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Wall Street is poised to start the week slightly higher as investors closely watch the latest inflation data, seeking confirmation

What’s Moving Markets: US CPI, Retail Earnings, and UK Inflation

What’s Moving Markets: US CPI, Retail Earnings, and UK Inflation

Wall Street is poised to start the week slightly higher as investors closely watch the latest inflation data, seeking confirmation that the Federal Reserve might begin cutting interest rates in September. While the quarterly earnings season is winding down, the retail sector will take center stage in the coming days.

  1. July CPI in Focus

The trajectory of U.S. interest rates remains a key concern for investors, making Wednesday’s U.S. consumer price data the most anticipated economic release of the week.

Federal Reserve Governor Michelle Bowman, known for her typically hawkish stance, acknowledged some progress on inflation recently, though she stressed that it still remains “uncomfortably above” the Fed’s 2% target. The Fed held its policy rate steady at 5.25%-5.50% in late July but hinted at a possible rate cut in September if inflation continues to ease.

The July CPI is expected to show further movement toward the Fed’s 2% annual inflation target, with core inflation predicted to drop slightly to 3.2%, its lowest level since April 2021. Fed fund futures suggest a 49% chance of a half-point rate cut in September, down from a near certainty last week.

  1. Futures Edge Higher on Inflation Watch

U.S. stock futures rose modestly on Monday, as investors cautiously approach a week filled with key inflation data and significant retail earnings.

As of 04:00 ET (08:00 GMT), Dow futures were up 40 points (0.1%), S&P 500 futures gained 11 points (0.2%), and Nasdaq 100 futures climbed 60 points (0.3%).

Last week, the main Wall Street indices ended with minor losses, recovering slightly after an early-week slump. Jobless claims data helped ease concerns about the labor market and the overall health of the U.S. economy. Now, the focus shifts to the consumer price index and insights from several Federal Reserve officials, including Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic, Philadelphia Fed President Patrick Harker, and Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee.

Comments from these policymakers last Thursday suggested growing confidence that inflation is cooling enough to warrant rate cuts.

  1. Earnings Season Winds Down

As the quarterly earnings season draws to a close, the spotlight shifts to key retailers like Home Depot (NYSE

) and Walmart (NYSE

), who are set to report this week. Investors are particularly interested in the outlook for consumer spending, a critical driver of economic growth, amid recent signs of economic softness.

Other prominent companies reporting include Cisco Systems (NASDAQ

) and Fox Corporation (NASDAQ

). In Europe, UBS (SIX

) reports on Wednesday, and it’s a busy week for insurers like Hannover Re (OTC

), Aviva (LON

), NN Group (AS

), and Admiral (LON

). China’s leading internet firms, including Tencent Holdings (OTC

), Alibaba Group (NYSE

), and JD.com (NASDAQ

), will also announce their June quarter results.

  1. UK Inflation in the Spotlight

The U.K. has a packed economic data calendar this week as investors seek clues on whether the Bank of England will continue its rate-cutting cycle next month.

After cutting rates for the first time since 2020 earlier this month, the BoE faces a market pricing in a roughly 33% chance of another quarter-point cut in September. Wage growth data, due Tuesday, and Wednesday’s inflation figures will be closely monitored for signs of persistent price pressures, particularly in the still-hot services sector.

Catherine Mann, an external member of the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee, expressed concerns in a podcast about the persistence of wage and price pressures, suggesting that these could be structural and take years to dissipate. Mann voted against this month’s rate cut, in a narrow 5-4 decision.

  1. Crude Oil Prices Continue to Rise

Crude oil prices climbed for the fifth consecutive session on Monday, supported by easing concerns over the U.S. economy and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

As of 04:00 ET, U.S. crude futures (WTI) were up 0.9% to $77.55 a barrel, while Brent crude rose 0.7% to $80.25 a barrel. Both benchmarks gained over 3% last week, their first positive week in five.

Geopolitical risks, particularly fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East that could disrupt oil supplies, have added a risk premium to prices. Encouraging U.S. economic data, suggesting that a recession in the world’s largest oil consumer is not imminent, also bolstered the oil market last week.

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Asian stock markets

Asian Stocks Climb on Eased Recession Worries, Positive China Inflation Data

Asian Stocks Climb on Eased Recession Worries, Positive China Inflation Data

Asian stock markets saw gains on Friday as fears of an imminent U.S. recession eased, bolstered by mildly encouraging inflation data from China, which lifted investor sentiment.

However, despite the upbeat session, regional markets were still on track to post weekly losses, having experienced steep declines earlier in the week.

Asian stocks benefited from a positive handover from Wall Street, where better-than-expected jobless claims data suggested that the U.S. labor market might not be in as much trouble as initially feared. U.S. stock index futures also saw a slight uptick during Asian trading hours.

Chinese Markets Lag Behind Despite Positive CPI Data

China’s Shanghai Shenzhen CSI 300 and Shanghai Composite indexes each rose by 0.3%, though they underperformed compared to other Asian markets. Both indexes were down approximately 0.8% for the week, marking their third consecutive week of losses.

China’s inflation data showed some signs of improvement. The consumer price index (CPI) rose more than expected, while the producer price index (PPI) contracted at a slower pace than anticipated. This suggests that the series of interest rate cuts by the People’s Bank of China in July may be beginning to yield results. However, it remains uncertain whether these measures will be enough to reverse China’s broader deflationary trend.

Investor sentiment towards Chinese markets has deteriorated in recent weeks, driven by a series of weak economic indicators. As a result, the country’s benchmark indexes are hovering near six-month lows.

Japanese Stocks Rally, Recovering Weekly Losses

Japan’s Nikkei 225 and TOPIX indexes surged by 2% and 1.5%, respectively, on Friday. While both indexes were still on track to lose about 1.5% for the week, they managed to recover a significant portion of their earlier losses.

The rebound in Japanese markets followed efforts by Bank of Japan officials to downplay the central bank’s unexpectedly hawkish stance from the previous week. Bargain hunting in major tech stocks and strong earnings reports from companies like Tokyo Electron, which rose 1.7% after posting better-than-expected quarterly earnings, also supported the recovery.

Broader Asian markets also advanced, with tech-heavy indexes such as South Korea’s KOSPI and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng rising between 1.5% and 2%. These gains mirrored the rebound seen in U.S. markets.

Australia’s ASX 200 gained 1.4% but remained down 1.9% for the week, having clawed back most of its earlier losses.

Futures for India’s Nifty 50 index indicated a slightly positive open after the index, along with the BSE Sensex 30, fell on Thursday. The decline followed the Reserve Bank of India’s unexpectedly hawkish stance and a slight downgrade in its growth outlook for the current quarter.

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Australian Dollar Appreciates Amid Hawkish Sentiment

Australian Dollar Appreciates Amid Hawkish Sentiment Surrounding RBA

Australian Dollar Appreciates Amid Hawkish Sentiment Surrounding RBA

The Australian Dollar (AUD) strengthened against the US Dollar (USD) following comments from Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Governor Michele Bullock on Thursday. Bullock emphasized the need to remain vigilant about inflation risks, indicating the possibility of further rate hikes if necessary. She noted that inflation might not return to the RBA’s 2–3% target range until the end of 2025. The AUD/USD pair also gained support from the RBA’s decision to maintain the cash rate at 4.35% earlier this week, reinforcing a hawkish outlook.

In contrast, the US Federal Reserve (Fed) is expected to adopt a more aggressive rate-cutting stance starting in September, driven by weaker July employment data and growing concerns about a potential recession. The CME Fed Watch tool now shows a 72.0% probability of a 50-basis point interest rate cut by the Fed in September, a sharp increase from 11.8% just a week ago. This expectation of deeper rate cuts is likely to weigh on the US Dollar in the near term.

Technical Analysis: Australian Dollar Hovers Around 0.6550

On Thursday, the Australian Dollar is trading around 0.6530. Technical analysis of the daily chart suggests that the AUD/USD pair is consolidating above a descending channel, signaling a potential weakening of the bearish trend. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) has risen from the oversold level of 30, indicating the possibility of further upward movement.

