Bank of Japan Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino indicated no imminent interest rate hike in his latest speech, aligning with market expectations that the central bank will maintain its current rate at the upcoming policy meeting. The recent conflict in the Middle East has added to global economic uncertainties, influencing the Bank of Japan's cautious stance. Himino's remarks suggest a low probability of a rate hike at the March 19 meeting, contrasting with his January 2025 position when a rate increase was anticipated and executed. Current market pricing reflects only a 6% chance of a rate hike this month, though expectations for April show a 65% probability of an increase.