再触155关口！日元贬值魔咒难破 央行与政府政策分歧加剧市场疑虑

Core Viewpoint - The Japanese yen is experiencing significant depreciation, raising concerns about the new government's ability to intervene effectively to support the currency, especially in light of Prime Minister Kishida's signals of a potential slowdown in interest rate hikes [1][2][3] Currency Trends - The yen has depreciated approximately 4.5% against the US dollar this quarter, marking the largest decline among G10 currencies, with the exchange rate reaching around 154.73 [1][2] - The yen's rapid fluctuations have prompted warnings from Japanese officials, indicating a heightened urgency to monitor excessive volatility [1][2] Government and Central Bank Actions - Japan's Finance Ministry previously intervened in the market when the yen fell to around 160.17, with multiple interventions at various levels [2] - Current discussions suggest that if the yen surpasses 155 against the dollar, the likelihood of intervention will significantly increase [2][3] - The Bank of Japan maintained its interest rates in the last meeting, with a decision on the next policy expected on December 19, and a majority of economists anticipate a rate hike by January [2][4] Market Sentiment and Predictions - Analysts suggest that if the yen breaks the 155 mark, verbal intervention may intensify, and the probability of a rate hike by the Bank of Japan could also rise [3] - The market currently estimates a 40% chance of a rate hike by the end of the year, with full expectations for a rate increase not anticipated until April next year [4] Economic Implications - A weaker yen could benefit Japan's export sector by increasing the value of repatriated earnings, but it also raises import costs and inflationary pressures [2] - The potential for intervention may complicate Japan's $550 billion investment plan in the US, which is a key component of the US-Japan trade agreement [3]