Yen Slides to Weakest Level Against Dollar in 8 Months

Core Viewpoint - The Japanese yen is experiencing significant depreciation as market expectations for a rate hike by the Bank of Japan diminish, with the USDJPY exchange rate reaching 153 yen per dollar, the lowest since February 14 [1]. Group 1: Currency Impact - The selection of Sanae Takaichi in the Liberal Democratic Party leadership contest has contributed to the yen's decline, as she advocates for lower interest rates, which are generally detrimental to domestic currencies [1]. - The yen's drop past the 150 level against the dollar is perceived as an initial phase of a more extensive decline, with comparisons drawn to former Prime Minister Abe's policies that favored monetary and fiscal stimulus over structural reforms [2].