The EUR/USD pair attracts some buyers to near 1.0855 during the early Asian session on Thursday. The weakening of the US Dollar (USD) and the better-than-expected Eurozone flash Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the third quarter provides some support to the major pair.
The US economy grew at an annualised rate of 2.8% in the third quarter (Q3), slightly lower than the 3% estimated by economists. Meanwhile, private sector employment rose by 233,000 jobs in October, compared to September's reading of 159,000 (revised from 143,000), according to the October ADP National Employment Report.
The US Dollar index (DXY), which measures the USD against six major rivals, retreats to weekly lows of 104.09 after reaching the highest since July 30 at 104.63 on Tuesday. Uto Shinohara, senior investment strategist at Mesirow Currency Management in Chicago, said the markets expect a 25 basis points (bps) cut in the November meeting, but another cut in December remains a coin flip.
The Eurozone economy expanded 0.4% QoQ in the third quarter of 2024, according to Eurostat's preliminary estimates, stronger than the 0.2% expected. On an annual basis, Eurozone GDP grew by 0.9% in Q3, above the market consensus of 0.8%.
Investors will keep an eye on the Eurozone Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) and the US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) - Price Index data, which are due later on Thursday.
The Euro is the currency for the 19 European Union countries that belong to the Eurozone. It is the second most heavily traded currency in the world behind the US Dollar. In 2022, it accounted for 31% of all foreign exchange transactions, with an average daily turnover of over $2.2 trillion a day. EUR/USD is the most heavily traded currency pair in the world, accounting for an estimated 30% off all transactions, followed by EUR/JPY (4%), EUR/GBP (3%) and EUR/AUD (2%).
The European Central Bank (ECB) in Frankfurt, Germany, is the reserve bank for the Eurozone. The ECB sets interest rates and manages monetary policy. The ECB’s primary mandate is to maintain price stability, which means either controlling inflation or stimulating growth. Its primary tool is the raising or lowering of interest rates. Relatively high interest rates – or the expectation of higher rates – will usually benefit the Euro and vice versa. The ECB Governing Council makes monetary policy decisions at meetings held eight times a year. Decisions are made by heads of the Eurozone national banks and six permanent members, including the President of the ECB, Christine Lagarde.
Eurozone inflation data, measured by the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), is an important econometric for the Euro. If inflation rises more than expected, especially if above the ECB’s 2% target, it obliges the ECB to raise interest rates to bring it back under control. Relatively high interest rates compared to its counterparts will usually benefit the Euro, as it makes the region more attractive as a place for global investors to park their money.
Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact on the Euro. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the single currency. A strong economy is good for the Euro. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the ECB to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen the Euro. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Euro is likely to fall. Economic data for the four largest economies in the euro area (Germany, France, Italy and Spain) are especially significant, as they account for 75% of the Eurozone’s economy.
Another significant data release for the Euro is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought after exports then its currency will gain in value purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.
The Bank of Japan (BoJ) is widely expected to maintain its short-term interest rate at around 0.25%, following the conclusion of its two-day monetary policy review on Thursday.
The BoJ decision will be accompanied by the bank’s quarterly outlook report, which will be released at around 3:00 GMT. Governor Kazuo Ueda’s post-policy meeting press conference will be held at 06:30 GMT.
The BoJ will likely keep interest rate unchanged for the second meeting in a row after announcing a surprise 15 basis points (bps) rate lift-off in July.
With a status quo outcome fully baked in, the central focus will be on the BoJ’s communication regarding further rate hikes, given Japan’s recent underlying inflationary trends, the rapid depreciation of the Japanese Yen (JPY) and ongoing political upheaval. Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) headed by Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, lost its parliamentary majority in the snap election on October 27 – the first time in 15 years.
In that regard, the central bank’s updated projections for inflation and economic growth will play a pivotal role in the market’s pricing of the BoJ’s pace and timing of future rate increases.
Tokyo’s inflation data, a leading indicator of nationwide trends and a key factor the BoJ will scrutinize at its policy meeting showed on October 25 that the headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 1.8% year-over-year (YoY) in October, down from September’s 2.1% growth.
Meanwhile, the BoJ’s closely watched broader price trend indicator, the “core-core" CPI –excluding both fresh food and energy costs– edged higher by 1.8 % YoY in the same period, accelerating from an increase of 1.6% in September.
This gauge suggests that the underlying price pressures remain on a gradual uptrend, compelling the BoJ to consider a rate hike at its December policy meeting.
The hawkish expectations could find additional support from the uncertainty around the Japanese political situation, which could exacerbate the pain in the beleaguered local currency. The further decline in the Japanese Yen could also drive up imported inflation and short-term inflation expectations.
Overall, the Japanese central bank is expected to remain in a wait-and-see mode, assessing domestic risks alongside the uncertainties linked to the United States (US) presidential election on November 5 and the economy.
Analysts at BBH preview the BoJ will keep its interest rate unchanged.“Recent comments from Ueda suggest there will be no policy change at this meeting, so the focus will be on the BoJ’s policy guidance. We expect the BoJ to signal again that it’s in no rush to remove policy accommodation, which would further weigh on JPY,” they said.
As for the updated macro forecasts, BBH analysts said they see downside risks.”
The Japanese Yen recorded a fresh three-month low against the US Dollar (USD), sending the USD/JPY pair close to the 154.00 mark in the lead-up to the BoJ showdown. Further JPY weakness is expected following the BoJ’s likely no-rate change announcement.
The JPY, however, could stage a solid comeback if the BoJ signals another rate hike in December while acknowledging the risks emanating from the recent decline in the domestic currency. The USD/JPY sell-off may be short-lived due to potential downside risks to inflation and growth forecasts.
Conversely, if the BoJ sticks to its cautious rhetoric, supporting Governor Ueda’s latest remarks, the Japanese Yen could see another leg lower. Ueda said on October 23 that “underlying inflation has been rising slowly. It's still taking time for us to get to 2% inflation in a sustainable manner.”
“When there's huge uncertainty, you usually want to proceed cautiously and gradually,” Ueda added.
A downward revision to the growth and inflation forecasts could further motivate doves. In such a case, USD/JPY will make another run towards the 160.00 level.
From a technical perspective, Dhwani Mehta, Asian Session Lead Analyst at FXStreet, notes: “Amid oversold Relative Strength Index (RSI) conditions on the daily chart, USD/JPY buyers seem to have turned cautious ahead of the BoJ policy announcements. However, they remain hopeful, as the 21-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) is on the verge of crossing the 100-day SMA from below. If that occurs on a daily closing basis, a Bull Cross will be confirmed.”
“A dovish BoJ message could revive the USD/JPY uptrend, driving the pair toward the 155.00 supply zone, above which the July 24 high of 155.99 will be challenged. Further up, the door will open to test the 156.50 psychological barrier. On the flip side, a sustained break below the critical 200-day SMA at 151.50 could fuel a meaningful correction toward the 150.30 region, where the 21-day SMA and the 100-day SMA close in,” Dhwani adds.
The Bank of Japan (BoJ) announces its interest rate decision after each of the Bank’s eight scheduled annual meetings. Generally, if the BoJ is hawkish about the inflationary outlook of the economy and raises interest rates it is bullish for the Japanese Yen (JPY). Likewise, if the BoJ has a dovish view on the Japanese economy and keeps interest rates unchanged, or cuts them, it is usually bearish for JPY.
Read more.Next release: Thu Oct 31, 2024 03:00
Frequency: Irregular
Consensus: 0.25%
Previous: 0.25%
Source: Bank of Japan
Central Banks have a key mandate which is making sure that there is price stability in a country or region. Economies are constantly facing inflation or deflation when prices for certain goods and services are fluctuating. Constant rising prices for the same goods means inflation, constant lowered prices for the same goods means deflation. It is the task of the central bank to keep the demand in line by tweaking its policy rate. For the biggest central banks like the US Federal Reserve (Fed), the European Central Bank (ECB) or the Bank of England (BoE), the mandate is to keep inflation close to 2%.
A central bank has one important tool at its disposal to get inflation higher or lower, and that is by tweaking its benchmark policy rate, commonly known as interest rate. On pre-communicated moments, the central bank will issue a statement with its policy rate and provide additional reasoning on why it is either remaining or changing (cutting or hiking) it. Local banks will adjust their savings and lending rates accordingly, which in turn will make it either harder or easier for people to earn on their savings or for companies to take out loans and make investments in their businesses. When the central bank hikes interest rates substantially, this is called monetary tightening. When it is cutting its benchmark rate, it is called monetary easing.
A central bank is often politically independent. Members of the central bank policy board are passing through a series of panels and hearings before being appointed to a policy board seat. Each member in that board often has a certain conviction on how the central bank should control inflation and the subsequent monetary policy. Members that want a very loose monetary policy, with low rates and cheap lending, to boost the economy substantially while being content to see inflation slightly above 2%, are called ‘doves’. Members that rather want to see higher rates to reward savings and want to keep a lit on inflation at all time are called ‘hawks’ and will not rest until inflation is at or just below 2%.
Normally, there is a chairman or president who leads each meeting, needs to create a consensus between the hawks or doves and has his or her final say when it would come down to a vote split to avoid a 50-50 tie on whether the current policy should be adjusted. The chairman will deliver speeches which often can be followed live, where the current monetary stance and outlook is being communicated. A central bank will try to push forward its monetary policy without triggering violent swings in rates, equities, or its currency. All members of the central bank will channel their stance toward the markets in advance of a policy meeting event. A few days before a policy meeting takes place until the new policy has been communicated, members are forbidden to talk publicly. This is called the blackout period.
In Wednesday's session, the NZD/JPY pair exhibited a modest upward movement, reaching 91.60. The overall technical picture suggests a prevailing neutral to bullish bias for the short-term, due to mixed signals from technical indicators. In addition a bearish crossover between the 20, 100 and 200-day Simple Moving Averages (SMA) might also change the outlook.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) currently stands at 58, indicating a strengthening buying pressure. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) displays flat green bars, suggesting a neutral stance between buyers and sellers. This confluence of indicators highlights a potential shift in the balance of power, but with some evidence of buying pressure gaining momentum.
Traders should eye the 91.50 area where the 20, 100 and 200-day SMA are about to confirm a bearish crossover which might trigger a sell-off. However, the 20-day SMA proved to be a strong barrier so sellers might have a hard time breaching it.
Supports: 91.60,91.30 and 91.15
Resistances: 91.80, 92.00,92.30
Gold price soared to a record high of $2,790 during the North American session, as investors remain uncertain about the outcome of the US Presidential Elections. Upbeat economic data in the US put a lid on the precious metal advance, as the economy grew steadily while the jobs market remained robust.
The XAU/USD trades at $2,785, gains over 0.40%, and is slightly below the all-time high (ATH) after the yellow metal bounced off daily lows of $2,771. US Treasury bond yields disappointed during the session as investors' confidence improved that the Fed would achieve its soft-landing scenario.
Data from the United States (US) showed the economy continued to grow steadily while the labor market remained robust. The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the third quarter of 2024 dipped below estimates. The ADP Employment Change report for October showed that private companies hired more personnel than foreseen.
At the same time, US Pending Home Sales soared due to buyers taking advantage of the combination of lower mortgage rates and more inventory choices, commented Lawrence Yun, Chief Economist of the National Association of Realtors (NAR).
The US election is reaching its boiling point as we approach November 5, Super Tuesday. The Democratic Vice-President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump clash in a tight race, as polls showed.
So far, Bullion’s price has surged over 35%, its most significant gain in twelve months, and is on its way to its best yearly performance since 1979. Sources cited by Reuters commented that Gold may reach $3,000 by 2025 due to “emerging market concerns, gold ETF inflows, and post-election market adjustments.”
Gold remains supported by safe-haven flows amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, even though Israeli officials commented that Hezbollah is ready to distance itself from Hamas in Gaza, and the IDF is close to finishing its ground operations.
Gold price uptrend remains intact, with the yellow metal hitting a record high at $2,790. A breach of the latter will expose the $2,800 figure, followed by the psychological levels of $2,850 and $2,900.
On the other hand, if sellers move in and push prices below $2,750, the next support would be $2,700. Up next the September 26 swing high, which turned support at $2,685, followed by the 50-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) at $2,603.
Momentum suggests the non-yielding metal could consolidate as the Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains bullish, aiming higher, breaking the last peak. This means that buyers are gathering steam.
