黄金与白银领跑 瑞郎与比特币上位 日元“避险光环”褪色

Core Viewpoint - The Japanese yen is increasingly losing its status as a reliable safe-haven asset amid rising skepticism in the market, leading to a significant depreciation trend against the US dollar, reaching an eight-month low [1][2]. Group 1: Yen's Current Status - The yen's traditional role as a safe-haven currency is being questioned due to Japan's unique financial environment and political uncertainties, prompting investors to seek alternative hedging options like gold, silver, and the Swiss franc [1][2][5]. - The recent political developments, including the unexpected victory of a conservative candidate in Japan's ruling party election, have further exacerbated the yen's depreciation, with the exchange rate surpassing the critical 150 mark against the dollar [2][5]. - Historical patterns of yen appreciation during market turmoil are no longer reliable, as the yen has shown a negative correlation with the S&P 500 index during periods of risk asset sell-offs [2][5]. Group 2: Market Sentiment and Investment Strategies - Investors are increasingly reducing their net long positions in the yen, with a nearly 40% cut in net long positions by global asset managers since late April, while hedge funds are predominantly shorting the yen [6][8]. - Alternative hedging options, such as the Swiss franc, are gaining traction among professional traders, with the franc showing more reliable and cost-effective hedging properties compared to the yen [8]. - Gold has surged over 54% this year, driven by global uncertainties, and is viewed as a more favorable investment compared to the yen, with top investment firms predicting further increases in gold prices [8][9]. Group 3: Long-term Outlook for the Yen - Despite the current challenges, the yen's long-term appeal as a defensive asset is not entirely diminished, as market expectations regarding the Bank of Japan's interest rate policies continue to influence its value [9][10]. - The recent "Kishida trade" reflects market speculation on renewed fiscal stimulus and monetary easing under the new leadership, which has led to increased volatility in the financial markets [9][10]. - The yen's reliability as a safe-haven currency is being undermined by its increasing susceptibility to speculative capital flows, indicating a shift away from its historical role [9][10].