1. Japanese Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama stated today that she would not comment on specific exchange rate levels, but the government is prepared to take appropriate measures to address currency fluctuations. She emphasized that the Japanese government has maintained close contact with US authorities regarding foreign exchange issues. Specific monetary policy decisions will be made by the Bank of Japan, which is expected to maintain close communication with the government and adopt appropriate monetary policies.
2. A Japanese government spokesperson just stated that they will not comment on exchange rate levels. They remain prepared to take necessary actions in the foreign exchange market. Monetary policy is under the jurisdiction of the Bank of Japan, and interest rate changes are determined by the market. They are closely monitoring market developments with a high degree of urgency. Appropriate foreign exchange actions will be taken as needed at any time.
3. Although no key Bank of Japan officials made direct statements regarding the yen's exchange rate this week, the Bank of Japan's silence this week is closely related to market expectations of a rate hike at the end of July.
4. Japan's recent strategy may have shifted towards "surprise" intervention. Katayama's rhetoric has been restrained in recent days, refraining from using the highest level of warnings similar to those issued in April, which called for "bold action." The foreign exchange market is currently on high alert for the Japanese Ministry of Finance's potential "surprise" sell-off of US dollars and purchase of Japanese yen during periods of low liquidity (such as around the US Independence Day holiday on July 4).
