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Japanese Yen Strengthens

Japanese Yen Strengthens as Traders Anticipate BoJ Rate Hike

Japanese Yen Strengthens as Traders Anticipate BoJ Rate Hike

The Japanese Yen (JPY) continues to gain momentum for the second consecutive day as Bank of Japan (BoJ) Governor Kazuo Ueda’s hawkish comments stand in stark contrast to the dovish tone of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.

In a speech to Parliament on Friday, Governor Ueda suggested that the BoJ might consider further interest rate hikes if economic conditions align with their projections. July’s National Consumer Price Index (CPI) data remained at its highest level since February, further supporting the BoJ’s hawkish outlook.

Meanwhile, the US Dollar (USD) is weakening due to increasing expectations of a rate cut in September. During the Jackson Hole Symposium, Fed Chair Powell remarked, “The time has come for policy to adjust,” though he did not specify the timing or scale of the potential cuts.

Market participants are now widely anticipating a 25 basis point (bps) rate cut from the Federal Reserve in September. The CME FedWatch Tool shows that markets are fully pricing in at least this amount.

Daily Market Movers: Japanese Yen Rises on BoJ Ueda’s Hawkish Comments

Bloomberg reported that Philadelphia Fed President Patrick Harker emphasized the need for a gradual reduction in US interest rates. Reuters added that Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee noted that monetary policy is currently at its most restrictive level, with the Fed now focusing on achieving its employment mandate.

Governor Ueda, speaking before the Japanese parliament on Friday, clarified that the BoJ is “not considering selling long-term Japanese government bonds (JGBs) as a tool for adjusting interest rates.” He added that any reduction in JGB purchases would only account for about 7-8% of the balance sheet, which is a relatively small decrease. Ueda further mentioned that if the economy meets their projections, there could be a phase where interest rates might be adjusted slightly higher.

Japan’s National CPI rose by 2.8% year-on-year in July, maintaining this rate for the third consecutive month and remaining at its highest level since February. Additionally, the National CPI excluding Fresh Food increased by 2.7%, the highest reading since February, in line with expectations.

In the US, the Composite PMI edged down slightly to 54.1 in August from 54.3 in July, a four-month low but still above market expectations of 53.5. This indicates continued growth in US business activity, marking 19 consecutive months of expansion.

The FOMC minutes from July’s policy meeting revealed that most Fed officials were in agreement that a rate cut is likely at the September meeting, provided that inflation continues to cool.

Technical Analysis: USD/JPY Drops Near 144.00

USD/JPY traded around 143.90 on Friday, with the daily chart indicating the pair is positioned below a downtrend line, suggesting a bearish outlook. However, the 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains slightly above 30, indicating that the bearish trend might persist.

On the downside, the USD/JPY pair may approach the seven-month low of 141.69, recorded on August 5. A break below this level could drive the pair toward the throwback support level at 140.25.

In terms of resistance, the USD/JPY pair may test the immediate barrier at the downtrend line around the psychological level of 145.00, followed by the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at the 145.74 level. A breakthrough above the nine-day EMA could lead the pair to explore the region around the throwback-turned-resistance at the 154.50 level.

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Gold Price Holds Below $2,500 as Traders

Gold Price Holds Below $2,500 as Traders Await Powell’s Speech

Gold Price Holds Below $2,500 as Traders Await Powell’s Speech

Gold (XAU/USD) is seeing some dip-buying on the last trading day of the week, partially recovering from Thursday’s over 1% drop to a weekly low. The US Dollar (USD) is struggling to build on its overnight rebound from the year-to-date low, due to expectations of lower interest rates in the US. This dovish outlook has triggered a decline in US Treasury bond yields, putting pressure on the Greenback. Additionally, ongoing geopolitical risks are providing support to the safe-haven appeal of gold.

However, traders remain cautious and are avoiding significant bullish positions ahead of Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s speech at the Jackson Hole Symposium later today. This hesitation is keeping gold prices below the key psychological level of $2,500 as the European session approaches. Powell’s remarks will be closely analyzed for indications regarding the Fed’s potential rate-cut path, which will significantly impact near-term USD price movements and offer new directional momentum for gold.

Daily Market Movers: Gold Traders on Standby for Powell’s Speech

On Thursday, the US Dollar staged a solid recovery from its 2024 low, buoyed by rebounding US Treasury bond yields, which drew investors away from gold. However, the USD’s recovery lacked sustained momentum due to market speculation that the Federal Reserve might begin a rate-cutting cycle in September, limiting losses for XAU/USD.

On the economic data front, the US Department of Labor reported that initial jobless claims rose to a seasonally adjusted 232,000 for the week ending August 17, up from the previous 228,000. This followed an annual benchmark review revealing that US employers added 818,000 fewer jobs than initially reported for the year through March.

Minutes from the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting on July 30-31 showed an increasing number of policymakers supporting a rate cut next month due to progress in reducing inflation. The S&P Global flash PMI indicated that US manufacturing activity contracted at its fastest pace this year, although the services sector saw a surprise increase. The composite PMI showed continued healthy expansion in US private sector business activity, with selling price inflation nearing pre-pandemic levels.

Comments from regional Fed officials reflect a cautious stance on rate cuts. Kansas City Fed President Jeffrey Schmid emphasized the need for more data to support a rate reduction, while Philadelphia Fed President Patrick Harker indicated openness to a September cut, contingent on economic data. Boston Fed President Susan Collins also suggested that a rate cut would soon be appropriate as inflation data stabilizes.

Market attention is now focused on Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s upcoming speech, which will be pivotal in signaling the future trajectory of interest rates and influencing gold’s direction.

Technical Analysis: Gold’s Setup Suggests Potential for Further Gains

From a technical perspective, gold’s recent decline found support near the $2,370 horizontal resistance-turned-support level, which now serves as a crucial pivot point. A decisive break below this level could trigger technical selling, pushing gold prices towards the next support area around $2,345-$2,343. Further downside could extend towards the 50-day Simple Moving Average (SMA), currently positioned just above the $2,400 mark.

Conversely, if gold can regain momentum above the $2,500 level, it will face initial resistance around the $2,513-$2,514 region. Clearing this hurdle could open the door to testing the all-time high near $2,531-$2,532, potentially reigniting bullish momentum and extending gold’s recent uptrend.

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US Dollar Faces Continued Pressure as Market Focus

US Dollar Faces Continued Pressure as Market Focus Shifts to PMI Data

US Dollar Faces Continued Pressure as Market Focus Shifts to PMI Data

After a brief recovery earlier in the day on Wednesday, the US Dollar Index reversed course during the American session, marking its fourth consecutive day of losses. As of Thursday’s European trading hours, all eyes are on the preliminary August PMI data from Germany and the Eurozone, provided by HCOB, alongside the S&P Global/CIPS PMI figures. Later in the day, the US economic calendar will feature weekly Initial Jobless Claims, Existing Home Sales, and S&P Global PMI data.

On Wednesday, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a preliminary estimate indicating a benchmark revision for March 2024’s total Nonfarm employment, with a downward adjustment of -818,000 (-0.5%). Additionally, minutes from the Federal Reserve’s July 30-31 policy meeting revealed that a significant majority of policymakers felt that, should the incoming data align with expectations, easing policy at the next meeting would likely be appropriate. The USD Index is currently trading just above 101.20, down over 1% since the start of the week. Meanwhile, US stock futures are slightly lower, and the 10-year US Treasury bond yield remains near the lower end of its weekly range, around 3.8%.

In Asian trading, data from Australia showed the Judo Bank Composite PMI rose to 51.4 in August’s preliminary reading, up from 49.9 in July. However, this improvement failed to significantly impact AUD/USD, which continues to trade sideways around 0.6750.

EUR/USD surpassed 1.1170 on Wednesday, reaching its highest level since July 2023 before entering a consolidation phase early Thursday. The pair is currently steady at around 1.1150.

GBP/USD maintained its bullish momentum on Wednesday, climbing above 1.3100 for the first time in over a year. The pair remains just below this level as of Thursday morning in Europe.

USD/JPY was unable to capitalize on the USD’s broader weakness, closing flat on Thursday. The pair continues to trade sideways around 145.50 at the start of the European session.

Gold, which had corrected from its record high of $2,531 set on Tuesday, stabilized above $2,500 late Wednesday. XAU/USD remains relatively quiet, trading near $2,510 early Thursday.

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How Responsible is the Polish Central Bank

How Responsible is the Polish Central Bank? – Commerzbank Analysis

How Responsible is the Polish Central Bank? – Commerzbank Analysis

The Polish zloty weakened against the euro and other CE3 currencies yesterday after Poland’s Constitutional Court issued a controversial ruling. The court declared that NBP governor Adam Glapinski could not be held accountable by a parliamentary committee, the State Tribunal, or through any report by such bodies, citing constitutional guarantees of central bank independence. This argument has been used by the previous ruling party (PiS) from the outset of this dispute, notes Commerzbank’s FX Analyst Tatha Ghose.

Zloty Weakens Against the Euro

“We believe this argument lacks merit and doubt that parliament will consider the Constitutional Court’s ruling as binding. Poland’s Constitutional Court has been compromised since the rule of law disputes with the EU and lacks legitimacy. Other key courts are also dominated by right-wing PiS affiliates. The accusations from both sides are driven by ideology rather than good faith.”

“On balance, it seems clear that Glapinski’s ’emergency’ rate cuts just before the elections, coupled with his refusal to cut rates further after an opposing political party took over, were politically motivated. The NBP cannot now claim ‘central bank independence’ after failing to uphold its constitutional duty to remain apolitical.”

“The new KO government will likely proceed with the planned Sejm procedures despite the court’s ruling, pushing for Glapinski’s suspension. Glapinski, in turn, will likely use the ruling to resist interrogation. This standoff is expected to continue in parliament for the next year without a clear resolution. As a result, monetary policy is likely to remain highly politicized and stagnant during this period.”

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EUR/USD Approaches YTD Highs Near

EUR/USD Approaches YTD Highs Near 1.1050 on Expectations of Fed Rate Cuts

EUR/USD Approaches YTD Highs Near 1.1050 on Expectations of Fed Rate Cuts

The EUR/USD pair climbed to year-to-date (YTD) highs, nearing 1.1040, during early European trading on Monday. This rise is supported by a broad weakening of the US Dollar (USD) amid increasing speculation that the Federal Reserve (Fed) might cut interest rates in September. Market participants are now keenly awaiting Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s speech on Friday for further insights into potential rate cuts.

