Yen Sinks to 40-Year Low
2026-06-30 01:13
By
Jam Kaimo Samonte
1 min. read
The Japanese yen weakened beyond 162 per dollar on Tuesday to its lowest level since 1986, raising concerns among policymakers and keeping investors alert for potential currency intervention by Tokyo.
The yen remained under pressure as the wide interest rate gap between Japan and the US persisted, with the Bank of Japan continuing its gradual policy normalization while the Federal Reserve is expected to deliver multiple rate hikes this year.
Ongoing carry trades and sustained demand for the US dollar as a safe-haven currency also continued to weigh on the yen.
Meanwhile, Japan's economy remained exposed to disruptions in energy supplies due to its heavy dependence on Middle Eastern oil imports.
On the economic front, industrial production in Japan rose less than expected in May, underscoring the impact of Middle East tensions on supply chains and energy costs.