The Bank of Japan (BOJ) has left traders uncertain about its intentions after delivering mixed messages regarding interest rate hikes. Governor Kazuo Ueda initially signaled that the weak yen was a risk and rates might rise, causing the yen to surge and Japanese stocks to plummet. In response, Deputy Governor Shinichi Uchida later stated that rate hikes were not imminent due to market turmoil, which calmed the markets but left investors confused. The BOJ’s communication challenges have increased market volatility, with investors questioning the central bank’s consistency and clarity as it navigates the unwinding of its long-standing monetary stimulus.