Deep TechFlow message: On July 02, Takahide Kiuchi, an economist at Nomura Research Institute, said that if Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi uses her “Basic Policy” economic blueprint (expected to be approved by the Cabinet this month) to prevent further interest rate hikes, it could delay the timing of the Bank of Japan’s next move. He said, “Even if the government opposes, the Bank of Japan will raise interest rates when it deems necessary, but it may respect, to a certain extent, the government’s wishes regarding the timing of rate hikes.” He added, “Government pressure to oppose the Bank of Japan raising interest rates could further weaken the yen exchange rate and lead to lower bond prices, which would undermine the stability of the country’s economy and financial markets.” (Jin Shi)