Date | Rate | Change |
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Oversold decline in Australian Dollar (AUD) could extend to 0.6560 before stabilisation can be expected. In the longer run, potential for AUD to continue to decline to 0.6560, possibly 0.6520, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “We expected AUD to ‘decline further’ yesterday. We pointed out that ‘the significant support level at 0.6585 might not be easy to break.’ However, AUD broke below 0.6585, reaching a low of 0.6580. AUD closed on a soft note at 0.6583 (-0.33%). While oversold, the decline could extend to 0.6560 before stabilisation can be expected. A sustained break below 0.6560 is unlikely today. Resistance is at 0.6600; a breach of 0.6615 would mean that the weakness has stabilised.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “In our most recent narrative from last Thursday (24 Oct, spot at 0.6635), we highlighted that AUD ‘is expected to continue to decline, and the level to watch is a significant support at 0.6585.’ Yesterday (Monday), AUD broke below 0.6585 (low has been 0.6580). While oversold, the weakness is not showing signs of stabilisation just yet. Only a breach of 0.6640 (‘strong resistance’ previously at 0.6670) would mean that the weakness that started early this month (as annotated in the chart below) has stabilised. Until then, there is potential for AUD to continue to decline to 0.6560, possibly 0.6525.”
The AUD/USD pair remains under some selling pressure for the third successive day on Tuesday and drops to its lowest level since August 8, closer to mid-0.6500s during the first half of the European session. The downward trajectory is sponsored by the emergence of fresh US Dollar (USD) buying, which remains well supported by expectations for a less aggressive policy easing by the Federal Reserve (Fed).
The incoming US macro data suggested that the economy remains on strong footing and boosted market expectations that the Fed will proceed with smaller interest rates over the year. Apart from this, concerns that the spending plans of Vice President Kamala Harris and the Republican nominee Donald Trump will further increase the deficit remain supportive of elevated US Treasury bond yields. This, in turn, assists the USD Index (DXY), which tracks the Greenback against a basket of currencies, to stall its retracement slide from a three-month peak touched on Monday and drags the AUD/USD pair lower.
Meanwhile, expectations that consumer inflation in Australia – due on Wednesday – will land at an annual rate of 2.9% for the September quarter, or the lowest since the March quarter of 2021, fuel speculations about an interest rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). This turns out to be another factor undermining the Australian Dollar (AUD) and contributing to the offered tone surrounding the AUD/USD pair. The ongoing downfall could further be attributed to some technical selling following last week's breakdown below the 200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) support near the 0.6630-0.6625 region.
The AUD, however, draws some support from reports that China is looking to approve the issuance of over ¥10 trillion in extra debt over the next few years in order to revive economic conditions as early as next week. Traders now look to Tuesday's US economic docket – featuring the Conference Board's Consumer Confidence Index and Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS). Apart from this, the US bond yields and the broader risk sentiment will influence the USD. This might provide some impetus to the AUD/USD pair ahead of the Australian Consumer Price Index (CPI) report on Wednesday.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI), released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics on a quarterly basis, measures the changes in the price of a fixed basket of goods and services acquired by household consumers. The CPI is a key indicator to measure inflation and changes in purchasing trends. The QoQ reading compares prices in the reference quarter to the previous quarter. A high reading is seen as bullish for the Australian Dollar (AUD), while a low reading is seen as bearish.
Read more.Next release: Wed Oct 30, 2024 00:30
Frequency: Quarterly
Consensus: 0.3%
Previous: 1%
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics
The quarterly Consumer Price Index (CPI) published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) has a significant impact on the market and the AUD valuation. The gauge is closely watched by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), in order to achieve its inflation mandate, which has major monetary policy implications. Rising consumer prices tend to be AUD bullish, as the RBA could hike interest rates to maintain its inflation target. The data is released nearly 25 days after the quarter ends.
The Australian Dollar (AUD) could decline further; the significant support level at 0.6585 might not be easy to break. In the longer run, AUD is expected to continue to decline; the level to watch is a significant support at 0.6585, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “We expected AUD to trade in a sideways range of 0.6620/0.6660 last Friday. Our view was incorrect, as AUD fell to a low of 0.6601, closing on a soft note at 0.6605 (-0.54%). The increase in momentum suggests AUD could decline further, but it the significant support level at 0.6585 might not be easy to break. To keep the momentum going, AUD must stay below 0.6645 with minor resistance at 0.6625.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “Our update from last Thursday (24 Oct, spot at 0.6635) still stands. As highlighted, AUD ‘is expected to continue to decline, and the level to watch is a significant support at 0.6585.’ Overall, only a breach of 0.6670 (‘strong resistance’ level previously at 0.6685) would mean that the weakness that started early this month has stabilised.”
