USDJPY jumps 100 pips even as BoJ exits negative-rate policy

Mar 19

USDJPY refreshes a two-week high during a six-day uptrend even as the Bank of Japan (BoJ) takes a historical decision to end the Negative Interest Rate Policy (NIRP), as well as the Yield Curve Control (YCC). It’s worth noting, however, that such a move was widely anticipated and hence, a “sell the fact” reaction appeared on the chart. However, a three-week-old falling resistance line surrounding the 150.00 psychological magnet and the overbought RSI (14) conditions seem to challenge the Yen pair buyers. Even if the quote manages to cross the 150.00 hurdle, a slightly downward-sloping trend line from mid-February, near 150.80 at the latest, quickly followed by the 151.00 round figure, will challenge the bulls afterward.

Meanwhile, the USDJPY pair’s pullback appears widely expected and hence the short-term sellers can aim for the 149.20-15 support confluence comprising the 100 and 200 SMAs. However, a one-week-old rising support line surrounding 148.85 could test the Yen pair sellers afterward. In a case where the bears keep the reins past 148.85, the February 07 swing low of around 147.60 and the current monthly bottom of 146.48 will be in the spotlight.

Overall, the USDJPY pair’s immediate reaction to the BoJ’s decision appears less logical and is likely to be reversed. However, Wednesday’s Federal Reserve (Fed) monetary policy decision will be the key in determining the same.