Gold has played a key role in human’s history as it has been widely used as a store of value and medium of exchange. Currently, apart from its shine and usage for jewelry, the precious metal is widely seen as a safe-haven asset, meaning that it is considered a good investment during turbulent times. Gold is also widely seen as a hedge against inflation and against depreciating currencies as it doesn’t rely on any specific issuer or government.
Central banks are the biggest Gold holders. In their aim to support their currencies in turbulent times, central banks tend to diversify their reserves and buy Gold to improve the perceived strength of the economy and the currency. High Gold reserves can be a source of trust for a country’s solvency. Central banks added 1,136 tonnes of Gold worth around $70 billion to their reserves in 2022, according to data from the World Gold Council. This is the highest yearly purchase since records began. Central banks from emerging economies such as China, India and Turkey are quickly increasing their Gold reserves.
Gold has an inverse correlation with the US Dollar and US Treasuries, which are both major reserve and safe-haven assets. When the Dollar depreciates, Gold tends to rise, enabling investors and central banks to diversify their assets in turbulent times. Gold is also inversely correlated with risk assets. A rally in the stock market tends to weaken Gold price, while sell-offs in riskier markets tend to favor the precious metal.
The price can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can quickly make Gold price escalate due to its safe-haven status. As a yield-less asset, Gold tends to rise with lower interest rates, while higher cost of money usually weighs down on the yellow metal. Still, most moves depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAU/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Gold controlled, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to push Gold prices up.
The AUD/USD rebounded from multi-week lows on Wednesday, driven by broad-based US Dollar weakness. The pair rose by 0.25% to 0.6575, snapping a three-day losing streak.
On the US data front, September’s ADP Employment Report exceeded market expectations in October, but a downward revision in third-quarter GDP growth made the USD tumble. On the other hand, Australia’s Q3 inflation figures cooled but still remain elevated.
The daily Relative Strength Index (RSI) is currently at 34, which is in the near oversold area. The RSI is suggesting that buying pressure is recovering since it is rising sharply as selling might have become over-extended. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is red and flat, which gives more evidence of a consolidation starting.
Technical analysis indicates a bearish outlook for AUD/USD, with the RSI below 30 and the MACD histogram in the red. Support levels are located at 0.6550, 0.6530 and 0.6500, while resistance lies at 0.6680, 0.6700 and 0.6750. However, oversold conditions may provide respite, while the pair is closely watched ahead of key US data releases that could impact the trajectory of both currencies.
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 Mexican Peso extended its losses against the US Dollar for the fourth straight day on Wednesday and is down 0.62% even though Mexico’s economy grew above estimates. In the US, a stellar ADP jobs report and robust GDP growth in the third quarter boosted the Greenback. Therefore, the USD/MXN trades at 20.18 after bouncing off a daily low of 20.00.
The Instituto Nacional de Estadistica Geografia e Informatica (INEGI) revealed that Mexico’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures for the third quarter of 2024 surprisingly beat estimates. Meanwhile, political turmoil linked to Mexico’s judiciary reform continued as eight of the eleven Supreme Court judges announced their resignation effective in August 2025.
Across the border, data hinted that the US Federal Reserve’s (Fed) soft-landing scenario continued to gain traction. The US ADP Employment Change for October exceeded the mark, brushing aside fears that the labor market is weakening. In the meantime, US GDP data for Q3 2024 dipped below estimates and Q2’s reading.
Ahead of the week, Mexico’s economic schedule will feature the release of Business Confidence and S&P Global Manufacturing PMI. Across the border, the US docket will feature the Fed’s favorite inflation gauge, the Core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index and Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP).
The USD/MXN prolonged its uptrend and tested the year-to-date (YTD) high of 20.22 as buyers seem reluctant to push the exchange rate past that area. If they clear that level, up next would be the psychological 20.50 level, the September 28, 2022 high at 20.57, and the August 2, 2022 peak at 20.82. Once surpassed, the next stop would be the March 8, 2022 swing high at 21.46.
On the other hand, if sellers drive the USD/MXN below 20.00, the first support would be the October 24 daily low of 19.74, followed by the 50-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) at 19.62.
Oscillators indicate that buyers are gathering steam, as displayed by the Relative Strength Index (RSI) above its neutral line, clearing previous highs reached on September 10 and August 22.
The Mexican Peso (MXN) is the most traded currency among its Latin American peers. Its value is broadly determined by the performance of the Mexican economy, the country’s central bank’s policy, the amount of foreign investment in the country and even the levels of remittances sent by Mexicans who live abroad, particularly in the United States. Geopolitical trends can also move MXN: for example, the process of nearshoring – or the decision by some firms to relocate manufacturing capacity and supply chains closer to their home countries – is also seen as a catalyst for the Mexican currency as the country is considered a key manufacturing hub in the American continent. Another catalyst for MXN is Oil prices as Mexico is a key exporter of the commodity.
The main objective of Mexico’s central bank, also known as Banxico, is to maintain inflation at low and stable levels (at or close to its target of 3%, the midpoint in a tolerance band of between 2% and 4%). To this end, the bank sets an appropriate level of interest rates. When inflation is too high, Banxico will attempt to tame it by raising interest rates, making it more expensive for households and businesses to borrow money, thus cooling demand and the overall economy. Higher interest rates are generally positive for the Mexican Peso (MXN) as they lead to higher yields, making the country a more attractive place for investors. On the contrary, lower interest rates tend to weaken MXN.
Macroeconomic data releases are key to assess the state of the economy and can have an impact on the Mexican Peso (MXN) valuation. A strong Mexican economy, based on high economic growth, low unemployment and high confidence is good for MXN. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the Bank of Mexico (Banxico) to increase interest rates, particularly if this strength comes together with elevated inflation. However, if economic data is weak, MXN is likely to depreciate.
As an emerging-market currency, the Mexican Peso (MXN) tends to strive during risk-on periods, or when investors perceive that broader market risks are low and thus are eager to engage with investments that carry a higher risk. Conversely, MXN tends to weaken at times of market turbulence or economic uncertainty as investors tend to sell higher-risk assets and flee to the more-stable safe havens.
The Greenback’s rally continued to give some signs of potential exhaustion on Wednesday, despite encouraging prints from the job creation in the US private sector and further evidence of a resilient US economy.
The US Dollar Index (DXY) receded to three-day lows and pierced the 104.00 support amidst the generalised weakness in US yields across the spectrum. The PCE data will take centre stage, seconded by the weekly Initial Jobless Claims, Personal Income and Spending, the Chicago PMI, Challenger Job Cuts, and the Employment Cost Index.
EUR/USD gathered extra steam and challenged the critical 200-day SMA near 1.0870, up for the third straight day. Germany’s Retail Sales and Import Prices are due in the first turn, seconded by the preliminary Inflation Rate in the euro area as well as the Unemployment Rate.
GBP/USD came under pressure following two daily advances in a row and a climb to four-month tops in UK 10-year gilts. The speech by the BoE’s Breeden will be the only event on the UK docket.
USD/JPY saw another session of sidelined trading amidst steady prudence prior to the interest rate decision by the BoJ and vital US data releases. The BoJ’s interest rate decision will be the salient event followed by the BoJ Quarterly Outlook Report. In addition, advanced Industrial Production results are due along with weekly Foreign Bond Investment figures, Housing Starts, and Construction Orders.
AUD/USD regained the smile and reversed three daily retracements in arow, coming just short of the key 0.6600 hurdle. Retail Sales will be published in Oz, seconded by Housing Credit figures, Export and Import Prices, and Private Sector Credit data.
WTI prices rose to weekly highs on the back of a bullish weekly report from the EIA and speculation that the OPEC+ could delay its plans to boost the oil output in December.
Prices of Gold maintained their upside well in place, reaching an all-time peak near the key $2,800 mark per ounce troy. Silver prices, on the flip side, faded Tuesday’s robust uptick and deflated well below the $34.00 mark per ounce.
The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the value of the USD against a basket of six currencies, lost ground on Wednesday following the release of mixed economic data. September’s ADP Employment Change report exceeded market expectations in October, but a downward revision in third-quarter GDP growth made the USD tumble.
However, investors remain cautious ahead of Friday's Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report, which may paint a different picture of the labor market.
The DXY index is consolidating and may be poised to revisit the 200-day SMA at 103.50. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is declining but remains near overbought territory, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is printing smaller green bars.
Key support levels are 104.50, 104.30 and 104.00, while resistance is found at 104.70, 104.90 and 105.00.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) advanced during the North American session, with bulls eyeing a break above 42,500 as US Treasury bond yields tumbled. The economy in the US grew below estimates but at a healthy pace. At the same time, jobs data revealed by Automatic Data Processing (ADP) showed the labor market is strengthening after announcing an outstanding jobs report.
The US Bureau of Economic Analysis revealed that the economy grew 2.8% QoQ in Q3 2024, according to its preliminary reading. Although it missed the mark and Q2’s 3%, the numbers suggest the economy is on its way to achieving a soft landing, as the Federal Reserve (Fed) lowers borrowing costs to stimulate the labor market.
Regarding this, the ADP National Employment Change report showed that private companies added 233K people to the workforce in October, crushing estimates of 115K. Nela Richardson, chief economist at ADP, said in a statement, “Even amid hurricane recovery, job growth was strong in October.” In the meantime, US bond yields retreated after hitting a three-month high of 4.337% and dropped 0.65% or three basis points (bps) to 4.248%.
After the data, the CME FedWatch Tool shows odds for a 25 bps rate cut by the Fed reaching 97%, down from 98% a day ago. This would leave rates in the 4.50%-4.75% range.
The earnings session continued as Visa (V) led the pack in the DJIA after the company announced fiscal Q4 2024 earnings. Visa revealed that earnings per share (EPS) was $2.71, up from estimates of $2.58, while revenue increased to $9.6 billion, exceeding forecasts of $9.48 billion. At the same time, the company cut 1,400 jobs.
Caterpillar (CAT) plunged before recovering as the company revealed lower-than-expected Q3 earnings. Adjusted earnings per share (EPS) came at $5.17, below estimates of $5.34, though revenue increased to $16.11 billion, exceeding estimates of $16.08 billion. The company projects sales and revenue to be slightly lower than expected at the end of the last quarter.
At the time of writing, Visa leads the DJIA, gaining 3.68% to $292.25. Boeing (BA) gained 2.07% to $156.14, and Amazon (AMZN) lifted 1.62% to $193.93. The laggards are International Business Machines (IBM) losing 1.95% to $206.33, followed by Nike (NKE) sinking 1.76% to $77.02, and Intel(INTC) diving 1.72% to $22.51.
The Dow Jones consolidates at around 42,300 but cannot decisively crack the 42,400 mark, which would open the door to challenge 42,500.
At the beginning of the session, sellers pushed the DJIA toward a low of 42,122 near the October 25 low of 42,043, though buyers bought the dip before the index tested the 50-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) at 41,907. After that, the Dow Jones recovered some ground, clinging to minimal gains.
If buyers reclaim 42,500, look for a test of the October 23 peak at 42,830 ahead of testing 43,000 and the record high at 43,322.
Otherwise, if the Dow extends its losses below 42,000, the first support would be the 50-day SMA, ahead of 41,500.
Momentum remains bullish as depicted by the Relative Strength Index (RSI), which pierced above its neutral line. However, it has consolidated, suggesting that neither buyers nor sellers are in control.
The Dow Jones Industrial Average, one of the oldest stock market indices in the world, is compiled of the 30 most traded stocks in the US. The index is price-weighted rather than weighted by capitalization. It is calculated by summing the prices of the constituent stocks and dividing them by a factor, currently 0.152. The index was founded by Charles Dow, who also founded the Wall Street Journal. In later years it has been criticized for not being broadly representative enough because it only tracks 30 conglomerates, unlike broader indices such as the S&P 500.
Many different factors drive the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA). The aggregate performance of the component companies revealed in quarterly company earnings reports is the main one. US and global macroeconomic data also contributes as it impacts on investor sentiment. The level of interest rates, set by the Federal Reserve (Fed), also influences the DJIA as it affects the cost of credit, on which many corporations are heavily reliant. Therefore, inflation can be a major driver as well as other metrics which impact the Fed decisions.
Dow Theory is a method for identifying the primary trend of the stock market developed by Charles Dow. A key step is to compare the direction of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) and the Dow Jones Transportation Average (DJTA) and only follow trends where both are moving in the same direction. Volume is a confirmatory criteria. The theory uses elements of peak and trough analysis. Dow’s theory posits three trend phases: accumulation, when smart money starts buying or selling; public participation, when the wider public joins in; and distribution, when the smart money exits.