Australian Dollar is going through a mild recovery on Monday’s early European session, favoured by a somewhat softer US Dollar as investors brace for a data-packed week in the US.
Data released on Friday support the idea that further Fed easing will be gradual. Durable Goods orders contracted less than forecasted with Non-Defence Capital Goods ex Aircraft beating expectations. The Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index also improved beyond expectations.
Investors, however, are likely to grow cautious ahead of a batch of key US indicators with Q3 GDP on Wednesday, the PCE Prices Index on Thursday and the Nonfarm Payrolls report on Friday.
In Australia, the impact of the hawkish rhetoric from the RBA is being offset by ongoing concerns about China. Data released this weekend revealed that industrial profits fell 27% year-on-year highlighting the erratic recovery of Australia’s main trading partner and hindering a significant Aussie rebound.
One of the most significant factors for the Australian Dollar (AUD) is the level of interest rates set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Because Australia is a resource-rich country another key driver is the price of its biggest export, Iron Ore. The health of the Chinese economy, its largest trading partner, is a factor, as well as inflation in Australia, its growth rate and Trade Balance. Market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – is also a factor, with risk-on positive for AUD.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) influences the Australian Dollar (AUD) by setting the level of interest rates that Australian banks can lend to each other. This influences the level of interest rates in the economy as a whole. The main goal of the RBA is to maintain a stable inflation rate of 2-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively high interest rates compared to other major central banks support the AUD, and the opposite for relatively low. The RBA can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former AUD-negative and the latter AUD-positive.
China is Australia’s largest trading partner so the health of the Chinese economy is a major influence on the value of the Australian Dollar (AUD). When the Chinese economy is doing well it purchases more raw materials, goods and services from Australia, lifting demand for the AUD, and pushing up its value. The opposite is the case when the Chinese economy is not growing as fast as expected. Positive or negative surprises in Chinese growth data, therefore, often have a direct impact on the Australian Dollar and its pairs.
Iron Ore is Australia’s largest export, accounting for $118 billion a year according to data from 2021, with China as its primary destination. The price of Iron Ore, therefore, can be a driver of the Australian Dollar. Generally, if the price of Iron Ore rises, AUD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Iron Ore falls. Higher Iron Ore prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance for Australia, which is also positive of the AUD.
The Trade Balance, which is the difference between what a country earns from its exports versus what it pays for its imports, is another factor that can influence the value of the Australian Dollar. If Australia produces highly sought after exports, then its currency will gain in value purely from the surplus demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase its exports versus what it spends to purchase imports. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens the AUD, with the opposite effect if the Trade Balance is negative.
The AUD/USD pair remains on the defensive near 0.6605 during the early Asian session on Monday. The downtick of the pair is pressured by the firmer US Dollar (USD) amid the less dovish stance of the Federal Reserve (Fed) and strong University of Michigan (UoM) sentiment data.
The encouraging US economic data could prompt the Fed to adopt a more cautious stance, lifting the Greenback against the Australian Dollar (AUD). Data released on Friday showed that the US Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index rose to 70.5 in October from 68.9 in the previous reading, beating expectations. Meanwhile, the Durable Goods Orders declined by 0.8% MoM in September, above the market consensus of a 1% decline.
Furthermore, the elevated tensions in the Middle East and uncertainty around the US presidential election might boost the safe-haven currency like the USD. Israel's early Saturday attack on Iran, coordinated with Washington and limited to missile and air defence sites, was more restrained than many thought and could help diplomatic attempts to release prisoners and prevent fighting in Lebanon and Gaza, per Bloomberg. However, Israel’s next steps will probably depend on whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris wins.
On the other hand, the hawkish remarks from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) could cap the downside for the pair. The RBA is unlikely to cut rates as early as next month. Traders are now pricing in nearly 10% odds of a cut to 4.1% by the RBA on November 5.
One of the most significant factors for the Australian Dollar (AUD) is the level of interest rates set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Because Australia is a resource-rich country another key driver is the price of its biggest export, Iron Ore. The health of the Chinese economy, its largest trading partner, is a factor, as well as inflation in Australia, its growth rate and Trade Balance. Market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – is also a factor, with risk-on positive for AUD.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) influences the Australian Dollar (AUD) by setting the level of interest rates that Australian banks can lend to each other. This influences the level of interest rates in the economy as a whole. The main goal of the RBA is to maintain a stable inflation rate of 2-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively high interest rates compared to other major central banks support the AUD, and the opposite for relatively low. The RBA can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former AUD-negative and the latter AUD-positive.
