Global funds reduce exposure to Japanese long-term government bonds amid concerns over slow central bank action

(1) Global funds such as T. Rowe Price, Schroders, and Brandywine have recently reduced their exposure to long-term Japanese government bonds, or only hold tactical positions. (2) April data shows that overseas investors recorded net sales of Japan's ultra-long-term government bonds for the first time since 2024. Although the market generally expects the Bank of Japan to raise rates on Tuesday, investors are concerned that the central bank's actions may not be fast enough to curb inflation and stabilize the market. (3) The appeal brought by this year's yields reaching multi-decade highs has been overshadowed by worries about the Bank of Japan's slow policy moves and its vulnerability to political pressure.