The remarks, which echo those made by BOJ Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino on Tuesday, pushed up the yen as markets continued to price in the chance of a rate hike at the bank's next policy meeting on Jan. 23-24.

BOJ Gov. Kazuo Ueda reinforced his deputy’s message this week that his board will consider a rate hike at the meeting, boosting the yen and expectations for action.

Bank of Japan Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino reiterated that the central bank will raise rates if its outlook continues to be realized, while adding that there are risks both at home and abroad that require attention.

The yen was poised for its strongest weekly performance in over a month as expectations grow that the Bank of Japan will raise rates next week, putting the dollar on the back foot ahead of Donald Trump's return to the White House.

Bank of Japan Gov. Kazuo Ueda echoed recent comments that have revived market expectations for imminent policy action.

T he Bank of Japan’s Deputy Governor, Ryozo Himino, has hinted at a potential interest rate hike during the upcoming policy meeting on January 23-24. In an interview last Friday

Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda said on Thursday the central bank will debate next week whether to raise interest rates, based on its fresh quarterly growth and inflation forecasts.