China is Australia’s largest trading partner so the health of the Chinese economy is a major influence on the value of the Australian Dollar (AUD). When the Chinese economy is doing well it purchases more raw materials, goods and services from Australia, lifting demand for the AUD, and pushing up its value. The opposite is the case when the Chinese economy is not growing as fast as expected. Positive or negative surprises in Chinese growth data, therefore, often have a direct impact on the Australian Dollar and its pairs.
Iron Ore is Australia’s largest export, accounting for $118 billion a year according to data from 2021, with China as its primary destination. The price of Iron Ore, therefore, can be a driver of the Australian Dollar. Generally, if the price of Iron Ore rises, AUD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Iron Ore falls. Higher Iron Ore prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance for Australia, which is also positive of the AUD.
The Trade Balance, which is the difference between what a country earns from its exports versus what it pays for its imports, is another factor that can influence the value of the Australian Dollar. If Australia produces highly sought after exports, then its currency will gain in value purely from the surplus demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase its exports versus what it spends to purchase imports. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens the AUD, with the opposite effect if the Trade Balance is negative.
The AUD/USD pair consolidates above the psychological support of 0.6000 in Friday’s European session. The Aussie pair turns sideways as the US Dollar (USD) steadies after Thursday’s corrective move. The US Dollar Index (DXY), which gauges Greenback’s value against six major currencies, hovers near 104.00.
The downside in the US Dollar appears to be limited due to growing expectations that the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) policy-easing approach would be more gradual than what was previously anticipated for the remaining year and that former US President Donald Trump will win national elections on November 5.
According to the CME FedWatch tool, traders are confident that the Fed will cut interest rates at a usual pace of 25 basis points (bps) in the November and December policy meetings. The Fed started the policy-easing cycle in September with a larger-than-usual size of 50 bps, pushing interest rates lower to 4.75%-5.00%.
On the political front, investors expect higher tariffs and lower taxes if Trump returns to the White House, which will force the Federal Reserve (Fed) to keep interest rates higher.
Meanwhile, the Australian Dollar (AUD) has underperformed against its major peers this month despite investors expecting the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to leave its Official Cash Rate (OCR) at its current levels by the year-end. The latest upbeat employment data reinforced expectations that the RBA will not cut interest rates for the remainder of the year.
Going forward, investors will focus on the Australian Q3 Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, which will be published on Wednesday. Australian inflation grew by 1% in the second quarter of this year.
One of the most significant factors for the Australian Dollar (AUD) is the level of interest rates set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Because Australia is a resource-rich country another key driver is the price of its biggest export, Iron Ore. The health of the Chinese economy, its largest trading partner, is a factor, as well as inflation in Australia, its growth rate and Trade Balance. Market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – is also a factor, with risk-on positive for AUD.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) influences the Australian Dollar (AUD) by setting the level of interest rates that Australian banks can lend to each other. This influences the level of interest rates in the economy as a whole. The main goal of the RBA is to maintain a stable inflation rate of 2-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively high interest rates compared to other major central banks support the AUD, and the opposite for relatively low. The RBA can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former AUD-negative and the latter AUD-positive.
China is Australia’s largest trading partner so the health of the Chinese economy is a major influence on the value of the Australian Dollar (AUD). When the Chinese economy is doing well it purchases more raw materials, goods and services from Australia, lifting demand for the AUD, and pushing up its value. The opposite is the case when the Chinese economy is not growing as fast as expected. Positive or negative surprises in Chinese growth data, therefore, often have a direct impact on the Australian Dollar and its pairs.
Iron Ore is Australia’s largest export, accounting for $118 billion a year according to data from 2021, with China as its primary destination. The price of Iron Ore, therefore, can be a driver of the Australian Dollar. Generally, if the price of Iron Ore rises, AUD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Iron Ore falls. Higher Iron Ore prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance for Australia, which is also positive of the AUD.
The Trade Balance, which is the difference between what a country earns from its exports versus what it pays for its imports, is another factor that can influence the value of the Australian Dollar. If Australia produces highly sought after exports, then its currency will gain in value purely from the surplus demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase its exports versus what it spends to purchase imports. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens the AUD, with the opposite effect if the Trade Balance is negative.
Strong momentum indicates further the Australian Dollar (AUD) weakness; the significant support at 0.6585 is likely out of reach for now. In the longer run, AUD is expected to continue to decline; the level to watch is a significant support at 0.6585, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann notes.
