Japan posts 0.1% Q4 growth, narrowly dodges recession but misses forecasts

Japan's economy grew 0.1% in Q4 2025, narrowly avoiding a technical recession (annualized +0.2%) but missing economists' 0.4% forecast; private consumption led the gain while exports and public spending lagged, and the BOJ lifted its 2026 growth outlook. The release comes as Tokyo and Washington push a $550 billion investment pledge under their trade deal, with currency moves and domestic politics shaping sentiment.