Yen weakens as risk assets gain traction globally

US retail sales rose by 0.2% in February, falling short of the 0.6% expected. The Empire manufacturing index dropped significantly to -20.0, and the NAHB housing market index also missed estimates. In Canada, housing starts were reported at 229,000, below the expected 250,000. Despite mixed economic data, optimism around trade relations with Canada and Mexico has emerged, with comments suggesting potential positive developments on tariffs. The yen weakened as risk assets rallied, with the S&P 500 up 0.65%. The Australian and New Zealand dollars led gains, while the US dollar generally declined, except against the yen. The British pound approached 1.30, its highest since November.