FX.co ★ Japan Services Sentiment Notches 8-Month High

Japan's service sector index rose to 47.1 in September 2025, up from 46.7 the previous month, achieving its highest level since January. This marks the fifth consecutive monthly increase, exceeding market expectations of 47.0. The household budget trend index showed improvement, spurred by advancements in housing-related and other sectors, even as food and beverage production weakened. In contrast, the corporate trend index declined, affected by a downturn in manufacturing, although there was a strengthening in employment figures. Additionally, the economic outlook index climbed to an eight-month high of 48.5 in September, up from 47.5, signaling signs of ongoing economic recovery amid continued cost pressures and the influence of U.S. trade policies.