Yen Strengthens on BoJ Rate Hike Speculation; Nikkei Battles for 41,000 Level

"On February 11, 2026, the Tokyo market saw a definitive shift in focus toward the timing of the next interest rate hike ahead of next month's BoJ meeting. Governor Ueda's strengthening view that a 'virtuous cycle between wages and prices is being confirmed' accelerated Yen appreciation. While this triggered profit-taking in major exporters like Toyota, mega-banks like MUFG attracted buying interest on potential interest rate benefits. The Nikkei 225 found support from semiconductor-related stocks like Tokyo Electron, following the lead of US tech gains. Whether the Yen breaks below the 140 level remains the primary focus for the remainder of the week."