COINOTAG News reports on December 5 that market sources indicate the Bank of Japan is leaning toward a rate hike at the upcoming December policy meeting, while signaling room for additional policy tightening. The USD/JPY pair retraced initial moves, shedding about 30 basis points and trading near 154.96. Traders note that evolving inflation data and central-bank communications are shaping the timeline and scope of any adjustment. A potential increase would shift Japan toward a gradual normalization, with implications for cross-border funding, carry trades, and risk sentiment in crypto-linked markets. Investors will watch BOJ guidance closely for signals on the pace and policy framework going into year-end.