AI Data Insight
According to the latest data, Japan's Q2 housing starts reached 66,344 units, a significant jump from the previous 57,877 units. Although external searches indicate this increase (18.6% YoY) is mostly attributed to June statistics, the performance still significantly exceeded market expectations of 12.8%. Supported by demand for owner-occupied and rental housing, the short-term housing market showed resilient momentum, but future risks regarding building material costs and interest rate hikes must still be monitored.