There are a number of ways to trade the DJIA. One is to use ETFs which allow investors to trade the DJIA as a single security, rather than having to buy shares in all 30 constituent companies. A leading example is the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (DIA). DJIA futures contracts enable traders to speculate on the future value of the index and Options provide the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell the index at a predetermined price in the future. Mutual funds enable investors to buy a share of a diversified portfolio of DJIA stocks thus providing exposure to the overall index.
The USD/CAD pair trades neutrally on Wednesday near 1.3915. The Canadian Dollar is gaining some ground against its US counterpart despite mixed economic data from the US. Softer Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth than expected from Q3 and a strong ADP Employment Change report for October are moving the markets in Wednesday’s session.
However, Tuesday’s declining JOLTS Job Openings and expectations of a Federal Reserve (Fed) rate cut have weighed on the US Dollar. The release of the PCE Prices Index and Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report later this week is expected to provide further direction to the USD/CAD pair amidst ongoing market volatility.
The Loonie’s Relative Strength Index (RSI) is in the deep overbought area at a value of 75 with a mildly declining slope, suggesting that buying pressure is easing. Also, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is flat and green, suggesting that buying pressure is at least neutral.
Buyers will potentially take a breather in the next session and use the 1.3900 support to consolidate the Aussie trade in the next few sessions.
ECB board member Isabel Schnabel argued that the European Central Bank does not need to lower interest rates to a level that would stimulate the economy, as she believes inflation is unlikely to fall below the bank’s 2% target.
Disinflation remains on track, which allowed us to lower rates further in October, but the fight against inflation is not yet won.
A gradual approach to removing restrictions remains appropriate.
The neutral rate is subject to high uncertainty.
No need to go below neutral.
Risk of meaningful and persistent undershooting of inflation target remains small.
After two significant declines, German inflation rate rose again in October, from 1.6% to 2.0%. This is partly due to a higher year-on-year rates in the very volatile energy and food prices, but the core inflation rate has also increased. At 2.9%, it remains well above the ECB's target of 2%, and in view of the continued strong rise in labor costs, it is likely to fall only slowly in the coming months, Commerzbank’s economist Dr. Ralph Solveen notes.
“The fall of the German inflation rate below the 2% mark has proofed to be only temporary. According to the preliminary estimate of the Federal Statistical Office, it rose again in October from 1.6% to 2.0%. One contributing factor was the rising yearon-year rates for energy and food prices. But even the core inflation rate, which excludes these two often highly volatile subcomponents, rose in October from 2.7% to 2.9% after having fallen slightly in the previous months.”
The high core inflation rate continues to primarily follow the ongoing strong rise in service prices. The year-on-year comparison here has been marginally below 4% since the spring; in October it increased slightly to 4.0%. The decisive factor for the sharp rise in service prices is likely to be the noticeable increase in wage costs. Since wages have risen significantly until recently, the only factor to slow prices is the weak economy, which will gradually push down the services inflation.”
“The goods inflation (excluding energy and food) appears to be at least stabilizing. In October, it rose from 1.2% to 1.5%, the second increase in a row. The price trend at the preliminary stages also argues against a renewed significant decline, especially since higher wage costs tend to indicate rising prices here as well. Thus, the core inflation rate is likely to fall only slowly in the coming months. The overall inflation rate is even likely to rise slightly in the coming months due to base effects in energy prices.”
The Pound Sterling erased some of its earlier losses, climbing above its opening price against the US Dollar, after the UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves revealed its autumn budget. The GBP/USD trades above 1.3000, virtually unchanged.
According to the Financial Times, the Autumn budget was well received by the markets. Gilt yields are falling, and Cable aimed higher after the new labor Government announced its first budget in 14 years.
The GBP/USD bounced at the bottom of an ascending channel trendline, extending its gains after Chancellor Reeves, ended her speech. Initially, the pair cleared 1.2970, and pushed higher, clearing the 1.3000 figure hitting a high of 1.3039.
From a technical standpoint, the GPB/USD is not out of the woods, as sellers continued to cap the pair’s advance. Buyers must clear October 18 peak at 1.3070, so they could remain hopeful of testing 1.3100. Once those key resistance levels are taken out, the 50-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) would be up next at 1.3138.
Otherwise, if sellers push the exchange rate below the October 29 daily close of 1.3014, it would expose the 1.3000 psychological level as the next support. A breach of the latter will expose the 100-day SMA at 1.2974, before the GBP/USD tumbles towards October 300 low of 1.2936.
The table below shows the percentage change of British Pound (GBP) against listed major currencies today. British Pound was the strongest against the Canadian Dollar.
USD | EUR | GBP | JPY | CAD | AUD | NZD | CHF | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
USD | -0.34% | 0.10% | -0.11% | 0.05% | -0.30% | -0.09% | -0.14% | |
EUR | 0.34% | 0.44% | 0.23% | 0.39% | 0.03% | 0.24% | 0.20% | |
GBP | -0.10% | -0.44% | -0.20% | -0.05% | -0.41% | -0.20% | -0.22% | |
JPY | 0.11% | -0.23% | 0.20% | 0.14% | -0.21% | -0.01% | -0.04% | |
CAD | -0.05% | -0.39% | 0.05% | -0.14% | -0.36% | -0.15% | -0.17% | |
AUD | 0.30% | -0.03% | 0.41% | 0.21% | 0.36% | 0.21% | 0.18% | |
NZD | 0.09% | -0.24% | 0.20% | 0.01% | 0.15% | -0.21% | -0.03% | |
CHF | 0.14% | -0.20% | 0.22% | 0.04% | 0.17% | -0.18% | 0.03% |
The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the British Pound from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent GBP (base)/USD (quote).
The GBP/JPY currency pair mildly declined on Wednesday as investors seem to be taking a breather. However, the outlook remains bullish and he buyers must cold the 199.00 line
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) indicator has recently crossed into overbought territory, suggesting that the uptrend in the pair may be overextended and that a pullback or correction is likely. However, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) is green and rising, suggesting that buying pressure is rising. The overall outlook is bullish, with the pair expected to continue trading higher in the near term but a period of side-ways trade shouldn’t be taken off the table.
Traders may consider taking profit or adjusting their positions accordingly to navigate this potential market shift. That potential consolidation might take place between the 197.00 and 199.00 boundaries.
The US economy grew by 2.8% in the third quarter of 2024, roughly in line with expectations. Private consumption and investment in equipment in particular increased. This continues the strong expansion of recent quarters. We see this as confirming our assessment that the US economy will not slide into a recession despite high key interest rates because overall financing conditions are still quite favorable, Commerzbank’s economists Dr. Christoph Balz and Bernd Weidensteiner note.
“This applies in particular to private domestic final purchases (PDFP), i.e. gross domestic product excluding inventory investment, government spending and foreign trade. Federal Reserve Chairman Powell has emphasized this figure on several occasions because it provides a clearer signal of the trend in demand. In the third quarter, PDFP increased 3.2%.”
“This is one of a series of six quarters with fairly stable and strong growth between 2.5% and 3.5%. Although key interest rates are quite high, financing conditions in the overall economy remain favorable in view of record high equity prices and low risk premiums.”
“Today's figures confirm our assessment that the US economy should avoid a recession. That said, it is unlikely to be able to maintain the high pace of growth seen in recent quarters as the extremely high level of immigration, which also supported demand, is not likely to be repeated. Furthermore, the labor market is cooling on trend, which is why private consumption should lose momentum. However, a more accurate outlook for 2025 will only be possible after the election.”
The EUR/GBP wobbles near an intraday high around 0.8350 in Wednesday’s New York session. The cross trades volatile amid the announcement of the United Kingdom (UK) Autumn Forecast Statement by Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves.
In the first budget announcement under Labour’s administration, Reeves has announced tax hikes on inheritance wealth and private jet flights, and raise duties on various components such as air passengers, alcohol and tobacco.
The government has announced big-bang spending plans such as: 40% relief on business rates for retail and hospitality industries up to a cap retail, higher investment for affordable homes, set up of Electric Vehicles (EV) industry and 11 green hydrogen projects.
Meanwhile, the Office for Business Responsibility (OBR) has upwardly revised the Consumer Price Index (CPI) forecast to 2.5% in 2024, from 2.2% announced in March.
The cross performs strongly in North American trading hours due to upbeat Euro (EUR). The shared currency pair strengthened after the release of the Eurozone flash Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data, which showed that the economic growth was faster-than-expected in the third quarter of the year. The Eurozone economic output rose by 0.9% year-on-year, faster than estimates of 0.8% and 0.6% growth in the previous quarter.
Meanwhile, hotter-than-forecasted German inflation has also strengthened the Euro, a scenario that is unfavorable for European Central Bank (ECB) dovish bets. Annual German Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) grew at a faster pace of 2.4% than estimates of 2.1% and the September reading of 1.8%.
UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves is delivering the Autumn Budget.
"Will increase employers' national insurance contributions by 1.2 percentage points."
"Will reduce threshold for paying national insurance to 5,000 pounds by employers."
"Will increase employment allowance for small businesses."
"I have had to take very difficult tax decisions."
"Will freeze fuel duty next year."
"Inheritance tax measures together raise over 2 billion Sterling."
"We will increase soft drinks industry levy."
"Will raise 1 billion sterling through soft drink levy and tobacco, alcohol duty increases."
"Will introduce a flat rate duty on all vaping liquids from October 2026."
"Will extend inheritance tax threshold freeze to 2030."
"Will bring inherited pensions into inheritance tax from 2027."
"Will raise air passenger duty by no more than 2 pounds for economy short haul flights."
"Will raise tax on private jet flights by up to 50%."
"Will provide 40% relief on business rates for retail and hospitality industries up to a cap."
"Day-to-day spending from 2024-25 will grow by 1.5% in real terms."
"Increasing core schools budget by 2.3 billion sterling."
"Will increase defence spending by 2.9 billion sterling."
"Will provide 3 billion Sterling a year support to Ukraine for as long as it takes."
Inflation in Germany, as measured by the change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), rose to 2% on a yearly basis in October from 1.6% in September, Destatis' flash estimate showed on Wednesday. This reading came in above the market expectation of 1.8%.
On a monthly basis, the CPI rose 0.4% after staying unchanged in September.
The Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices in Germany, the European Central Bank's preferred gauge of inflation, increased 2.4% on a yearly basis, up sharply from the 1.8% increase recorded in September.
EUR/USD recovered slightly from session lows after these data and was last seen trading flat on the day near 1.0820.
UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves said in the Autumn Forecast Statement that the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR) expects the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to be at 2.5% in 2024, up from the 2.2% announced in March.
The OBR sees CPI of 2.6% in 2025, up from the March forecast of 1.5%.
"OBR forecasts show 2024 GDP growth of 1.1% (March forecast 0.8%)."
"OBR forecasts show 2025 GDP growth of 2.0% (March forecast 1.9%)."
"OBR forecasts show 2029 GDP growth of 1.6%."
"Budget will boost long term growth."
GBP/USD stays under pressure and was last seen losing 0.55% on the day at 1.2945.
Private sector employment in the US rose 233,000 in October and annual pay was up 4.6%, the Automatic Data Processing (ADP) reported on Wednesday. This reading followed the 159,000 increase (revised from 143,000) recorded in September and surpassed the market expectation of 115,000 by a wide margin.
Assessing the report's findings, "even amid hurricane recovery, job growth was strong in October,” said Nela Richardson, chief economist, ADP. "As we round out the year, hiring in the US is proving to be robust and broadly resilient."
The US Dollar Index edged higher with the immediate reaction and was last seen posting small daily gains near 104.40.
The Pound Sterling (GBP) is trading a little softer ahead of Chancellor Reeves’ first budget (8.30ET) for Labour. The broad outlines of the government’s fiscal plans have been flagged to the media and markets, Scotiabank’s Chief FX Strategist Shaun Osborne notes.
“The anticipated mix of tax hikes and increased borrowing to invest in key policy priorities (health and infrastructure, for example) is getting scored as growth-positive by the Office of Fiscal Responsibility. The mix of growth enhancing fiscal policy plus tighter BoE monetary policy may be GBPsupportive in the medium term—assuming markets find Reeves’ plans credible.”
