Japan’s Katayama Maintains “Stable” Messaging as Yen Hits Lowest Level Since 1986

Japan’s Finance Minister Satuki Katayama said Japan stood ready to respond appropriately to moves in the foreign-exchange market, even as the yen fell to its lowest level against the U.S. dollar since 1986. According to Jin10, Katayama said the most important point was that authorities were prepared to take appropriate action when necessary. Asked whether her wording had changed, Katayama said her communication had remained “stable,” and that she used the phrase “bold action” only when pressed. Markets typically interpret that wording as a signal that the Japanese government may be threatening direct intervention in the currency market. The remarks were also described as suggesting she may not currently be inclined to send a stronger intervention signal. So far, Katayama has issued multiple verbal warnings, but they have not stopped the yen from continuing to weaken. Separately, Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara also said Japan would respond appropriately to foreign-exchange market moves when necessary. Katayama declined to comment on specific exchange-rate levels.