Tankan Survey: Japan's Large Manufacturers Show Optimism at 17

The Bank of Japan's Tankan survey revealed a business optimism index of 17 for large manufacturers in Q1 2026, up from 15 in the previous quarter, surpassing the expected 16. This marks the highest optimism level since Q4 2021. Non-manufacturers maintained a sentiment index of 36, consistent with last quarter's revised figure, also exceeding expectations. Despite this positivity, analysts warn that rising energy costs and the ongoing Iran war could impact future sentiment and economic stability, particularly as Japan relies on imports for over 87% of its energy needs.