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Global markets remain unsettled as policymakers grapple with currency weakness, geopolitical tensions, and inflation concerns. Key economic data and potential central bank signals will shape investment sentiment across developed economies.
Japan's yen unexpectedly strengthened past 158 to the US dollar on Thursday, triggering speculation that Tokyo's authorities may have intervened in currency markets. The move comes as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi pursues controversial spending plans despite Japan's deteriorating fiscal position.
The US dollar reached a 39-year high above 163 yen on Wednesday, buoyed by Middle East tensions and expectations of higher US interest rates. Japan's warning of potential intervention failed to slow the currency's advance.
A softer-than-expected US jobs report has triggered the dollar's largest weekly decline since April, easing pressure on the Japanese yen and lifting major currencies including the euro and sterling.