USD/JPY rises as Takaichi calls for sustained BOJ accommodation

USD/JPY gained 0.2% to 152.85 as Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi signaled continued pressure on the Bank of Japan to maintain accommodative monetary policy. Takaichi stated Japan remains "halfway" to achieving the BOJ's 2% inflation target sustainably, effectively calling for delayed rate normalization. Her comments emphasized close government-BOJ coordination and strategic fiscal spending to boost household income. The yen's weakness accelerated despite approaching intervention-sensitive levels near 153.00, last seen triggering Ministry of Finance action. Markets interpret Takaichi's stance as reducing prospects for BOJ tightening in early 2025, contrasting with the Federal Reserve's higher-for-longer approach. Technical resistance sits at 153.20, while support remains at 152.40. Traders should monitor intervention risks as USD/JPY approaches historically significant levels where Japanese authorities previously acted to support the yen.