http://www.nhk.or.jp/daily/english/index.html
*Japan's July economic index shows recovery improving * The Japanese government says the country's economic recovery has improved, citing a key indicator for July staying above the boom-or-bust line of 50 percent for the 4th month in a row. The Cabinet Office said on Friday that the coincident index stood at 66.7percent, following robust production of electronic parts and other items. It says Japan's automotive output declined in July due to a massive earthquake in Niigata Prefecture, but continued strength in sales by small and medium-sized manufacturers gave the index an extra boost. The leading index, which forecasts economic developments about 6 months ahead, shot up to 70 percent following new job openings. This is the second month in a row that the leading index was above the 50 percent mark. The Cabinet Office says that although Japan is on a firmer economic recovery track, these indexes may drop a little in August, due to the effects of the US subprime housing loan problem. [Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
