up from 0‚9%) for summer months. But spending numbers went down which doesnt help recovery hopes
The survey checked 505 big non-financial firms between nov 27 and dec 6; with 236 giving answers. Both sectors expect things to get better by spring: manufacturers see +5 index while service firms predict +32
Companies dealing with China point to ongoing property problems high local debt and weak buying as main issues. Meanwhile transport firms say theyre doing ok despite worker shortages because they can raise prices now
