JPY / USD

Why watch JPY against USD?

The Japanese Yen (JPY) and the US Dollar (USD) are two of the most important currencies in the global financial markets.  The USD in particular, is the primary reserve currency for the global economy and plays an unparalelled role in international trade and finance. Topping the list as the most-traded currency, it also accounts for approximately 88% of all forex transactions.  Furthermore, USD performance impacts global commodities such as oil and gold, which in turn influences economic conditions across the globe. 

Traders should also monitor Japanese Yen performance due to the fact that Japan has one of the world’s largest economies and is a major exporter of technology and automobiles. The JPY is often referred to by analysts as a ‘safe-haven’ currency as it tends to appreciate in value when there is economic or geopolitical uncertainty or instability.

Changes in the monetary policy of both the Bank of Japan and the Federal Reserve may also affect JPY and USD performance.  However, those traders who watch the JPY and USD closely can better anticipate how the market will move, take action on their investments and navigate the financial markets with greater knowledge and confidence.