On Sunday, San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly expressed greater confidence that inflation is under control, suggesting that it might be time to consider lowering borrowing costs from the current range of 5.25% to 5.5%. Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee also cautioned that the US central bank should avoid maintaining restrictive policies longer than necessary. These dovish remarks from Fed officials have added selling pressure on the Greenback and provided a boost to EUR/USD.

Currently, investors are pricing in a roughly 70% chance of a quarter-point Fed rate cut in September, with some expecting a more substantial half-point cut. Morningstar’s chief US economist, Preston Caldwell, noted that the latest CPI report further supports the case for aggressive Fed rate cuts starting in September, with an initial 25 basis point cut projected to bring the Fed Funds rate down to 5.00-5.25%.

Meanwhile, the Euro (EUR) remains resilient as markets anticipate a gradual reduction in interest rates by the European Central Bank (ECB). At the latest press conference, ECB President Christine Lagarde emphasized a cautious, data-dependent approach, stating that policymakers are “not pre-committing to a particular rate path” and will make decisions on a meeting-by-meeting basis.

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Japanese Yen Strengthens

Japanese Yen Strengthens Amid Hawkish BoJ Sentiment; US Data in Focus

Japanese Yen Strengthens Amid Hawkish BoJ Sentiment; US Data in Focus

The Japanese Yen (JPY) rebounded against the US Dollar (USD) on Friday, likely bolstered by Japan’s strong second-quarter GDP growth, which fuels speculation about a potential interest rate hike from the Bank of Japan (BoJ).

However, the Yen may face headwinds due to political uncertainty in Japan, triggered by reports suggesting that Prime Minister Fumio Kishida will not seek re-election as party leader in September, potentially ending his term as prime minister.

The USD/JPY pair is trending lower as the US Dollar weakens, pressured by declining Treasury yields. Moreover, traders are fully pricing in a 25 basis point rate cut by the US Federal Reserve for September, according to the CME FedWatch tool.

Despite this, the Greenback found some support from recent positive US economic data, which has eased recession fears. Upcoming data, including the preliminary US Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index for August and July’s Building Permits, will be closely watched during the North American session.

Market Highlights: Japanese Yen Rises on Hawkish BoJ Outlook

On Thursday, the US Census Bureau reported a 1.0% month-over-month increase in US Retail Sales for July, reversing June’s 0.2% decline and exceeding the expected 0.3% rise. Additionally, Initial Jobless Claims for the week ending August 9 came in at 227,000, lower than the forecast of 235,000 and down from 234,000 the previous week.

Japanese Economy Minister Yoshitaka Shindo expressed optimism on Thursday, stating that Japan’s economy is expected to recover gradually as wages and incomes improve. He also mentioned that the government will work closely with the BoJ to implement flexible macroeconomic policies.

Japan’s GDP grew by 0.8% quarter-on-quarter in Q2, beating market expectations of 0.5% and rebounding from a 0.6% contraction in Q1. This marks the strongest quarterly growth since Q1 2023. On an annualized basis, GDP grew by 3.1%, surpassing the 2.1% market consensus and reversing a 2.3% contraction in Q1. This is the highest yearly growth since Q2 2023.

Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago President Austan Goolsbee expressed concern on Wednesday about the labor market rather than inflation, noting recent improvements in price pressures alongside weak employment data. He added that the extent of rate cuts will depend on prevailing economic conditions, according to Bloomberg.

US Consumer Price Index (CPI) data showed a 2.9% year-over-year increase in July, slightly down from the 3% rise in June and below market expectations. The Core CPI, excluding food and energy, rose by 3.2% year-over-year, a slight decrease from June’s 3.3% increase, in line with market forecasts.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced on Wednesday that he will not seek re-election as the leader of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in September. Kishida highlighted the need to address Japan’s deflationary pressures by promoting wage and investment growth, with the goal of expanding Japan’s GDP to ¥600 trillion.

Rabobank’s senior FX strategist, Jane Foley, noted that this week’s series of US data releases, along with the upcoming Jackson Hole event, should offer more clarity on potential US policy actions. The primary expectation is for the Fed to cut rates by 25 basis points in September, with another potential cut by year-end.

Technical Analysis: USD/JPY Slips Toward 148.50; Immediate Support at Nine-Day EMA

The USD/JPY pair is trading around 148.80 on Friday. The daily chart indicates that the pair is above the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), suggesting a short-term bullish trend. However, the 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains below 50, and further gains would confirm a bullish momentum.

In terms of support levels, the USD/JPY pair may find immediate support at the nine-day EMA, around 148.09. A drop below this level could enhance the bearish outlook, potentially pushing the pair toward the seven-month low of 141.69, recorded on August 5. A continued decline could bring the pair closer to the next support level at 140.25.

On the upside, the USD/JPY pair could target the 50-day EMA at 153.08, with a possibility of testing the resistance level at 154.50, which has shifted from previous throwback support to current pullback resistance.

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Australian Dollar Declines as US Dollar Gains Strength

Australian Dollar Declines as US Dollar Gains Strength Ahead of CPI Inflation Data

Australian Dollar Declines as US Dollar Gains Strength Ahead of CPI Inflation Data

The Australian Dollar (AUD) has weakened against the US Dollar (USD) following an unexpected rate cut by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) on Wednesday. The RBNZ reduced its Official Cash Rate (OCR) by 25 basis points to 5.25% from 5.50%. Given the close economic ties between Australia and New Zealand, developments in one country can influence the other, impacting their respective currencies.

Despite this, the AUD found some support from recent data showing that Australian wage growth remained strong in the second quarter, leading the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to maintain a hawkish stance on its policy outlook. The RBA kept the cash rate steady at its meeting last week, aiming to return inflation to its 2-3% target range.

RBA Governor Michele Bullock ruled out the possibility of rate cuts within the next six months, emphasizing the bank’s cautious approach to inflation risks and its readiness to raise rates if necessary. Traders are now focused on the upcoming release of Consumer Inflation Expectations and Employment data from Australia on Thursday.

The AUD/USD pair saw support as the US Dollar retreated following weaker-than-expected Producer Price Index (PPI) data from the United States (US) released on Tuesday. Investors are now looking ahead to the US CPI inflation report on Wednesday, which could provide insights into the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) interest rate strategy.

Market Movers: Potential for Australian Dollar Appreciation Amid RBA’s Hawkish Stance

On Tuesday, Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic expressed increased confidence in the Fed’s ability to achieve its 2% inflation target, though he noted that more evidence is needed before supporting a rate reduction, according to Reuters.

The US Core Producer Price Index (PPI) rose by 2.4% year-on-year in July, down from the previous 3.0%, and below the expected 2.7%. The overall PPI increased by 2.2% YoY in July, compared to 2.7% in June, missing the market forecast of 2.3%. Month-over-month, PPI rose by 0.1% after a 0.2% increase in June.

In Australia, Westpac Consumer Confidence rose by 2.8% in August, reversing a 1.1% decline in July. Meanwhile, the Wage Price Index saw a 0.8% rise in the second quarter, slightly below the expected 0.9% increase.

RBA Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser attributed persistent inflation to weaker supply and a tight labor market, noting the significant uncertainty surrounding economic forecasts.

However, the AUD’s upside could be limited by safe-haven flows due to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. On Sunday, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant informed US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin of Iran’s military activities, which suggest preparations for a significant strike on Israel, according to Axios writer Barak Ravid.

Federal Reserve Governor Michelle Bowman also stated on Sunday that she sees ongoing inflation risks and labor market strength, indicating that the Fed may not be ready to cut rates at their next meeting in September, according to Bloomberg.

Westpac recently revised its RBA forecast, now predicting the first rate cut in February 2025, delayed from the previously expected November 2024. They also adjusted their terminal rate forecast to 3.35% from 3.10%, reflecting the RBA’s cautious approach, requiring stronger evidence before considering rate cuts.

Technical Analysis: Australian Dollar Trades Near 0.6650

The Australian Dollar is trading around 0.6640 on Wednesday. Technical analysis of the daily chart shows that the AUD/USD pair is moving within an ascending channel, indicating a strengthening bullish trend. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) has also moved above the 50 level, confirming the bullish momentum.

On the upside, the AUD/USD pair may test the upper boundary of the ascending channel at the 0.6675 level. A breakout above this level could propel the pair toward its six-month high of 0.6798, achieved on July 11.

In terms of support, the AUD/USD pair could test the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6587, followed by the lower boundary of the ascending channel and the throwback level at 0.6575. A drop below this level could lead to a bearish outlook, potentially pushing the pair toward the throwback level at 0.6470.

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Fears about economy are causing stock global markets to collapse

Fears about economy are causing stock global markets to collapse

The United Kingdom and Switzerland boosted interest rates on Thursday, a day after the Federal Reserve of the United States announced the highest rate hike since 1994 affected the global stock market. Policymakers are hiking interest rates in order to decrease demand and alleviate some of the pressures that are driving up consumer prices. Investors are concerned that the actions will cause a lasting slump in the global economy. After the US rate hike was announced, Ryan Sweet of Moody’s Analytics said, “The Federal Reserve will hike interest rates until policymakers break inflation, but the risk is that they also break the economy.”

The Nikkei 225 and Australia’s main stock market index were both down more than 2% on Friday; however Hong Kong and Shanghai stocks were higher. That occurred following a sell-off in the US on Thursday, with the S&P 500 dropping 3.2 percent and the tech-heavy NASDAQ dropping more than 4%. For the first time since January 2021, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell more than 2.4 percent, falling below 30,000 points. Few businesses were spared, and corporations that rely on discretionary spending, such as Nike and airlines, were among the hardest hit. Energy businesses, which would potentially face a decline in demand if the economy slowed, were also hit hard.

Tesla’s stock dropped 8.5 percent after the company announced price hikes due to increased costs. The autopilot features of the electric vehicle are also being scrutinised by US road safety regulators. Spotify also dropped 7% a day after the streaming behemoth announced it was slowing recruiting in the wake of economic uncertainty, becoming the second major internet business to do so.

The FTSE 100 ended Thursday down more than 3% in the UK, where the Bank of England warned that inflation could reach 11% this year. After warning investors that inflationary pressures were impacting shopping behaviour, Asos, a British online apparel company, plummeted 32.5 percent. The Dax index in Germany sank more than 3%, while the Cac 40 in France fell 2.4 percent.

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Fed’s rate hike, the stock market in the United States rallied

Fed’s rate hike, the stock market in the United States rallied

Stocks in the United States jumped on Wednesday after the Federal Reserve approved its largest interest-rate hike since 1994, although the central bank hinted that such moves would be rare. The S&P 500 index increased 54.51 points, or 1.5 percent, to 3789.99, ending a five-day losing run. The Dow Jones Industrial Average increased by 303.70 points, or 1%, to 30668.53, while the NASDAQ Composite increased by 270.81 points, or 2.5 percent, to 11099.15.

