Japan's inflation hits 2-1/2-year low, raises stimulus chance this month

TOKYO (Reuters) - Japan's core consumer inflation slowed to near 2-1/2-year lows in September, dragged down by sliding energy prices and raising the chance the central bank will top up its already massive monetary stimulus at its review this month.The data will be among indicators the Bank of Japan will scrutinise at its Oct. 30-31 meeting, when it conducts a quarterly review of its growth and price forecasts.Stubbornly subdued inflation underscored the challenge the BOJ faces in accelerating..