Japan’s S&P Global Services PMI rose to 53.4 in January 2026 from 51.6 in the previous month, marking the highest reading since July, flash data showed. The latest result also signaled a tenth consecutive month of expansion in services activity, with new orders growing at the fastest pace in four months and overseas demand continuing to strengthen. Also, employment increased at a solid pace, supported by a notable rise in outstanding business at services firms. On the pricing front, cost pressures eased as input price inflation softened, though companies continued to raise their selling prices at a faster rate.