The move is the Fed’s latest attempt to reduce inflation by tightening monetary policy. The Fed was widely expected to boost its short-term benchmark rate by 0.75 percentage point, as forecast by investors. Some had feared that, before of Wednesday’s interest-rate decision, the Fed might have to hike rates even faster.

Fed Chairman Jerome Powell said Wednesday’s decision was “an extraordinarily significant one” during a press conference following the announcement. He also stated that he expects the Fed to raise rates by 0.50 to 0.75 percentage points at its July meeting. Ultimately, the guidance the Fed gives about the direction of interest rates Wednesday is more important for markets than the size of the rate increase, said Dorian Carrell, a fund manager at Schroders. This year, uncertainty regarding monetary policy has been a major source of volatility.

On Monday, the S&P 500 entered bear market territory, or a decline of at least 20% from a prior high. “Markets are pricing in a Fed that wants to be ahead of the curve on inflation rather than behind it,” said Art Hogan, chief market analyst at National Securities. Mr. Hogan said that this helped raise stocks ahead of Wednesday’s rate announcement. Stocks were up across the board, with 10 of the S&P 500’s 11 sectors closing the day higher. Technology companies, which have been one of the market’s hardest hit this year, were among the best performers. Microsoft, Nvidia, Amazon.com, and Netflix all increased by 3% or more.

Areas of the market that are economically sensitive have also risen. The KBW NASDAQ Bank Index rose 1.6 percent on Wednesday, following a sell-off in bank stocks due to market concerns about a slowing economy. Energy stocks have fallen, marking a rare reversal for the year’s best-performing S&P 500 sector. The energy sector of the S&P 500 index declined by around 2.1 percent.

Meanwhile, government bonds in the United States recovered after falling in recent weeks in a selloff that pushed rates to their highest levels in almost a decade. The yield on 10-year Treasurys fell to 3.389 percent on Wednesday, down from 3.482 percent the day before. Rates for everything from mortgages to federal student loans to auto loans are influenced by yields, which fall as bond prices rise.

Ahead of the ECB’s ad hoc meeting on Wednesday to tackle instability in the region’s bond markets, European stocks and prices on peripheral government bonds in the eurozone soared. Under an existing bond-purchase programme, the ECB plans to buy more bonds from weaker eurozone governments. It charged ECB employees with speeding up the development of a new instrument that would reduce borrowing cost variations throughout the area, addressing financial imbalances that have long plagued the currency union.

Willem Sels, chief investment officer at HSBC Private Banking and Wealth Management, said, “They wanted to make sure financing circumstances don’t deteriorate too much.” The meeting, he claimed, showed that the ECB was ready to support markets sooner than investors had anticipated.

Shares of banks and insurers led the Stoxx Europe 600 index higher by 1.4 percent. As the price of government bonds declined, shares of Italian banks, who own a large portion of them, suffered. On Wednesday, Intesa Sanpaolo and UniCredit were among the best-performing banks in Europe. The Dow Jones Industrial Average was trading at 30669 in the afternoon on Wednesday. It was wrongly stated in an earlier version of this article that it traded at 20639. Furthermore, on Tuesday, Italy’s 10-year government bond yields finished at 4.111 percent. The yields settled at 4.067 percent in an earlier version of this story, which was inaccurate.

 

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Stocks fall further into a bear market ahead of major Fed comments

Stocks fall further into a bear market ahead of major Fed comments

Most stocks on Wall Street fell in their first trading day Tuesday after plunging into a bear market on fears that soaring inflation may force central banks to slam the brakes on the economy too forcefully. The S&P 500 index slid 14.15 points, or 0.4 percent, to 3,735.48 as investors awaited the Federal Reserve’s decision on interest rate hikes on Wednesday. After a couple of prominent corporations displayed financial fortitude with stronger profits and dividends to shareholders, it swung back and forth between losses and gains throughout the day.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 151.91 points to 30,364.83, or 0.5 percent. After bouncing between a loss of 0.7 percent and a gain of 1.1 percent, the NASDAQ composite increased 19.12, or 0.2 percent, to 10,828.35. Despite the swings, trading was calmer than it had been during Monday’s global sell-off, which drove the S&P 500 down 3.9 percent. In Tokyo and Paris, stocks sank more than 1%, but increased by the same amount in Shanghai. Even as Treasury yields rose to their highest levels in more than a decade, investors on Wall Street appeared to be less anxious.

“No one is going to take major positions today,” said Katie Nixon, chief investment officer at Northern Trust Wealth Management, “before of what could be a rip-roaring day” with the Fed’s decision. The price of cryptocurrencies continued to fluctuate. They’ve been among the hardest affected in this year’s market sell-off, as the Federal Reserve and other central banks boost interest rates to combat inflation and forcefully turn off the “easy mode” that has kept markets afloat for years. According to CoinDesk, Bitcoin was down over 5% in afternoon trading and was trading at $22,201. It had already dropped over 70% from its all-time high of $68,990.90 achieved late last year.

However, economists believe the data will not prevent the Federal Reserve from raising its benchmark interest rate by a larger-than-usual amount on Wednesday. Investors are now anticipating the largest increase since 1994, a three-quarters of a percentage point increase, or three times the typical amount. Only a week ago, such a massive gain was considered a remote prospect, if at all. However, a market-beating report on consumer inflation on Friday appears to have forced the Fed into acting more aggressively. It showed that, instead of declining as expected, consumer price inflation worsened in May.

A major rate hike, Nixon added, “is really a split judgement in terms of the market as to whether it will be a good thing or a terrible thing.” “It certainly paves the way for more significant hikes in the future.” According to Tradeweb, Treasury yields continued to rise, with the two-year yield reaching its highest level since November 2007, before the financial crisis. During the day, the 10-year yield hit its highest level since April 2011. They also had a relatively dependable recession warning indicator blinking on and off in the bond market. The 10-year Treasury yield has risen above the two-year yield in afternoon trading, at 3.47 percent vs 3.41 percent. In the bond market, things usually look like this.

Some investors see the unique situation in which the two-year yield exceeds the 10-year yield as a sign that a recession is on the way in the next year or two. It’s known as a “inverted yield curve,” and it appeared briefly earlier today. Oracle stock rose 10.4% on Wall Street after the company reported better revenue and earnings for the most recent quarter than experts predicted. FedEx’s stock rose 14.4% after the company increased its dividend distribution by more than 50%. It was the first day of trading for US stocks since the S&P 500 finished Monday at a 21.8 percent loss from its early-year high. This put it in a bear market, which is defined as a decrease of 20% or more in value.

The Federal Reserve’s aim to contain inflation by raising interest rates is at the heart of the sell-off. The Fed is scrambling to bring prices under control, and one of its key tools is to raise interest rates. However, this is a harsh tool that could slow the economy too much and lead to a recession. “The attention on this week’s Fed decision is driving the true calm in today’s market,” said Greg Bassuk, CEO of AXS Investments. “Today’s calm is either the calm before the storm or the calm that will hopefully last for a long time.” Other central banks around the world have started raising rates as well, notably the Bank of England, and the European Central Bank has suggested it will do so next month.

Oil and food costs are skyrocketing as a result of the Ukraine conflict, driving inflation and sapping consumer spending, particularly in Europe. Meanwhile, COVID infections in China have prompted some harsh, business-slowing regulations that threaten to stifle the world’s second-largest economy and exacerbate clogged supply chains. The move toward higher rates has reversed the market’s extraordinary gain, which was fueled by significant central bank support after the pandemic struck in early 2020. From late March 2020 to the climax in January, the S&P 500 more than doubled. According to S&P Dow Jones Indices, it was the shortest bull market on record, dating back to 1929, and it followed the shortest bear market on record.

Investors are less inclined to pay high prices for hazardous assets when interest rates are higher. As a result, some of the biggest stars of the earlier low-rate era, such as bitcoin and high-growth technology companies, have taken the brunt of this year’s crash. In 2022, Netflix will be down by more than 70%.

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S&P 500 entered a bear market, global stocks dropped

S&P 500 entered a bear market, global stocks dropped

Stock futures increased, indicating that U.S. markets were on the verge of recovering from a meltdown that pushed the S&P 500 into a bear market on Monday, but Asian stocks remained under pressure. In Asia on Tuesday morning, S&P 500 futures were up 0.6 percent. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Nasdaq-100, which is centered on technology, both rose 0.5 percent and 0.8 percent, respectively.

Consumer inflation in the United States reached its highest level in more than four decades, according to data released late last week. This has fueled fears that the Federal Reserve will be forced to act quickly, and that the monetary tightening that follows will push the economy into recession. Following a two-day policy meeting, the Fed will announce its next interest rate decision on Wednesday. According to the CME FedWatch Tool, market pricing swung quickly on Monday, implying that a 0.75 percentage point increase was a near certainty. According to the programme, futures markets previously indicated a one-in-four possibility of such a significant gain.

Shorter-term Treasury yields surged above longer-term Treasury yields during Asian trading hours Tuesday, a phenomenon known as an inverted yield curve that has often preceded prior recessions. As bond prices decrease, yields climb. The yield on the 10-year note fell to 3.355 percent from 3.371 percent on Tuesday, after jumping to an 11-year peak on Monday. The yield on the two-year note, meanwhile, increased by 0.116 percentage point to 3.395 percent.

While several markets have been impacted by higher interest rates this year, the shares of money-losing companies that were once industry darlings and other speculative plays have been particularly hard hit. Higher interest rates on risk-free assets like government bonds tend to lower the appeal of riskier investments—and the perceived value of future cash flows—while increasing corporate borrowing costs. The S&P 500 has now down approximately 22% from its January high, while the NASDAQ Composite has dropped 33% from its November high.

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Concerns about Global Economy have caused the stock markets to fall

Concerns about Global Economy have caused the stock markets to fall

As a result of rising prices in the United States, Asian stock markets have plunged, raising fears that the Federal Reserve may tighten its monetary policy to combat inflation. At the same time, the US dollar rose to 135 yen for the first time in more than two decades. It comes as official numbers released on Friday revealed that US inflation touched a 40-year high last month. Investors’ anxieties over global economic development were heightened by a warning in Beijing about Covid-19 infections.

The Nikkei 225 index in Japan was down 2.7 percent on Monday, while the Hang Seng in Hong Kong was down 2.7 percent. The Australian stock market was closed for the public holiday commemorating the Queen’s birthday. Brent crude has dropped roughly $1.70 to just over $120 per barrel, bringing global oil prices down. Official data released on Friday indicated that prices rose more than predicted in the United States last month, with rising energy and food expenses pushing inflation to its highest level since 1981.

