USD/JPY faces pressure as Japan's Katayama warns on rapid yen weakness

USD/JPY is trading under pressure near 155.20 following verbal intervention from Japan's Finance Minister Katayama, who expressed concern over recent one-sided, rapid currency moves. The minister emphasized the importance of stable currency movements reflecting fundamentals and stated authorities are monitoring FX developments with high urgency. Katayama notably acknowledged that disadvantages of yen weakness now outweigh advantages, particularly as the weak yen contributes to cost-driven inflation. This represents a shift in official rhetoric and increases the likelihood of actual intervention if USD/JPY continues climbing. The pair has gained over 10% year-to-date, with immediate resistance at 155.50 and psychological barrier at 156.00. Support lies at 154.80 (daily pivot) and 154.00 (previous week's low). Traders should remain cautious as further verbal warnings could precede actual market intervention, potentially triggering sharp reversals in yen crosses.