In terms of support, the AUD/USD pair may find support around the upper boundary of the descending channel near the 0.6470 level. A break below this support could push the pair down toward the lower boundary of the channel around 0.6420.

On the upside, immediate resistance is seen at the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6535, with additional resistance at 0.6575, where previous support has now turned into resistance. A breakout above this level could drive the AUD/USD pair toward a six-month high of 0.6798.

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EUR/USD

EUR/USD Continues to Decline Near 1.0900 Amid US Dollar Strength

EUR/USD Continues to Decline Near 1.0900 Amid US Dollar Strength

The EUR/USD pair is trading lower around 1.0915 after pulling back from seven-month highs near 1.1008 during the Asian session on Wednesday. A stronger US Dollar (USD) is putting downward pressure on the pair. Investors are now looking ahead to Germany’s June Trade Balance and Industrial Production reports, expected later today.

Improved risk sentiment and rising US Treasury bond yields are offering some support to the Greenback. However, market participants are anticipating more aggressive rate cuts from the Federal Reserve (Fed) starting in September. This expectation could limit the USD’s gains and potentially provide a boost to EUR/USD. Currently, the market has priced in a 69.5% chance of a 50 basis point (bps) Fed rate cut in September, up significantly from 13.2% last week, according to the CME Fed Watch tool.

In the US, the trade deficit narrowed to $73.1 billion in June, with exports of goods and services increasing at their fastest pace this year, according to the US Census Bureau’s Tuesday report.

On the other hand, weak data from the eurozone is putting additional pressure on the Euro (EUR). Eurostat reported on Tuesday that Eurozone retail sales unexpectedly fell by 0.3% in June, compared to a 0.5% increase in May. The market had expected a modest 0.1% rise.

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Australian Dollar

Australian Dollar Rises After Hawkish Remarks from RBA Governor Bullock

Australian Dollar Rises After Hawkish Remarks from RBA Governor Bullock

The Australian Dollar (AUD) has strengthened following the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) recent monetary policy decision on Tuesday. The RBA opted to keep the Official Cash Rate (OCR) steady at 4.35% for the sixth consecutive time. After the decision, RBA Governor Michele Bullock spoke at a press conference, stressing the importance of maintaining focus on inflation. Bullock pointed out the ongoing risk that inflation could take longer to reach the target, indicating that interest rates may need to stay elevated for an extended period. She also noted that a near-term reduction in the cash rate does not align with the current strategy.

The AUD has faced pressure against the US Dollar (USD) due to rapid policy shifts by central banks and growing concerns about a potential hard landing for the US economy. Additionally, second-quarter inflation data has lowered expectations for another rate hike by the RBA. Market forecasts now anticipate an RBA rate cut as soon as November, much earlier than the previous prediction of April next year.

Meanwhile, the US Dollar is weakening as expectations build for a 50-basis point (bps) interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve (Fed) in September. The CME FedWatch tool shows a 74.5% probability of this larger-than-expected cut occurring at the September meeting, a sharp increase from the 11.4% likelihood reported just a week earlier.

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EUR/JPY Stabilizes Around 157.00, Rebounds

EUR/JPY Stabilizes Around 157.00, Rebounds Following PMI Data

EUR/JPY Stabilizes Around 157.00, Rebounds Following PMI Data

EUR/JPY continues its downtrend for the sixth consecutive day, trading around 156.90 during the early European session on Monday. However, the pair has trimmed some of its intraday losses after the release of key economic data, including the Eurozone Producer Price Index (PPI) and Germany’s Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI).

The HCOB Eurozone Composite Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) for July edged up to 50.2, slightly above the forecasted 50.1. Meanwhile, Germany’s Composite PMI registered at 49.1, compared to the anticipated 48.7 and previous readings. The Services PMI also rose to 52.5, surpassing expectations and the prior 52.0 figure.

In Europe, market participants are anticipating at least two additional rate cuts by the European Central Bank (ECB) in 2024, with the next cut likely to occur in September. ECB policymaker Yannis Stournaras indicated in a Thursday interview that the sluggish eurozone economy might push inflation below the ECB’s 2% target, supporting his outlook for two interest rate cuts this year, as reported by Reuters.

The Japanese Yen (JPY) is gaining strength amid growing expectations that the Bank of Japan (BoJ) might further tighten its monetary policy, which could offer continued support to the JPY in the near term.

Minutes from the BoJ’s June meeting revealed that some members expressed concern about rising import prices due to the recent weakening of the JPY, which could pose an upside risk to inflation. One member emphasized that cost-push inflation could intensify underlying inflation if it leads to higher inflation expectations and wage growth.

Additionally, safe-haven demand is bolstering the JPY, exerting downward pressure on the EUR/JPY cross. This trend is partly driven by escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. On Sunday, an Israeli airstrike struck two schools, resulting in at least 30 casualties, according to Reuters. Moreover, U.S. Secretary of State Tony Blinken indicated that Iran and Hezbollah might be preparing to launch an attack against Israel as early as Monday, based on information from three sources briefed on the situation, as reported by Axios.

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USD/CHF Extends Losses Amid Rising Fed Rate Cut Prospects

USD/CHF Extends Losses Amid Rising Fed Rate Cut Prospects

USD/CHF Extends Losses Amid Rising Fed Rate Cut Prospects

The USD/CHF pair continues its decline for the fourth consecutive trading day on Monday, staying below the key psychological level of 0.9000. This decline is primarily driven by a weakening US Dollar (USD) amid increasing speculation that the Federal Reserve (Fed) will shift towards policy normalization starting from the September meeting.

The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the USD against six major currencies, found temporary support near a three-week low around 104.85. Meanwhile, the 10-year US Treasury yields edged higher to 4.3% but remained close to their weekly low.

The growing expectations for the Fed to cut interest rates sooner than previously anticipated have negatively impacted the USD and bond yields. In the latest dot plot, Fed officials indicated only one rate cut for this year, expected in the last quarter. However, the possibility of the Fed lowering interest rates as early as September has increased, partly due to signs of moderating strength in the US labor market. The Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report for June showed the Unemployment Rate rising to 4.1%, while annual Average Hourly Earnings, an indicator of wage inflation, decelerated as expected to 3.9%. Although the payrolls data exceeded estimates, it remained below May’s figures.

This week, investors are particularly focused on the US inflation data for June, scheduled to be released on Thursday. This data will be crucial in shaping expectations for future Fed policy moves.

On the Swiss Franc front, easing inflationary pressures could prompt the Swiss National Bank (SNB) to consider further interest rate reductions. The annual Swiss Consumer Price Index (CPI) decelerated to 1.3% in June, slightly below economists’ expectations of a steady growth rate of 1.4%. This decline in inflation suggests that the SNB might continue its trend of reducing interest rates to manage economic conditions effectively.

Overall, the combination of a potentially dovish Fed and easing inflation in Switzerland is creating a complex trading environment for the USD/CHF pair. Market participants will closely watch upcoming economic indicators and central bank communications to navigate these dynamics. The key factors to monitor include the US inflation data and any further signals from the Fed regarding their policy direction, which could significantly impact the future trajectory of the USD/CHF pair.

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Stocks drop in a dramatic reversal earlier in the session; the Nasdaq is down 5%.

Stocks drop in a dramatic reversal earlier in the session; the Nasdaq is down 5%

US equities fell on Thursday, giving back gains made on Wall Street the day before, as traders continued to mull over the Federal Reserve’s latest monetary policy decision. The S&P 500, Dow, and NASDAQ all fell precipitously. Tech stocks underperformed, with the NASDAQ dropping 5% in its lowest day since June 2020. The Dow fell almost 1,000 points, or 3.1 percent, to close at 32,997.97. The blue-chip index had risen 2.99 percent in a single session the day before, its highest single-session advance since May 2020. The NASDAQ Composite gained 3.2 percent, while the Dow gained almost 900 points, or 2.8 percent.

The actions followed the Federal Reserve’s first half-point rate boost since 2000, as the central bank took a significant step to confront inflation, which is now running at its highest levels in 40 years. The central bank also announced intentions to begin removing assets from its $9 trillion balance sheet on June 1. The announced rate of balance sheet reduction roughly corresponded to Wall Street’s estimates before to Wednesday’s Fed announcement.

