"Japan's Exports Propel Q2 GDP Beyond Expectations"

Japan's economy grew faster than expected in Q2, with a 6.0% annualized growth and a quarterly gain of 1.5%, driven by strong auto exports and tourist arrivals. However, the growth masks underlying weakness in the household sector, as private consumption fell 0.5% quarter-on-quarter. The boost in external demand and a decline in imports contributed to growth, but the Bank of Japan is expected to maintain its current monetary policy and adopt a wait-and-see stance.