Helped by weak yen, Japan remains top creditor as net external assets grow

Japan's net external assets hit a record amount in 2021, retaining its position as the top creditor for 31 years in a row, the Ministry of Finance (MOF) said on Friday, likely bolstering the yen's status as a safe-haven asset despite its recent weakening.

The net value of assets held by the Japanese government, businesses and individuals stood at a record high of 411 trillion yen ($3.24 trillion) at the end of last year, up 5.6 billion yen - the biggest increase ever.

The increase was driven by rises in direct investment overseas and an 11% gain in yen-valued assets