24-HOUR VIEW: “The sharp drop in AUD that reached a low of 0.6614 was surprising (we were expecting sideways trading). Strong momentum indicates further AUD weakness is likely. However, the significant support at 0.6585 is likely out of reach for now. There is another support level at 0.6605. To keep the momentum going, AUD must remain below 0.6665 with minor resistance at 0.6650.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “We have held a negative view in AUD since early this month. As we tracked the decline, we highlighted two days ago (22 Oct, spot at 0.6715) that ‘the rejuvenated momentum suggests that the AUD weakness from early this month remains intact.’ We added, ‘the level to monitor is 0.6620.’ AUD subsequently rebounded, but did not break our ‘strong resistance’ level at 0.6705. Yesterday, in a sudden move, it plummeted to 0.6614. Downward momentum remains strong and we continue to expect AUD to decline. The level to watch is a rather significant support at 0.6585. On the upside, the ‘strong resistance’ level has moved lower to 0.6685.”
Strong momentum indicates further Australian Dollar (AUD) weakness; the significant support at 0.6585 is likely out of reach for now. In the long run, AUD is expected to continue to decline; the level to watch is a significant support at 0.6585, UOB Group FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “The sharp drop in AUD that reached a low of 0.6614 was surprising (we were expecting sideways trading). Strong momentum indicates further AUD weakness is likely. However, the significant support at 0.6585 is likely out of reach for now. There is another support level at 0.6605. To keep the momentum going, AUD must remain below 0.6665 with minor resistance at 0.6650.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “We have held a negative view in AUD since early this month. As we tracked the decline, we highlighted two days ago (22 Oct, spot at 0.6715) that ‘the rejuvenated momentum suggests that the AUD weakness from early this month remains intact.’ We added, ‘the level to monitor is 0.6620.’ AUD subsequently rebounded, but did not break our ‘strong resistance’ level at 0.6705. Yesterday, in a sudden move, it plummeted to 0.6614. Downward momentum remains strong and we continue to expect AUD to decline. The level to watch is a rather significant support at 0.6585. On the upside, the ‘strong resistance’ level has moved lower to 0.6685.”
The AUD/USD pair builds on its steady intraday ascent through the first half of the European session on Thursday and recovers further from its lowest level since August 16, around the 0.6615-0.6610 region touched the previous day. The momentum lifts spot prices beyond the mid-0.6600s in the last hour and is sponsored by a modest US Dollar (USD) downtick.
The USD Index (DXY), which tracks the Greenback against a basket of currencies, retreats from a nearly three-month top amid a corrective decline in the US Treasury bond yields. Furthermore, a stable performance around the equity markets prompts profit-taking around the safe-haven buck and benefits the risk-sensitive Aussie. That said, a combination of factors should limit any meaningful USD downfall and keep a lid on the AUD/USD pair.
The markets have fully priced out the possibility of a more aggressive policy easing by the Federal Reserve (Fed) as the recent US macro data suggested that the economy remains on strong footing. This, along with concerns that the spending plans of both Vice President Kamala Harris and the Republican nominee Donald Trump will further increase the deficit, should continue to act as a tailwind for the US bond yields and revive the USD demand.
This, in turn, makes it prudent to wait for strong follow-through buying before confirming that the AUD/USD pair's recent sharp retracement slide from the 0.6940-0.6945 region, or the highest level since February 2023 touched last month has run its course. From a technical perspective, the overnight failure to find acceptance below the very important 200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) warrants some caution before placing fresh bearish bets.
Market participants now look forward to the release of the flash US PMI prints for the month of October. Apart from this, the US bond yields and the broader risk sentiment will influence the USD price dynamics, which, in turn, should produce short-term trading opportunities around the AUD/USD pair.
The S&P Global Composite Purchasing Managers Index (PMI), released on a monthly basis, is a leading indicator gauging US private-business activity in the manufacturing and services sector. The data is derived from surveys to senior executives. Each response is weighted according to the size of the company and its contribution to total manufacturing or services output accounted for by the sub-sector to which that company belongs. Survey responses reflect the change, if any, in the current month compared to the previous month and can anticipate changing trends in official data series such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), industrial production, employment and inflation. The index varies between 0 and 100, with levels of 50.0 signaling no change over the previous month. A reading above 50 indicates that the private economy is generally expanding, a bullish sign for the US Dollar (USD). Meanwhile, a reading below 50 signals that activity is generally declining, which is seen as bearish for USD.
Read more.Next release: Thu Oct 24, 2024 13:45 (Prel)
Frequency: Monthly
Consensus: -
Previous: 54
Source: S&P Global
AUD/USD resumes its down move which began at the September 30 highs. On Wednesday the pair breaks below the former low of 0.6650. The establishment of a lower low indicates an extension of the short and medium-term downtrend, and given the technical analysis principle that “the trend is your friend” the odds favor more downside to come.