“GBP’s drop back from the intraday high in the low 1.30s leaves a negative look to the short-term chart via a bearish outside range session on the 6-hour chart. The drop interrupts the grinding improvement in Cable seen since last week’s rebound from the low 1.29 area and risks renewing downside momentum in the pound—if sustained over the session.”
“Support is 1.2940 and 1.2900/10. Resistance is 1.3025.”
GDP data reports for Q3 from France, Spain and Germany all beat expectations, lifting preliminary Eurozone growth to 0.4% in the quarter, double expectations, Scotiabank’s Chief FX Strategist Shaun Osborne notes.
“The economy grew 0.9% over the year. Meanwhile, state-level inflation data in Germany was stronger than expected, suggesting the preliminary national data at 9ET risks coming in hotter than the 0.2% forecast. Strong data lifted European yields and prompted a further repricing of ECB easing expectations for December (31-32bps of easing priced in, from 35bps or so yesterday). That still looks too much.”
“Data reports and yields combined to lift the EUR to the mid-1.08s before it eased back. The EUR has shown signs of stabilizing just below 1.08 over the past few trading sessions. Support has been firm on dips to the 1.0760/70 area. This morning’s push higher in spot has not (yet, at least) developed much traction, however.”
“Gains push through 1.0840 which should have been a bull trigger for additional gains but the EUR rally has sputtered and key short-term resistance at 1.0875 remains untested. More range-trading around 1.08 may follow in the next few days.”
Near-term prospects for the Canadian Dollar (CAD) are little changed, Scotiabank’s Chief FX Strategist Shaun Osborne notes.
“Wide yield/swap spreads are the major drag on the CAD at the moment. The CAD has been pummeled by the prospect of more BoC easing ahead while the Fed drags its feet over lowering rates.”
“Swaps spreads have narrowed a fraction on the day so far, which may help the CAD steady, but the CAD is unlikely to pick up much ground ahead of the US presidential vote. The election outcome risks accentuating pressure on the CAD if a Trump win boosts inflation worries in the US. USDCAD’s estimated fair value this morning is little changed at 1.3931.”
“The bull trend in the USD remains very, very stretched in technical terms. Intraday price action suggests some stabilization in the USD so far, with spot’s trading range holding within yesterday’s. An inside range day (if confirmed through the close) would signal a pause at least in the USD’s rise ahead of major resistance at 1.3945/50. Support intraday is 1.3895 and 1.3860.”
The US Dollar (USD) is trading lower overall to start the day, Scotiabank’s Chief FX Strategist Shaun Osborne notes.
“There are some signs that the October bull run in the DXY is moderating. Short term charts reflect some (minor, so far) softness in price action and the pre-election demand for USD topside protection via risk reversals may be flattening out. This may may point to some stabilization in the broader USD trend—at least ahead of the election itself.”
“The sharp fall in US yields following yesterday’s well-received 7Y auction is extending this morning and is adding to USD headwinds in the short run while stronger than expected Eurozone data has given the EUR a lift. Sterling is a moderate underachiever ahead of the UK budget— but Gilts are outperforming amid generally firmer fixed income markets. Stocks are soft in Europe as markets have been forced to (further) reprice ECB easing expectations after this morning’s data round. US equity futures are firmer, however.”
“It’s another busy day of data releases is the US. ADP data at 8.15ET may shed some light on the impact of weather on hiring this month. Consensus expectations call for hiring to slow to 111k (from 143k in September). The advance Q3 GDP report is expected to show resilient growth (3%) and slowing core PCE inflation (2.1%); that’s Goldilocks-like and could be USD-supportive. Firm data may help keep the DXY from testing technical support at 103.93.”
The New Zealand dollar has capitalized on the moderate US Dollar weakness to regain some losses.
Weak job openings data in the US have raised concerns about the labour market and weighed on the US Dollar.
A break above 0.6000 would ease bearish pressure and bring 0.6060 into focus.
The New Zealand Dollar trimmed some losses on Wednesday, favoured by a somewhat lower US Dollar, with investors growing increasingly cautious ahead of US GDP and ADP employment figures.
The weak US JOLTS job openings seen on Tuesday have scratched the image of a solid US labour market, keeping investors on their toes, ahead of Friday’s Nonfarm Payrolls report.
The US focus today is on the Q3 GDP, which is expected to confirm solid economic growth. The ADP employment report, however, might overshadow these figures, as further downbeat news on employment will likely hurt confidence in the US Dollar
The technical picture remains bearish, but the positive reaction from 0,5960 suggests the possibility of a deeper correction. Immediate resistance is at 0.6000 ahead of 0.6060. Supports are 0.5950 and 0.5910.
The New Zealand Dollar (NZD), also known as the Kiwi, is a well-known traded currency among investors. Its value is broadly determined by the health of the New Zealand economy and the country’s central bank policy. Still, there are some unique particularities that also can make NZD move. The performance of the Chinese economy tends to move the Kiwi because China is New Zealand’s biggest trading partner. Bad news for the Chinese economy likely means less New Zealand exports to the country, hitting the economy and thus its currency. Another factor moving NZD is dairy prices as the dairy industry is New Zealand’s main export. High dairy prices boost export income, contributing positively to the economy and thus to the NZD.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) aims to achieve and maintain an inflation rate between 1% and 3% over the medium term, with a focus to keep it near the 2% mid-point. To this end, the bank sets an appropriate level of interest rates. When inflation is too high, the RBNZ will increase interest rates to cool the economy, but the move will also make bond yields higher, increasing investors’ appeal to invest in the country and thus boosting NZD. On the contrary, lower interest rates tend to weaken NZD. The so-called rate differential, or how rates in New Zealand are or are expected to be compared to the ones set by the US Federal Reserve, can also play a key role in moving the NZD/USD pair.
Macroeconomic data releases in New Zealand are key to assess the state of the economy and can impact the New Zealand Dollar’s (NZD) valuation. A strong economy, based on high economic growth, low unemployment and high confidence is good for NZD. High economic growth attracts foreign investment and may encourage the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to increase interest rates, if this economic strength comes together with elevated inflation. Conversely, if economic data is weak, NZD is likely to depreciate.
The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) tends to strengthen during risk-on periods, or when investors perceive that broader market risks are low and are optimistic about growth. This tends to lead to a more favorable outlook for commodities and so-called ‘commodity currencies’ such as the Kiwi. Conversely, NZD tends to weaken at times of market turbulence or economic uncertainty as investors tend to sell higher-risk assets and flee to the more-stable safe havens.
AUD/USD has experienced a deeper pullback after approaching projections and the upper limit of a multi-month ascending channel near 0.6950/0.6965, Société Generale’s FX analysts note.
“It has recently given up the 200-DMA (0.6630). Daily MACD is within negative territory denoting lack of upward momentum. The pair is gradually drifting towards next potential support of 0.6470 representing the trend line drawn since October 2023.”
“If the decline stalls near this level, an initial bounce is likely but reclaiming the MA at 0.6630 would be crucial for confirming a meaningful up move. Failure to hold 0.6470 could extend the downtrend towards April lows of 0.6360/0.6340.”
Eurozone economic growth came in stronger than expected in the third quarter, Rabobank’s economist Maartje Wijffelaars notes.
“There’s a stark divergence between the manufacturing and services sector, however.”
“Industrial performance also varies widely between member states. This is not solely a recent phenomenon, but already predates the energy crisis. Industrial underperformance of Germany and France happened between 19Q4 and 22Q2, for example.”
“We expect that consumer spending will drive growth in the coming quarters.”
The US Dollar Index (DXY) is showing a moderately softer tone on Wednesday’s European session. Softer-than-expected JOLTS Job Openings sent US Treasury yields lower on Tuesday, increasing the negative pressure on the US Dollar (USD).
Job Openings came in at the lowest level in more than three years in September. These figures cast some doubt on the health of the labour market ahead of Friday’s Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report, with the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) monetary policy decision only one week away.
On Wednesday, the third quarter’s US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is expected to show the world’s largest economy grew at a steady pace in the third quarter, in contrast with the rest of the world’s major economies.
The ADP Employment Report, however, might steal the show. The market consensus anticipates a significant decline in job creation that might increase concerns about the employment market, triggering a deeper US Dollar correction.
The DXY index keeps its bullish bias intact but the pair’s failure to break the resistance area above 104.55 might give fresh hopes for bears.
The 4-hour Relative Strength Index (RSI) shows a bearish divergence and has crossed below the 50 level, a negative sign. The index, however, should slide below Friday’s low, at 103.95 to confirm a deeper correction and shift its focus towards 103.40. Resistances are at the 104.55 - 104.75 area and 105.20.
The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency of the United States of America, and the ‘de facto’ currency of a significant number of other countries where it is found in circulation alongside local notes. It is the most heavily traded currency in the world, accounting for over 88% of all global foreign exchange turnover, or an average of $6.6 trillion in transactions per day, according to data from 2022. Following the second world war, the USD took over from the British Pound as the world’s reserve currency. For most of its history, the US Dollar was backed by Gold, until the Bretton Woods Agreement in 1971 when the Gold Standard went away.
The most important single factor impacting on the value of the US Dollar is monetary policy, which is shaped by the Federal Reserve (Fed). The Fed has two mandates: to achieve price stability (control inflation) and foster full employment. Its primary tool to achieve these two goals is by adjusting interest rates. When prices are rising too quickly and inflation is above the Fed’s 2% target, the Fed will raise rates, which helps the USD value. When inflation falls below 2% or the Unemployment Rate is too high, the Fed may lower interest rates, which weighs on the Greenback.
In extreme situations, the Federal Reserve can also print more Dollars and enact quantitative easing (QE). QE is the process by which the Fed substantially increases the flow of credit in a stuck financial system. It is a non-standard policy measure used when credit has dried up because banks will not lend to each other (out of the fear of counterparty default). It is a last resort when simply lowering interest rates is unlikely to achieve the necessary result. It was the Fed’s weapon of choice to combat the credit crunch that occurred during the Great Financial Crisis in 2008. It involves the Fed printing more Dollars and using them to buy US government bonds predominantly from financial institutions. QE usually leads to a weaker US Dollar.
Quantitative tightening (QT) is the reverse process whereby the Federal Reserve stops buying bonds from financial institutions and does not reinvest the principal from the bonds it holds maturing in new purchases. It is usually positive for the US Dollar.
The US Dollar (USD) is expected to trade in a range between 7.1300 and 7.1550. In the longer run, upward momentum is building, but USD must break and remain above 7.1600 before further sustained gains are likely, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “We expected USD to rise yesterday, but we were of the view that ‘the 7.1600 level is likely out of reach.’ While USD rose more than expected to 7.1650, it pulled back quickly to close largely unchanged (7.1420, -0.06%). The brief rise did not result in any increase in momentum. Today, we expect USD to trade in range, likely between 7.1300 and 7.1550.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “Two days ago (28 Oct, spot at 7.1460), we highlighted that ‘While upward momentum is building, USD must break and remain above 7.1600 before further sustained gains are likely.’ We added, ‘The likelihood of USD breaking clearly above 7.1600 will remain intact, provided that 7.1200 is not breached in the next few days.’ Yesterday, USD rose to 7.1650 before pulling back quickly. There is no increase in momentum, and we continue to hold the same view for now.”
The US Dollar (USD) is likely to trade in a range between 152.50 and 153.80. In the longer run, while conditions are severely overbought, there is a chance for the advance in USD to extend to 154.00 before pausing, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “After USD rose to 153.87 two days ago and then pulled back, we highlighted yesterday that ‘The pullback in overbought conditions suggests USD is unlikely to rise further.’ We also highlighted that USD ‘is more likely to trade in a range between 152.45 and 153.60.’ Although USD subsequently traded in a higher range of 152.74/153.86, it ended the day largely unchanged at 153.35 (+0.05%). There has been no clear increase in either downward or upward momentum. Today, we continue to expect USD to trade in a range, probably between 152.50/153.80.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “Our update from yesterday (29 Oct, spot at 153.05) is still valid. As highlighted, ‘while conditions are severely overbought, there is a chance for the advance in USD to extend to 154.00 before pausing.’ Overall, only a breach of 151.90 (no change in ‘strong support’ level from yesterday) would indicate that the USD advance that started early this month has ended.”
The EUR/JPY pair aims for a sustainable break above 166.00 in Wednesday’s European session. The cross strives to gain further as the Euro’s (EUR) outlook has improved after a slew of economic data from the Eurozone and its major regions.
