Goldman Sachs note that “the BoJ kept yield curve control (YCC) in place at its latest meeting despite intense upward pressure on global rates and market speculation about a possible policy change. We continue to see a strong case for JPY appreciation over the medium-term, resulting from either (i) a significant US economic slowdown/recession or (ii) a change in Japanese monetary policy. A scenario in which Japanese inflation remains uniquely low even as the economy reopens, allowing the BoJ to remain on hold while other central banks hike, seems a low probability outcome, in our view. Over the very near-term we would expect more depreciation pressure on the Yen (upward pressure on USD/JPY) due to the BoJ’s commitment to YCC. Investors should consider short-dated USD/JPY call spreads for this outcome; the possibility of intervention limits the chances of sharp increase in USD/JPY, in our view; the CHF/JPY cross may also have further upside but we are reluctant to chase at current levels. Beyond that we will look for opportunities in USD/JPY shorts. Given uncertainty around the near-term Fed outlook, it may be prudent to wait until the next U.S. employment report (July 8) before adding USD/JPY downside expressions.”
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No data Friday -- But StL Fed President did appear on Fox Business interview in the afternoon. Nothing particularly new from Bullard though he did add he does not see a recession occurring this or next year.
The primary downtrend in JGBs remains intact although a corrective cycle is in play and the contract maintains a firmer short-term tone. Key resistance to watch is at 150.14, Apr 1 high. The breach, in March, of the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement of the 2015 - 2020 rally at 149.65 strengthened a bearish theme and opens 148.79/147.95, which marks both the 3.0% Lower Bollinger Band and the 1.0% 10-dma envelope. A break of 150.14 would alter the picture.
Equities staging a more robust rebound off lows last 20 minutes, not headline driven, more program/technical while offers fade. Current levels: