USD JPY BOJ unlikely to ruffle any feathers after last month s whooping
It’s a busy time of the month for central bankers, and the BOJ will be the first major central bank to draw traders’ attention this week.
After cutting interest rates to -0.1% at its last meeting in January, most analysts expect the BOJ to remain on hold and continue to evaluate the impact of its last move this time around. It’s worth noting that, like the ECB last week, the BOJ’s easing actions did not result in yen weakness as the textbook would dictate; instead, after an initial dip, the yen has appreciated dramatically across the board. While the BOJ ostensibly focuses only on the "real economy" and not on currency moves, the failure of the yen to react "as expected" should prompt the BOJ to deeply consider the pros and cons of additional easing. Indeed, January’s changes were already contentious, passing with a slim 5-4 majority of BOJ members, so the appetite for additional easing tonight may be lacking.
Though few market participants expect any policy changes this month, the BOJ could still be forced to act later this year. The central bank’s elusive 2% inflation target is looking less and less likely as time goes on (the most recent inflation figures showed that price gains are actually slowing, from 1.3% in January to 1.1% in February) and with ongoing weakness in emerging markets and a relatively strong yen, the prospect of an imminent pickup in price pressures is bleak. As it currently stands, we believe the BOJ will remain on hold this month, but may look to ease policy further at one of its upcoming meetings in April or July, once policymakers have an opportunity to update their economic forecasts and new, more dovish board members can be appointed.
Technical view: USD/JPY
Assuming the BOJ doesn’t shock traders for the second consectutive time, USD/JPY’s fortunes this week will depend more on the US economic outook than happenings in Japan. In particular, the US Retail Sales and PPI reports tomorrow, as well as Wednesday’s CPI report and Fed meeting, could exert a big influence on the subdued pair.
Looking at the chart, rates are approaching the top end of the 1-month range from 111.00 up to 114.50. If bulls are able to overcome the top of this range at 114.50, a continuation toward long-term previous-support-turned-resistance at 116.00 could be in play. On the other hand, a reversal lower off 114.50 resistance would suggest that the near-term range is likely to hold for another week.
Source: FOREX.com
For more intraday analysis and market updates, follow us on twitter (@MWellerFX and @FOREXcom)
The information on this web site is not targeted at the general public of any particular country. It is not intended for distribution to residents in any country where such distribution or use would contravene any local law or regulatory requirement. The information and opinions in this report are for general information use only and are not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any currency or CFD contract. All opinions and information contained in this report are subject to change without notice. This report has been prepared without regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any particular recipient. Any references to historical price movements or levels is informational based on our analysis and we do not represent or warranty that any such movements or levels are likely to reoccur in the future. While the information contained herein was obtained from sources believed to be reliable, author does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness, nor does author assume any liability for any direct, indirect or consequential loss that may result from the reliance by any person upon any such information or opinions.
Futures, Options on Futures, Foreign Exchange and other leveraged products involves significant risk of loss and is not suitable for all investors. Losses can exceed your deposits. Increasing leverage increases risk. Spot Gold and Silver contracts are not subject to regulation under the U.S. Commodity Exchange Act. Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are not available for US residents. Before deciding to trade forex, commodity futures, or digital assets, you should carefully consider your financial objectives, level of experience and risk appetite. Any opinions, news, research, analyses, prices or other information contained herein is intended as general information about the subject matter covered and is provided with the understanding that we do not provide any investment, legal, or tax advice. You should consult with appropriate counsel or other advisors on all investment, legal, or tax matters. References to FOREX.com or GAIN Capital refer to StoneX Group Inc. and its subsidiaries. Please read Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options.
Please note that foreign exchange and other leveraged trading involves significant risk of loss. It is not suitable for all investors and you should make sure you understand the risks involved, seeking independent advice if necessary.
Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are not available to US residents.
FOREX.com is a trading name of GAIN Capital - FOREX.com Canada Limited, 30 Independence Blvd, Suite 300 (3rd floor), Warren, NJ 07059, USA is a member of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization and Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund. GAIN Capital – FOREX.com Canada Limited is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Stonex Group Inc.
Complaints are taken very seriously at FOREX.com. You can view our complaints procedure here.
© FOREX.COM 2025