The table below shows the percentage change of Euro (EUR) against listed major currencies today. Euro was the strongest against the British Pound.
USD | EUR | GBP | JPY | CAD | AUD | NZD | CHF | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
USD | -0.16% | 0.23% | -0.28% | -0.01% | -0.28% | -0.30% | -0.06% | |
EUR | 0.16% | 0.40% | -0.12% | 0.15% | -0.13% | -0.14% | 0.10% | |
GBP | -0.23% | -0.40% | -0.52% | -0.24% | -0.52% | -0.54% | -0.28% | |
JPY | 0.28% | 0.12% | 0.52% | 0.27% | -0.01% | -0.03% | 0.22% | |
CAD | 0.00% | -0.15% | 0.24% | -0.27% | -0.28% | -0.29% | -0.04% | |
AUD | 0.28% | 0.13% | 0.52% | 0.00% | 0.28% | -0.01% | 0.23% | |
NZD | 0.30% | 0.14% | 0.54% | 0.03% | 0.29% | 0.00% | 0.25% | |
CHF | 0.06% | -0.10% | 0.28% | -0.22% | 0.04% | -0.23% | -0.25% |
The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the Euro from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent EUR (base)/USD (quote).
The Eurozone flash Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data shows that the economy expanded by 0.9% year-on-year in the third quarter of the year, faster than estimates of 0.8% and the 0.6% growth in the April-June period. Quarterly GDP growth was 0.4%, double the estimates and the former release of 0.2%.
Meanwhile, the return of the German economy to growth after a contraction in the second quarter has also strengthened the Euro. The German economy unexpectedly grew by 0.2% while economists estimated a steady decline of 0.1%. Also, flash Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices in six German states has come in hotter-than-expected, prompting traders to pare European Central Bank (ECB) dovish bets for the December meeting.
According to market expectations, the probability of the ECB reducing its Deposit Facility Rate by 50 basis points (bps) in December has eased to 22% from 45% after the GDP and inflation data release.
On the Tokyo front, investors await the Bank of Japan’s (BoJ) policy meeting on Thursday. The BoJ is expected to leave interest rates unchanged at 0.25%. Lately, the Japanese Yen (JPY) has remained under pressure due to market expectations of BoJ’s incapability to hike interest rates further as traders doubt economic sustainability after the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) failed to gain a majority in national elections.
Signs of hawkish interest rate guidance would prompt a strong recovery in the Japanese Yen, while the downside would be limited if the BoJ remains dependent on incoming data.
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP), released by the Eurostat on a quarterly basis, is a measure of the total value of all goods and services produced in the Eurozone during a certain period of time. The GDP and its main aggregates are among the most significant indicators of the state of any economy. The YoY reading compares economic activity in the reference quarter compared with the same quarter a year earlier. Generally speaking, a rise in this indicator is bullish for the Euro (EUR), while a low reading is seen as bearish.
Read more.Last release: Wed Oct 30, 2024 10:00 (Prel)
Frequency: Quarterly
Actual: 0.9%
Consensus: 0.8%
Previous: 0.6%
Source: Eurostat
The highlight of today’s session is the new Labour government’s first budget released at 1330CET. Does sterling rally on pro-growth fiscal loosening and a rise in real yields? Or is sterling flat on a carefully crafted series of tax hikes and spending increases which balance day-to-day spending? Or does Labour over-reach with some spending plans – reflected in higher-than-expected Gilt supply – which re-inserts some fiscal risk premium into the pound, ING’s FX analyst Francesco Pesole asks.
“Discussing it with team members we think that a flat sterling outcome is a little more likely in that Chancellor Rachel Reeves will tread carefully. The negative risk will probably be judged against the key metric of the UK’s Gilt supply remit for FY24/25 and FY25/26.”
“Current numbers are around £276/277bn. The consensus seems to be that a modest increase to this supply – in the region of £10-20bn per year – would be digestible for the Gilt market. Any number above £300bn is therefore probably a Gilt and sterling negative.”
“EUR/GBP is currently pressing 0.8300, largely because of a dovish re-appraisal of upcoming ECB policy. As above, we do not see a strong reason for EUR/GBP to bounce today. And below, 0.8300, the next immediate target is 0.8250/80.”
Gold price (XAU/USD) has stretched to fresh record highs on Wednesday, favored by a combination of higher demand for safe-haven assets amid the US political uncertainty and retreating US Treasury yields.
Investors are looking for safety with the US presidential election around the corner and recent polls showing a close race between the two candidates Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.
Beyond that, US Treasury yields pulled back after JOLTS Job Openings data declined by more than expected in September. The Federal Reserve (Fed) has set the labor market as the main focus of its monetary policy, and these figures have practically confirmed a 25 bps rate cut next week.
Gold is on a bullish trend amid a supportive fundamental backdrop, but the technical picture is showing signs of a potential correction. The RSI is at overbought levels in most time frames, with the 4-hour chart showing a bearish divergence, which often anticipates a corrective reaction.
Immediate resistance is the intra-day high at $2,780, ahead of the $2,800 level. Support levels are the previous top at $2,760 and $2,730.
The daily chart shows the pair likely to be at the end of a 5-wave (Elliot Wave) impulse, with the 261.8% retracement of the 4th wave, in the $2,800 area, as a potential pivot point.
Gold has played a key role in human’s history as it has been widely used as a store of value and medium of exchange. Currently, apart from its shine and usage for jewelry, the precious metal is widely seen as a safe-haven asset, meaning that it is considered a good investment during turbulent times. Gold is also widely seen as a hedge against inflation and against depreciating currencies as it doesn’t rely on any specific issuer or government.
Central banks are the biggest Gold holders. In their aim to support their currencies in turbulent times, central banks tend to diversify their reserves and buy Gold to improve the perceived strength of the economy and the currency. High Gold reserves can be a source of trust for a country’s solvency. Central banks added 1,136 tonnes of Gold worth around $70 billion to their reserves in 2022, according to data from the World Gold Council. This is the highest yearly purchase since records began. Central banks from emerging economies such as China, India and Turkey are quickly increasing their Gold reserves.
Gold has an inverse correlation with the US Dollar and US Treasuries, which are both major reserve and safe-haven assets. When the Dollar depreciates, Gold tends to rise, enabling investors and central banks to diversify their assets in turbulent times. Gold is also inversely correlated with risk assets. A rally in the stock market tends to weaken Gold price, while sell-offs in riskier markets tend to favor the precious metal.
The price can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can quickly make Gold price escalate due to its safe-haven status. As a yield-less asset, Gold tends to rise with lower interest rates, while higher cost of money usually weighs down on the yellow metal. Still, most moves depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAU/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Gold controlled, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to push Gold prices up.
Chancellor Reeves said there would be new rules in her budget governing Treasury borrowing, allowing debt levels to increase by up to £50bn over 5 years – to facilitate investment in Britain’s infrastructure. GBP was last seen at 1.30 levels, OCBC’s FX analysts Frances Cheung and Christopher Wong note.
“There were concerns if her plans would be similar to former PM Liz Truss’s infamous mini-budget in 2022 although Reeves was quick to preempt in saying that she would stick firmly to a requirement for day-to-day spending to be matched by tax receipts. Increase in borrowings may keep rates elevated for longer.”
“This suggests that the BoE may not have much room to lower rates, which may run in contrast to Governor Bailey’s recent dovish shift in rhetoric, in which he said that BoE could become a ‘bit more aggressive’ and ‘a bit more activist’ in its approach to cutting rates if the news on inflation continued to be good (Telegraph interview).” “Bearish momentum on daily chart shows signs of fading while RSI shows rose from near oversold conditions. Resistance at 1.3040 (21 DMA), 1.3110 (38.2% fibo retracement from Sep high to Oct low). Support at 1.2975 (100 DMA), 1.2910 (recent low).”
The Eurozone economy grows by 0.4% in the three months to September of 2024, following a 0.2% expansion in the second quarter, the preliminary estimate released by Eurostat showed on Wednesday.
The data outpaced the market forecast for a 0.2% growth.
The bloc’s GDP rose at an annual pace of 0.9% in Q3 versus 0.6% in Q2 and 0.8% expected.
EUR/USD stays strongly bid near 1.0840 on the upbeat Eurozone growth data, up 0.20% on the day.
The table below shows the percentage change of Euro (EUR) against listed major currencies today. Euro was the strongest against the British Pound.
USD | EUR | GBP | JPY | CAD | AUD | NZD | CHF | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
USD | -0.18% | 0.13% | -0.23% | 0.00% | -0.24% | -0.25% | -0.06% | |
EUR | 0.18% | 0.31% | 0.00% | 0.19% | -0.06% | -0.08% | 0.11% | |
GBP | -0.13% | -0.31% | -0.34% | -0.13% | -0.38% | -0.39% | -0.18% | |
JPY | 0.23% | 0.00% | 0.34% | 0.23% | -0.02% | -0.05% | 0.16% | |
CAD | -0.01% | -0.19% | 0.13% | -0.23% | -0.26% | -0.27% | -0.06% | |
AUD | 0.24% | 0.06% | 0.38% | 0.02% | 0.26% | -0.01% | 0.18% | |
NZD | 0.25% | 0.08% | 0.39% | 0.05% | 0.27% | 0.01% | 0.21% | |
CHF | 0.06% | -0.11% | 0.18% | -0.16% | 0.06% | -0.18% | -0.21% |
The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the Euro from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent EUR (base)/USD (quote).
The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is expected to trade in a sideways range of 0.5955/0.5995. In the longer run, there is still no clear increase in downward momentum; the chance of a sustained break below 0.5950 is not high, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “Two days ago, NZD fell to a low of 0.5958. Yesterday, when NZD was at 0.5985, we held the view that ‘instead of continuing to decline, NZD is more likely to trade sideways between 0.5965 and 0.6005.’ Instead of trading in a range, NZD edged to a low of 0.5954. NZD rebounded from the low to close slightly lower at 0.5974 (-0.12%). The mild decline did not result in any increase in momentum, and we continue to expect NZD to trade sideways. Expected range for today: 0.5955/0.5995.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “We highlighted on Monday (28 Oct, spot at 0.5985) that ‘the recent price action did not result in a significant increase in momentum, but the weakness in NZD has not stabilised.’ We added, ‘The next level to watch is 0.5950, and a breach of 0.6025 (‘strong resistance’ level) would mean that the weakness that started early this month has stabilised.’ While NZD dropped to a fresh 3-month low of 0.5954 yesterday, there is still no clear increase in downward momentum. The chance of a sustained break below 0.5950 is not high. On the upside, the ‘strong resistance’ level has moved lower to 0.6010 from 0.6025.”
Swiss National Bank (SNB) Chairman Martin Schlegel said on Wednesday that they are “ready to react to pressure on the Swiss Franc.”
Swiss Franc is a safe haven, which appreciates in times of uncertainty.
SNB ready to intervene in currency markets as necessary, from Swiss or Singapore offices.
At the time of writing, USD/CHF is trading listlessly near 0.8670, unperturbed by these comments.
The Swiss National Bank (SNB) is the country’s central bank. As an independent central bank, its mandate is to ensure price stability in the medium and long term. To ensure price stability, the SNB aims to maintain appropriate monetary conditions, which are determined by the interest rate level and exchange rates. For the SNB, price stability means a rise in the Swiss Consumer Price Index (CPI) of less than 2% per year.
The Swiss National Bank (SNB) Governing Board decides the appropriate level of its policy rate according to its price stability objective. When inflation is above target or forecasted to be above target in the foreseeable future, the bank will attempt to tame excessive price growth by raising its policy rate. Higher interest rates are generally positive for the Swiss Franc (CHF) as they lead to higher yields, making the country a more attractive place for investors. On the contrary, lower interest rates tend to weaken CHF.
Yes. The Swiss National Bank (SNB) has regularly intervened in the foreign exchange market in order to avoid the Swiss Franc (CHF) appreciating too much against other currencies. A strong CHF hurts the competitiveness of the country’s powerful export sector. Between 2011 and 2015, the SNB implemented a peg to the Euro to limit the CHF advance against it. The bank intervenes in the market using its hefty foreign exchange reserves, usually by buying foreign currencies such as the US Dollar or the Euro. During episodes of high inflation, particularly due to energy, the SNB refrains from intervening markets as a strong CHF makes energy imports cheaper, cushioning the price shock for Swiss households and businesses.
The SNB meets once a quarter – in March, June, September and December – to conduct its monetary policy assessment. Each of these assessments results in a monetary policy decision and the publication of a medium-term inflation forecast.