“The stock market selloff on Thursday shows that Wednesday’s post-FOMC market action was a relief rally. We’re still not out of the woods, since there’s too much uncertainty about how the Federal Reserve’s activities can lower inflation without precipitating a recession “Carbon Collective’s chief investment officer, Zach Stein, said in an email on Thursday.”The issues that prompted the recent stock market drop, including as inflation, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and increasing oil costs, are still with us and have not been resolved.”

However, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said at his press conference on Wednesday that the central bank was not actively considering plans to raise interest rates by 75 basis points in the near future. Stocks rose immediately after those statements, with many investors relieved that the Fed was unlikely to boost interest rates much further in the coming months. Some felt that such a move would be too harsh on an economy that was already exhibiting symptoms of weakening. Nonetheless, Powell stated that there is a “widespread view within the committee that more 50 basis point hikes should be on the table at the next couple of sessions.”

“I think what happened yesterday was that sentiment became so one-sided, really concerned about an overly hawkish Fed, that it became so one-sided, so one-sided, so one-sided, so one-sided, so one-sided, so one-sided, so one “Truist’s chief market strategist, Keith Lerner, told Yahoo Finance Live on Thursday morning. “And a little bit of good news went a long way when Powell effectively said that 75 basis points aren’t being considered right now. “I continue to believe that the dispute about when inflation will peak and how rapidly it will fall will add volatility.”

Even in the absence of giant 75-basis-point rate hikes, the Fed’s path toward raising interest rates from ultra-low levels and embarking on quantitative tightening poses a risk to economic growth, as markets have grown accustomed to the central bank’s accommodative monetary policies during the pandemic. Powell himself stated that there will be some trade-off between lowering inflation and preserving economic growth.”There may be some pain involved with returning to that, but the real agony is in failing to deal with inflation and allowing it to get entrenched,” Powell said at his news conference.

“All policy decisions have negative implications, which presumably are muted and less severe than the issue being addressed, and presently that issue is inflation,” Rick Rieder, BlackRock’s chief investment officer of global fixed income, wrote in an email Wednesday. “The repercussions of policy tightening include the possibility of a recession, the loss of jobs and wages, and plainly tougher financial conditions that will impact on nearly all financial markets.

“Many factors are beyond the Fed’s control (supply chain disruptions and geopolitics, for example), but we’ll be watching closely to see how the Fed’s tightening of financial conditions affects the broader economy and employment levels, which are very firm today but can clearly soften alongside aggressive inflation-fighting monetary policy,”

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Markets rally after Powell downplays the possibility of any larger rate hikes

Markets rally after Powell downplays the possibility of any larger rate hikes

The market – Dow Jones Industrial Average gained more than 900 points, and the S&P 500 gained the most in two years, as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell downplayed the chance of an even greater interest rate hike after announcing the steepest rate hike since 2000. The statements, which came after the Fed announced its decision to raise its main interest rate by a factor of two, allayed fears that the central bank was on its way to a three-quarters-point hike at its next meeting in June.

The S&P 500 gained 3%, its biggest day since May 2020. This week, the benchmark index is up 4.1 percent, which is about half of its monthly loss in April. The Dow gained 2.8 percent, while the NASDAQ gained 3.2 percent. Earlier in the day, all of the indices temporarily fell into the red. Bond rates declined as a result of the Fed’s statement. The 2-year Treasury yield fell to 2.64 percent from 2.78 percent late Tuesday, an unusually big decline. The 10-year Treasury yield, which determines mortgage rates, declined from 2.96 percent to 2.93 percent. It had initially risen to 3.01 percent before to Powell’s remarks at a news conference.

The remarks came just after the Fed announced that it had lifted its benchmark short-term interest rate by a half-percentage point, the most aggressive move since 2000, and that other significant rate rises were on the way. The Fed’s key rate was lifted to a range of 0.75 percent to 1 percent, the highest level since the epidemic struck two years ago. The Fed also announced specifics on how it would begin decreasing its massive holdings of Treasury debt and mortgage-backed securities, which it has used to help keep long-term interest rates low.

The S&P 500 increased by 124.69 points to 4,300.17. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 937.27 points to 34,061.06. The NASDAQ increased by 401.10 points to 12,964.86. Smaller company equities also performed well. The Russell 2000 index gained 51.07 points, or 2.7 percent, to 1,949.92. The Fed’s latest action had been widely anticipated, with markets holding steady this week ahead of the policy update, but Wall Street was anxious that the Fed would choose to raise rates by three-quarters of a percentage point in the months ahead.

Powell assuaged such fears by saying the Fed is “not actively considering” a rise. Following Powell’s statements, the VIX, an indicator that measures how concerned investors are about future declines in the S&P 500, plunged around 11%, one of its greatest dips this year. Earlier, Powell stated that the economy can withstand rate rises without entering a recession. “The economy is robust and well positioned to manage tighter monetary policy,” he added, adding that “it will not be easy.”

Investors are concerned about the Fed’s ability to do the delicate dance of slowing the economy enough to end excessive inflation but not causing a downturn. Nonetheless, the market applauded the Fed’s new initiatives. “It’s certainly heady days when the market doesn’t flinch at the most aggressive rate rise in 22 years,” said Mike Loewengart, managing director, investment strategy at E-TRADE from Morgan Stanley. The central bank also said that it will begin lowering its massive $9 trillion balance sheet, which is primarily comprised of Treasury and mortgage bonds, on June 1.

Wednesday’s market gains were broad. Approximately 85 percent of the equities in the S&P 500 gained ground, with technology firms driving much of the rally. Apple increased by 4.1 percent. Energy companies were among the largest gainers following a 5.3 percent spike in the price of US crude oil as Europe moved closer to imposing a restriction on Russian oil as that nation continued its conflict against Ukraine. Any embargo might put a pressure on oil supply, pushing prices even higher. Exxon Mobil increased by 4%.

The Fed’s aggressive interest rate hike comes as growing inflation puts further pressure on businesses and consumers. Rising energy and commodity prices have forced many firms to boost their pricing and provide cautious projections to their investors. Wall Street and economists are concerned that rising food, petrol, and apparel costs would impede consumer spending and hinder economic development. Worries have grown as a result of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the resulting impact on energy and crucial agricultural commodity prices. China’s progressively tougher lockdown measures in response to escalating COVID-19 instances have raised worries about slower economic development due to supply issues and shipping backlogs.

Wall Street is keeping a tight eye on economic statistics for signals that inflation may be slowing. Consumer prices rose in March, although a measure of inflation that excludes food and energy had its smallest monthly increase since September. That was a positive sign for investors, and more of the same in the coming months will help to calm inflation fears. “If we can get a couple more readings showing inflation dropping, that may be the game changer,” said Ryan Detrick, chief market strategist at LPL Financial.

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Stocks increase for the second day in a row ahead of the predicted Fed move

Stocks increase for the second day in a row ahead of the predicted Fed move

U.S. stocks climbed marginally as investors awaited a key Federal Reserve decision. The S&P 500 increased 0.48 percent to 4,175.48. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 33,128.79, up 67.29 points, or 0.20 percent. The NASDAQ Composite, which is heavily weighted toward technology, rose 0.22 percent to 12,563.76.

Tuesday’s gains built on the previous session’s late rebound, which saw all three main averages, overcome substantial losses to close higher for the day. “For the first time in many days, selling look fatigued, and shorts are a little worried than longs (there aren’t many people who believe ‘the’ bottom is in, but even bears are concerned about a quick rebound rally),” Vital Knowledge’s Adam Crisafulli said in a client note.

These stock market gains come ahead of the Federal Reserve’s widely expected announcement on Wednesday. Wall Street is overwhelmingly anticipating the Fed to increase rates by 50 basis points this week, although some investors say the central bank’s aggressive monetary tightening is already priced into markets.

Billionaire hedge fund manager Paul Tudor Jones said on CNBC’s “Squawk Box” on Tuesday that with the Fed tightening and signals that the economy is weakening, investors should prioritize capital preservation. “You can’t imagine of a worse climate for financial assets than where we are right now.” “Obviously, you don’t want to buy bonds and equities,” Jones explained.

