[Yen Strengthened by Hawkish Remarks, BOJ Rate Hikes May Exceed Expectations] Odaily Planet Daily News - Bank of Japan (BOJ) Policy Board Member Toyoaki Nakamura stated that the possibility of significant rate hikes and consecutive rate hikes cannot be ruled out, boosting the yen. Nakamura is one of the most hawkish members of the BOJ. The yen rose 0.5% against the dollar to 159.44, after previously dropping to 160.39. Nakamura remarked that a 0.25 percentage point rate hike is 'not set in stone.' He also noted that, overall, consecutive rate hikes are also a possibility. Aozora Bank's Chief Market Strategist commented: 'The market reacted to Nakamura's clear indication that consecutive rate hikes are possible. His remarks are more aggressive in terms of the magnitude and pace of rate hikes compared to recent statements by the BOJ Governor and Deputy Governor.' (Jin10)