CarryTrade News & Analysis
2 articles
Market Mood
Yen Intervention Sparks 5 Trillion Yen in Foreign Asset Purchases
Japanese investors net bought over 5 trillion yen of foreign equities and long-term bonds in the two weeks ending August 15, 2023, a significant increase compared to over 300 billion yen in net selling in the prior two weeks. This activity follows a historic yen intervention, with the yen strengthening from around 164 per dollar to roughly 155 before weakening to about 159. Experts note that as long as borrowing costs in Japan remain low compared to returns overseas, the carry trade will continue. This is relevant for ordinary investors as it indicates a shift in investment strategies towards overseas assets.
Read More: Yen Intervention Sparks 5 Trillion Yen in Foreign Asset Purchases
Yen (JPY) Trading at Over 159 After U.S.-Japan Intervention
The Japanese yen is currently trading at over 159 per dollar, having recovered to 155 after a U.S.-Japan intervention less than two weeks ago. However, the yen has erased about half of its gains, struggling against fundamental pressures leading to multi-decade lows. The yield gap remains significant, with the 10-year U.S. Treasury yield at 4.686% compared to 2.846% for Japanese government bonds. This situation highlights challenges for the Bank of Japan as it plans its next monetary policy meeting in September, which may impact investor behavior regarding currency and treasury investments.
Read More: Yen (JPY) Trading at Over 159 After U.S.-Japan Intervention