JGBs nearly flat in subdued trade, IP and Tankan data in focus

Japanese government bonds traded nearly flat on Thursday as investors remain remained sidelined in any major deal ahead of the upcoming Christmas holidays. But, markets will look forward to the industrial production and Reuters Tankan survey data.

The yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury note, which moves inversely to its price, fell 1/2 basis point to 0.045 percent, the yield on long-term 40-year declined nearly 1/2 basis point to 0.967 percent and the yield on short-term 3-year declined 1 basis point to -0.141 percent by 02:50 GMT.

The U.S. Treasuries saw modest upward pressure across the curve following the December FOMC statement that delivered on long-held expectations for a final 25 basis points rate hike to cap off 2017. Despite little in the way of surprising, markets caught a modest bid in the wake of statement's release, possibly reacting to the fact that there were multiple dissenting votes (coming from Chicago Fed President Evans and Minneapolis Fed President Kashkari, both preferring to leave rates unchanged at the December meeting).

On the data front, Japan December Markit flash manufacturing PMI came in at 54.2, from prior 53.6. A 46-month high in the PMI was supported by the sharpest boost in order book volumes since January 2014. Recent yen weakness appeared to benefit exporters, with new orders from abroad rising strongly.

Meanwhile, Japan’s Nikkei 225 traded flat at 22,742.00 by 03:10, while at 03:00GMT, the FxWirePro's Hourly Yen Strength Index remained neutral at 41.17 (a reading above +75 indicates a bullish trend, while that below -75 a bearish trend). For more details, visit http://www.fxwirepro.com/currencyindex

FxWirePro launches Absolute Return Managed Program. For more details, visit http://www.fxwirepro.com/invest