The Bank of Japan (BOJ) is likely to scale back pandemic-relief corporate funding programmes when they expire in March, Reuters reports, citing four sources familiar with its thinking, adding that the decision is expected as early as next week's meeting.

Additional headlines

“BOJ leaning toward ending loan programme targeting smaller firms when they expire in March 2022, but extend some portion to aid cash-strapped sectors.”

“BOJ leaning toward scaling back the corporate bond, commercial paper purchases that were ramped up as part of the pandemic-relief programme.”

Market reaction

USD/JPY is little affected by these headlines, as it trades at 113.54, up 0.06% on the day, as of writing.