After dropping in April, the annual inflation rate climbed to 8.6% in May, according to the Labor Department. This dashed hopes that inflation had reached a nadir, and instead alerted investors to the possibility that the Federal Reserve would respond more forcefully to the problem. On Wednesday, the central bank is expected to issue its next policy pronouncement. It has an 80% likelihood of raising its main interest rate by half a percentage point, according to the markets.

The reforms occurred as the cost of living has risen, putting pressure on officials to address the issue. The rising cost of gasoline has become a big issue in the United States, with the price of gasoline averaging more than $5 per gallon for the first time on Saturday, according to the American Automobile Association. Investors are concerned, however, that the Fed and other major central banks would take extreme measures to curb increasing prices, such as raising interest rates too high and too quickly, causing a sudden economic slowdown.

Investors are also concerned about the spread of Covid-19 in China, following the announcement on Sunday by Beijing’s most populous district of Chaoyang that three rounds of mass testing would be conducted to control a “ferocious” outbreak – 166 confirmed cases so far – that began last week at a bar in a nightlife and shopping area. This has sparked fears of future lockdowns, which might stifle the city’s economic resurgence just as restrictions were being relaxed.

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Stocks drop as Wall Street prepares for inflation data

Stocks drop as Wall Street prepares for inflation data

Stocks in the United States fell sharply on Thursday, as Wall Street fretted about critical inflation data due out on Friday. The S&P 500 was down 2.4 percent, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 1.9 percent, or 640 points. The NASDAQ Composite Index dropped by 2.8 percent. The majority of the losses occurred in the final hour of trading, as selling intensified as the session came to a close.

Investors are anticipating the release of the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) from the Bureau of Labor Statistics on Friday in order to gain further insight into how aggressively the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates. Inflation is expected to have continued in May, according to the reading. According to consensus estimates, headline inflation would climb at an annual pace of 8.3 percent in May, matching April’s reading, and 5.9 percent excluding food and energy prices.

The sell-off was triggered by disappointing labour market statistics released before the market opened, as well as confirmation from the European Central Bank that it intends to hike interest rates next month. Last week, 229,000 people applied for unemployment benefits, the highest number since January and an indication that the labour market is becoming more stressed. Prior to the release of this data, all three main indexes were forecasting gains of more than 0.4 percent at the open.

Oil prices fell somewhat but remained above $120 per barrel, and the 10-year Treasury yield rose to 3.06 percent, just above the 3% level that the 10-year had surpassed earlier this week for the first time since early May. Investors are still looking for signs of how the economy is faring in the face of tighter financial conditions, as well as how aggressive the Federal Reserve rate hike cycle will grow before a possible stop.

Last Friday’s robust May employment numbers undoubtedly conveyed to policymakers that present labour market conditions can survive further monetary tightening. As it fights inflation, central bank policymakers have taken clues from the labour market on the rate hike pace, with policy geared at cooling labour demand just enough to keep the unemployment rate from rising too high.

In a morning note, FWDBONDS Chief Economist Christopher S. Rupkey noted, “The surge in initial jobless claims does fit with anecdotal information offered by CEOs that they are closely watching their head counts, which frequently covers up for their actions where they are discreetly throwing away pink slips.” “One thing is certain: joblessness will only rise as inflation raises costs for every company across the country, necessitating cost-cutting measures that will inevitably fall on the backs of workers.”

Shares of Tesla (TSLA) closed marginally down in other markets after the electric vehicle’s price gained as much as 3% in early trading following a UBS upgrade to Buy. The electric vehicle behemoth is also “best positioned to become one of the top three global auto manufactures by 2030,” according to the research.

 

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As volatile trading on Wall Street continues, stocks dip

As volatile trading on Wall Street continues, stocks dip

Investors were disheartened to see further evidence of inflation’s impact on businesses and another grim forecast for the global economy on Wall Street Wednesday, erasing most of their gains for the week. The losses come after a string of choppy trading days, with key indexes swinging back and forth between gains and losses by the hour. As investors strive to figure out how rising interest rates and inflation will affect the economy, volatility prevails.

The S&P 500 index dropped 44.91 points, or 1.1%, to 4,115.77. For the week, the benchmark index managed to maintain a small increase. It has now lost eight of the previous nine weeks. The NASDAQ slid 88.96 points, or 0.7 percent, to 12,086.27, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 269.24 points, or 0.8 percent, to 32,910.90. The largest weights on the broader market were banks and industrial businesses. Union Pacific was down 3.1 percent and Wells Fargo was down 1.8 percent. Stocks in the technology sector have also dropped. Intel’s stock dropped 5.3 percent.

Stocks of smaller companies plummeted faster than the rest of the market. The Russell 2000 index dropped 28.56 points (1.5%) to 1,891.01. Bond yields have risen. The 10-year Treasury yield, which banks use to set mortgage and other loan rates, increased to 3.02 percent on Wednesday from 2.97 percent late Tuesday.

On Wall Street, the biggest issue is increasing inflation and whether the Federal Reserve’s decision to hike interest rates rapidly will help mitigate the damage or push the economy into recession. “What investors need to understand is that inflation numbers will take a long time to look good,” said Brian Levitt, global market strategist at Invesco. “What they need to pay attention to is whether it improves or deteriorates in relation to expectations.”

Businesses are still feeling the effects of inflation. Scotts Miracle-Gro, a lawn care products firm, fell 8.9% after reducing its profit prediction for the year because merchants aren’t restocking orders as quickly as projected. Consumers are shifting to either spending on services or focusing on basics rather than purchasing otherwise discretionary products such as electronics, according to retailers.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has increased pressure on oil and food prices since February, has only exacerbated the impact of inflation. Crude oil prices in the United States jumped 2.3 percent on Wednesday, bringing the year’s total to 63 percent, while wheat prices are up 39 percent in 2022. Following a series of lockdowns in Chinese cities dealing with COVID-19 cases, supply chains have tightened as well.

“It will be more difficult to see headline inflation come down as long as commodity prices remain elevated,” Levitt added. The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development has lowered its economic growth prediction, following numerous other international organisations, like the World Bank, who expect inflation to have a long-term impact on economies around the world.

In testimony before the Senate Finance Committee on Tuesday, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said she expects inflation to stay high and that lowering it is a primary priority. At its meeting next week, the Federal Reserve is largely expected to raise its benchmark short-term interest rate by half a percentage point. That would be the second consecutive hike of more than double the regular amount, with a third expected in July.

The Fed’s goal is to reduce economic growth enough to mitigate the impact of inflation. Throughout most of the post-pandemic recovery, demand for commodities outpaced supplies and production capacity. However, investors are concerned that the Fed may raise rates too quickly, causing the US economy to enter a recession, especially given the current state of the economy. Wall Street is keeping a tight eye on economic statistics for signs that the Fed may be easing up on the scale of its rate hikes. The latest report on the consumer price index will be released by the US government on Friday, which will provide the next major update on inflation.

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Gold Struggles Below $3,300 as Fed Rate Cut Hopes Dim Ahead of FOMC Minutes

Gold Struggles Below $3,300 as Fed Rate Cut Hopes Dim Ahead of FOMC Minutes

Gold (XAU/USD) dipped to a one-and-a-half-week low near $3,284 during the Asian trading session on Wednesday, weighed down by a stronger US Dollar and rising Treasury yields. Investors are increasingly convinced that recent US tariff hikes may fuel inflation, prompting the Federal Reserve to keep interest rates elevated for longer. 

The firmer Greenback, bolstered by expectations of prolonged Fed tightening and a robust June jobs report, has dulled the appeal of non-yielding assets like gold. Benchmark 10-year US bond yields also climbed, adding further pressure on the precious metal. 

Market participants remain cautious amid ongoing concerns about the economic fallout from Donald Trump’s aggressive tariff proposals. On Tuesday, the former US President threatened to impose duties of up to 50% on copper and 200% on foreign pharmaceuticals, unsettling global markets. However, gold’s traditional safe-haven demand has yet to see significant support in response. 

Traders are now eyeing the release of the FOMC meeting minutes later today, hoping for clues on the Fed’s rate path. Although a July rate cut appears off the table, markets are still pricing in up to 50 basis points of easing by year-end, likely beginning in October. 

Technically, a break below the $3,300 level, coupled with resistance at the 100-period SMA on the 4-hour chart, signals further downside. Momentum indicators suggest gold could slide towards the next support at $3,270, with a deeper drop towards $3,248–$3,247 not ruled out. 

On the upside, recovery attempts may face initial resistance near $3,310 and stronger barriers around $3,326 and $3,340. A decisive move above $3,360 could open the door to a short-term rebound toward the $3,400 mark. 

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Gold Price Climbs Steadily

Gold Price Climbs Steadily, Eyes Record High Amid Trade War Concerns

Gold (XAU/USD) extends its intraday rally, reaching the $2,880 region during the Asian session on Monday. The gains come in response to US President Donald Trump’s plan to impose new 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports, reigniting fears of a global trade war and driving demand for the safe-haven precious metal. Additionally, concerns that Trump’s protectionist policies could fuel inflation further bolster gold’s appeal as a hedge against rising prices.

Gold Supported by Trade War Fears, But Fed Policy Remains a Concern

Despite strong upside momentum, gold’s gains may face limitations due to the resilient US Dollar (USD) and expectations that the Federal Reserve (Fed) might delay further rate cuts. The strong US employment data released on Friday, coupled with inflationary concerns, has reinforced speculation that the Fed will maintain a cautious stance.

Overbought conditions on the daily chart could also deter traders from initiating fresh bullish positions, especially in the absence of key US economic data early in the week.

Trump’s Tariff Announcement Sparks Market Uncertainty

On Sunday, Trump reaffirmed plans to impose 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports into the US, adding that his administration would match tariff rates imposed by other countries. These announcements have further fueled uncertainty and strengthened gold’s safe-haven appeal.

Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions remain elevated. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Galuzin stated there are no satisfactory proposals for Ukraine peace talks, dismissing Western statements as mere rhetoric. US Vice President JD Vance is reportedly heading to Germany this week to outline US policy proposals.

Fed Policymakers Express Caution Amid Economic Uncertainty

The latest US Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report showed 143K jobs were added in January, falling short of the 170K estimate but offset by an unexpected dip in the Unemployment Rate to 4.0%. While the report provides mixed signals, it has reinforced the belief that the Fed will remain cautious regarding further monetary easing.

