SMI is experiencing gains in pre-market trading as US futures rise after the holiday break, while the dollar weakens against the Swiss franc.

The yen in Japan has reached a six-week high of 150 per dollar due to faster-than-expected inflation in Tokyo. This inflation data indicates that core consumer prices in the capital increased in November and surpassed the Bank of Japan's two percent target. As a result, there is increased speculation about a potential interest rate hike by the BOJ next month.

ING analysts have observed that the combination of rising inflation and a strong recovery in monthly economic activity raises the likelihood of another rate increase in December. This development reflects the growing price pressures in Japan's economy, which could impact future monetary policy decisions.