Market analysts reaction to Japan's ruling coalition split

Core Viewpoint - The breakup of Japan's ruling coalition raises uncertainty regarding the political landscape and economic outlook, particularly concerning the premiership bid of Sanae Takaichi, the new hardline leader of the Liberal Democratic Party [1] Market Reaction - The yen strengthened by up to 0.5% to 152.38 per dollar following the coalition split, although it was last trading at 152.73 [2] - The yield on the two-year Japanese government bond (JGB) decreased by 2 basis points to 0.905%, while the 30-year JGB yield increased by 5 basis points to 3.225% [2] Analyst Comments - Shoki Omori from Mizuho Securities indicated that if Takaichi fails to become Prime Minister and a pro-BOJ tightening candidate emerges, the market may start to price in the risk of a reversal, potentially pushing USD/JPY down, although the yen is expected to remain a funding/carry currency [2][3] - Bart Wakabayashi from State Street noted that aggressive selling of the yen occurred based on Takaichi's campaign, and the market will react if there is no consensus on her approval as Prime Minister [3] - Naka Matsuzawa from Nomura Securities mentioned that the immediate market reaction involves unwinding Takaichi trades, with two potential scenarios: the LDP retaining a solo cabinet or forming a coalition with the DPP, which could lead to a resurgence of Takaichi trades if fiscal expansion is supported [4]