04.02.202602:51:23UTC+00Japan 10-Year Yield Muted Ahead of Election

Japan's 10-year government bond yield remained stable at approximately 2.25% as of Wednesday, maintaining its range-bound status over the past fortnight amid anticipation of this weekend's snap lower house election. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) is predicted to secure additional seats in the national election, as she campaigns for increased government spending, tax reductions, and a revamped security strategy. Since Takaichi assumed office, Japanese bonds and the yen have faced downward pressure due to her push for expansionary fiscal initiatives. This has sparked concerns regarding Japan's fiscal outlook, particularly over the possibility of debt-financed spending. Meanwhile, a recent auction of Japan's 10-year bonds exhibited decreased demand due to election-related apprehensions. The auction resulted in an average yield of 2.249%, significantly higher than the 2.095% observed in the previous auction. The bid-to-cover ratio registered at 3.02, falling below both the level recorded last month and the 12-month average.