The Japanese yen strengthened to approximately 153 yen per U.S. dollar, recovering from a four-month low. This rebound occurred after Japanese authorities intensified their verbal warnings against rapid currency fluctuations.
Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato emphasized that despite the yen’s brief improvement, the government will monitor exchange rates closely and take necessary action.
Japan Could Speed Up Rate Hikes
Furthermore, financial institution MUFG suggested that Japan might accelerate interest rate hikes due to ongoing inflation pressures.
However, Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda mentioned Monday that future rate increases would be gradual and dependent on economic developments without a specific timeline.
Yen Tumbles 10% as BOJ Rate Decision Looms
The yen has declined over 10% since its peak in September, mainly because of uncertainty surrounding the Bank of Japan’s plans for raising interest rates. The currency’s fall was also exacerbated by the strengthening U.S. dollar, driven by expectations that the Federal Reserve will be less aggressive in cutting rates and the influence of so-called “trump trades.”