The Japanese yen has strengthened against the U.S. dollar, trading in the range of 149 yen to the dollar amid expectations of a narrowing interest rate gap between the U.S. and Japan. As of December 9, 2024, the yen was reported at approximately 149.5 yen per dollar. Concurrently, Japan's Nikkei average rose by 69 points to close at 39,160.50, reflecting a slight increase in the stock market. The Bank of Japan's potential interest rate hike is contributing to this positive sentiment, while uncertainty remains regarding the next steps from the central banks of Japan and the U.S. Additionally, China's consumer price index has shown signs of deflation, further influencing market dynamics.