Core Viewpoint - The likelihood of a weakening USD/JPY exchange rate is increasing following the Japanese Senate elections, influenced by various factors [1] Group 1: Economic Policies - The Japanese government may adopt more expansionary fiscal policies, with funding expected to come from the tax surplus of the 2024 fiscal year rather than new bond issuance, which should help alleviate downward pressure on the yen [1] - Market expectations for Bank of Japan interest rate hikes have been lowered to a cumulative increase of 16 basis points by the end of 2025, indicating limited further downside for the yen in the context of a dovish central bank stance [1] Group 2: Market Positioning - Nomura has re-established short positions on USD/JPY, targeting a decline to 142.00 by the end of October [1] - The current USD/JPY exchange rate is stable around 147.60 [1]

Core Viewpoint - Japan's Finance Minister Kato Katsunobu confirmed during a meeting with US Treasury Secretary Yellen that foreign exchange trends should be determined by the market, and excessive foreign exchange volatility is undesirable [1] Group 1 - The meeting between Japan's Finance Minister and the US Treasury Secretary focused on foreign exchange policies [1] - Japan emphasizes the importance of market-driven foreign exchange rates [1] - The statement reflects Japan's stance against excessive fluctuations in foreign exchange rates [1]

Core Viewpoint - Japan's Finance Minister Kato Katsunobu stated that there have been no discussions with the United States regarding the goals or framework for controlling foreign exchange trends, but there have been discussions on the necessity of constructive dialogue on foreign exchange issues [1] Group 1 - Japan has not engaged in discussions with the U.S. about controlling foreign exchange trends [1] - There is an acknowledgment of the need for constructive discussions regarding foreign exchange issues with the U.S. [1]