Yen and Euro Juggle Political Shifts Amid U.S. Economic Uncertainty

The dollar rose against the yen and euro as political developments in Japan and Europe stirred investor anxiety, while U.S. credit risk concerns persisted. Japan's potential fiscal expansion under new leadership and easing French political tensions influenced these shifts. Meanwhile, U.S. stock markets showed cautious optimism despite underlying economic pressures.

The dollar gained ground against the yen on Monday, reflecting investor focus on political changes in Japan and the euro area, amid ongoing U.S. credit concerns. The yen weakened as Sanae Takaichi seems set to become Japan's first female prime minister, raising fears of fiscal policy shifts.

Anticipation of fiscal expansion under Takaichi, coupled with her alliance with the Japan Innovation Party, has sparked investor wariness about the yen's future. Analysts like MUFG's Lee Hardman advise watching the new government's policy plans closely.

In contrast, the euro showed slight strength against the dollar as French political pressures decreased, although skepticism remains. The euro's resilience is doubted amid French pension reform freezes, as U.S. markets display modest confidence despite enduring credit issues.

(With inputs from agencies.)