Yen Strengthens on Rate Hike Expectations; Euro Tests Recent Lows

FXOpen

USD/JPY

Over the past week, the USD/JPY pair dropped by approximately 500 pips. As anticipated, sellers tested the critical 150.00–149.00 range. This level may serve as the starting point for an upward corrective rebound.

The sharp decline in USD/JPY is likely tied to recent comments from the Bank of Japan’s Governor, Kazuo Ueda, hinting at a potential rate hike soon. He noted that "economic data is progressing as planned." Following Tokyo's inflation data showing an uptick and increased business investments, experts now predict the BoJ may raise rates by 0.5% at its December meeting.

Technical analysis suggests USD/JPY may begin an upward correction after its sharp fall, as a reversal "doji" candlestick pattern has formed on the daily timeframe.

If the 149.00–148.60 range holds as support, the pair could strengthen towards 151.50–151.00. However, a break below yesterday’s low may resume the downtrend towards 147.00–146.00.

Key upcoming events for USD/JPY in the next trading sessions include:

  • 16:15 (GMT +3): ADP Non-Farm Employment Change (US)
  • 17:45 (GMT +3): US Services PMI
  • 18:00 (GMT +3): ISM Non-Manufacturing PMI (US)

EUR/USD

The euro remains under pressure. In addition to the threat of US-imposed trade tariffs, concerns over the French government have emerged. A political crisis could result in the government’s resignation, exerting further downward pressure on EUR/USD.

Currently trading near 1.0500, the pair may see an upward correction towards 1.0700–1.0600 if buyers manage to push it above the 1.0600–1.0540 zone. However, another rejection at 1.0540 could lead to fresh lows around 1.0340.

Trade over 50 forex markets 24 hours a day with FXOpen. Take advantage of low commissions, deep liquidity, and spreads from 0.0 pips (additional fees may apply). Open your FXOpen account now or learn more about trading forex with FXOpen.

This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Stay ahead of the market!

Subscribe now to our mailing list and receive the latest market news and insights delivered directly to your inbox.

forex

Forex Trading with FXOpen

Forex Trading with FXOpen

Experience ECN technology for deep liquidity and light-speed trade execution

  • Access over 50 markets
  • Trade with spreads from 0.0 pips
  • Take advantage of commissions from $1.50/lot
Learn more

Latest articles

Commodities

Gold Price Holds Near Key Support

As the XAU/USD chart shows, the gold price has been holding within the $5,060–$5,200 range over the past several sessions.

Bullish view: the key support is the lower boundary of the long-term channel that has been

Forex Analysis

EUR/USD Chart Analysis: Pair Rebounds from the Year’s Low

Analysing the EUR/USD chart five days ago, we:
→ constructed a downward channel, noting signs that the bears remained in control;
→ outlined a scenario in which the rate would decline to a new yearly low (and test the lower boundary

Indices

Dollar Index (DXY) Hits Yearly High

Today, the dollar index rose above last week’s peak around the 99.68 level, setting a new high for 2026. This movement is supported by a tense fundamental backdrop:

→ Inflationary pressures from rising oil prices. Markets may be pricing

CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 60% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.