Saxo Bank chief investment strategist Charu Chanana said the Bank of Japan delivered an expected rate hike, but its stance is not forceful enough to drive a sustained yen rally. The BOJ is focused on inflation—core inflation remains persistently above the 2% target—but policy adjustments are slow and it continues to signal loose financial conditions, leaving USD/JPY around 160 vulnerable. The hike gives the yen marginal support but does not close the large US–Japan yield gap, particularly if the

Saxo Bank chief investment strategist Charu Chanana said the Bank of Japan delivered an expected rate hike, but its stance is not forceful enough to drive a sustained yen rally. The BOJ is focused on inflation—core inflation remains persistently above the 2% target—but policy adjustments are slow and it continues to signal loose financial conditions, leaving USD/JPY around 160 vulnerable. The hike gives the yen marginal support but does not close the large US–Japan yield gap, particularly if the Fed remains cautious. A 7–1 vote weakens the hawkish signal, reflecting BOJ concern about tightening’s impact on growth and employment. The move offers mild support to Japanese equities without threatening liquidity or corporate profits. Intervention risk remains if USD/JPY holds above 160; a softer dollar ahead of the Fed decision would give Japanese authorities a better window to act.