USD/SGD continued to trade near recent high with SGD weakness mirroring JPY and CHF softness. Last at 1.3231 levels, OCBC’s FX analysts Frances Cheung and Christopher Wong note.
“Daily momentum remains bullish while RSI is near overbought conditions. Potentially, a rising wedge pattern is coming into sight. This is typically associated with a bearish reversal. We monitor price pattern if a turn lower is near.”
“Resistance at 1.3290 (61.8% fibo retracement of Jun high to Oct low), 1.3350 levels (200 DMA). Support at 1.3190 (50% fibo), 1.31 (38.2% fibo). S$NEER was last at 1.44% above model-implied mid.”
The Pound Sterling (GBP) trades cautiously against its major peers on Wednesday ahead of the announcement of the United Kingdom’s (UK) Autumn Forecast Statement at 12:45 GMT. This will be Labour’s first budget presentation in over 15 years, in which Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves is expected to announce a tax hike on various income-generating sources and provide higher spending plans to boost investment.
According to the UBS, the Budget will focus on three key aspects: First, changes in fiscal rules to increase headroom for future borrowing; second, a package of tax increases, probably on capital gains, inheritance, pensions, and – most importantly in terms of additional revenues – national insurance contributions for employers; third, additional spending on investment projects, Reuters reported.
Market participants will mainly focus on the quantum of tax raises and spending budgets to forecast their impact on inflationary pressures. Analysts at UBS expect that higher spending will likely lead to an upward revision in the fiscal deficit to 3.1% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
A higher deficit target would deepen fears of price pressures remaining persistent and force traders to pare Bank of England (BoE) dovish bets for the remainder of the year. According to the October 22-28 Reuters poll, the BoE is widely anticipated to cut interest rates by 25 basis points (bps) in its upcoming policy meeting on November 7. This would be the BoE’s second interest-rate cut this year, pushing key borrowing rates down to 4.75%.
The Pound Sterling edges higher above 1.3000 against the US Dollar (USD) in European trading hours on Wednesday. The GBP/USD pair holds the lower boundary of a Rising Channel chart formation around 1.2900 on the daily time frame.
The near-term trend of the Cable remains uncertain as it stays below the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), which trades around 1.3070.
The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) stays above 40.00. A fresh bearish momentum would trigger if it fails to climb above it.
Looking down, the 200-day EMA near 1.2845 will be a major support zone for Pound Sterling bulls. On the upside, the Cable will face resistance near the 20-day EMA around 1.3060.
The Pound Sterling (GBP) is the oldest currency in the world (886 AD) and the official currency of the United Kingdom. It is the fourth most traded unit for foreign exchange (FX) in the world, accounting for 12% of all transactions, averaging $630 billion a day, according to 2022 data. Its key trading pairs are GBP/USD, also known as ‘Cable’, which accounts for 11% of FX, GBP/JPY, or the ‘Dragon’ as it is known by traders (3%), and EUR/GBP (2%). The Pound Sterling is issued by the Bank of England (BoE).
The single most important factor influencing the value of the Pound Sterling is monetary policy decided by the Bank of England. The BoE bases its decisions on whether it has achieved its primary goal of “price stability” – a steady inflation rate of around 2%. Its primary tool for achieving this is the adjustment of interest rates. When inflation is too high, the BoE will try to rein it in by raising interest rates, making it more expensive for people and businesses to access credit. This is generally positive for GBP, as higher interest rates make the UK a more attractive place for global investors to park their money. When inflation falls too low it is a sign economic growth is slowing. In this scenario, the BoE will consider lowering interest rates to cheapen credit so businesses will borrow more to invest in growth-generating projects.
Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact the value of the Pound Sterling. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, and employment can all influence the direction of the GBP. A strong economy is good for Sterling. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the BoE to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen GBP. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Pound Sterling is likely to fall.
Another significant data release for the Pound Sterling is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought-after exports, its currency will benefit purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.
Government formation is key but this may take up to weeks or even months. Uncertainty on this front may complicate fiscal-monetary policy, and weigh on JPY in the interim. LDP coalition can either form a coalition with another smaller party such as DPP or JIP or attempt to govern with a minority government with ad-hoc cooperation on certain issues with the smaller parties. Pair was last at 153.18 levels, OCBC’s FX analysts Frances Cheung and Christopher Wong note.
“But these parties have previously critic BoJ for raising interest rates. Alternatively, the opposition CDP leader, Noda (whom was a PM himself in 2011-12) can push to seek a coalition with other opposition parties. But it was last known that his party has had little success finding partners due to policy differences. Local news reported there may be a vote on 11 Nov on who will take premiership in a special parliamentary session. And there is now greater uncertainty if PM Ishiba will win enough votes to lead a new government as the new PM.”
“The focus is on BoJ MPC tomorrow. Consensus is for hold as policymakers may want to wait for greater clarity on government formation and economic policies before deciding on policy choice. That said, one may not want to rule out any surprises as policymakers may consider a hike tomorrow as an opportune time to tame JPY bears.”
“Bullish momentum on daily chart intact while RSI is from near overbought conditions. c. Support at 151.50 (200 DMA), 150.60/70 levels (50% fibo retracement of Jul high to Sep low, 100 DMA). Resistance at 155 and 156.50 (76.4% fibo). Slowing BoJ policy normalisation and Fed in no hurry to cut, alongside US election risks may imply that USDJPY may well stay supported in the interim.”
Silver prices (XAG/USD) fell on Wednesday, according to FXStreet data. Silver trades at $34.20 per troy ounce, down 0.75% from the $34.46 it cost on Tuesday.
Silver prices have increased by 43.72% since the beginning of the year.
Unit measure | Silver Price Today in USD |
---|---|
Troy Ounce | 34.20 |
1 Gram | 1.10 |
The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, stood at 81.33 on Wednesday, up from 80.53 on Tuesday.
Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets.
Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold's. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices.
Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices.
Silver prices tend to follow Gold's moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver.
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Oversold conditions and slowing momentum suggest Australian Dollar (AUD) is likely to trade in a range of 0.6545/0.6585. In the longer run, the potential for further sustained decline may be limited; the next level to monitor is 0.6520, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “After AUD fell sharply on Monday, we highlighted yesterday (Tuesday) that ‘While oversold, the decline could extend to 0.6560 before stabilisation can be expected.’ Our view of AUD declining was not wrong, even though it fell more than expected to 0.6545. Conditions remain oversold, this, combined with tentative signs of slowing momentum, suggests that instead of continuing to weaken, AUD is more likely to trade in a 0.6545/0.6585 range.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “Yesterday (29 Oct, spot at 0.6585) we indicated that ‘there is potential for AUD to continue to decline to 0.6560, possibly 0.6520.’ We did not quite expect AUD to reach 0.6560 as quickly, as it dropped to a low of 0.6545 during NY trading. Although the weakness has not stabilised, given that the current decline is entering its second month, the potential for further sustained weakness may be limited. The next level to monitor is 0.6520. On the upside, a breach of 0.6620 (‘strong resistance’ was at 0.6640 yesterday) would mean that the weakness has stabilised.”
The USD/CAD pair pulls back from its three-month high of 1.3929, recorded in the previous session, trading around 1.3910 during Wednesday's European session. The Canadian Dollar (CAD), tied to commodities, benefits from stronger Oil prices, as Canada remains the largest crude supplier to the United States (US).
West Texas Intermediate (WTI) Oil price rebounds after two days of losses, trading around $67.70 at the time of writing. Crude Oil prices are bolstered by an unexpected decline in US crude inventories. API US weekly crude Oil stockpiles fell by 0.573 million barrels in the week ending October 25, contrary to expectations of a 2.3 million-barrel increase. Investors now await the EIA crude Oil stockpiles report, due Wednesday.
On Monday, Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem provided more insight into last week’s substantial interest rate cut, describing it as justified following years of sharp rate increases aimed at curbing inflation. Macklem is expected to appear before the House of Commons Finance Committee on Wednesday to discuss the bank’s monetary policy.
The decline of the USD/CAD pair could also be attributed to a weaker US Dollar (USD), driven by lower Treasury yields. The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the value of the US Dollar against six other major currencies, trades around 104.10 with 2-year and 10-year yields on US Treasury bonds standing at 4.07% and 4.22%, respectively, at the time of writing.
Traders will likely watch the upcoming release of preliminary US Q3 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures and October’s ADP Employment Change, as these could offer important insights into the timing and pace of the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) expected rate cuts. Additionally, US PCE inflation and Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) will be closely monitored on Thursday and Friday, respectively.
The key factors driving the Canadian Dollar (CAD) are the level of interest rates set by the Bank of Canada (BoC), the price of Oil, Canada’s largest export, the health of its economy, inflation and the Trade Balance, which is the difference between the value of Canada’s exports versus its imports. Other factors include market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – with risk-on being CAD-positive. As its largest trading partner, the health of the US economy is also a key factor influencing the Canadian Dollar.
The Bank of Canada (BoC) has a significant influence on the Canadian Dollar by setting the level of interest rates that banks can lend to one another. This influences the level of interest rates for everyone. The main goal of the BoC is to maintain inflation at 1-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively higher interest rates tend to be positive for the CAD. The Bank of Canada can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former CAD-negative and the latter CAD-positive.
The price of Oil is a key factor impacting the value of the Canadian Dollar. Petroleum is Canada’s biggest export, so Oil price tends to have an immediate impact on the CAD value. Generally, if Oil price rises CAD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Oil falls. Higher Oil prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance, which is also supportive of the CAD.
While inflation had always traditionally been thought of as a negative factor for a currency since it lowers the value of money, the opposite has actually been the case in modern times with the relaxation of cross-border capital controls. Higher inflation tends to lead central banks to put up interest rates which attracts more capital inflows from global investors seeking a lucrative place to keep their money. This increases demand for the local currency, which in Canada’s case is the Canadian Dollar.
Macroeconomic data releases gauge the health of the economy and can have an impact on the Canadian Dollar. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the CAD. A strong economy is good for the Canadian Dollar. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the Bank of Canada to put up interest rates, leading to a stronger currency. If economic data is weak, however, the CAD is likely to fall.
The US Dollar (USD) traded 2-way overnight with gains on the back of strong consumer confidence but turned lower after JOLTS job openings slumped to lowest level since early 2021. DXY was last at 104.10, OCBC’s FX analysts Frances Cheung and Christopher Wong note.
“Moves reinforced our view for more 2-way trades in the USD this week amidst a slew of tier-1 data releases. Tonight, we have ADP employment, 3Q GDP before core PCE tomorrow and payrolls on Friday.”
“Daily momentum remains bullish but there are signs of it fading while RSI eased lower from overbought conditions. We see room for USD to retrace lower. That said, pullback may also be shallow ahead of US elections next week.”
“Support at 103.80 levels (200 DMA, 50% fibo), 102.90/103.20 levels (21, 100 DMAs, 38.2% fibo fibo retracement of 2023 high to 2024 low) and 101.90 (50 DMA). Resistance at 104.60 (61.8% fibo), 105.20 levels.”
The latest US macro news has dampened the dollar rally. Consumer confidence rose more than expected from 99.5 to 108.7 yesterday, the strongest monthly gain since March 2021. Interestingly, for the first time since July 2023, the survey shows some improved optimism about future job availability, ING’s FX analyst Francesco Pesole notes.
“The indications from the JOLTS job openings instead pointed to some cool-off in the jobs market. There was a revision in the August figure down to 7.8m, and the September print was 7.4m – well below the consensus of 8.0m. The JOLTS report also includes the quits rate, which has decreased sharply to 1.9% from the 3% early-2022 peak, when a high number of workers were leaving their jobs for higher-paid roles elsewhere.”
“The falling quits rate can indicate that there is indeed a greater scarcity of jobs but also that workers are more worried about the outlook and value job security. This is a net-negative indicator for the jobs market, but payrolls data needs to follow through with a soft read on Friday to convince markets to price back in Fed easing. The Fed funds futures curve is embedding 45bp of cuts over November and December.”
“Today, the US will release the advanced third-quarter GDP report, which includes the quarterly core PCE figures. These are expected at 2.1% QoQ, a decline from 2.8% in the second quarter. The ADP payrolls for October are also released today and are expected to have declined from 143k to 111k. Those have limited predictive power for actual payrolls, but can still move the market. We suspect a strong growth print can prevent the macro story from turning dollar-negative before payrolls on Friday, and allow Trump hedges and rising implied volatility to feed into a stronger dollar.”
