The Japanese yen has strengthened significantly, surpassing the key psychological level of ¥140 against the US dollar, its strongest since July 2023. This comes amid expectations of an aggressive rate cut by the Federal Reserve and potential policy moves by the Bank of Japan later this week. The Nikkei average rose 0.49%, buoyed by a weaker yen that lifted export-related stocks, despite Japan posting a trade deficit for the second consecutive month. Core machinery orders in Japan fell unexpectedly in July by 0.1% month-on-month, although they surged 8.7% annually. Investors remain cautious as elevated volatility in the yen is expected due to upcoming central bank meetings. Market participants are pricing in a high probability of a significant rate cut by the Fed, contributing to the yen's recent rally.