Several Fed officials have weighed in on economic policy:

  • Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari stated he would consider supporting further rate cuts if inflation data remains favorable and the labor market stays strong.
  • Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee noted that inconsistent US government policies create economic uncertainty, making it difficult to assess inflation trends.
  • Fed Governor Adriana Kugler acknowledged steady US economic growth but warned that progress toward the 2% inflation target remains uneven and slow.

What’s Next for Gold?

A stronger US Dollar could act as a headwind for gold prices, limiting aggressive bullish momentum. Traders will closely monitor Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s semi-annual congressional testimony and the upcoming US consumer inflation figures for further market direction.

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Gold Price Rally Holds Strong, But Overbought Conditions Raise Caution

Gold Price Bulls Hold Firm, But Overbought Conditions Suggest Caution

Gold (XAU/USD) continues its upward trajectory through the Asian session on Wednesday, reaching a fresh all-time high near $2,858. Concerns about the economic impact of US President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs continue to drive demand for the safe-haven metal. Furthermore, predictions that the Federal Reserve (Fed) would continue its easing cycle, backed by signs of deteriorating momentum in the US labor market, are fuelling demand for the non-yielding yellow metal.

 

Meanwhile, the US dollar (USD) remains under pressure near its weekly low, with rising expectations of further Fed policy easing, offering an extra lift to gold prices. However, Trump’s decision to suspend tariffs on Canada and Mexico has contributed to a risk-on mentality, which may restrict future gains for XAU/USD. Furthermore, gold is entering overbought territory on the daily chart, implying a short-term consolidation or minor retreat before the advance begins. Traders are now waiting for significant U.S. data releases, such as the ADP private-sector employment report and the ISM Services PMI, for new market signals.

Gold Bulls Retain Control Amid US-China Trade Tensions

Despite the positive risk tone, a further escalation in U.S.-China trade tensions continues to lend support to the upward momentum in gold. In response to President Trump’s latest tariffs, China has imposed targeted duties on US imports, and the threat of a trade war between the world’s two biggest economies has seen gold reach an all-time high on Wednesday.

On the macroeconomic front, the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) released Tuesday revealed a decline in U.S. job openings, dropping to 7.6 million in December from a previous 8.09 million. The data signals a cooling labor market, increasing the likelihood of additional Fed rate cuts. This has kept USD bulls on the defensive and further strengthened XAU/USD.

Trump’s decision to postpone the application of a 25% tax on Canadian and Mexican imports by 30 days has revived hopes that a global trade war can be avoided. However, this has done little to undermine the positive enthusiasm toward gold.

Market players will be keenly monitoring Wednesday’s U.S. economic data, such as the ISM Services PMI and the ADP employment report, which may cause short-term changes in gold prices. However, Friday’s highly anticipated Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report continues to be the main focus. Furthermore, any fresh information about trade tariffs is probably going to cause financial markets to become more volatile.

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WTI Crude Oil Struggles Near $72.00, 100-Day SMA Holds as Key Support

WTI Crude Oil Struggles Near $72.00, 100-Day SMA Holds as Key Support

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil prices fell from a one-week high on Tuesday, attracting sellers for the second straight session. The commodity trades at $72.00, barely above last week’s one-month low and close to the important 100-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) support. 

US Tariff Delay Weighs on Oil Prices

US President Donald Trump has announced a one-month suspension on newly imposed tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, easing worries about potential supply disruptions from two of the country’s main oil suppliers. This development put downward pressure on crude oil prices. Furthermore, fears of lower gasoline demand—driven by the larger economic impact of Trump’s trade policies—are contributing to gloomy sentiment in the oil market.

OPEC+ Stands Firm on Production Policy

Despite Trump’s calls for higher output to combat rising oil prices, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+) have chosen to keep current production levels. This decision may give some support for crude oil prices, avoiding further losses in the near term.

Key Technical Levels to Watch

Traders will closely monitor the 100-day SMA, currently positioned near the $71.00 mark, which serves as a crucial support level. A decisive break below this threshold could trigger an extended pullback from the recent multi-month highs. Conversely, a bounce from this level may reinforce buying interest and help WTI recover from its recent slump.

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Gold Holds Below $2,800 Despite Intraday Recovery

Gold Price Trims Intraday Losses but Remains Below $2,800 Amid Stronger USD

The gold price (XAU/USD) recovers some of its losses following the strong Asian session sell-off but remains in negative territory, hovering around $2,785, down about 0.60% for the day. The recent rise in the US Dollar (USD), fueled by President Donald Trump’s decision to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, has pushed the greenback closer to a two-year high, weighing on gold and dragging it away from its all-time high of $2,817, hit on Friday.

However, projections that the Federal Reserve (Fed) would lower interest rates twice by the end of 2025, combined with indications about probable economic disruptions from Trump’s trade policies, contribute to gold’s safe-haven appeal. The current risk-off mentality further shields the downside, so bearish traders should exercise caution ahead of this week’s key US macroeconomic data, which begins with today’s ISM Manufacturing PMI release.

Technical Outlook: Gold’s Uptrend Intact Despite Intraday Pullback

From a technical perspective, the intraday decline found support near the $2,772 resistance-turned-support level, which now serves as a pivotal point. A decisive break below this zone could trigger further selling pressure, exposing gold to the next key support levels:

 

  • $2,755 – Initial downside target
  • $2,740 – Intermediate support
  • $2,725-$2,720 – Strong demand zone
  • $2,700 – Psychological level, a break below which could accelerate losses

Conversely, immediate resistance is seen in the $2,790-$2,800 region, followed by the record high of $2,817. Notably, momentum indicators on the daily chart remain comfortably positive, indicating that gold has not yet reached overbought levels. This provides room for additional upward momentum, confirming the broader bullish trend that began with the December swing bottom.

If gold manages to sustain a move above $2,817, it could pave the way for fresh record highs, with bulls eyeing further gains amid ongoing market uncertainty.

Market Drivers to Watch

US Dollar Strength: The impact of Trump’s tariffs on global trade could continue supporting the USD, potentially weighing on gold.

Federal Reserve Policy: Expectations of rate cuts in 2025 remain a crucial factor for gold’s long-term trajectory.

US Economic Data: The upcoming ISM Manufacturing PMI and Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report later this week could trigger volatility in gold prices.

Risk Sentiment: Any escalation in geopolitical or economic tensions could further boost gold’s safe-haven demand.

Overall, while gold has retreated from its highs, the larger bullish trend remains intact, with technical signals suggesting further upward movement as long as critical support levels hold.

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WTI Slips to $71.00 Amid Trade Tariff Concerns and Weak China Data

WTI Slips to $71.00 Amid Trade Tariff Concerns and Weak China Data

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil prices edge lower during Wednesday’s Asian session, erasing part of the previous day’s modest recovery from a nearly three-week low. The commodity trades near $71.00, down over 0.25% for the day, and remains vulnerable to further losses amid prevailing bearish sentiment.

Investor concerns persist over US President Donald Trump’s threat to impose trade tariffs on Canada, China, and Mexico by February 1, which could weigh on global fuel demand. Additionally, weak Chinese economic data adds to downward pressure. Official PMIs released on Monday highlighted continued weakness in the world’s second-largest economy and top crude importer, raising concerns over lower consumption.

Further pressure on oil prices comes from Trump’s energy policies, which include plans to ramp up US energy production and calls for the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to increase output to drive prices lower.

With bearish fundamentals dominating, WTI remains susceptible to further downside risks in the near term.

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WTI Drops Toward

WTI Drops Toward $74.00 as Trump Pressures OPEC to Lower Oil Prices

West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the US crude oil benchmark, trades near $74.10 on Friday, continuing its downward trend after US President Donald Trump urged Saudi Arabia and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) to reduce oil prices.

Uncertainty surrounding Trump’s proposed tariffs and energy policies adds to the pressure on WTI. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday, Trump announced plans to request Saudi Arabia and OPEC to lower oil prices, saying, “I’m also going to ask Saudi Arabia and OPEC to bring down the cost of oil.”

Expectations of increased US production under Trump’s administration further weigh on oil prices. Earlier this week, Trump declared a national energy emergency, leveraging his authority to expedite the approval of oil, gas, and electricity projects that would typically require years of permitting.

Meanwhile, US crude inventories declined for the ninth consecutive week. The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported a drop of 1.017 million barrels in crude oil stockpiles for the week ending January 17, following a 1.962 million-barrel decline in the prior week. Market expectations had forecast a larger decrease of 2.1 million barrels.

Oil traders will closely monitor developments surrounding Trump’s energy policies and tariff announcements. Additionally, attention will shift to the preliminary US S&P Global Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) for January, set for release later on Friday. A weaker-than-expected reading could pressure the US Dollar (USD), potentially offering some support to the USD-denominated WTI price.

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EUR/USD Price Forecast

EUR/USD Price Forecast: Consolidating Below 1.0500 Amid Multi-Week High

The EUR/USD currency pair is having a hard time continuing its recent winning streak, trading in a tight range just below the 1.0500 psychological mark during the Asian session on Monday. In spite of the consolidation, the pair is still close to its three-week high of Friday, buoyed by a weaker US Dollar (USD).

Technically, the pair‘s location above the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement level of the November-January bear run, combined with upbeat oscillators on the daily chart, indicates that the bullish momentum is still intact. This leaves room for a potential rally towards the 1.0545-1.0555 resistance area, which coincides with the 50% Fibonacci retracement level and the 100-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA).

A successful breach above this crucial barrier may set the stage for additional gains, with EUR/USD potentially challenging the 1.0600 level. A break above this level may propel the pair towards the December 2024 swing high of 1.0630, close to the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement level. Further bullish momentum may continue to drive the rebound from its more than two-year low in January.

To the contrary, however, the 38.2% Fibonacci level of 1.0465 acts as an instant support level. A resolute breach through this area can drive selling momentum faster, pulling the pair towards the 1.0400 round number and down further into the mid-1.0300s (23.6% Fibonacci level). Failure to hold these levels could shift the bias in favor of bearish traders, potentially exposing the 1.0200 handle.

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EUR/USD Eases Near

EUR/USD Eases Near 1.0300 Ahead of Lagarde’s Speech

The EUR/USD pair edges lower to approximately 1.0310 during the Asian session on Monday, weighed down by a stronger US Dollar (USD). Market participants are focused on the upcoming Eurozone Sentix Investor Confidence data for February and a speech by European Central Bank (ECB) President Christine Lagarde later in the day.

On Friday, former US President Donald Trump announced plans to introduce reciprocal tariffs on multiple countries by Tuesday or Wednesday, though he did not specify which ones. This move has heightened concerns about a global trade war, fueling demand for the safe-haven USD.