The next bearish target lies at the green 200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) at 0.6628. Further weakness would be dependent on breaking below that level as well as the key September 11 swing low and support level, at 0.6622.
However, if successful, price would probably fall to 0.6565, the August 15 swing low.
Momentum as measured by the Relative Strength Index (RSI) is showing waning bearish pressure, however, which could indicate a lack of follow-through to the downside.
The Australian Dollar (AUD) is expected to trade in a sideways range of 0.6660/0.6695. In the long run, rejuvenated momentum suggests AUD weakness remains intact; the level to monitor is 0.6620, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “After AUD dropped sharply two days ago, we expected it to ‘decline further’ yesterday. However, AUD rebounded, closing at 0.6683 (+0.36%). AUD appears to have entered a sideways trading phase. Today, we expect it to trade between 0.6660/0.6695.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “AUD fell sharply two days ago. Yesterday (22 Oct, spot at 0.6715), we highlighted that ‘the rejuvenated momentum suggests that the AUD weakness from early this month remains intact.’ We added, ‘the level to monitor is 0.6620.’ We did not expect the subsequent rebound that reached a high of 0.6695. From here, if AUD were to break above 0.6705 (no change in ‘strong resistance’ level), it would mean that the weakness in AUD has stabilised.”
The AUD/USD pair rebounds strongly from the key support of 0.6650 in Tuesday’s European session. The Aussie pair discovers strong buying interest on expectations that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will continue with a restrictive monetary policy stance for the remainder of the year.
On Monday, RBA Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser cited the strong employment data as a surprise for him. On the monetary policy outlook, RBA Hauser didn’t provide a clear direction and said, “The central bank is ready to respond in either direction depending on incoming data.” The comment from Hauser left doors open for further interest rate hikes.
Meanwhile, a larger-than-expected interest rate cut by the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) has also improved Australia’s economic outlook, given that the nation is the largest trading partner of China. The PBoC reduced its one-year and five-year Loan Prime Rate (LPR) by 25 basis points (bps), while economists were anticipating a 20-bps rate cut.
However, the near-term appeal of the Australian Dollar (AUD) could be hurt by risk-off market sentiment due to uncertainty over the United States (US) presidential elections that are around the corner. S&P 500 futures have posted significant losses in the European session, exhibiting a sharp decline in investors’ risk appetite.
The US Dollar (USD) holds onto gains near a fresh 11-month high as investors expect the Federal Reserve (Fed) to cut interest rates gradually in November and December. The Fed can afford to avoid a sizeable interest rate cut in November, as expected earlier, after a slew of upbeat US economic data for September that diminished economic slowdown risks.
One of the most significant factors for the Australian Dollar (AUD) is the level of interest rates set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Because Australia is a resource-rich country another key driver is the price of its biggest export, Iron Ore. The health of the Chinese economy, its largest trading partner, is a factor, as well as inflation in Australia, its growth rate and Trade Balance. Market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – is also a factor, with risk-on positive for AUD.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) influences the Australian Dollar (AUD) by setting the level of interest rates that Australian banks can lend to each other. This influences the level of interest rates in the economy as a whole. The main goal of the RBA is to maintain a stable inflation rate of 2-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively high interest rates compared to other major central banks support the AUD, and the opposite for relatively low. The RBA can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former AUD-negative and the latter AUD-positive.
China is Australia’s largest trading partner so the health of the Chinese economy is a major influence on the value of the Australian Dollar (AUD). When the Chinese economy is doing well it purchases more raw materials, goods and services from Australia, lifting demand for the AUD, and pushing up its value. The opposite is the case when the Chinese economy is not growing as fast as expected. Positive or negative surprises in Chinese growth data, therefore, often have a direct impact on the Australian Dollar and its pairs.
Iron Ore is Australia’s largest export, accounting for $118 billion a year according to data from 2021, with China as its primary destination. The price of Iron Ore, therefore, can be a driver of the Australian Dollar. Generally, if the price of Iron Ore rises, AUD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Iron Ore falls. Higher Iron Ore prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance for Australia, which is also positive of the AUD.
The Trade Balance, which is the difference between what a country earns from its exports versus what it pays for its imports, is another factor that can influence the value of the Australian Dollar. If Australia produces highly sought after exports, then its currency will gain in value purely from the surplus demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase its exports versus what it spends to purchase imports. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens the AUD, with the opposite effect if the Trade Balance is negative.
