>>> BOJ gov Kuroda: Domestic demand is solid despite recent tax hike; to continu


BOJ gov Kuroda: Domestic demand is solid despite recent tax hike; to continue moderate economic recovery - post rate decision press conference
- Positive cycle is working in the domestic economy 
- Bank lending is rising moderately; financial conditions are accommodative 
- Consumer prices likely to hit 2% around middle of forecast period between FY14-16 
- No change in stance; will adjust policy as needed 
- QE is having its intended effect 
- Expects Q2 GDP to contract (**Note: Q1 GDP was +1.5% vs. +1.0%e due to front-loading of sales tax hike) 
- Private consumption stays in firm trend; pullback in retail sales after the sales tax hike is easing; will keep watching impact from sales tax hike
- Halfway to acheiving 2% inflation target 
- Sees no change in stock price trend 
- No reason for JPY currency (Yen) to appreciate given various factors