The S&P 500 gained broadly on Tuesday, but the energy sector led the way. Exxon Mobil gained more than 2%, while EOG Resources gained 3.8 percent. Defensive industries including as health care and utilities also outperformed, with Pfizer rising roughly 2% after announcing better-than-expected first-quarter results.

According to LPL Financial, the S&P 500 is trading in correction territory, down approximately 13% from its record highs, although the size and duration of this drop are in line with past corrections. The predicted rate rise comes at a time when there are mounting fears about the global economy, owing in part to China’s lockdowns and Europe’s turmoil. “Markets remain subject to China’s Covid-19 reaction and geopolitics, which are overshadowing what remains a fairly robust underlying picture,” JPMorgan strategist Mislav Matejka said in a client note.

The benchmark 10-year Treasury yield fell after reaching a fresh high on Monday. The bond yield reached 3.01 percent in the previous day, its highest level since December 2018, but dipped below 3 percent on Tuesday. Individual stock movements were sparked by corporate earnings reporting on Tuesday. Chegg’s shares dropped approximately 30% after the textbook maker provided dismal full-year projections despite exceeding profits estimates. Following their quarterly releases, Expedia and Hilton fell 14 percent and 4.2 percent, respectively.

On the bright side, Clorox shares surged roughly 3% after the company’s fiscal third-quarter earnings exceeded expectations. Chemours shares rose more than 17% after the firm boosted its outlook and shown effectiveness in boosting pricing. On the statistical front, there were some encouraging indicators for the economy. Factory orders increased by 2.2 percent in March, which was higher than expected. The number of job opportunities reached an all-time high of 11.5 million.

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Wall Street falls as the Fed’s attention shifts, and 10-year Treasuries surpass 3%

Wall Street falls as the Fed’s attention shifts, and 10-year Treasuries surpass 3%

 

Wall Street’s main indexes fell on Monday, giving up early gains in tragic trade, as investors became more cautious ahead of this week’s Federal Reserve meeting, when officials are largely anticipated to hike interest rates.

In addition to the weakening in equity markets, the yield on ten-year U.S. Treasuries reached 3% for the first time in more than three years, as traders prepared for an expected half-point rate hike and the start of “quantitative contraction,” in which the central bank reduces its balance sheet after buying bonds to support the economy during the pandemic.

Higher borrowing costs tend to harm corporate share values, since they make it more expensive to pursue plans for expansion, in addition to serving as a gauge for mortgage rates and other financial instruments. High-growth equities, such as technology firms, have taken a beating this year as traders prepare for this climate, with the tech-heavy NASDAQ losing about 22 percent in 2022.

Plenty of poor earnings announcements from the megacaps have worsened losses in recent days. Amazon.com Inc fell 2.7 percent on Monday, following a 14 percent decline on Friday following a bleak quarterly report. Apple Inc fell 2.5 percent as the iPhone manufacturer risked a potentially large fine after EU antitrust authorities charged it with blocking rivals’ access to its mobile payment technology.

However, Facebook parent Meta Platforms Inc rose 1.4 percent after plunging 9.8 percent the previous month, while Microsoft Corp and Nvidia Corp rose 0.5 percent and 0.3 percent, respectively, following steep drops in April.

“It’s a game of waiting.” “We’ll see what the Fed says, how the inflation data looks later next week, and we’ve got a lot of earnings (reports) this week,” said Dennis Dick, a trader with Bright Trading LLC. “It has been a difficult market, and sentiment has diminished to the point that many individuals have abandoned this sector.” I’m not suggesting the bottom has been reached, but perhaps it’s time to get off the cash and put some of that money to work.

The Federal Reserve of the United States is likely to deliver a series of aggressive interest rate hikes until at least the summer to cool rising prices, with traders predicting a 92.8 percent likelihood of a 50-basis-point boost on Wednesday, when the policy decision will be revealed. The S&P 500 has now dropped more than 14% since the beginning of the year. Its drop in the first four months of 2022 was the greatest in any year since 1939, owing to rising bond rates, the Ukrainian war, and pandemic-related lockdowns in China.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 362.63 points, or 1.1 percent, to 32,614.58, the S&P 500 dropped 50 points, or 1.21 percent, to 4,081.93, and the NASDAQ Composite down 99.38 points, or 0.81 percent, to 12,235.26. The bulk of the 11 S&P sectors fell, with real estate leading the way. Pfizer Inc declined 2.5 percent after a big trial indicated that Paxlovid, a COVID-19 oral antiviral medication, was ineffective at preventing coronavirus infections in those who lived with someone sick with the virus.

Activision Blizzard rose 2.8 percent after Warren Buffett announced that Berkshire Hathaway Inc had acquired a 9.5 percent interest in the “Call of Duty” game developer. Spirit Airlines fell 10% after the ultra-low-cost airline rejected JetBlue Airways Corp’s $33-per-share buyout bid, citing a low possibility of clearance from government authorities. JetBlue, on the other hand, was down 0.8 percent after trading higher earlier in the afternoon.

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Could eBay’s fortunes shift on a dime as a result of Amazon’s poor performance?

Could Amazon’s bad performance cause eBay’s stocks  to turn on a dime?

 

Amazon’s (AMZN) first-quarter earnings miss and weaker-than-expected second-quarter outlook, released after the market closed on Thursday, could present an attractive investment opportunity in another retailer. I’m looking at eBay (EBAY) in particular. AMZN shares were down roughly 8.5 percent and eBay’s stocks were down 2 dollars in pre-market trading, hours before the market opened.

The latter online retailer has had a difficult start to 2022, with its stock down 20%. While I have reservations about a number of merchants’ ostensibly low forward price-to-earnings ratios, particularly specialty and apparel stores, I feel EBAY is on another level. Where else can you get a replacement hubcap, a 1988 Fender Telecaster, a chainsaw, an original 1977 Seattle Mariners game-used jersey, and a Cleveland Indians stock certificate, to name a few things I’ve bought over the years? It’s one of the few sites I visit every day in search of the latest find, whether it’s a treasure or a mundane household or electronic item.

The days of trading at large multiples of earnings have passed us by. Shares are currently trading at around 12-times trailing earnings, 1-time consensus expectations for 2023, and 10-times for 2024. EBAY has switched from growth stock to value stock mode. The company’s balance sheet is solid, with $9 billion in cash and investments by the end of 2021 ($1.7 billion in long-term corporate and government/agency securities). In addition, the corporation controls 33 percent of Norway’s Adevinta (ADEVF), a share that was purchased in a $9.2 billion cash and stock deal in return for eBay’s classified ad division, and was carried on the year-end balance sheet at $5.4 billion. EBAY’s debt was $9.1 billion at the end of the year.

EBAY has also been a serial share repurchaser, with the number of shares outstanding practically halved in the last six years. The current buyback authorisation, which was established in February, amounts to $4 billion. That works out to around 74 million shares at the current price. The current dividend of 22 cents yields 1.6 percent. Since its inception in 2019, the dividend has grown at a compound annual growth rate of 16 percent. If done correctly, the combination of increasing dividends and stock buybacks can be very effective.

But I’m not in a rush to make a decision. The value, while intriguing, comes at a time when we may be on the verge of a recession, with yesterday’s Gross Domestic Product print of a 1.4 percent drop maybe beginning to tell the tale, and I believe we are already there. If one is offered, I will seek out a more appealing entry point (or points).

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Wall Street closes strongly higher, with Meta and Apple leading the way

Wall Street closes strongly higher, with Meta and Apple leading the way

On Thursday, Wall Street finished substantially higher.  Meta Platforms released a good quarterly report and growth sectors and easing concerns about the US economy’s first-quarter loss. The parent company of Facebook jumped 17.6% as the social network posted higher-than-expected earnings and returned from a user decline.

With gains of 4.04 percent and 3.89 percent, respectively, communication services and technology were among the best-performing of 11 S&P 500 sector indexes. Apple Inc and  Amazon.com Inc both rose more than 4% ahead of their quarterly reports later in the day.