Sharp increase in momentum is likely to lead to further declines in AUD, but 0.6620 is probably out of reach today. In the longer run, rejuvenated momentum suggests AUD weakness remains intact; the level to monitor is 0.6620, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Peter Chia note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “Our view for AUD to trade in a 0.6685/0.6730 range was incorrect, as it plummeted to a low of 0.6652 in NY trading. The sharp increase in momentum is likely to lead to further declines, even though the major support at 0.6620 is probably out of reach today. To maintain the momentum, AUD must remain below 0.6685 with minor resistance at 0.6670.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “Yesterday (21 October), when AUD was at 0.6715, we indicated that ‘Downward momentum is slowing rapidly, and a breach of 0.6740 (‘strong resistance’ level) would mean that the AUD weakness has stabilised.’ However, AUD did not breach the ‘strong resistance’ level. Instead, it dropped sharply to a low of 0.6652. The rejuvenated momentum suggests that the AUD weakness from early this month remains intact. The level to monitor is 0.6620, followed by a significant support level at 0.6585. On the upside, the ‘strong resistance’ level has moved lower to 0.6705 from 0.6740.”
AUD/USD seems to be resuming the downtrending move it began at the late-September highs, following a brief pull back.
On Monday it is down by a third of a percent and is threatening to break below the October 16 low at 0.6658.
A break below that level would set a lower low and confirm the pair’s medium and short-term downtrending bias. Such a move would probably reach a target at the green 200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) at 0.6628. Further weakness would be dependent on breaking below that level as well as the key September 11 swing low and support level, at 0.6622.
However, if successful, the next bearish target would come in at the 0.6565 August 15 swing low.
The trend is bearish on the short and medium term timeframes – indicating a bias towards more selling – but sideways on the long-term.
The Australian Dollar (AUD) is likely to trade in a 0.6685/0.6730 range. In the longer run, downward momentum is slowing rapidly; a breach of 0.6740 would mean that the weakness in AUD has stabilized, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Peter Chia note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “We expected AUD to trade in a 0.6680/0.6725 range last Friday. It subsequently traded between 0.6694 and 0.6719, closing slightly higher at 0.6707 (+0.16%). Further range trading appears likely today, even though the slightly firmed underlying tone suggests a higher range of 0.6685/0.6730 range.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “We turned negative in AUD early this month (as annotated in the chart below). After AUD dropped sharply to 0.6659, in our latest narrative from last Wednesday (16 Oct, spot at 0.6680), we indicated that ‘the rapid increase in momentum is likely to lead to further AUD weakness.’ However, AUD has not been able to make further headway on the downside since then. Downward momentum is slowing rapidly, and a breach of 0.6740 (no change in level in ‘strong resistance’ level) would mean that the AUD weakness has stabilised.”
The Australian Dollar (AUD) was a touch firmer this morning amid supported risk sentiments and on comments from RBA’s Hauser. AUD was last at 0.6689, OCBC’s FX analyst Frances Cheung and Christopher Wong note.
“Some of the highlights of his recent fireside chat include: inflation is still ‘too high’; was surprised by overall employment growth; labour market outcome in good news story; firms finding it hard to fill vacancies.”
“He also said that RBA is not certain on level of neutral rate but most RBA models should between 3% and 4% neutral rate. He repeated again that RBA rate won’t fall as much or as early as other bans. Remarks were somewhat hawkish and reinforces RBA’s case for standing pat on policy rate for now.”
“Bearish momentum on daily chart shows signs of fading while RSI rose from overbought conditions. Risks skewed to the upside. Next resistance at 0.6780/90 levels (21 DMA), 0.6820 levels. Support at 0.6660.”
The AUD/USD pair extends its recovery to near 0.6715 during the early Asian session on Monday. The modest decline of the Greenback provides some support to the pair. Investors will keep an eye on the speeches from Federal Reserve (Fed) officials later on Monday, including Neel Kashkari and Jeffrey Schmid.
The Australian Dollar (AUD) strengthens as the upbeat employment data make it less likely that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will opt for an interest rate cut this year. The Australian Bureau of Statistics revealed last week that the country’s Unemployment Rate in September was 4.1%. Economists estimated the rate would remain at the 4.2% initially reported for August.
“Ultimately, this means less pressure on the RBA to bring forward its rate cut timeline,” said Russel Chesler, the head of investments and capital markets at VanEck. “The market is pricing in cuts to start by February 2025, but we believe rate cuts will start much later in 2025,” Chesler added.
On the other hand, the US economic data continue to show a robust US economy that is not in any need of aggressive Fed easing, which might cap the downside for the US Dollar (USD). Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding the upcoming US election and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East is likely to underpin the safe-haven currency like the USD in the near term.
