FX.co ★ Japan Leading Index Highest in 18 Months

Japan's primary economic index, which assesses the future economic outlook using indicators such as employment opportunities and consumer confidence, rose to 110.5 in November 2025, up from 109.8 in October. This figure surpassed market expectations of 110.4 and represents the highest point since May 2024. The rise was chiefly bolstered by a surge in consumer confidence, reaching an 18-month high in November. Employment achieved a new record, even as the unemployment rate held steady at 2.6%. Nevertheless, cost pressures are likely to persist as the year concludes. Despite these challenges, overall consumption continues to recover.