Key Takeaways:
*Japan’s Q2 GDP grew 1.0% annualized, led by strong capex (+7.6%) and solid domestic demand.
*External headwinds persist, with manufacturing PMI below 50 and auto sector profits plunging 30% under U.S. tariffs.
*Yen’s near-term path hinges on whether domestic strength offsets trade drag, as BoJ eyes cautious policy normalization.
Market Summary:
The Japanese yen showed tentative strength but remains caught between encouraging domestic momentum and mounting external pressures from U.S. trade policy. Q2 GDP expanded at a 1.0% annualized rate, supported by a 7.6% surge in capital expenditure and firm domestic demand. The data bolstered expectations that the Bank of Japan could continue cautiously moving toward policy normalization.
Yet, the external picture paints a more fragile outlook. The August manufacturing PMI held below 50, with new export orders contracting at the sharpest pace in over a year. Automakers were hit particularly hard, with recurring profits plunging nearly 30% in Q2 under the weight of U.S. tariffs.
This tug-of-war leaves the yen’s trajectory uncertain. Its safe-haven role provides some support in times of global stress, but the sustainability of its recovery will depend on whether domestic demand can offset the drag from an increasingly hostile external trade environment.
The yen is likely to remain range-bound, supported by domestic resilience but capped by export weakness. Unless U.S. trade measures ease or global risk aversion spikes, meaningful yen appreciation may prove elusive in the near term.
Technical Analysis
USD/JPY is struggling to gain traction, last trading near 146.95 after slipping below its 100-period moving average at 147.50. The pair has been consolidating in a tight range, but repeated failures to sustain above the 148.00 resistance highlight growing selling pressure. On the downside, immediate support is situated at 146.65, with a decisive close beneath this level likely to open the door toward the more significant 144.40 region.
Momentum indicators tilt bearish. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is hovering near 45, reflecting weakening bullish momentum as sellers gradually take control. Meanwhile, the MACD remains in negative territory, with the histogram flattening but yet to confirm any meaningful recovery signal. Trading volumes have also stayed elevated during the latest pullback, reinforcing the cautious tone.
Overall, the technical outlook for USD/JPY is softening, with downside risks increasing below 148.00. Traders may watch for a clean break under 146.65 to confirm bearish continuation, while only a move back above 148.00 would revive upside prospects.
Resistance level:148.00, 149.50
Support level: 146.65, 144.40
Step into the world of trading with confidence today. Open a free PU Prime live CFD trading account now to experience real-time market action, or refine your strategies risk-free with our demo account.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice, a personal recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any financial instruments.
This material has been prepared without considering any individual investment objectives, financial situations. Any references to past performance of a financial instrument, index, or investment product are not indicative of future results.
PU Prime makes no representation as to the accuracy or completeness of this content and accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on the information provided. Trading involves risk, and you should carefully consider your investment objectives and risk tolerance before making any trading decisions. Never invest more than you can afford to lose.
Trade forex, indices, metal, and more at industry-low spreads and lightning-fast execution.
Sign up for a PU Prime Live Account with our hassle-free process.
Effortlessly fund your account with a wide range of channels and accepted currencies.
Access hundreds of instruments under market-leading trading conditions.
Please note the Website is intended for individuals residing in jurisdictions where accessing the Website is permitted by law.
Please note that PU Prime and its affiliated entities are neither established nor operating in your home jurisdiction.
By clicking the "Acknowledge" button, you confirm that you are entering this website solely based on your initiative and not as a result of any specific marketing outreach. You wish to obtain information from this website which is provided on reverse solicitation in accordance with the laws of your home jurisdiction.
Thank You for Your Acknowledgement!
Ten en cuenta que el sitio web está destinado a personas que residen en jurisdicciones donde el acceso al sitio web está permitido por la ley.
Ten en cuenta que PU Prime y sus entidades afiliadas no están establecidas ni operan en tu jurisdicción de origen.
Al hacer clic en el botón "Aceptar", confirmas que estás ingresando a este sitio web por tu propia iniciativa y no como resultado de ningún esfuerzo de marketing específico. Deseas obtener información de este sitio web que se proporciona mediante solicitud inversa de acuerdo con las leyes de tu jurisdicción de origen.
Thank You for Your Acknowledgement!