Japan\\\'s quarterly growth disappoints

Japan's economy grew less than expected at the end of last year, countering forecasts it would see higher spending ahead of a sales tax increase in April. Gross domestic product rose by 1 per cent on an annualised basis in the three-month period to December, compared with market estimates for a 2.8-per cent expansion. This was due to weaker private consumption and capital spending, as well as lower export figures. However, this was Japan's fourth straight quarterly expansion. The latest figures highlight questions about the sustainability of Japan's economic recovery, and whether the government's policy of 'Abenomics' is working, according to a news agency.