Latest data released by the Japanese Machine Tool Builders' Association
- Prior +5.1%
The reading measures the change in total value of new orders placed with Japanese machine tool manufacturers. On a monthly basis, the total of both foreign and domestic orders rose by 9.2% so that's at least some good news in terms of factory activity. Orders are still growing but at a much slower pace than seen in 2017 - and the pace is slowing down still this year.
It's not a major release by any means but it's a rough indication of manufacturing sentiment in the Japanese economy. USD/JPY continues to hold near flat levels on the day at 113.00 currently.