“The immediate concern might not be inflation, as counter-effects like a demand slowdown could come into play. However, the bigger issue is uncertainty and the shift toward a more protectionist world,” said Charu Chanana, Chief Investment Strategist at Saxo.

Meanwhile, the Euro faces pressure from growing expectations of further ECB rate cuts amid sluggish economic growth. ECB Governing Council member Boris Vujcic stated that the market’s anticipation of three rate cuts this year is reasonable. However, he emphasized that greater clarity on monetary policy direction may not emerge until early in the second quarter.

Traders will keep a close eye on US trade policies, especially Trump’s repeated threats against Europe. JPMorgan economist Nora Szentivanyi noted that the objectives, timing, and tariff rates remain unclear. Nonetheless, the European Commission has stated it would retaliate firmly against any tariffs imposed by the US.

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EUR/USD Holds Below 1.0400 Ahead of Eurozone Retail Sales Data

EUR/USD Struggles Below 1.0400 Ahead of Eurozone Retail Sales Data

EUR/USD is trading lower around 1.0390 in the Asian session on Thursday, extending losses following a two-day recovery. Investors remain wary ahead of the release of Eurozone Retail Sales data later today.

Market predictions suggest that Eurozone retail sales scaled by 1.9% year on year in December, up from the previous 1.2% increase. However, the monthly number is expected to fall by 0.1%, erasing the 0.1% increase reported in November.

The euro remains under pressure as market sentiment points to further monetary easing by the European Central Bank (ECB). Policymakers feel optimistic that inflation will steadily return to the ECB’s 2% objective, lessening the need for additional tightening.

Meanwhile, the US Dollar Index (DXY), which tracks the dollar against six major currencies, has stabilized at 107.70, restricting EUR/USD’s upside potential. The dollar’s resiliency comes after a three-day losing skid, which puts pressure on the pair.

On Thursday, Federal Reserve Vice Chair Philip Jefferson reiterated his desire for keeping existing interest rates, underlining that the Fed’s policy remained restrictive despite the 100-basis-point drop. Meanwhile, San Francisco Federal Reserve President Mary Daly emphasized the central bank’s cautious attitude in the face of prolonged economic uncertainties.

The dollar weakened on Wednesday following a disappointing US Services PMI reading. The ISM Services PMI dropped to 52.8 in January from a revised 54.0 in December, falling short of the market consensus of 54.3. Looking ahead, traders are watching Friday’s US Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report, which might influence the Federal Reserve’s next policy actions.

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EUR/USD Stuck in Range Near 1.0375-1.0380 as Bulls Struggle for Direction

EUR/USD Struggles for Clear Direction, Stays Range-Bound Near 1.0375-1.0380

The EUR/USD pair continues in consolidation mode, failing to build on its recent recovery from the 1.0200 region—the lowest level since January 13. After reaching a weekly high earlier on Wednesday, the pair is fluctuating within a narrow range around 1.0375-1.0380, showing little change for the day amid mixed market signals.

Tuesday’s Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) indicated a cooling U.S. labor market, reinforcing expectations of Federal Reserve (Fed) policy easing. Markets are now factoring in the likelihood of two rate cuts by the Fed this year. Risk-on sentiment also remains prevalent, but should continue to weigh on demand for the safe-haven USD, and thereby support EUR/USD.

Upside momentum, however remains constrained by issues on the introduction of U.S. tariffs over the goods to be imported in Europe under Trump’s administration, among others, and the ECB dovish direction which is being felt in restraining the Euro though HICP was reported higher to an annual rate of 2.5% in the last month, still, does not allow much upside in this pair.

Looking ahead, market participants will focus on the final Eurozone Services PMI release, while the U.S. economic calendar highlights the ADP private-sector employment report and the ISM Services PMI. Movements in the USD could also be influenced by key FOMC member speeches. Still, Friday’s NFP report will focus more attention on it as it will help deliver a better picture of the situation in the U.S. labor market and set the direction for future Fed policy.

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GBP/USD Holds Above 1.2400 as Markets Watch China Tariff Developments

GBP/USD Holds Above 1.2400 as Markets Watch China Tariff Developments

GBP/USD extends its gains for a second consecutive session, trading around 1.2430 during Asian market hours on Tuesday. With  the  decision   by   U.S. President Donald Trump   to pause tariffs on Mexico and Canada , the pair benefits from a risk-on sentiment .

Despite this, investors continue to pay close attention to ongoing trade negotiations, making market volatility a major concern. Trump declared that he would postpone imposing high tariffs on Canada and Mexico for at least 30 days following their agreements to send 10,000 troops to the U.S. border to fight drug trafficking.

This move follows Trump’s recent decision to impose 25% tariffs on Mexican and Canadian goods, along with a 10% tariff on Chinese imports. Additional tariffs on China are anticipated to go into effect Tuesday at 5:00 GMT. Trump managed to say that talks with Chinese officials might happen “probably over the next 24 hours,” and that tariffs on China would be “very, very substantial” if an agreement could not be made.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY), which tracks the USD against six major currencies, hovers around 108.70 after erasing most of its gains from the previous session. Strong U.S. economic data could provide support for the greenback, as the ISM Manufacturing PMI climbed to 50.9 in January from 49.3 in December, surpassing the expected 49.8.

While GBP/USD may rise, the British Pound’s upside may be limited, given the expectation that the Bank of England (BoE) will cut interest rates once again. Despite rising wages in the UK, the BoE is expected to lower interest rates by 25 basis points to 4.5% on Thursday.

The BoE’s Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) is expected to vote 8-1 in favor of the rate cut, with one member likely advocating for maintaining rates at their current level for now.

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EUR/USD Drops to 1.0200 on Trump’s Trade Tariffs

EUR/USD Slumps to Multi-Week Low Near 1.0200 Amid Trump’s Trade Tariffs

The EUR/USD pair extends its decline on Monday, plunging to the 1.0200 region—a three-week low—during the early Asian session. This drop brings the pair closer to its lowest level in over two years, last seen in January, reinforcing the ongoing multi-month downtrend.

The US Dollar (USD) gains broad strength following President Donald Trump’s weekend announcement of new tariffs: 25% duties on imports from Canada and Mexico, along with an additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods. These measures escalate global trade tensions, dampening investor appetite for riskier assets and boosting demand for the safe-haven USD. As a result, the EUR/USD pair faces renewed selling pressure.

Adding to the bearish sentiment, Trump also declared on Friday evening that he would impose tariffs on goods from the European Union. This, coupled with the European Central Bank’s (ECB) dovish stance, further weighs on the euro. Last Thursday, the ECB cut borrowing costs by 25 basis points (bps) as expected and signaled the possibility of additional rate cuts before the year’s end, exacerbating the euro’s weakness.

The policy divergence between the ECB and the Federal Reserve (Fed) further tilts market sentiment in favor of the USD. While the Fed has opted for a hawkish pause, supporting the dollar’s strength, a recent pullback in US Treasury yields may limit further USD gains and offer some relief to the EUR/USD pair. However, the overall market outlook suggests that the pair’s downside momentum is likely to persist.

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EUR/USD Holds Above 1.0400 | Focus on Q4 GDP & ECB Policy Decision

EUR/USD Holds Above 1.0400 Ahead of Q4 GDP Data and ECB Policy Decision

The EUR/USD pair is edging higher after three consecutive losses, trading near 1.0420 during Thursday’s Asian session. The rebound is primarily driven by a technical pullback in the US Dollar (USD). Meanwhile, the US Dollar Index (DXY), which tracks the greenback against six major currencies, remains just below 108.00.

Despite the recent uptick, further gains for EUR/USD may be capped as the USD could regain strength following the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) cautious approach to monetary policy. The Fed reinforced its hawkish stance by removing language suggesting confidence in inflation reaching its 2% target.

During his press conference, Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized that any policy changes would require “real progress on inflation or some weakness in the labor market.” As expected, the Fed maintained its overnight borrowing rate at 4.25%-4.50% during its January meeting on Wednesday. This decision follows three consecutive rate cuts since September 2024, totaling a one-percentage-point reduction.

Meanwhile, the Euro faces downward pressure as the European Central Bank (ECB) is widely expected to cut interest rates by 25 basis points in its policy meeting on Thursday, lowering the Deposit Rate to 2.75%. Market sentiment suggests that further rate cuts from the ECB may follow in the coming months, potentially weighing on the Euro.

Investors will closely watch the release of fourth-quarter Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data from the Eurozone and Germany on Thursday. Later in the day, focus will shift to the US Annualized GDP report, which could influence market sentiment and currency movements.

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Japanese Yen Bears Show Resilience Despite Intervention Concerns

Japanese Yen Bears Show Resilience Despite Intervention Concerns

Japanese Yen Bears Show Resilience Despite Intervention Concerns

The Japanese Yen (JPY) has clawed back much of its earlier losses against the US Dollar (USD), with the USD/JPY pair stabilizing in the mid-154.00s as the European session begins on Monday. Fears of intervention by Japanese authorities to bolster the Yen, combined with heightened geopolitical tensions, have lent some support to the safe-haven currency. Additionally, a modest dip in the US Dollar further limits the upside potential for the pair.

Key Drivers of JPY Performance
Despite its recovery, the JPY’s appreciation remains constrained by uncertainty surrounding the Bank of Japan’s (BoJ) rate hike timeline. Expectations of inflationary policies under US President-elect Donald Trump and elevated US Treasury yields provide additional support for USD strength, capping the JPY’s gains.

Mixed Signals for Traders
Japanese Yen traders are adopting a cautious stance amid a blend of contradictory factors:

  • Bank of Japan Outlook: Governor Kazuo Ueda reiterated on Monday that rate hikes depend on economic and financial conditions, noting Japan’s moderate recovery but acknowledging weak areas.
  • Government Vigilance: Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato emphasized high scrutiny of the FX market, warning of action against excessive volatility.
  • Geopolitical Risks: US President Joe Biden’s authorization for Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russia adds to global uncertainty, potentially boosting demand for safe-haven assets like the JPY.

US Dollar Fundamentals
The US Dollar remains under pressure following a post-election rally but avoids significant depreciation due to strong fundamentals:

  • Inflation Concerns: Investors anticipate that Trump’s policies could sustain inflation, limiting the Fed’s scope for rate cuts.
  • Fed Outlook: Recent comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell and other officials suggest a measured approach to monetary policy, with Powell emphasizing steady growth and a strong job market as reasons to avoid rushing rate cuts.
  • Economic Data: Better-than-expected US Retail Sales data for October (0.4% vs. 0.3% expected) highlights the economy’s resilience, further supporting the USD.