One of the most significant factors for the Australian Dollar (AUD) is the level of interest rates set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Because Australia is a resource-rich country another key driver is the price of its biggest export, Iron Ore. The health of the Chinese economy, its largest trading partner, is a factor, as well as inflation in Australia, its growth rate and Trade Balance. Market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – is also a factor, with risk-on positive for AUD.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) influences the Australian Dollar (AUD) by setting the level of interest rates that Australian banks can lend to each other. This influences the level of interest rates in the economy as a whole. The main goal of the RBA is to maintain a stable inflation rate of 2-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively high interest rates compared to other major central banks support the AUD, and the opposite for relatively low. The RBA can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former AUD-negative and the latter AUD-positive.
China is Australia’s largest trading partner so the health of the Chinese economy is a major influence on the value of the Australian Dollar (AUD). When the Chinese economy is doing well it purchases more raw materials, goods and services from Australia, lifting demand for the AUD, and pushing up its value. The opposite is the case when the Chinese economy is not growing as fast as expected. Positive or negative surprises in Chinese growth data, therefore, often have a direct impact on the Australian Dollar and its pairs.
Iron Ore is Australia’s largest export, accounting for $118 billion a year according to data from 2021, with China as its primary destination. The price of Iron Ore, therefore, can be a driver of the Australian Dollar. Generally, if the price of Iron Ore rises, AUD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Iron Ore falls. Higher Iron Ore prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance for Australia, which is also positive of the AUD.
The Trade Balance, which is the difference between what a country earns from its exports versus what it pays for its imports, is another factor that can influence the value of the Australian Dollar. If Australia produces highly sought after exports, then its currency will gain in value purely from the surplus demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase its exports versus what it spends to purchase imports. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens the AUD, with the opposite effect if the Trade Balance is negative.
The Australian Dollar (AUD) is likely to trade in a 0.6680/0.6725 range. In the longer run, rapid increase in momentum is likely to lead to further AUD weakness; the levels to monitor are 0.6650 and 0.6620, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Peter Chia notes.
24-HOUR VIEW: “AUD traded between 0.6660 and 0.6710 yesterday, narrower than our expected range of 0.6660/0.6720. We continue to expect AUD to trade in a range today, probably between 0.6680 and 0.6725.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “We highlighted two days ago (16 Oct, spot at 0.6680) that ‘the rapid increase in momentum is likely to lead to further AUD weakness.’ We also highlighted that ‘the levels to monitor are 0.6650 and 0.6620.’ While AUD has not been able to make further headway on the downside, we continue to hold the same vie for now. However, should AUD break the ‘strong resistance’ at 0.6740 (no change in level from yesterday), it would mean that the AUD weakness that started early this month has stabilised.”
The AUD/USD pair builds on the previous day's bounce from the vicinity of mid-0.6600s, or over a one-month low and gains positive traction for the second straight day on Friday. The momentum lifts spot prices back above the 0.6700 mark during the first half of the European session and is sponsored by a combination of factors.
The Australian Dollar (AUD) continues to draw support from Thursday's upbeat domestic employment details, which dashed hopes for an interest rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) this year. Furthermore, the underlying bullish tone across the global equity markets prompts some profit-taking around the safe-haven US Dollar (USD), especially after the recent rally to the highest level since early August, and further benefits the risk-sensitive Aussie.
Meanwhile, data released earlier today showed that China's economy expanded 4.6% year-on-year in the July-September period, marking the lowest reading in 18 months. The reading was below the government's full-year target of 5%, offsetting the better-than-expected Retail Sales and Industrial Production figures for September. This, in turn, might hold back traders from placing aggressive bullish bets around the China-proxy Aussie and cap the AUD/USD pair.
Furthermore, bets for a regular 25 basis points (bps) interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve (Fed) in November, bolstered by Thursday's upbeat US macro data, should help limit any meaningful downside for the USD. This further makes it prudent to wait for strong follow-through buying beyond the 50-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) support breakpoint, around the 0.6750 area, before confirming that the AUD/USD pair has formed a near-term bottom.
Investors now look forward to the US economic docket, featuring the release of Building Permits and Housing Starts. Apart from this, Fed Governor Christopher Waller's speech, along with the broader risk sentiment, will drive the USD demand and provide some impetus to the AUD/USD pair. Nevertheless, spot prices remain on track to register losses for the third straight week and the fundamental backdrop warrants some caution before positioning for further gains.
