BoJ Gov Kuroda: Vital to continue easing persistently

The BoJ Governor Haruhiko Kuroda, speaking at the Japanese Trust Banks Association meeting in Tokyo, said that consumer prices are rising as a trend but remains on a weak note compared with expansion in the economy, tightening labour market. 

Additional quotes: 

   •  Inflation likely to gradually accelerate towards 2%.
   •  Japan's economy is expanding moderately and exports are on a rising trend.
   •  Must be vigilant to recent protectionist moves.
   •  Vital to continue easing persistently.
   •  See no excesses building up in Japan's financial system.
   •  Profitability of regional financial institutions falling as a trend due to a declining population, falling number of firms, prolonged low rates.