Technical Analysis: USD/JPY
The USD/JPY pair exhibits bullish resilience, bouncing back above the 154.00 level at the start of the week.

  • Upside Targets: A break above the psychological resistance at 155.00 could drive the pair toward the 155.70 intermediate resistance and eventually the 156.00 level.
  • Downside Risks: Immediate support lies at 153.85, with further declines potentially targeting 153.25 and 153.00. A decisive break below 152.70 could expose the 200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) near 151.85.

Market Focus This Week
Investors will monitor BoJ Governor Ueda’s press conference for indications of a potential December rate hike. The announcement could spark volatility and influence JPY demand. Additionally, developments in geopolitical tensions and US inflation dynamics will remain key drivers of the USD/JPY pair.

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Australian Dollar Struggles as US Dollar Strengthens Ahead of US PPI Release

Australian Dollar Struggles as US Dollar Strengthens Ahead of US PPI Release

Australian Dollar Struggles as US Dollar Strengthens Ahead of US PPI Release

The Australian Dollar (AUD) remains under pressure against the US Dollar (USD) following Thursday’s economic data releases. Australia’s Consumer Inflation Expectations fell to 3.8% in November, down from 4.0% in October, marking the lowest level since October 2021.

Australia’s Unemployment Rate, seasonally adjusted, held steady at 4.1% in October for the third consecutive month, meeting market expectations. However, Employment Change disappointed, with only 15.9K new jobs added in October, below the forecasted 25.0K.

Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Governor Michele Bullock stated on Thursday that current interest rates are sufficiently restrictive and will stay at this level until the central bank gains more clarity on inflation trends. Bullock highlighted the uncertainty surrounding potential US Federal Reserve actions and indicated that the RBA will proceed cautiously.

The US Dollar Index (DXY), which tracks the USD against six major currencies, remains strong around 106.60, its highest level since November 2023. This rally in the Greenback has been fueled by “Trump trades” and the recent US Consumer Price Index (CPI) data. Donald Trump’s recent election victory has raised expectations of potentially inflationary trade policies and tariffs, providing further support for the US Dollar.

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US CPI Inflation Data Expected to Rebound in

US CPI Inflation Data Expected to Rebound in October as Markets Assess Trump Victory Impact

US CPI Inflation Data Expected to Rebound in October as Markets Assess Trump Victory Impact

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is set to release the United States (US) Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for October on Wednesday at 13:30 GMT, with significant market interest expected. The US Dollar (USD) is likely to experience high volatility from this inflation report, which could play a crucial role in shaping the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) interest rate expectations for the coming months.

What to Expect from the October CPI Report?

Inflation in the US, as measured by the CPI, is forecast to rise at an annual rate of 2.6% for October, slightly above September’s 2.4% increase. The core annual CPI inflation rate, which excludes food and energy prices, is expected to hold steady at 3.3%. Monthly, the CPI and core CPI are projected to grow by 0.2% and 0.3%, respectively.

TD Securities analysts suggest that “inflation readings should remain somewhat firmer than the Fed would prefer,” noting that headline CPI could rise by 0.29% month-on-month, while core inflation might see a firmer 0.32% increase. They expect the annual headline CPI rate to edge up to 2.6% and core inflation to remain at 3.3%.

Following its November policy meeting, Fed Chair Jerome Powell indicated that the central bank remains committed to a gradual path of monetary easing, affirming that US presidential election outcomes would not affect Fed policy decisions in the short term. Powell underscored the Fed’s independence from the new administration, adding that he would not resign if asked by President-elect Donald Trump.

Impact on EUR/USD

The upcoming CPI report is crucial for EUR/USD traders, as US fiscal policies under Trump, including potential tax cuts, tariffs, and immigration changes, could add upward pressure on inflation. Although these effects would likely emerge in the medium to long term, the October CPI data will be watched closely as an indicator of near-term Fed actions. According to the CME Group’s FedWatch Tool, market sentiment currently shows a 67% probability of a 25-basis-point Fed rate cut in December, down from 80% earlier in the month.

Recent labor data, including a Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) increase of 12,000 jobs in October and a steady 4.1% unemployment rate, have painted a mixed picture. Wage inflation, measured by Average Hourly Earnings, rose to 4% year-over-year in October, up from 3.9% in September.

A significant downside surprise in annual CPI or core inflation could reinforce expectations of a December rate cut and lead to a USD sell-off. However, hotter-than-expected CPI data could prompt Fed hawks to push back against a rate cut.

Technical Outlook for EUR/USD

Dhwani Mehta, FXStreet’s Asian Session Lead Analyst, provides a technical outlook, noting that EUR/USD’s near-term technical indicators suggest potential buyer exhaustion. With the Relative Strength Index (RSI) approaching oversold territory at 30, EUR/USD may encounter demand around the 1.0550 level, followed by a test of the 1.0517 low from November 1, 2023, if selling persists. A break below 1.0500 could signal further declines. Conversely, if buyers regain control and push past the November 11 high of 1.0728, the 21-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) at 1.0810 becomes the next target.

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Japanese Yen Lingers Near Daily Lows

Japanese Yen Lingers Near Daily Lows Around Mid-153.00s vs. USD Amid BoJ Uncertainty

Japanese Yen Lingers Near Daily Lows Around Mid-153.00s vs. USD Amid BoJ Uncertainty

The Japanese Yen (JPY) faces selling pressure at the start of the week as the Bank of Japan (BoJ) released a Summary of Opinions from its October meeting, revealing a lack of consensus among policymakers on the timing of potential rate hikes. This division, coupled with political uncertainty in Japan, casts doubt on the BoJ’s capacity to continue tightening its monetary policy, leaving the JPY subdued against the US Dollar (USD) as the European session approaches. Additionally, concerns that US President-elect Donald Trump could reintroduce protectionist trade measures against Japan weigh further on the Yen.

However, recent verbal interventions by Japanese authorities, along with a generally cautious market sentiment, may help cap further losses for the safe-haven JPY. Investors might also adopt a wait-and-see approach ahead of key macroeconomic events this week, including the US consumer inflation data and Japan’s preliminary Q3 GDP report. Additionally, remarks from Federal Reserve (Fed) Chair Jerome Powell could add momentum to the USD/JPY pair. Meanwhile, market expectations that Trump’s policies will drive inflation higher—limiting the Fed’s flexibility for policy easing—continue to support the USD.

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US Dollar Price Forecast: Holds Steady Around 104.50, Above Key Moving Averages

US Dollar Price Forecast: Holds Steady Around 104.50, Above Key Moving Averages

The US Dollar Index (DXY) remains steady around 104.50 during European trading on Friday, extending its daily gains. Analysis of the daily chart suggests a continued bullish trend, with the DXY moving within an ascending channel.

The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains above 50, supporting the bullish sentiment. Additionally, the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) sits above the 14-day EMA, signaling upward momentum in the short term.

On the upside, resistance could push the DXY toward the recent four-month high of 105.45, reached on November 6. A decisive break above this level may strengthen market sentiment and propel the DXY toward the psychological mark of 106.00, which aligns with the upper boundary of the ascending channel.

On the downside, immediate support is at the nine-day EMA around 104.25, followed by the 14-day EMA at 104.09. A break below this level may introduce downward pressure, potentially driving the DXY toward the lower boundary of the ascending channel at 103.70.

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Japanese Yen Hovers Near Daily Low Against USD, US Election Concerns Lend Support

Japanese Yen Hovers Near Daily Low Against USD, US Election Concerns Lend Support

Japanese Yen Hovers Near Daily Low Against USD, US Election Concerns Lend Support

The Japanese Yen (JPY) holds steady, drifting further from a one-week low against the US Dollar (USD) touched on Monday, as expectations rise that Japan’s political landscape may complicate future rate hikes by the Bank of Japan (BoJ). However, BoJ Governor Kazuo Ueda’s recent comments at last week’s press conference leave open the possibility of a rate hike at the upcoming BoJ policy meeting in December. Additionally, market caution around the closely contested US presidential election and global geopolitical tensions lend support to the safe-haven JPY.

The narrowing interest rate differential between the US and Japan has also helped limit JPY losses. Coupled with subdued USD price action, this has prevented the USD/JPY pair from advancing significantly beyond the mid-152.00s. Investor sentiment now leans toward expectations that the Federal Reserve (Fed) will implement an interest rate cut later this week. Moreover, the unwinding of “Trump trade” positions has driven US Treasury yields lower, keeping USD bulls cautious.

This dynamic suggests that investors should exercise caution before positioning for any significant intraday appreciation in the USD/JPY pair, as market risks and political uncertainties continue to impact the currency’s movement.

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Gold Price Climbs Steadily

Gold price trades with mild negative bias near record high amid modest USD uptick

Gold price trades with mild negative bias near record high amid modest USD uptick

As Thursday dawned upon the trading halls, gold—the venerable “yellow metal”—suffered a modest dip during the early hours of the Asian session, like a nobleman impeded by the ever-looming shadow of the sturdy US Dollar. This glimmering asset, dear to traders and watchful investors alike, found itself tethered, held back by the Dollar’s fresh vigor and the shrewd murmurs of a cautious marketplace. For as the Dollar gathered strength, demand for Dollar-denominated commodities grew fickle and, like the dimming glow of a taper in a fog-laden alley, gold’s price wavered just shy of its coveted heights.

A storm brewed overhead, one of fiscal deficit concerns and rising Treasury yields, which played their part in holding gold’s trajectory in check. The Federal Reserve, casting its shadow of smaller rate cuts, offered little hope for upward momentum in this unyielding metal. The daily chart bore signs of overbought conditions, nudging cautious traders to step back, watching keenly from the sidelines, hesitant to press forward aggressively.

Yet there lingered a faint glimmer, a hint of resilience amid these headwinds. The marketplace was steeped in trepidation over the November 5 election and unsettling tensions in the Middle East. The safe-haven allure of gold, much like an old friend in troubled times, stood firm, offering traders a semblance of comfort amidst the uncertainties. And so, they waited—peering anxiously at the coming release of the US Personal Consumption Expenditure Price Index and the venerable Nonfarm Payrolls report, both heralded as messengers of the Fed’s next move and, perhaps, the next chapter for gold in this ever-turning tale.

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US Yields Boost Dollar, Weaken Yen

US Yields Boost Dollar, Weaken Yen

US Yields Boost Dollar, Weaken Yen

The dollar strengthened on Tuesday, driven by rising U.S. yields, putting pressure on low-yielding currencies like China’s yuan and Japan’s yen, which fell to its lowest level since 1986.