Amazon’s stock dropped 10% in extended trading after the company forecasted current-quarter sales that fell short of Wall Street expectations. Due to concerns about inflation, increasing interest rates, and a likely economic downturn, investors have been selling high-growth equities for weeks.

So far in 2022, the S&P 500 has gained or lost 2% or more in a single day 32 times, compared to 24 times in all of 2021. “When interest rates, inflation, and the Fed’s actions are all so volatile, valuing every other asset becomes that much more challenging,” said Zach Hill, head of Portfolio Strategy at Horizon Investments in Charlotte, North Carolina. “We’ve looked at a lot of earnings data over the previous few days and weeks, and corporate America’s underlying fundamentals have been reasonably good, with a few exceptions,” Hill said.

The first quarter of the year saw the US economy fall unexpectedly as COVID-19 infections rose again and government pandemic response funds fell. The Commerce Department announced the first fall in gross domestic product since the short and acute pandemic recession about two years ago, which was mostly caused by a bigger trade deficit as imports increased and a halt in inventory accumulation.

Unofficially, the S&P 500 rose 2.47 percent to 4,287.50 points at the close of the session. The NASDAQ surged 3.06 percent to 12,871.53 points, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 1.85% to 33,916.39 points. The Ukraine conflict, China’s COVID restrictions, and rising inflation have all weighed on the global economy’s prospects, causing market volatility ahead of the Federal Reserve’s May meeting next week.

Overall, first-quarter profits have outperformed estimates, with 81 percent of the 237 companies in the S&P 500 reporting results thus far exceeding Wall Street expectations. According to Refinitiv data, only 66 percent of corporations beat predictions on average. Qualcomm Inc’s stock jumped 9.7% after the chipmaker raised its revenue projection for the third quarter, beating analyst forecasts.

The Philadelphia Semiconductor Index rose 5.6 percent in one day, the most in almost a year. Caterpillar Inc. dipped 0.7 percent after warning that rising costs will put pressure on profit margins in the current quarter. Amgen Inc slumped 4.3 percent after the company reported the US Internal Revenue Service is seeking $5.1 billion in additional unpaid taxes.

Advancers outpaced decliners by a 2.6-to-1 ratio on the New York Stock Exchange. The S&P 500 added five new 52-week highs and 44 new lows, while the NASDAQ Composite added 25 highs and 672 lows.

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Boeing’s shares level will decrease and Air Force One result in a $1.2 billion loss

Boeing’s shares level will decrease and Air Force One result in a $1.2 billion loss

Boeing’s stock plummeted after the company disclosed a $1.2-billion loss in the most recent quarter, owing to one-time charges related to its Russia business, the Air Force One presidential flight, and the new 777X airliner. Boeing shares finished 7.5 percent lower at $154.46 after results that poorly below analyst forecasts as the firm revealed yet another delay with its 777X aircraft, after plummeting more than 12 percent earlier in the day. The loss is the latest in a string of poor results for the commercial aircraft manufacturer, which has also halted deliveries of its 787 airliner due to a series of production problems.

While conceding the report’s “messy” features, Chief Executive Dave Calhoun advocated for a long-term view of the organization. In a note to employees, Calhoun stated, “We are a long-cycle business, and the success of our efforts will be assessed over years and decades, not quarters.” “The purposeful actions we’re doing right now will promote operational stability and position us for long-term, sustainable success.”

On an analyst call, however, Calhoun was grilled on the company’s expanding list of issues, despite claiming that the company was making headway toward a turnaround. The loss was more than double the $537 million loss in the previous quarter. Revenues were $14 billion, down 8% from the previous year.

The extended timetable for the 777X “reflects an updated evaluation of the time to achieve certification criteria,” according to Boeing, which also announced plans for a “temporary hold” on production of the plane until 2023. First deliveries of the plane are now expected in 2025, resulting in a $1.5 billion loss for the huge US aerospace company.

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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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GBP/USD Consolidates Near 1.3200

GBP/USD Consolidates Near 1.3200, Eyes US Retail Sales for Short-Term Direction

GBP/USD Consolidates Near 1.3200, Eyes US Retail Sales for Short-Term Direction

The GBP/USD pair is trading within a tight range slightly above the 1.3200 mark during the Asian session on Tuesday, consolidating the strong gains from the previous day, which pushed it to a one-week high. Investors are cautious ahead of key central bank events: the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting starting on Tuesday and the Bank of England (BoE) policy announcement on Thursday.

The Federal Reserve will reveal its policy decision on Wednesday, with markets currently pricing in over a 60% chance of a significant 50-basis-point rate cut, due to easing inflation pressures. This expectation has kept US Treasury yields near one- and two-year lows, limiting the US Dollar’s (USD) recovery from its year-to-date low, which in turn supports the GBP/USD pair.

On the other hand, the British Pound (GBP) benefits from expectations that the BoE will take a more gradual approach to cutting rates compared to the US. However, recent UK data, including a slowdown in wage growth and flat GDP figures for July, suggest further rate cuts from the BoE, which may limit GBP/USD’s upside potential as traders hesitate to take aggressive bullish positions.

With no major economic data scheduled from the UK on Tuesday, the GBP/USD pair will be driven by USD dynamics. In the early North American session, traders will focus on US Retail Sales data, which, along with Treasury yields, will influence USD demand and provide direction for the pair. However, given the current fundamentals, caution is advised for traders considering aggressive moves.

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EUR/USD Climbs Toward 1.1100 Amid Fed Rate Cut Speculation

EUR/USD Climbs Toward 1.1100 Amid Fed Rate Cut Speculation

EUR/USD Climbs Toward 1.1100 Amid Fed Rate Cut Speculation

The EUR/USD began the week on a positive trajectory, trading around 1.1090 during Monday’s Asian session. Investors are now closely watching the US Federal Reserve’s (Fed) highly anticipated policy decision later this week, with uncertainty surrounding the size of the potential rate cut. Markets remain split on whether the Fed will lower rates by 25 or 50 basis points (bps).

According to the CME FedWatch Tool, there is a 48.0% chance of a 25 bps rate cut at the Fed’s September meeting, while the likelihood of a 50 bps reduction has risen to 52.0%, up slightly from the previous day’s 50.0%.

Traders will pay close attention to the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) press conference, where Fed Chair Jerome Powell may signal future rate policies. A more aggressive easing stance could weaken the US dollar, potentially providing upward momentum for the EUR/USD pair.

On the European side, ECB Governing Council member and Irish Central Bank Governor Gabriel Makhlouf commented last Friday that the central bank is operating in a “highly uncertain environment” and will continue to rely on data to inform its decisions. Makhlouf emphasized that while no specific rate path has been set, the ECB is committed to ensuring inflation returns to the 2% target “in a timely manner.”

Rabobank research highlighted that the ECB recently implemented its second rate cut of the current cycle, with another reduction expected by year-end. However, despite possible USD weakness from Fed easing, Rabobank warned that weak Eurozone fundamentals could limit the EUR/USD pair’s upside potential in the near term.

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GBP/USD Gains Strength

GBP/USD Gains Momentum Above 1.3150 Ahead of US NFP Data

GBP/USD Gains Momentum Above 1.3150 Ahead of US NFP Data

The GBP/USD pair continues to strengthen, trading near 1.3180 during Asian hours on Friday, marking its third consecutive day in positive territory. The persistent weakness of the US Dollar (USD) is providing support for the pair. However, traders are eagerly awaiting the release of the US August Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) data, which is expected later today.

On Thursday, the Automatic Data Processing (ADP) report showed that private sector payrolls in the US grew at their slowest rate in over three and a half years, with only 99,000 jobs added in August. This figure was lower than the downwardly revised 111,000 in July and well below the forecast of 145,000.

The market expects the Federal Reserve (Fed) to lower interest rates during its September 17-18 meeting. With the Bureau of Labor Statistics set to release the NFP data, which is projected to show 160,000 job additions in August, this report will be a key factor in shaping expectations for the Fed’s next policy move. A weaker-than-expected NFP could lead to a larger rate cut, further weakening the USD.

