FX.co ★ Japanese Yen Hits 6-Month High on Safe-Haven Demand

The Japanese yen climbed beyond 144 per dollar on Friday, achieving a six-month peak due to mounting concerns regarding the U.S. economy, which resulted in a widespread weakening of the dollar and increased demand for other secure assets. Simultaneously, there was a selloff in U.S. Treasuries, typically considered a safeguard during uncertain times, which further bolstered the yen's increase. Although there has been a 90-day postponement of tariffs, investors remain uneasy, fearing that President Trump's trade strategies may lead the U.S. into a recession. The Trump administration also disclosed that the total tariffs on Chinese products have reached 145%, heightening the possibility of additional countermeasures from Beijing, which has already imposed an 84% tariff on U.S. imports. In the meantime, market participants are closely monitoring U.S.-Japan trade discussions, with Tokyo currently facing a reduced 10% tariff rate from the U.S. and aiming to secure more advantageous terms through ongoing negotiations.