Japan's economy limps back to scant growth in Q4, raises test for Takaichi

By Makiko Yamazaki and Chang-Ran Kim
TOKYO, Feb 16 (Reuters) - ***** an's economy limped back to meagre growth in the fourth quarter, significantly missing market expectations in a key test for Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's government as cost-of-living pressures ‌drag on confidence and domestic demand.
Fresh off a sweeping election victory, Takaichi's administration is preparing to ramp up investment through ‌targeted public spending in sectors seen as vital to economic security.
Monday's data bring sharp focus