Meanwhile, the Pound Sterling (GBP) has been supported by modest interest rate cut expectations from the Bank of England (BoE). BoE Governor Andrew Bailey indicated last month that while longer-term inflation pressures appear to be easing, the central bank is not rushing into additional rate cuts. Investors currently see a 25% chance of a BoE rate cut at its September 12 meeting, with a cut fully priced in by November.

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Australian Dollar Holds Losses Despite Hawkish RBA Bullock

Australian Dollar Holds Losses Despite Hawkish RBA Bullock, ISM Manufacturing PMI in Focus

Australian Dollar Holds Losses Despite Hawkish RBA Bullock, ISM Manufacturing PMI in Focus

The Australian Dollar (AUD) remains under pressure against the US Dollar (USD) despite positive Trade Balance data released on Thursday. Australia’s trade surplus widened to 6,009 million AUD in July, surpassing both the expected 5,150 million and the prior figure of 5,589 million.

Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) Governor Michele Bullock addressed “The Anika Foundation” in Sydney, discussing “The Costs of High Inflation.” She emphasized that it is premature to consider rate cuts, and the RBA board does not foresee reducing rates in the near term.

The Australian Dollar weakened further as recent economic data revealed that Australia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew in the second quarter but missed market expectations. Additionally, a private survey indicated that Australia’s manufacturing activity remained contractionary in August, marking two consecutive years of deterioration in the sector.

In the US, the Dollar softened after July’s US JOLTS Job Openings fell below expectations, highlighting a slowdown in the labor market. Meanwhile, the ISM Manufacturing PMI confirmed that factory activity contracted for the fifth straight month.

Investors are now focused on the upcoming US ISM Services PMI and Initial Jobless Claims, both scheduled for release on Thursday. Attention will then shift to Friday’s US Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP), which could provide further insight into the Fed’s potential rate cut this month.

Daily Market Movers: Australian Dollar Weakens Ahead of Key US Data

Atlanta Federal Reserve President Raphael Bostic commented on Wednesday that while the Fed is in a strong position, it should avoid maintaining a restrictive policy for too long. According to FXStreet’s FedTracker, which uses AI to gauge Fed officials’ statements, Bostic’s remarks were rated neutral with a score of 4.6 out of 10.

The US JOLTS Job Openings dropped to 7.673 million in July, down from 7.910 million in June, marking the lowest level since January 2021 and falling short of the expected 8.10 million.

Bank of America (BoA) lowered its economic growth forecast for China, cutting its 2024 projection to 4.8% from 5.0%. The 2025 forecast was also revised down to 4.5%, while the 2026 outlook remained at 4.5%. China’s Services PMI fell from 52.1 in July to 51.6 in August, a notable decline given the close trade ties between China and Australia.

Australia’s GDP recorded 0.2% quarter-on-quarter growth for Q2, up from 0.1% in the previous quarter but falling short of the expected 0.3%. The Judo Bank Composite PMI rose to 51.7 in August, from 51.4 in July, with the services sector driving the expansion. The Services PMI climbed to 52.5 in August, marking seven consecutive months of growth.

In the US, the ISM Manufacturing PMI rose slightly to 47.2 in August from 46.8 in July, but remained below market expectations of 47.5. This marks the 21st contraction in US factory activity in the past 22 months.

Technical Analysis: Australian Dollar Holds Above 0.6700

The AUD/USD pair is trading around 0.6720 on Thursday. On the daily chart, the pair is below the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), indicating a short-term pause in the overall bullish trend. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains above the 50 level, suggesting a slight bullish tilt.

On the downside, the AUD/USD pair could test support near 0.6575, with a deeper decline targeting the next support level around 0.6470. Resistance may be encountered at the 14-day EMA around 0.6731, followed by the nine-day EMA at 0.6742. A break above these levels could lead to a test of the seven-month high at 0.6798.

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GBP/USD Holds Steady Above 1.3100 Ahead of Fed Beige Book

GBP/USD Holds Steady Above 1.3100 Ahead of Fed Beige Book

GBP/USD Holds Steady Above 1.3100 Ahead of Fed Beige Book

The GBP/USD pair remains stable around 1.3110 during the early European session on Wednesday. However, with a cautious market sentiment ahead of key U.S. events, the U.S. Dollar (USD) could gain some support, potentially pushing the pair lower. The U.S. JOLTS Job Openings and the Fed Beige Book are scheduled for release later on Wednesday.

On Tuesday, data from the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) indicated that the Manufacturing PMI edged up slightly to 47.2 in August from 46.8 in July, though it fell short of the market expectation of 47.5.

The CME FedWatch tool, which gauges market expectations for the Federal Reserve’s target rate, shows a 61% probability of a 25 basis point (bps) rate cut at the Fed’s September meeting, with a 39% chance of a 50 bps cut.

Last month, Fed Chair Jerome Powell indicated that the time has come for a shift in monetary policy, hinting that the U.S. central bank might begin easing at its upcoming meeting on September 17-18. This increased likelihood of a rate cut could put downward pressure on the USD in the near term.

Attention will turn to the U.S. August employment data due on Friday. Economists at Deutsche Bank have suggested that a rise in the Unemployment Rate could bolster expectations for a 50 bps rate cut by the Fed.

Meanwhile, the cautious market sentiment continues to support the Greenback for now. Although the Bank of England (BoE) is expected to undertake a modest rate-cutting cycle this year compared to other central banks, GBP/USD will likely be driven by USD price movements, especially in the absence of significant economic data from the UK.

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USD/CAD Nears 1.3550 as Traders Evaluate ISM Manufacturing PMI

USD/CAD Nears 1.3550 as Traders Evaluate ISM Manufacturing PMI

USD/CAD Nears 1.3550 as Traders Evaluate ISM Manufacturing PMI

The USD/CAD pair is experiencing gains for the second straight day, trading around 1.3520 during early European hours on Tuesday. This upward movement is driven by a stronger US Dollar (USD), amid diminishing chances of an aggressive interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve in September.

Moreover, rising US Treasury yields are lending further support to the USD, although its upward potential might be capped by increasing expectations of a quarter-basis point rate cut by the Fed next month. According to the CME FedWatch Tool, there is nearly a 70% probability of at least a 25 basis point (bps) rate cut by the Fed at its September meeting.

Meanwhile, the decline of the Canadian Dollar (CAD), which is closely tied to commodities, may be mitigated by rising crude oil prices. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil has surged to about $73.60 per barrel at the time of writing, bolstered by concerns over potential supply disruptions in Libya. On Monday, oil exports from key Libyan ports were halted, and nationwide production was reduced, as reported by six engineers cited by Reuters.

Investors will closely watch the Bank of Canada’s (BoC) interest rate decision on Wednesday. It is widely expected that the BoC will cut rates for the third time in a row during its September meeting. Market participants anticipate a quarter percentage point reduction, bringing the benchmark rate to 4.25%, with further cuts likely throughout the rest of the year and into 2025.

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USD/CHF weakens below

USD/CHF weakens below 0.8500, eyes on Swiss CPI, GDP data

USD/CHF weakens below 0.8500, eyes on Swiss CPI, GDP data

The USD/CHF pair declines towards 0.8490 during early European trading on Monday. This drop is driven by a weaker US Dollar (USD) amid rising expectations that the US Federal Reserve (Fed) might cut interest rates in its September meeting. Upcoming economic data from Switzerland, including the August Consumer Price Index (CPI) and second-quarter Gross Domestic Product (GDP), are scheduled for release on Tuesday. The Swiss economy is expected to grow by 0.5% quarter-on-quarter in Q2.

The Fed’s dovish stance continues to pressure the US Dollar. Last week, Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic, a noted hawk on the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC), suggested it might be time to reduce borrowing costs due to easing inflation and a higher-than-expected unemployment rate.

Alex Ebkarian, Chief Operating Officer at Allegiance Gold, noted that the latest Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) report indicates that inflation is no longer the Fed’s primary concern. Instead, the Fed’s focus has shifted to unemployment data, reinforcing the possibility of rate cuts in September. Investors will pay close attention to the US employment data set for release on Friday, which includes the Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP), Unemployment Rate, and Average Hourly Earnings for August.