Benchmark 10-year Treasury yields increased nearly 14 basis points to 4.479% overnight. Analysts attributed this rise to expectations of Donald Trump winning the U.S. presidency, which could lead to higher tariffs and increased government borrowing.

As the dollar gained, the euro reversed part of a small rally following the first round of France’s election, which aligned with polling predictions. The euro last traded at $1.0735.

The yen dropped to 161.72 per dollar on Monday, its weakest in nearly 38 years, primarily due to the significant interest rate gap between the U.S. and Japan. On Tuesday, the yen traded at 161.55 per dollar in Asia and was under pressure from yen bears wary of potential intervention by Japanese authorities. The yen also hit a lifetime low of 173.67 against the euro on Monday and remained near that level on Tuesday.

In the bond market, the 10-year yield gap between U.S. and Japanese rates stood at 340 basis points, and nearly 440 basis points at the two-year tenor. China’s yuan, which reached a seven-month low against the dollar last week, faced similar pressure, with U.S. 10-year yields more than 220 basis points higher than Chinese government bond yields.

Robust manufacturing data in China and an announcement from the central bank about borrowing bonds, likely to sell them and stabilize falling yields, provided only a brief boost to the currency on Monday. The yuan last traded at 7.3043 in offshore markets on Tuesday, close to its June low.

The New Zealand dollar slipped 0.3% in early trade and was testing support at its 200-day moving average at $0.6075. The British pound remained steady at $1.2641. The Australian dollar hovered within its recent range at $0.6650, with traders focused on central bank minutes to gauge the likelihood of future interest rate hikes. Swaps market pricing suggests a one-in-three chance of a rate hike as soon as next month.

The question remains about the trigger for such a move. ING economist Rob Carnell noted that discussions have taken place, but the specific trigger for a hike is still uncertain. There is a leaning towards forecasting a hike at the August meeting.

Overall, the strengthening dollar and rising U.S. yields continue to exert pressure on low-yielding currencies, with markets closely watching upcoming central bank decisions and geopolitical developments.

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Cryptocurrency Move Back to Support the Pack to Level

If we have a look at the bearish start to the day in the majors and the Bitcoin move back to the level by $18,500 to the support pack. The Bitcoin to USD was seemed down at the level by 1.16% on this Thursday that reversing a 1.25% gain to the Wednesday to the ended the day at the level $18,260.0. At the start of the day, the Bitcoin rose to the early morning intraday to the high at the level before hitting the reverse level.

The major resistance level goes at the level by $18,878 and the Bitcoin fell to the intraday low to the level by $17,935.0.

The close term bullish pattern stayed flawless, disregarding the most recent pullback to sub-$18,000 levels. For the bears, Bitcoin would have to slide through the 62% FIB of $10,095 to shape a close term bearish pattern.

The Bitcoin was somewhere near at the level by 1.03% to $18,072.0. A blended beginning to the day saw Bitcoin ascend to an early morning high of $18,299.0 prior to tumbling to a low of $18,070.0.

Bitcoin left the significant help and obstruction levels untested from the get-go.

Somewhere else, it was a bearish beginning to the day for the majors. The Ripple’s XRP was somewhere around at the level 2.69% to lead the route down.

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Bitcoin Slips Down Below at Level $13,000 Since the Last Rally

Bitcoin Slips Down Below at Level $13,000 Since the Last Rally

The Bitcoin seems to the low at the level of $9,813 in September that managed the bitcoin to reach at the level high at $13,868. The bitcoin price is rejected to the sequential indicators on the 3-day chart.

If we have a look at the current candlestick of the 3-day chart it will seem significantly bearish and the TD sequential indicators are presented a sell signal. The 50- SMA seems down at the level of $10,600 and the 100 SMA at the level of $9,47.

The In/Out of the Money Around Price chart shows the closest and most grounded help region to be somewhere in the range of the level at $12,687 and $13,073 with near 624,000 BTC in volume. A break below this point can drive the cost of Bitcoin down to $11,914.

Despite the fact that bears appear to have assumed responsibility for the present moment, the powerful day by day upswing stays unblemished for Bitcoin. The 50-SMA and the 100-SMA harmonize around $11,200 which will go about as a critical help level. The MACD keeps bullish and the most basic obstruction level is still at $13,863. A breakout over this point can without much of a range drive the lead digital currency towards the untouched high at the level of $20,000.

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Bitcoin Price Clear the Path and Rose to the Level $13,000

Bitcoin Price Clear the Path and Rose to the Level $13,000

Bitcoin Price of the bulls has been the full control of the market to the price at the level of $11,340 to $12,835. The cryptocurrency had the largest to the single day that put the gain. The MACD shows the increasing the bullish momentum to price the growth anticipated.

The position detector is a convenient little apparatus that causes us to imagine solid opposition and backing levels. According to the everyday conjunction detector, there is an absence of solid obstruction levels on the potential gain. This should be empowering news for the buyers as they plan to bring BTC into the $13,000-zone.

Santiment’s holder’s distribution charts show you the number of addresses having a place with a specific symbolic section. According to the chart, the number of addresses holding 10,000-100,000 tokens tumbled from 111 on October 8 to 104 on October 20. This is an intensely bearish sign as it shows that the whales are selling off their property.

Bitcoin buyers have the opportunity to bring the cost into the level at $13,000 and even the $14,000 interference. The everyday intersection finder shows a total absence of solid opposition barriers straightforward.

For the bears, the drawback is covered off at the $12,000-$12,100 uphold divider. A break below that zone will bring the value down to $11,000, which has both the 50-day and 100-day SMA

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Cryptos Market: Bitcoin Shows Bullish Momentum Over Dollar Strength

Cryptos Market: Bitcoin Shows Bullish Momentum Over Dollar Strength

The BTC/USD traded at the level of $11,355 after the mild rejection of the top-level $11,720 that losing some of the bullish.

Ethereum USD had a similar fate at the higher risk that seeing the longer pullback than the Bitcoin. If we talk about the XRP/USD is the clear loser after breaking below the 50 SMA and the 100 SMA on the daily chart that currently trading at the level of $0.2482 after yet facing another rejection.

Bitcoin, BTC to USD, fell by 1.02% on Tuesday. Incompletely turning around a 1.55% increase from Monday, Bitcoin finished the day at the level of $11,442.0.

It was a quiet beginning to the day. Bitcoin rose to a late morning intraday high to the level of $11,574.9 before operating reverse.

Missing the mark concerning the primary significant obstruction level at $11,830, Bitcoin tumbled to an early evening intraday low of $11,333.0.

Avoiding the primary significant help level at $11,201 Bitcoin quickly returned to $11,470 levels before moving back.

The close term bullish pattern stayed perfect, upheld by the most recent move back through to $11,000 levels. For the bears, Bitcoin would need to slide through the 62% FIB of $6,400 to shape a close term bearish pattern.

Bitcoin was up by 0.22% to $11,467.0. A beginning to the day saw Bitcoin tumble to an early morning low of $11,427.0 before ascending to a high at the level of $11,467.0. Bitcoin left the support and Resistance levels untested at an early stage.

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Ethereum Rate Hits at Higher Level More Profitable Than Bitcoin Mining

Ethereum Rate Hits at Higher Level More Profitable Than Bitcoin Mining

Let’s have a look at the cryptocurrency that hovering near to the level at $10,600 mark. The Bitcoin price is consolidating to the 50-12 Hour SMA and the 200-12 Hours SMA. The strong resistance lies at the level 50-12 SMA that repeatedly rejected the price.

This repeated dismissal may drop the value down to the level at  $10,400 uphold level, which is by all accounts the main observable help level on the drawback. If case this level doesn’t hold firm, at that point you can anticipate that the cost should plunge below $10,000. For this situation, one can anticipate that BTC should tumble to the level of $9,700 before it experiences another solid help.

While this may not appear to be a huge number, remember that every one of these addresses holds a great many dollars worth of Bitcoin. The fishes using the stale value activity to merge their positions look good for the general market.

With respect to the top 50 digital forms of money, the greatest failures incorporate Compound, down 12% over the most recent 24 hours, UMA down 12%, OMG Network down at the level 13%, Yearn.finance down 16%, and Aave down 18%. The main bull among the sloths of bears is EOS, which broke out greatly as covered Tuesday.

Ethereum has since September 23, been holding inside a rising equal channel. Recuperation towards $400 flamed out marginally above $360 a week ago. On the drawback, the misfortunes that followed grasped uphold at the level of $335 throughout the end of the week, permitting the shrewd agreement sign to revitalize, making strides above $350.

The Ethereum selling pressure in the market halted the increase at the 50 SMA and 100 SMA. Ether fell below the climbing channel, confirming a bear banner.

The downside of a significant help zone shows that Ethereum is at grave risk of spiraling to the level at $300. Other than the various simple help zones, the most significant one lies somewhere in the range of $298 and $309. Previously, around 879,000 locations purchased almost 2 million ETH.

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Cryptocurrency Bitcoin Shows the Bullish Divergence on User Count

Cryptocurrency Bitcoin Shows the Bullish Divergence on User Count

The Bitcoin moves back and shows the bearish to the start of the day with the support level at $10,900 to the broader market.

The Bitcoin BTC to USD is rose by the level at 1.33% this Tuesday and reversing the loss at the level of 0.83% on Monday.

It was a mixed start to the day. Bitcoin fell to an early morning low $10,674.2 before finding support.

Steering clear of the major support levels, Bitcoin struck a late morning high at the level of $10,815.4 before operating reverse.

Coming up short of the major resistance levels, Bitcoin slid to a late afternoon intraday low $10,654.0.

Steering clear of the first major support level at $10,585, Bitcoin rallied to a final hour intraday high at the level of $10,889.0.

Falling short of the first major resistance level at $10,915, Bitcoin eased back to end the day at sub-$10,860 levels.

The near-term bullish trend remained whole, in contempt of the latest pullback. For the bears, Bitcoin would need to slide through the 62% FIB of $6,400 to form a near-term bearish trend. At the hour of composing, Bitcoin was somewhere around 0.28% to the level of $10,826.0. It was a blended beginning to the day. Bitcoin rose to an early morning high $10,866.0 before tumbling to a low $10,826.0.

Bitcoin started the significant help and obstruction levels untested from the get-go. Somewhere else, it was a blended beginning to the day.

Bitcoin Cash ABC (+0.54%), Bitcoin Cash SV to the level (+0.62%), and Crypto.com Coin (+0.65%) evaded the pattern right off the bat.

It was a bearish beginning to the day for the remainder of the majors, in any case. Binance Coin was somewhere around 1.18% to lead the way down.

https://xtreamforex.com/nasdaq-futures-shows-the-short/

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