The AUD/USD pair stages a goodish intraday recovery from its lowest level since August 8, around the 0.6535 region touched earlier this Wednesday and for now, seems to have snapped a three-day losing streak. Spot prices climb to a fresh daily high, around the 0.6685 area during the first half of the European session a modest US Dollar (USD) slide, though any meaningful appreciating move still seems elusive.
The USD Index (DXY), which tracks the Greenback against a basket of currencies, extends the overnight pullback from a three-month peak amid a further decline in the US Treasury bond yields. Meanwhile, the latest Australian consumer inflation figures released today dashed hopes for an interest rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) before the year-end. This, in turn, underpins the Australian Dollar (AUD) and contributes to the AUD/USD pair's intraday bounce.
That said, firming expectations for a less aggressive policy easing by the Federal Reserve (Fed), along with a generally weaker tone around the equity markets, should act as a tailwind for the safe-haven buck and cap the risk-sensitive Aussie. Traders might also refrain from placing aggressive directional bets ahead of important US macro releases. This makes it prudent to wait for strong follow-through buying before confirming that the AUD/USD pair has formed a near-term bottom.
From a technical perspective, the recent breakdown below the very important 200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) was seen as a fresh trigger for bearish traders. Moreover, oscillators on the daily chart are holding deep in negative territory and are still away from being in the oversold zone. This, in turn, suggests that any subsequent recovery beyond the 0.6600 mark might still be seen as a selling opportunity and remain capped near the 0.6630 area, or the 200-day SMA breakpoint.
The latter should act as a key pivotal point, which if cleared decisively could trigger a fresh bout of a short-covering rally and lift the AUD/USD pair to the 0.6675 intermediate hurdle en route to the 0.6700 round figure.
On the flip side, the daily swing low, around the 0.6535 area could offer some support ahead of the 0.6500 psychological mark. Some follow-through selling should pave the way for a further depreciating move towards the 0.6440-0.6435 support zone. The AUD/USD pair could eventually drop to the 0.6400 round figure and the next relevant support near the 0.6370 region.
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 German economy expanded by 0.2% over the quarter in the third quarter of 2024 after shrinking by 0.1% in the second quarter, according to the preliminary data published by Destatis on Wednesday. The market consensus was for a 0.1% decline.
Meanwhile, the annual GDP rate fell by 0.2% in Q3, following no growth reported in Q2 and against the -0.3% forecast.
EUR/USD catches a fresh bid on the German GDP expansion, adding 0.32% on the day to trade near 1.0850, at the time of writing. The pair awaits the Eurozone Preliminary GDP and Germany’s inflation data for further incentives.
The table below shows the percentage change of Euro (EUR) against listed major currencies today. Euro was the strongest against the US Dollar.
USD | EUR | GBP | JPY | CAD | AUD | NZD | CHF | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
USD | -0.32% | -0.06% | -0.28% | -0.07% | -0.33% | -0.43% | -0.14% | |
EUR | 0.32% | 0.26% | 0.05% | 0.25% | -0.02% | -0.11% | 0.21% | |
GBP | 0.06% | -0.26% | -0.20% | -0.01% | -0.29% | -0.38% | -0.06% | |
JPY | 0.28% | -0.05% | 0.20% | 0.19% | -0.07% | -0.18% | 0.13% | |
CAD | 0.07% | -0.25% | 0.01% | -0.19% | -0.27% | -0.37% | -0.05% | |
AUD | 0.33% | 0.02% | 0.29% | 0.07% | 0.27% | -0.09% | 0.21% | |
NZD | 0.43% | 0.11% | 0.38% | 0.18% | 0.37% | 0.09% | 0.31% | |
CHF | 0.14% | -0.21% | 0.06% | -0.13% | 0.05% | -0.21% | -0.31% |
The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the Euro from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent EUR (base)/USD (quote).
The Pound Sterling (GBP) is facing mild upward pressure; it could edge higher to 1.3035. The major resistance at 1.3070 is not expected to come into view. In the longer run, GBP is expected to trade in a 1.2950/1.3070 range; slightly firm underlying tone suggests it will likely test the top of the range first, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “We highlighted yesterday that ‘The price action still appears to be part of a sideways trading phase.’ We expected GBP to ‘trade in a 1.2940/1.2995 range.’ We did not expect GBP to rise to a high of 1.3018. There has been a slight increase in momentum. Today, there is a chance for GBP to edge higher to 1.3030 before levelling off. The major resistance at 1.3070 is unlikely to come into view. Support is at 1.2990; a breach of 1.2970 would indicate that the current mild upward pressure has eased.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “Our latest narrative was from two days ago (28 Oct, spot at 1.2960), wherein ‘downward momentum is slowing, and should GBP break above 1.3000 (‘strong resistance’ level), it would indicate that GBP is not declining further.’ Yesterday, GBP rose and broke above 1.3000, reaching a high of 1.3018. Downward momentum has faded. Upward momentum appears to be building, albeit tentatively. While GBP is expected to trade in a 1.2950/1.3070 range for now, the slightly firm underlying tone suggests it will likely test the top of the range first. At this time, a sustained break above this level appears unlikely.”
Australia's consumer price inflation rate fell to its lowest since early 2021 in the third quarter on government’s electricity rebates and a drop in gasoline prices, UOB Group’s Economist Lee Sue Ann note.
The annual pace of inflation came in at 2.8% y/y in 3Q24, significantly lower from 3.8% in 2Q24. CPI rose 0.2% q/q in 3Q24, a tad below expectations of 0.3% q/q.”
“However, core inflation, remains elevated. The trimmed mean measure increased by 0.8% q/q, just above forecasts of a 0.7% gain. The annual pace slowed to 3.5% from 4.0%, with service-sector inflation still elevated.”
“While 4Q24 is still a possibility, we are now pushing back our first rate cut forecast from Nov to Dec. There is even the possibility that the first rate cut will not arrive until its Feb meeting in 2025, if the RBA chooses to wait for the 4Q24 CPI print, due for release on 29 Jan 2025.”
Gold surge pushes on as markets continue to factor in US election risk premium as we inch closer to election day. In the de-centralised betting markets (poly market as a reference), Trump-over-Harris spread continued to widen sharply in favour of Trump. And that brings back worries of tariffs, inflation and fiscal concerns. XAU was last at 2783 levels, OCBC’s FX analysts Frances Cheung and Christopher Wong note.
“Trump’s proposed tax cut would add $7.5tn more to US debt (according to estimates from nonpartisan nonprofit committee for responsible federal budget). The potential ballooning in US debt also stirred up the narrative of dedollarisation, adding to demand for gold. Defensive positioning/ trump hedges (i.e. long USD, long gold, short CNH) may still gather traction in the near term given the fluidity of election developments and geopolitical uncertainties.”
“US election results should be known on the night of the election (6 Nov SGT). Outcome is a big unknown, judging from polls which is too close to call. There will be implications on prices of asset classes including gold, FX, etc as shifts in fiscal, foreign and trade policies may occur, depending on whether Trump or Harris is elected as the next President.”
A Trump outcome may see a play-up of USChina trade tensions and should inject some uncertainty to markets and continue to fuel demand for gold. While a Kamala Harris outcome should see some of these volatility and uncertainty ease. On this outcome, we may possibly see gold prices find a breather after a near 35% rally this year. Momentum is bullish while RSI is near overbought conditions. Next resistance at $2800. Support at $2720, $2690 (21 DMA).”
The Euro (EUR) held up above 1.08-handle overnight albeit still near 2-month lows. EUR was last seen at 1.0841, OCBC’s FX analysts Frances Cheung and Christopher Wong note.
“Quite a bit of negativity is in the price of EUR following recent dovish rhetoric out of ECB, softer growth/ economic momentum, USD strength and the fear of Trump win and the threat of that 10-20% tariff. But with much negativity in the price, we do caution for the risk of rebound if EU data this week surprise to the upside. 3Q GDP will be one to watch later today and CPI estimate will be key on Thu.”
“Momentum remains bearish though there are signs of it fading while RSI is rising from near oversold conditions. Resistance at 1.0830 (61.8% fibo retracement of 2024 low to high), 1.0870 (200 DMA), 1.0910/30 levels (21, 100 DMAs). Support at 1.0780, 1.0740 (76.4% fibo).
Growth and inflation data across the eurozone begin to flow in today. This morning, French third-quarter GDP figures came in one-tenth above consensus at 0.4% QoQ, and we’ll see German and Italian growth numbers before the advanced eurozone print is released at 11.00 CET. Consensus is expecting a second consecutive 0.1% QoQ contraction in Germany, and unchanged 0.2% QoQ eurozone-wide growth, ING’s FX analyst Francesco Pesole.
“The greater emphasis by the ECB on growth’s downside risks means these GDP numbers can have a higher market impact than usual. Incidentally, the Governing Council’s sanguine stance on inflation and their explicit tolerance for some bumps in the numbers across the next few months mean that CPI figures can have a somewhat reduced impact on the euro.”
“October numbers for Spain and Germany are published today, and the eurozone flash estimate tomorrow. Core Spanish inflation is seen inching lower to 2.3%, while German headline numbers are widely expected to rebound from September’s 1.6%.”
“EUR/USD briefly explored levels below 1.080 yesterday but then got a lift from soft US job openings. Barring a material surprise on growth/inflation today and tomorrow, markets will likely remain reluctant to price out ECB easing given the latest dovish communication, and a still wide USD:EUR short-term swap rate gap will stay consistent with EUR/USD around 1.07.”
Silver (XAG/USD) meets with a fresh supply on Wednesday and drops back closer to the $34.00 mark during the first half of the European session, reversing a part of the previous day's move up.
From a technical perspective, the XAG/USD is holding comfortably above important daily moving averages – 50-day, 100-day and 200-day SMAs. Moreover, oscillators on the daily chart maintain their positive bias and are still away from being in the overbought territory, suggesting that the path of least resistance for the white metal remains to the upside.
Hence, any subsequent slide is more likely to find decent support near the $33.70 horizontal zone. This is followed by last week's swing low, around the $33.10 area, which if broken decisively might shift the bias in favor of bearish traders. The XAG/USD might then accelerate the slide towards the $32.20-$32.15 intermediate support en route to the $32.00 round figure.
Some follow-through selling below the $31.70-$31.65 region could drag the XAG/USD towards the $31.00 mark. The downward trajectory could extend further towards the $30.50 area and the monthly swing low, close to the $30.00 psychological mark tested on October 8.
On the flip side, bulls might now wait for a sustained strength beyond the $34.50-$34.55 area before making a fresh attempt to conquer the $35.00 psychological mark. The subsequent move up has the potential to lift the XAG/USD further towards the October 2012 swing high, around the $35.35-$35.40 region.
Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets.
Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold's. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices.
Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices.
Silver prices tend to follow Gold's moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver.
The Euro (EUR) is expected to trade in a range between 1.0790 and 1.0840. In the longer run, month-long decline has come to an end; EUR is expected to trade in a 1.0760/1.0885 range for the time being, UOB Group’s FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Lee Sue Ann note.
24-HOUR VIEW: “Yesterday, we expected EUR to ‘trade in a range, probably between 1.0790 and 1.0830.’ Our view was incorrect, as EUR fell sharply but briefly to 1.0768, rebounding to close largely unchanged at 1.0818 (+0.06%). The brief drop did not result in an increase in momentum. Today, we continue to expect EUR to trade in a range, likely between 1.0790 and 1.0840.”
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: “We turned negative in EUR early this month (see annotations in the chart below). As we tracked the decline, in our most recent narrative from last Friday (25 Oct, spot at 1.0825), we highlighted that ‘should EUR break above 1.0840, it would signal the end of the decline that started early this month.’ Yesterday, EUR dipped to 1.0768, then rebounded to a high of 1.0826. Although our ‘strong resistance’ level at 1.0840 has not been breached yet, downward momentum has largely faded. In other words, the month-long decline has come to an end. The current price movements are likely part of a range trading phase, and EUR is expected to trade between 1.0760 and 1.0885 for the time being.”
EUR/GBP recovers its recent losses from the previous session, trading near 0.8320 in the European session on Wednesday. This downward trend in the EUR/GBP cross could be attributed to a weaker Pound Sterling (GBP) ahead of the UK’s upcoming Autumn Forecast Statement. This will mark the first budget announcement by a Labor government in over 15 years.