Projections for NFP suggest 163,000 job additions in August, while the Unemployment Rate is expected to decrease slightly to 4.2%. Any signs of weakness in the US labor market could increase expectations for a Fed rate cut, putting additional downward pressure on the USD.

Meanwhile, ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East may support demand for safe-haven currencies like the Swiss Franc (CHF). CNN reported early Monday that protests erupted across Israel after the country’s military recovered the bodies of six hostages allegedly killed by Hamas in Gaza. Israel’s largest labor union has called for a strike, stating that the “entire Israeli economy will shut down.

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USD/JPY Holds Steady Near 147.00 as Yen Weakens on Trade Tensions and BoJ Rate Outlook

USD/JPY Holds Steady Near 147.00 as Yen Weakens on Trade Tensions and BoJ Rate Outlook

The Japanese Yen (JPY) continues to trade with a bearish bias on Wednesday, keeping the USD/JPY pair firm around the 147.00 mark during the Asian session. A stronger US Dollar and persistent concerns over rising trade tensions are weighing heavily on the Yen, as markets brace for the impact of US tariffs on Japanese goods starting August 1. 

Former US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a 25% tariff on Japanese imports, coupled with the threat of retaliatory action, has sparked renewed fears over Japan’s economic resilience. The country’s Q1 GDP contracted, real wages in May dropped at their steepest pace in nearly two years, and political uncertainty is rising ahead of the July 20 House of Councillors election. Recent polls suggest the ruling LDP-Komeito coalition may struggle to retain its majority, further dampening investor confidence. 

These developments have led traders to scale back expectations of a rate hike by the Bank of Japan this year. The combination of domestic headwinds and external pressure is weakening the JPY, while the US Dollar continues to gain on expectations that rising tariffs will stoke inflation and prompt the Federal Reserve to maintain a hawkish stance. 

The Fed’s June decision to hold interest rates steady, along with a strong US jobs report, has reinforced the belief that rate cuts may be delayed until at least October. The FOMC meeting minutes, due later today, will be closely watched for insights into the Fed’s policy trajectory. Markets currently anticipate up to 50 basis points in rate cuts by year-end. 

Technical Outlook: Bullish Momentum Builds 

Technically, USD/JPY’s break and close above the 100-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) — for the first time since February — signals potential for further gains. Positive momentum on the daily chart supports a move toward the 147.60–147.65 resistance area, with the 148.00 handle, a key June high, in sight. 

On the downside, immediate support lies near 146.50, with the 100-day SMA just below 146.00 acting as a critical pivot. A decisive break below this level could shift momentum in favor of bears, opening room for deeper losses. 

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NZD/USD gains ground to near 0.5700 on weaker US PMI data

During the early Asian session on Thursday, the NZD/USD pair was trading slightly higher at 0.5690. The Greenback falls against the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) as US economic data disappoints. Investors will keenly monitor developments in the rekindled trade battle between the United States and China, the world’s two largest economies. 

The weaker US Services Purchasing Manager Index (PMI) could weigh on the Greenback and generate a tailwind for the pair. The US ISM Services PMI fell to 52.8 in January from 54.0 (revised from 54.1) in December. This reading came in below the market consensus of 54.3.

On the other hand, New Zealand’s fourth-quarter employment report will put the RBNZ on pace to decrease the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by 50 basis points (bps) to 3.75% this month. Statistics New Zealand said on Wednesday that the country’s unemployment rate increased to 5.1% in Q4, up from 4.8% the previous quarter. This result was a four-year high and exceeded the 25-year average of 4.8%. Rising expectations that the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) may decrease interest rates may further impact on the New Zealand Dollar (NZD).

“In line with RBNZ guidance, markets continue to imply another 50bps rate cut to 3.75% at the February 19 meeting and the policy rate to through around 3.00% over the next 12 months. Bottom line: NZ-US 2-year bond yield spreads can further weigh on NZD/USD,” noted Société Générale’s FX analysts. 

On Tuesday, the finance ministry in China unveiled a package of tariffs on various US products such as crude oil, farm equipment, and some autos in a sharp response to an announcement made by US President Donald Trump imposing a 10% tariff on Chinese imports. Further, China served notice to several companies including Google for potential sanctions in response to Trump’s tariffs. Any sign of uncertainty or a rising trade war tension may see the China-proxy Kiwi being dragged lower, as China remains one of the major trading partners to New Zealand.

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JPY Recovers Losses vs. USD, Bullish Outlook Intact

Japanese Yen Recovers Some Losses Against USD; Bullish Outlook Remains Intact

The Japanese yen (JPY) cut some of its intraday losses against the US dollar (USD) on Monday, bringing the USD/JPY pair back below the mid-155.00s during the early European session. The Bank of Japan’s (BoJ) Summary of Opinions showed conversations about the possibility of further hikes in interest rates. Furthermore, Tokyo’s core inflation increased at the quickest annual rate in nearly a year, raising expectations of further policy tightening by the BoJ, which supports the JPY.

Beyond monetary policy, narrowing interest rate differentials between Japan and other major economies, including the US, alongside a broader risk-off sentiment, provide additional support to the safe-haven JPY. However, concerns over the economic impact of US President Donald Trump’s newly announced trade tariffs limit the yen’s upside. Meanwhile, the USD remains broadly strong, allowing the USD/JPY pair to maintain its positive momentum for a second consecutive day, ahead of the upcoming US ISM Manufacturing PMI report.

Yen Gains Traction Amid BoJ Rate Hike Bets and Trade War Fears

US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Saturday to impose 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico and 10% tariffs on Chinese goods, effective Tuesday.

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum, and China’s foreign ministry all replied quickly, indicating probable retaliation. The US Dollar continues to climb, approaching a two-year high last hit in January, supporting the USD/JPY pair’s upward trend.

The Bank of Japan’s latest Summary of Opinions, released on Monday, showed that policymakers are thinking about additional rate hikes, though this has failed to appreciably lift the JPY.

Board members of the Bank of Japan stressed the need of continuing to raise interest rates if economic conditions and inflation remain stable.

Japan’s Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato stated that the government is closely monitoring the impact of Trump’s tariffs on the yen amid concerns over potential economic fallout.

Economy Minister Ryosei Akazawa reiterated Japan’s commitment to achieving the BoJ’s 2% inflation target while implementing measures to offset rising living costs.

The US-Japan yield spread remains near a multi-week low, which, coupled with risk aversion, could help stabilize the yen in the near term.

Investors now turn their focus to key US economic data, starting with today’s ISM Manufacturing PMI, followed by the highly anticipated Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report on Friday.

USD/JPY Faces Resistance Near 156.25; Bears in Control Below This Level

From a technical standpoint, last week’s strong rebound from the 50% Fibonacci retracement level of the December-January rally and the subsequent upside move favor bullish traders. However, additional gains beyond 156.00 may encounter resistance near last week’s swing high at 156.25. A sustained break above this level could spark a short-covering rally, pushing the pair towards:

  • 156.70-156.75 resistance
  • 157.00 psychological mark
  • 157.60 horizontal barrier
  • Potential extension towards 158.00, with an ultimate target at the 158.85-158.90 multi-month high from January 10

Conversely, on the downside:-

  • 155.00 serves as immediate support
  • Below this, watch for key levels at 154.55-154.50 and 154.00
  • A break below the 153.70 January low could accelerate the decline towards 153.30 and eventually 153.00

While the JPY is exhibiting some resilience, the overall trend remains unpredictable, with market participants intently watching economic indicators and geopolitical developments.

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Australian Dollar Drops as RBA Rate Cut Bets Rise, Fed Decision Looms

Australian Dollar Slides Amid Rising Odds of RBA Rate Cuts, Fed Decision in Focus

The Australian Dollar (AUD) extends its losing streak for a third consecutive session against the US Dollar (USD), weighed down by softer-than-expected inflation data from Australia.

Australia’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 0.2% quarter-on-quarter in Q4 2024, matching the previous quarter but missing the expected 0.3%. On an annual basis, CPI eased to 2.4% from 2.8% in Q3, below the market forecast of 2.5%. Despite December’s monthly CPI ticking up to 2.5% YoY, inflation remains within the Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) 2%-3% target range. Meanwhile, the RBA’s Trimmed Mean CPI slowed to 3.2% YoY, its weakest pace in three years, slightly under the anticipated 3.3%.

