BOJ lifts policy rate to 1.25%, highest in 31 years; dovish messaging weakens yen and boosts Japanese stocks

The BOJ's rate hike to 1.25% (highest in 31 years) is a major policy signal, but the accompanying dovish tilt suggests a slower path ahead, weakening the yen and supporting Japanese equities via easier financial conditions. The surprise mix heightens FX volatility and can spill into global risk positioning as Japan's rates and funding dynamics adjust.