Yen Surges Against Dollar Amid Suspected Government Intervention
The yen surged against the dollar on Thursday, sparking concerns of Japanese government intervention to prop up its weak currency. The rapid and significant drop in value alerted traders to potential action by authorities.
Market analysts have been warning about Japan's currency weakness for months, which is exacerbated by low interest rates and higher energy prices that increase import costs.
The dollar/yen exchange rate dropped almost 3% on the day, trading at 158.61, while the yen also jumped against other major currencies such as the euro, sterling, and Australian dollar.
Experts cited a 'sharp move lower' in dollar/yen that suggests official intervention by Japanese authorities to sell dollars and support the yen.