The yen weakened Tuesday after reports Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressed reservations about further rate hikes to Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda.
Japan’s currency fell 0.83% to 155.93 per dollar, its lowest level in nearly two weeks, while government bond yields also declined.
The report complicates expectations for tighter policy, with economists previously forecasting the BOJ would raise rates to 1% by end-June.
Markets had priced in a roughly 70% chance of an April hike, but concerns over central bank independence resurfaced.
A weaker yen has lifted import costs for fuel and food, intensifying pressure on Japanese households and policymakers.
Broader trade uncertainty added to volatility after the U.S. imposed a new 10% universal tariff, with a possible increase to 15%.
The euro and sterling were largely steady, while China’s yuan strengthened to a near three-year high on tariff expectations.
Bitcoin and ether declined, as investors navigated heightened geopolitical risks and shifting global trade dynamics.