In the world of financial jargon the two widely used terms “risk-on” and “risk off'' refer to the level of risk that investors are willing to stomach during the period referenced. In a “risk-on” market, investors are optimistic about the future and more willing to buy risky assets. In a “risk-off” market investors start to ‘play it safe’ because they are worried about the future, and therefore buy less risky assets that are more certain of bringing a return, even if it is relatively modest.
Typically, during periods of “risk-on”, stock markets will rise, most commodities – except Gold – will also gain in value, since they benefit from a positive growth outlook. The currencies of nations that are heavy commodity exporters strengthen because of increased demand, and Cryptocurrencies rise. In a “risk-off” market, Bonds go up – especially major government Bonds – Gold shines, and safe-haven currencies such as the Japanese Yen, Swiss Franc and US Dollar all benefit.
The Australian Dollar (AUD), the Canadian Dollar (CAD), the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) and minor FX like the Ruble (RUB) and the South African Rand (ZAR), all tend to rise in markets that are “risk-on”. This is because the economies of these currencies are heavily reliant on commodity exports for growth, and commodities tend to rise in price during risk-on periods. This is because investors foresee greater demand for raw materials in the future due to heightened economic activity.
The major currencies that tend to rise during periods of “risk-off” are the US Dollar (USD), the Japanese Yen (JPY) and the Swiss Franc (CHF). The US Dollar, because it is the world’s reserve currency, and because in times of crisis investors buy US government debt, which is seen as safe because the largest economy in the world is unlikely to default. The Yen, from increased demand for Japanese government bonds, because a high proportion are held by domestic investors who are unlikely to dump them – even in a crisis. The Swiss Franc, because strict Swiss banking laws offer investors enhanced capital protection.
The AUD/USD pair surrenders half of its intraday gains after rising to 0.6700, which were inspired by the upbeat Australian Employment data for September in Thursday’s European session.
The Aussie labor market data showed that the economy added fresh 64.1K jobs, which were unexpectedly higher as market participants projected lower payrolls at 25K than 42.6K in August. The Unemployment Rate grew steadily by 4.1%, while economists expected it to accelerate to 4.2%.
Upbeat Aussie Employment data is expected to restrict Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) officials from hiking interest rates anytime this year.
Though the Australian Dollar (AUD) outperforms its major peers, the upside in the Aussie pair is expected to remain restricted as the US Dollar (USD) extends its upside on expectations that former US President Donald Trump will defeat Democratic Kamala Harris in presidential elections. Market experts expect higher tariffs on imports, loosening financial conditions and more tax cuts in Trump 2.O administration.
The US Dollar Index (DXY), which tracks the Greenback’s value against six major currencies, rises over 10-week high above 103.50.
Going forward, the next move in the US Dollar will be influenced by the United States (US) Retail Sales data for September, which will be published at 12:30 GMT. The Retail Sales data is estimated to have grown by 0.3%.
One of the most significant factors for the Australian Dollar (AUD) is the level of interest rates set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Because Australia is a resource-rich country another key driver is the price of its biggest export, Iron Ore. The health of the Chinese economy, its largest trading partner, is a factor, as well as inflation in Australia, its growth rate and Trade Balance. Market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – is also a factor, with risk-on positive for AUD.
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) influences the Australian Dollar (AUD) by setting the level of interest rates that Australian banks can lend to each other. This influences the level of interest rates in the economy as a whole. The main goal of the RBA is to maintain a stable inflation rate of 2-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively high interest rates compared to other major central banks support the AUD, and the opposite for relatively low. The RBA can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former AUD-negative and the latter AUD-positive.
China is Australia’s largest trading partner so the health of the Chinese economy is a major influence on the value of the Australian Dollar (AUD). When the Chinese economy is doing well it purchases more raw materials, goods and services from Australia, lifting demand for the AUD, and pushing up its value. The opposite is the case when the Chinese economy is not growing as fast as expected. Positive or negative surprises in Chinese growth data, therefore, often have a direct impact on the Australian Dollar and its pairs.
Iron Ore is Australia’s largest export, accounting for $118 billion a year according to data from 2021, with China as its primary destination. The price of Iron Ore, therefore, can be a driver of the Australian Dollar. Generally, if the price of Iron Ore rises, AUD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Iron Ore falls. Higher Iron Ore prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance for Australia, which is also positive of the AUD.
The Trade Balance, which is the difference between what a country earns from its exports versus what it pays for its imports, is another factor that can influence the value of the Australian Dollar. If Australia produces highly sought after exports, then its currency will gain in value purely from the surplus demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase its exports versus what it spends to purchase imports. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens the AUD, with the opposite effect if the Trade Balance is negative.
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