The recent volatility of the Japanese yen may have broader implications for fiat currencies, particularly as U.S. interest rate cuts remain elusive amidst persistent inflationary pressures. Noelle Acheson highlighted in an interview the possibility of investors turning to assets like gold and bitcoin amidst such uncertainty.
On Friday, the Japanese yen experienced a significant decline, reaching its lowest level against the U.S. dollar since 1990. Meanwhile, Bitcoin maintained relative stability around the $64,000 mark, while some alternative cryptocurrencies experienced slight decreases. Quinn Thompson from Lekker Capital suggested that intervention might be imminent if the devaluation of the yen persists.
Despite the turbulence in traditional currency markets, cryptocurrency markets remained relatively calm. However, Acheson noted that this could change if the Bank of Japan intervenes to support the yen, potentially impacting crypto prices. Such intervention might involve the BOJ selling U.S. dollar assets to bolster the yen, which could, in theory, benefit crypto prices by weakening the dollar.
Another potential intervention could come from U.S. policymakers injecting liquidity into the markets, which could support risk assets like cryptocurrencies, according to Thompson.
Looking ahead, Acheson warned that the currency turmoil may extend beyond the yen, particularly as U.S. yields rise following persistent inflation reports. This could prompt other central banks to take action, potentially leading to a collective selling of U.S. treasuries to support local currencies. Such actions could further increase U.S. yields and inflationary pressures elsewhere, driving more interest in assets like gold and bitcoin as hedges against currency volatility and vulnerability.
