Currency news

JPY sold on hike apprehension

Head of FX Analysis
-
3
min read
Published:
February 24, 2026

Key takeaways

  • Tariff uncertainty eases as markets calm


Yesterday's currency recap

USD traded broadly lower yesterday as markets continued to digest the fallout from the Supreme Court decision striking down Trump’s global tariff regime, injecting fresh uncertainty into US trade policy and weighing on USD sentiment. Overall, tariff-related headline risk and recalibration of US policy expectations were the dominant drivers, with markets now looking ahead to upcoming US data and central bank commentary for clearer directional cues.

Today's GBP rates

Currency pair Daily move* Indicative rate**
GBPAUD 0.49% 1.9129
GBPCAD 0.25% 1.8486
GBPCHF -0.07% 1.0450
GBPDKK 0.01% 8.5485
GBPEUR 0.01% 1.1444
GBPJPY -0.25% 208.471
GBPNOK 0.57% 12.9163
GBPNZD 0.44% 2.2642
GBPSEK 0.13% 12.2259
GBPUSD 0.20% 1.3509


*Daily move - against
G10 rates as of 17:00 GMT, 23.02.26

** Indicative rates - interbank rates as of 17:00 GMT, 23.02.26

Key data points

Currency Event Period Consensus Previous
USD Conf. Board Consumer Confidence Feb 88.00 84.50

Today's speeches

  • GBP: BoE Bailey, Green, Taylor
  • USD: Fed Bostic, Collins, Waller

What we think

JPY has weakened this morning after reports that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi expressed concern about additional rate hikes during a meeting with Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda. According to local media, Takaichi adopted a tougher stance than at their prior meeting, surprising markets that had expected a shift toward more market-friendly policies. The comments have increased concerns about political pressure potentially constraining further Bank of Japan tightening, raising the risk that rate hikes could be suppressed.

Quiet day ahead on the data front with just US consumer confidence out as well as several Fed speakers on the agenda. Last weeks fundamental data did prop up demand for USD. Demand for USD has picked up a bit this morning following the sale of JPY and we look to see if Fed commentary and consumer confidence will further add to gains.

We specialise in currency guidance

Our team of currency experts are here to help you get more from your money when making international payments. We will work with you to understand your payment needs and offer specialised guidance on the best options available to you. Over the last 19 years we’ve helped over a million customers and last year alone processed over £12bn. We’re tried and trusted, and we’re ready to help you.

Have a great day.

Get these expert currency insights everyday. 100% free.
Get daily email

Keep an eye on Currency pairs forecast & FX analysis