According to a report by ING's Chris Turner, rising energy prices driven by Middle East conflicts have led to a weakening of the Japanese yen, approaching levels that could trigger currency intervention. He noted that Japan, as a major fossil fuel importer, is significantly impacted by soaring energy costs, a situation shared by much of Asia. Turner highlighted that Japan's reliance on energy imports undermines the yen's role as a safe-haven currency. He added that Japanese officials appear prepared to intervene to prevent further yen depreciation, as a weaker yen would amplify the rise in imported energy prices and worsen the cost-of-living crisis. Data from the London Stock Exchange Group showed the U.S. dollar rising 0.3% to 157.87 yen, marking a five-and-a-half-week high. ING anticipates that intervention by Japanese authorities will keep the dollar within a range of 155–160 yen.