In post-Tokyo trade, JGB futures closed weaker, -32 compared to settlement levels, after US tsys finished last week on a weak note despite evidence that the conflict between Israel and Iran is escalating.
- (MNI) Israeli officials estimate fighting with Iran, "could stretch for two to three weeks, with more strikes on tap." Ynet notes that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, "is expected to speak on Friday with U.S. President Donald Trump
- In early Monday trade, the knee-jerk reaction in major asset classes has been risk-off (ex-weaker yen), with a focus on oil prices. For the oil benchmarks, we sit off session highs. That said, both benchmarks are still up over 2%, as Israel started targeting Iran's energy facilities. US tsy futures are little changed.
- The BoJ is expected to keep its policy rate unchanged at 0.50% at its June 16–17 meeting, with focus turning to whether it will slow the pace of its JGB purchase reductions. The BoJ is likely to outline its bond-buying schedule through Q1 2027 to provide more transparency while maintaining flexibility. Markets see little risk of a rate hike at this meeting, with a projected policy rate of 0.60% by December.
- The local calendar will be empty today, ahead of the BoJ Policy Decision on Tuesday.