Why iShares MSCI Japan ETF (EWJ) fell 1.62%

iShares MSCI Japan ETF (EWJ) fell 1.62% on July 27, 2026 — BoJ rate hike signals lift yen, weigh equities.

What happened

The Bank of Japan is set to signal more rate hikes as price pressures build.

Why it moved

Rate-hike signals strengthen yen expectations and compress Japanese equity valuations in a higher-rate regime, pressuring growth stocks especially.

Why it matters

Japan's rate normalization cycle is now driving simultaneous yen strength and equity weakness — the unwind of yen-carry dynamics.

What would break the thesis

If the BOJ signals a slower pace or pulls back on hike guidance, yen weakness could reverse and support equities.

Sources

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