RBC lowers Walmart (WMT.N) PT to $131 from $137.

Japan's Nikkei 225 opened down 639.56 points, or 0.97%, at 65,577.23 on Friday, Aug. 21.

SMBC Nikko economists say the BOJ will likely raise its policy rate from 1.00% to 1.25% at the September meeting and expect two further hikes in January and June 2027, taking the rate to 1.75%. They add import-driven inflation pressure should ease after next summer, making a 2.00% peak — above market estimates of the neutral rate — unlikely. OIS markets price an 84% chance of a September hike and imply two additional hikes by early 2027.