Group 1 - The core concern is the accelerated depreciation of the Japanese yen, which is now driven by fiscal deterioration rather than a strong US dollar, prompting heightened vigilance from the Japanese government and the Bank of Japan [1][4] - The yen's exchange rate against the dollar has approached historical lows, with the rate nearing 158 yen per dollar, raising concerns about inflation driven by rising import prices [1][3] - The current situation contrasts sharply with a similar depreciation observed in late 2024, where the government and central bank did not intervene, leading to a subsequent appreciation of the yen [1][3] Group 2 - The Bank of Japan's response to the yen's depreciation is notably more cautious this time, with Governor Ueda emphasizing the stability of import price increases compared to previous years [3][4] - Despite the yen's depreciation, there are no signs of overheating in domestic prices, which remain in a negative growth trend, indicating a complex economic landscape [4][5] - The current depreciation is attributed to the fiscal policies of the Kishida administration, which has raised concerns about potential consumer price increases and economic stagnation [4][5] Group 3 - The upcoming mid-December monetary policy meetings between Japan and the US are seen as critical in determining the future trajectory of the yen, with market sentiment and potential interventions being closely monitored [5]

Core Viewpoint - The Japanese yen is experiencing accelerated depreciation, raising concerns from the government and the Bank of Japan, primarily due to fiscal deterioration rather than a strong US dollar [2][8]. Group 1: Current Situation of Yen Depreciation - The yen's exchange rate against the US dollar is nearing historical lows, with rates approaching 158 yen per dollar, indicating significant depreciation pressure as the year-end approaches [2]. - The current depreciation is contrasted with a similar situation a year ago, where the yen also depreciated but without intervention from the government or the Bank of Japan [4]. Group 2: Government and Central Bank Response - The Bank of Japan, under Governor Kazuo Ueda, has expressed strong vigilance regarding the yen's depreciation, emphasizing the stability of import prices compared to previous years [6][8]. - The government has indicated a willingness to intervene in the currency market if the yen continues to depreciate rapidly, reflecting a shift in their stance compared to the previous year [9]. Group 3: Economic Implications - The current depreciation is pushing up import prices, which in turn is affecting domestic consumer prices, a situation that the government aims to avoid to prevent economic stagnation [8]. - Unlike last year, where the depreciation was primarily driven by a strong dollar, the current situation is attributed to the government's aggressive fiscal policies, raising concerns about potential inflation [8][10].