Mumbai, July 17 -- The Japanese yen weakened to around 148.8 per dollar on Thursday, weighed down by lackluster trade data that reignited concerns of a technical recession. June's trade surplus narrowed to JPY 153.1 billion from JPY 221.3 billion a year ago, while exports declined 0.5% year-on-year-marking a second consecutive monthly fall, largely driven by US tariff headwinds. The disappointing figures stoked fears that Japan's economy may shrink again in Q2. Adding to the yen's weakness, the US dollar index firmed to 98.5 amid receding uncertainty over Fed policy. With economic risks rising, investors are watching for potential stimulus announcements ahead of the July 20 Upper House election.

Published by HT Digital Content Services w...