
*Wall Street ends mixed as initial optimism over the U.S.–Iran interim peace deal fades
*BOJ raises interest rates to a 31-year high as inflation concerns persist
*Yen weakness near the 160 level raises speculation over possible intervention
The Japanese yen remained one of the key highlight currencies of the week after the Bank of Japan announced its latest monetary policy decision. The central bank raised interest rates to a 31-year high, marking another important step in its policy normalisation process as policymakers continue to focus on inflation risks.
Although the recent U.S.–Iran ceasefire deal helped stabilise oil prices, the BOJ still appears inclined to maintain a tighter policy stance. The central bank remains concerned that energy-related price pressures could keep inflation elevated, especially after the recent Iran-war energy shock increased uncertainty around global commodity prices.
The rate hike was the BOJ’s first since December and aligned Japan more closely with other major central banks that have shifted toward tighter monetary policy to combat inflation. The decision was made by a 7-1 vote, with Toichiro Asada, who was hand-picked by dovish premier Sanae Takaichi, dissenting against the move.
Another key reason behind the BOJ’s tightening bias is the recent weakness in the Japanese yen. The currency has fallen aggressively in recent months, increasing pressure on policymakers to stabilise market confidence. Raising interest rates could help provide some support for the yen by narrowing the gap between Japanese yields and other major economies.
However, despite the BOJ’s tighter policy stance, the overall trend for the yen remains relatively weak. Market participants remain cautious toward Japan’s broader economic outlook, with concerns over domestic growth, inflation sustainability, and external demand continuing to weigh on sentiment.
The yen has recently hovered near the 160 level against the U.S. dollar, an area that may increase speculation over possible currency intervention by Japanese authorities. This has helped limit further downside pressure, while the BOJ’s latest tightening decision has also provided some short-term support.
Moving forward, investors will continue to monitor Japan’s economic data, BOJ policy signals, and any comments from Japanese authorities regarding currency stability. While tighter monetary policy may help stabilise the yen, a stronger recovery will likely require clearer signs of economic resilience and sustained inflation momentum.
Technical Analysis

USD/JPY, H1:
USD/JPY is trading higher, currently testing the 160.50 resistance level, a key breakout zone near recent highs.
A confirmed breakout above 160.50 could extend gains toward the next psychological level at 161.00, reinforcing the bullish structure.
However, momentum indicators suggest caution. The MACD has formed a bearish crossover, while the RSI at 53 has pulled back sharply from overbought territory, suggesting a potential short-term technical correction.
If bearish momentum persists, the pair may retrace toward the 159.75 support level, followed by 159.15 if selling pressure strengthens.
Resistance Levels: 160.50, 161.00
Support Levels: 159.75, 159.15
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