Japan's finance minister emphasizes market-driven bond yields

Japan's Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato held a press conference on Tuesday. He stated that yield movements in the bond market should be determined by market forces. This comments came after the 40-year government bond yield rose to a record high. Kato emphasized that the government would monitor the situation and respond as needed. However, he avoided discussing the specific reasons behind the rising yields, fearing his words could influence market behavior. He also did not provide details on any potential government actions. The yield on the 40-year bond reached 3% on Monday. Analysts suggest this spike may be linked to concerns over Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's leadership and its impact on fiscal discipline. Kato's remarks coincided with significant developments in the Middle East. There were reports that the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has collapsed. Additionally, there are unconfirmed reports that a US force sank an Iranian ship amid the ongoing tensions.