Japan Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama has signalled the government’s readiness to intervene across markets as rising oil prices fuel currency concerns.
Her remarks follow a Reuters report that Japan is considering intervening in crude oil futures markets amid sharp energy price increases driven by the Middle East crisis.
Katayama stopped short of confirming any direct action but stressed the government’s preparedness.
“It is widely said that speculative moves in crude oil futures markets are also affecting the foreign exchange market,” Katayama said.
“As the Japanese government, taking into account the impact that currency movements have on people’s lives and the economy, we are determined to take thorough action at all times and on all fronts,” she said.
Rising oil prices have intensified pressure on the yen and heightened concerns over broader economic stability, prompting Tokyo to signal a more aggressive stance if market volatility persists.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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