Japan's Base Wages See Highest Increase Since 1993

Record wage growth in May signals potential for Bank of Japan policy shift despite ongoing inflation challenges.

Base pay for Japanese workers rose 2.5% in May, the fastest growth since 1993.
A more stable measure for full-time workers showed a record 2.7% increase.
Average wage increases this year are the largest since 1991, with a 5.1% rise secured by unions.
Despite nominal wage gains, real wages fell for the 26th consecutive month due to inflation.
Economists remain cautious about a BOJ rate hike amid mixed signals on consumer spending.