The turmoil in global financial markets on Monday was long in coming but spurred by short-term pressures: the unwinding of the yen-based carry trade, where speculators and short-term investors borrow against the yen to purchase risk assets elsewhere. As these investors exited their positions in the ... READ MORE >
Bank of Japan
Global central bank outlook: Reducing rates to bolster growth
After two years of major central banks raising interest rates, the weighted global policy rate stands at a restrictive 7.2%. But with disinflation having taken hold around the world, it is time for central banks to reduce these rates. Usually, the Federal Reserve would lead the way. But with private ... READ MORE >
Rates outlook: As economy enters glide path, bond market hedges its bets
There are growing signs that inflation is retreating while the labor market remains healthy. Absent another shock, the Federal Reserve is likely to ease up on its rate increases as these dynamics take hold. Even a pause in rate hikes would most likely guide the economy toward a mild downturn rather ... READ MORE >
Japan intervenes in the currency market
With the yen in freefall, Japan on Thursday took the unusual step of intervening in currency markets to prop up the yen's value. For the first time in 24 years, the government began selling dollars to buy yen. The move came soon after the Bank of Japan held its policy rate at sub-zero levels, bucking ... READ MORE >
Are we entering an era of central bank intervention in currency markets?
Over the past week, the Bank of Japan has conducted what Is known as a rate check, or a formal inquiry into the buying or selling price of the Japanese yen. This rate check has been done in preparation for a possible intervention into foreign exchange markets to prop up the declining ... READ MORE >