Yen edges up as traders push back Fed rate hike bets

The Japanese yen edged higher against the US dollar, discounting weaker than anticipated Japanese GDP figures. Traders postponed speculation of a Federal Reserve rate hike this year. The yen strengthened by 0.2% to 159.055 yen, continuing its two-day gain against the dollar, though it remained within its weekly trading range. The mixed Japanese GDP data for Q2 showed expansion at an annualized 1.1%, but with factors such as government limits on higher energy prices and increased government consumption hinting at the potential impact of Takaichi's expansionary fiscal policies.

Meanwhile, the euro remained steady at US$1.1573, while the British pound rose marginally by 0.1% to US$1.3546. Both the Australian and New Zealand dollars stayed level at US$0.7085 and US$0.5891 respectively. The US dollar's strength against other currencies has diminished investor expectations of Fed rate hikes this year, with fewer than a full hike now forecast for December, according to BNY analysts.

The Treasury curve's higher yields have raised concerns over Fed credibility. Fed funds futures now suggest a 66.9% chance of the Fed maintaining rates at their September 16 meeting, up from 47.6% a month ago. The US dollar index saw a slight dip, nearing its monthly low at 99.519. Oil prices saw fluctuations while stalled US-Iran talks over the Middle East conflict continued.

Brent crude slipped 0.1% to $88.48 a barrel as Trump warned of persisting high fuel prices due to the war, while Iran urged the US to concede defeat. Shipping through the Strait of Hormuz remains minimal. The US dollar stood flat at 6.7428 yuan against the Chinese yuan ahead of economic data due out later on Monday. Bitcoin and ether declined by 0.3% each, trading at $62,854.48 and $1,874.80 respectively.