The dollar fluctuated around the mid-¥153 range in morning trading and edged higher following remarks by BOJ board member Masu (増). With U.S. inflation data due this afternoon, the market was widely expected to remain in a wait-and-see stance.
The dollar saw mixed trading around the mid-¥153 range in morning trading, with periods of modest gains after remarks by BOJ board member Masu (増). The decline in crude oil futures also weighed on the currency, which at one point fell to the low ¥153 range.
Some analysts said Masu's remarks were generally consistent with the BOJ's view, while others said the comment that the negative real interest rate situation should be resolved did not go far enough. Uncertainty remains over the pace of future rate hikes.
With the market awaiting U.S. inflation data, particularly the releases due today and tomorrow, investors maintained their wait-and-see stance. The yen may react again depending on the results, including the CPI.