1. A closely followed business survey in Japan shows sentiment improved at major manufacturers for the fifth straight quarter. This is despite analyst concerns the Middle East conflict would dampen the mood.
2. The Japanese yen remained under pressure in Tokyo on Wednesday after weakening to the upper 162-level against the dollar in New York overnight.
3. A survey in Japan indicates prices of more than 2,500 food items will rise in July. Businesses say they are passing on higher costs linked to the Middle East conflict.