Japan's economy has continued to recover moderately as a trend, although the subsequent decline in demand following the front - loaded increase prior to the consumption tax hike has been observed. Overseas economies -- mainly advanced economies -- are recovering , albeit with a lackluster performance still seen in part. Exports have recently leveled off more or less . Business fixed investment has increased moderately as corporate profits have improved. Public investment has more or less leveled off at a high level . Private consumption and housing investment have remained resilient as a trend with improvement in the ... (full story)