USD/JPY Nears 152 as Yen Weakens Despite Pro-Strong-JPY Finance Minister

The Japanese Yen slipped further on Tuesday, with the USD/JPY pair rising 0.8% to 151.90, as investors reacted to the unveiling of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s new cabinet. Despite initial hopes for a more balanced economic approach, markets remain skeptical that Japan’s new leadership will deliver a significant policy shift strong enough to bolster the Yen.

Takaichi, officially confirmed with 237 votes in Japan’s Lower House, appointed Satsuki Katayama as Finance Minister—a decision that initially offered some relief to Yen bulls. Katayama, a former senior finance official, has voiced concerns about excessive Yen weakness and has argued that Japan’s fundamentals justify an exchange rate near 120–130 per dollar.

However, with the ruling coalition lacking a simple parliamentary majority, analysts doubt the government’s ability to implement major economic reforms. “The new government is unlikely to support further depreciation of the Yen, but the upside for the currency remains limited,” said a Commerzbank analyst, noting that USD/JPY is likely to trade sideways in the near term.

Market Takeaways:

• USD/JPY trades near 151.90, up 0.8% on the day
• Finance Minister Katayama favors a stronger Yen
• Government lacks a clear majority to pass reforms

Dollar Strength Limits Yen Recovery

The U.S. Dollar remains buoyed by improving global risk sentiment and optimism over a potential easing in U.S.-China trade tensions. Investors are watching the upcoming meeting between President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping for signs of progress.

Meanwhile, comments from White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett, suggesting that the U.S. government shutdown could end this week, added to the Dollar’s resilience.

The combination of rising market optimism and Japan’s cautious fiscal stance continues to underpin USD/JPY strength, despite hints of policy recalibration in Tokyo.

Fed Rate Cut Bets Cap Dollar Upside

Still, expectations of dovish Federal Reserve policy could curb the Greenback’s momentum. The CME FedWatch Tool shows traders are pricing in two 25-basis-point rate cuts — one in October and another in December — reflecting concerns over slowing U.S. growth.

While the Fed’s outlook limits aggressive Dollar buying, the Yen remains under pressure as traders anticipate no immediate intervention from Japanese authorities.

For now, USD/JPY appears locked near multi-decade highs, supported by broad Dollar demand, improving global sentiment, and Japan’s internal political uncertainty — leaving the Yen struggling to stage a meaningful rebound.