Yen Below 154, Rate Cut Bets Reduced

The Japanese yen weakened past 154 per dollar, hitting its lowest level in over a week, as strong U.S. inflation data prompted traders to scale back expectations for further Federal Reserve rate cuts. Markets now anticipate just one quarter-point reduction this year. Meanwhile, Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda provided no clear indication regarding future interest rates, reaffirming the BOJ's commitment to its current policy. However, BOJ board member Naoki Tamura hinted at a possible rate hike in the latter half of fiscal 2025.

The key resistance level is at 154.90, with a break above potentially opening the door to 156.00 and 157.00. On the downside, initial support stands at 151.90, followed by 151.25 and 149.20 if the decline continues.