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers expressed confidence that “the worst of the inflation challenge is behind us” and that a “soft landing” is increasingly likely. The cooling inflation strengthens the case for an RBA rate cut in February. The central bank has held the Official Cash Rate (OCR) steady at 4.35% since November 2023, emphasizing the need for inflation to “sustainably” return to target before considering a rate reduction.

AUD Pressured by Risk Aversion, Trump’s Tariff Threats

The AUD faces additional headwinds from risk-off sentiment following tariff threats by former US President Donald Trump. On Monday, Trump announced plans to impose tariffs on imports of key commodities, including computer chips, pharmaceuticals, steel, aluminum, and copper, aiming to boost US manufacturing.

Meanwhile, the US Dollar Index (DXY) holds firm around 108.00 as traders turn their attention to the upcoming Federal Reserve (Fed) interest rate decision. Market expectations, per the CME FedWatch tool, indicate near-certainty that the Fed will maintain its policy rate at 4.25%-4.50%. Investors will closely watch Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s press conference for guidance on future policy shifts.

Concerns over the potential inflationary impact of Trump’s trade policies add another layer of uncertainty. US Bank chief economist Beth Ann Bovino noted, “A number of White House proposals appear inflationary, which could keep the Fed in check.” Additionally, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has proposed universal tariffs on US imports starting at 2.5%, with Trump reportedly favoring even higher rates.

China’s Economic Slowdown Adds Pressure on AUD

The Australian Dollar remains vulnerable to China’s economic struggles. China’s NBS Manufacturing PMI dropped to 49.1 in January from 50.1, missing expectations, while the Non-Manufacturing PMI slipped to 50.2 from 52.2. As Australia’s largest trading partner, China’s weak data weighs heavily on the AUD.

Despite China’s recent stimulus measures, including a $7.25 billion investment in index products and long-term stock investments, concerns persist. Industrial profits fell 3.3% YoY in 2024, marking a third consecutive year of contraction, driven by weak demand, deflationary pressures, and a prolonged property sector slump.

Technical Outlook: AUD/USD Turns Bearish Below 0.6250

The AUD/USD pair trades near 0.6230 on Wednesday after breaking below the ascending channel on the daily chart, signaling a shift toward a bearish bias. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) has dropped below 50, reinforcing downside momentum.

A decisive break below key support at the lower boundary of the ascending channel strengthens the bearish outlook, potentially pushing AUD/USD toward 0.6131—its lowest level since April 2020. On the upside, immediate resistance lies at the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6256. A rebound above this level could reintroduce a bullish bias, with the next upside target near 0.6360.

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US Dollar Surges as Trump Revives Tariff Threats

US Dollar Surges as Trump Revives Tariff Threats

The US dollar strengthened significantly against all major currencies after President Donald Trump and his Treasury Secretary reignited concerns about potential tariffs, raising fears that trade policies may return to the forefront. Risk-sensitive currencies, particularly those tied to China, saw sharp declines, while the euro weakened amid speculation that the European Union could soon face tariff pressures. Simultaneously, the Japanese yen took a hit as traders hedged against potential US inflation spikes and rising Treasury yields.

This market turbulence followed a Financial Times report indicating that Scott Bessent, the newly appointed Treasury Department official, supports a phased approach to implementing universal tariffs on US imports. The initial proposal suggests starting with a 2.5% tariff rate. However, President Trump hinted at a much broader scope, potentially targeting a range of imports from steel to semiconductor chips and suggesting higher tariff rates over time.

The administration’s “moderate” proposal involves a gradual increase in tariffs, reaching 20% over eight months in increments of 2.5% per month. This timeline has triggered speculation about more extreme scenarios and raised questions about the global trade concessions needed to halt these measures. Bessent’s approach, which allows businesses time to adjust, could also spark a rush of imports and exports to avoid higher future costs.

Amid these developments, financial markets are grappling with the potential outcomes. Traders are assessing whether the proposed tariff measures are fully priced in and evaluating the likelihood of de-escalation through negotiation.

On the positive side, any concessions or agreements that delay or reduce tariffs could stabilize markets. However, the risks of escalating tariffs, particularly if negotiations fail, remain a significant concern. Higher tariffs could disrupt global trade and have far-reaching implications for currency valuations.

While we initially favored long positions on the dollar, the unfolding tariff narrative has introduced significant uncertainty. Staying prepared for sudden shifts in policy and market dynamics is now crucial as the situation continues to evolve.

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Australian Dollar Weakens Amid Concerns Over Trump’s Trade Policies and Mixed Chinese Data

Australian Dollar Weakens Amid Concerns Over Trump’s Trade Policies and Mixed Chinese Data

The Australian Dollar (AUD) ended its three-day winning streak against the US Dollar (USD) on Monday, with the AUD/USD pair trading flat following the release of mixed Chinese Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data. As a close trade partner, Australia’s economy is heavily influenced by China’s economic performance.

China’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported that the Manufacturing PMI fell to 49.1 in January, down from 50.1 in December, missing market expectations. Similarly, the Non-Manufacturing PMI dropped to 50.2 from the previous month’s 52.2. These weaker-than-expected figures suggest a slowdown in China’s economic recovery, weighing on the risk-sensitive Australian Dollar.

Despite fresh stimulus measures from China aimed at revitalizing its equity markets, the AUD struggled to gain momentum. The China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC) announced a second round of long-term stock investment pilot programs valued at 52 billion Yuan ($7.25 billion). However, these measures have done little to alleviate investor concerns about China’s economic challenges.

Risk Aversion Rises Amid Trump’s Trade Tariff Push

Broader market sentiment took a hit as reports emerged that US President Donald Trump’s advisers are pushing to impose 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada as early as February 1, bypassing negotiations. According to the Wall Street Journal, Trump’s willingness to move swiftly on tariffs follows similar actions taken against Colombia, raising fears of escalating trade tensions and dampening demand for riskier assets like the Australian Dollar.

Adding to the negative outlook, China’s Industrial Profits declined by 3.3% year-over-year in 2024 to CNY 7,431.05 billion, marking the third consecutive year of contraction. This downturn highlights ongoing economic headwinds, including weak demand, rising deflationary pressures, and a prolonged slump in the property sector.

Technical Analysis: AUD/USD Eyes Key Resistance Amid Bullish Setup

The AUD/USD pair is trading near 0.6290 on Monday, showing signs of upward momentum within an ascending channel on the daily chart, indicating a potential bullish bias. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains slightly above 50, reflecting mild optimism in the market.

On the upside, the pair could retest the psychological resistance level at 0.6300, with the next target near the channel’s upper boundary around 0.6350.

Support levels are found at the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) of 0.6265, followed by the 14-day EMA at 0.6254. A stronger support lies near the channel’s lower boundary around 0.6240, which could act as a safety net in case of a downside correction.

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NZD/USD Struggles

NZD/USD Struggles Below 0.5700 Amid Trump’s Tariff Plans and Dovish RBNZ Expectations

The NZD/USD pair remains under pressure, trading near 0.5675 during the early Asian session on Friday. The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) faces headwinds due to uncertainty surrounding US President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on China and the dovish outlook of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ).

New Zealand’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) for the fourth quarter of 2024 indicated a continued decline in underlying inflation, strengthening expectations of additional rate cuts by the RBNZ. Swap markets now estimate a nearly 90% chance of a 50-basis-point (bps) rate cut on February 19, building on the two cuts already implemented in this cycle. The RBNZ is projected to deliver a total of 100 bps in rate cuts through the remainder of 2025.

Meanwhile, the downside for the pair could be capped by recent comments from Trump. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday, Trump called for immediate interest rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve (Fed). “With oil prices going down, I’ll demand that interest rates drop immediately, and likewise, they should be dropping all over the world,” Trump said.

Investors are now closely watching for further details on Trump’s tariff policies, alongside key US economic data releases. The flash US S&P Global Manufacturing and Services PMI for January will be a key focus later on Friday, along with the release of US Existing Home Sales and the Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index.

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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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