[Yen Falls to Historic Low, Potentially Bringing $5.8 Billion in Gains for Japanese Automakers] Odaily Planet Daily News – Despite Japan's efforts to curb the yen's decline to a 40-year low, the weak currency could bring substantial unexpected profits to the country's automakers this year. According to company forecasts, assuming the yen remains near its current level, the overall profit upside for Japanese automakers is estimated to be approximately 934 billion yen (about $5.8 billion). Toyota Motor Corporation, in its early May earnings guidance, assumed an exchange rate of 1 USD to 150 yen, while the current level is around 161 yen. Toyota estimates that for every 1 yen depreciation, its operating profit increases by 50 billion yen, meaning the company stands to significantly benefit from the yen's continued weakness. Other automakers have also adopted relatively conservative exchange rate assumptions: Honda at 1 USD to 145 yen, Nissan at 150 yen, and Subaru and Mazda at 155 yen. Meanwhile, the decline in raw material and energy costs may exceed expectations. Following the peace agreement between the U.S. and Iran, crude oil prices in yen terms have dropped by more than 30% from their late-April peak. Senior analyst Tatsuo Yoshida stated that for automakers like Toyota and Honda, which have factored Middle Eastern geopolitical conditions into their full-year forecasts, recent developments could serve as a "major positive factor." Additionally, lower gasoline prices may boost consumer confidence and support car sales. (Jin10)