Reuters cited government sources, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves plans to implement approximately £40 billion ($52 billion) in fiscal measures, primarily through tax increases, to fulfill her commitment to fund day-to-day government expenses.
The Euro may face headwinds as the European Central Bank (ECB) is widely expected to lower its Deposit Facility Rate again. Current money market data suggests nearly a 50% probability of a 50 basis point rate cut in the December meeting.
Investors will pay close attention to preliminary Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data from Germany and the Eurozone, as well as Germany’s preliminary Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) figures, all set for release on Wednesday.
In recent days, ECB policymakers have expressed mixed views on monetary policy. Pierre Wunsch, Governor of the National Bank of Belgium, indicated that there is no urgency to accelerate rate cuts and even suggested that a modest rate could be sustained. In contrast, Mario Centeno, Governor of the Bank of Portugal, supported the idea of a potential 50 basis point rate cut in December.
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP), released by the Eurostat on a quarterly basis, is a measure of the total value of all goods and services produced in the Eurozone during a certain period of time. The GDP and its main aggregates are among the most significant indicators of the state of any economy. The YoY reading compares economic activity in the reference quarter compared with the same quarter a year earlier. Generally speaking, a rise in this indicator is bullish for the Euro (EUR), while a low reading is seen as bearish.
Read more.Next release: Wed Oct 30, 2024 10:00 (Prel)
Frequency: Quarterly
Consensus: 0.8%
Previous: 0.6%
Source: Eurostat
EUR/USD trades close to Tuesday’s high slightly above 1.0800 in Wednesday’s European session. The major currency pair remains sideways for a third consecutive day as investors await key macroeconomic data from both the Eurozone and the United States (US) that is likely to inject volatility into the pair.
In Europe, the October preliminary Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) data from Germany and six of its states, and from Spain will indicate whether inflationary pressures continue to remain within the European Central Bank’s (ECB) target of 2%.
Economists estimate the German HICP to have grown at a faster pace of 2.1% from 1.8% in September, while inflation in Spain is expected to have remained below 2%.
Unless there is a big upside surprise, the impact of the inflation data is expected to be less significant on the ECB’s interest rate action in its upcoming policy meeting in December as officials see price pressures softening faster than what the central bank had anticipated.
Recent commentaries from ECB policymakers have indicated that they are worried about inflation remaining persistently lower due to weakening economic growth. Market participants are worried about the outlook of the Eurozone economy.
Meanwhile, uncertainty ahead of the US presidential election persists. While national polls have indicated tight competition between former US President Donald Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris, traders seem to be pricing in a Trump victory, which would have deep repercussions also for the Eurozone.
Trump has promised a universal 10% tariff on all imports, except those from China, which would face even bigger tariffs. The threat of tariffs could impact the Eurozone’s powerful export sector significantly. Investment banking firm Goldman Sachs projects a 1% drop in the Eurozone’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) if a universal 10% tariff is imposed.
In Wednesday’s session, investors will also focus on the flash Q3 GDP data of the Eurozone and its major regions. Market participants will pay close attention to German growth numbers as the region’s largest economy is forecasted to contract for the second quarter in a row.
Meanwhile, the preliminary French Q3 GDP grew at an expected pace of 0.4%, faster than 0.2% in the second quarter of this year.
EUR/USD consolidates around 1.0800 in European trading hours on Wednesday. The shared currency pair continues to hold above the upward-sloping trendline near 1.0750, which is plotted from the October 3, 2023, low at around 1.0450 on the daily time frame. However, the broader outlook of the major currency pair remains bearish as it stays below the 200-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), which trades around 1.0900.
The downside move in the shared currency pair started after a breakdown of a Double Top formation on the daily time frame near the September 11 low at around 1.1000, which resulted in a bearish reversal.
The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains in the 20.00-40.00 range, pointing to more downside ahead.
On the downside, the major pair could see more weakness towards the round-level support of 1.0700 if it slips below 1.0750. Meanwhile, the 200-day EMA near 1.0900, and the psychological figure of 1.1000 emerge as key resistances.
The Euro is the currency for the 19 European Union countries that belong to the Eurozone. It is the second most heavily traded currency in the world behind the US Dollar. In 2022, it accounted for 31% of all foreign exchange transactions, with an average daily turnover of over $2.2 trillion a day. EUR/USD is the most heavily traded currency pair in the world, accounting for an estimated 30% off all transactions, followed by EUR/JPY (4%), EUR/GBP (3%) and EUR/AUD (2%).
The European Central Bank (ECB) in Frankfurt, Germany, is the reserve bank for the Eurozone. The ECB sets interest rates and manages monetary policy. The ECB’s primary mandate is to maintain price stability, which means either controlling inflation or stimulating growth. Its primary tool is the raising or lowering of interest rates. Relatively high interest rates – or the expectation of higher rates – will usually benefit the Euro and vice versa. The ECB Governing Council makes monetary policy decisions at meetings held eight times a year. Decisions are made by heads of the Eurozone national banks and six permanent members, including the President of the ECB, Christine Lagarde.
Eurozone inflation data, measured by the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), is an important econometric for the Euro. If inflation rises more than expected, especially if above the ECB’s 2% target, it obliges the ECB to raise interest rates to bring it back under control. Relatively high interest rates compared to its counterparts will usually benefit the Euro, as it makes the region more attractive as a place for global investors to park their money.
Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact on the Euro. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the single currency. A strong economy is good for the Euro. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the ECB to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen the Euro. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Euro is likely to fall. Economic data for the four largest economies in the euro area (Germany, France, Italy and Spain) are especially significant, as they account for 75% of the Eurozone’s economy.
Another significant data release for the Euro is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought after exports then its currency will gain in value purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.
The NZD/USD pair remains tepid for the fourth consecutive session, trading around 0.5970 during Wednesday's European session. Analysis of the daily chart shows a downward movement within a descending channel, indicating a bearish bias.
Adding to this outlook, the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) remains below the 14-day EMA, further supporting the bearish sentiment for the NZD/USD pair. Short-term momentum appears weak, suggesting continued downward pressure.
The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI), a key momentum indicator, currently hovers just above the 30 mark. A drop below this level would signal an oversold condition, potentially pointing to an upcoming upward correction for the NZD/USD pair.
On the downside, the NZD/USD pair could target the lower boundary of the descending channel around the 0.5930 level. A decisive break below this support might lead the pair toward the "pullback support" near 0.5850.
For resistance, the initial obstacle is the upper boundary of the descending channel, close to the nine-day Exponential Moving Average around 0.6006, followed by the 14-day EMA at 0.6033. A sustained move above these EMAs could shift the NZD/USD pair to a short-term bullish stance, potentially aiming for the psychological level of 0.6100.
The table below shows the percentage change of New Zealand Dollar (NZD) against listed major currencies today. New Zealand Dollar was the weakest against the Swiss Franc.
USD | EUR | GBP | JPY | CAD | AUD | NZD | CHF | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
USD | -0.00% | 0.07% | -0.02% | 0.02% | 0.06% | 0.00% | -0.08% | |
EUR | 0.00% | 0.08% | 0.00% | 0.03% | 0.06% | 0.01% | -0.07% | |
GBP | -0.07% | -0.08% | -0.08% | -0.06% | -0.02% | -0.07% | -0.13% | |
JPY | 0.02% | 0.00% | 0.08% | 0.03% | 0.07% | 0.00% | -0.06% | |
CAD | -0.02% | -0.03% | 0.06% | -0.03% | 0.03% | -0.01% | -0.08% | |
AUD | -0.06% | -0.06% | 0.02% | -0.07% | -0.03% | -0.04% | -0.13% | |
NZD | -0.01% | -0.01% | 0.07% | -0.01% | 0.01% | 0.04% | -0.07% | |
CHF | 0.08% | 0.07% | 0.13% | 0.06% | 0.08% | 0.13% | 0.07% |
The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the New Zealand Dollar from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent NZD (base)/USD (quote).
AUD/JPY extends its losses for the second successive session, trading around 100.50 during the early European hours on Wednesday. This downside of the AUD/JPY cross is attributed to the weaker Australian Dollar (AUD) following lower-than-expected Australia's third-quarter Consumer Price Index (CPI) data.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose just 0.2% quarter-over-quarter in the third quarter, down from 1.0% in the previous quarter and slightly below the anticipated 0.3%. The monthly CPI rose by 2.1% year-over-year in September, coming in below market expectations of 2.3% and down from August's reading of 2.7%.
However, the downside of the AUD could be restrained due to the hawkish sentiment surrounding the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) regarding its policy outlook. The Reserve Bank of Australia signaled that the current cash rate of 4.35% is sufficiently restrictive to guide inflation back to the target range of 2%-3% while continuing to support employment. As a result, a rate cut in November appears unlikely.
The Japanese Yen (JPY) may encounter pressure due to ongoing uncertainty surrounding the Bank of Japan’s (BoJ) rate-hike intentions, especially after the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) coalition lost its parliamentary majority in Sunday’s election.
Japan’s Economy Minister Ryosei Akazawa remarked on Tuesday that a weaker Yen could drive up prices via higher import costs, potentially reducing real household income and dampening private consumption if wage growth does not keep pace.
The Bank of Japan’s interest rate decision, scheduled for Thursday, remains a focal point, with nearly 86% of economists surveyed by Reuters anticipating that the central bank will hold rates steady at its October meeting.
Interest rates are charged by financial institutions on loans to borrowers and are paid as interest to savers and depositors. They are influenced by base lending rates, which are set by central banks in response to changes in the economy. Central banks normally have a mandate to ensure price stability, which in most cases means targeting a core inflation rate of around 2%. If inflation falls below target the central bank may cut base lending rates, with a view to stimulating lending and boosting the economy. If inflation rises substantially above 2% it normally results in the central bank raising base lending rates in an attempt to lower inflation.
Higher interest rates generally help strengthen a country’s currency as they make it a more attractive place for global investors to park their money.
Higher interest rates overall weigh on the price of Gold because they increase the opportunity cost of holding Gold instead of investing in an interest-bearing asset or placing cash in the bank. If interest rates are high that usually pushes up the price of the US Dollar (USD), and since Gold is priced in Dollars, this has the effect of lowering the price of Gold.
The Fed funds rate is the overnight rate at which US banks lend to each other. It is the oft-quoted headline rate set by the Federal Reserve at its FOMC meetings. It is set as a range, for example 4.75%-5.00%, though the upper limit (in that case 5.00%) is the quoted figure. Market expectations for future Fed funds rate are tracked by the CME FedWatch tool, which shapes how many financial markets behave in anticipation of future Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions.
The US Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) is scheduled to release the preliminary estimate of the US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the July-September quarter on Wednesday. Analysts anticipate that the report will indicate an annualised economic growth rate of 3.0%, matching the expansion recorded in the previous quarter.
This Wednesday, the US Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) is set to release the first estimate of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the third quarter (July-September) at 12:30 GMT. Initial projections point to an annualised economic growth rate of 3.0%, in line with the expansion seen in the previous period and indicating a robust pace for the domestic economy, which continues to outpace its G10 counterparts.
The updated Summary of Economic Projections at the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) September meeting revealed several changes from June. The Fed’s median forecast for real GDP growth remained mostly steady at 2.0% for 2024, 2025 and 2026, and 1.8% for the long term.
The Fed also announced that it had raised the median unemployment rate projections to 4.4% for both 2024 and 2025, 4.3% for 2026 and 4.2% in the long run, up from the previous estimates of 4.0%, 4.2%, 4.1% and 4.2%, respectively.
Regarding inflation, the Fed reported that the median estimate for the core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index was revised down to 2.6% for 2024, 2.2% for 2025 and 2.0% for 2026,from earlier projections of 2.8%, 2.3% and 2.0%.
The latest GDPNow forecast from the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, released on Friday, projects that the US economy expanded at an annual rate of 3.3% in the third quarter.
Market observers will be paying close attention to the GDP Price Index, which tracks changes in the prices of goods and services produced domestically, including exports but excluding imports. This index provides a clear view of how inflation is affecting GDP. For the third quarter, the GDP Price Index is expected to increase by 2.7%, up from the 2.5% rise seen in the second quarter.
Along withthe GDP Price Index, the upcoming GDP report will include the quarterly Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index and the core PCE Price Index. These metrics are crucial for assessing inflation, with the core PCE Price Index being the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure.
Ahead of the GDP release, analysts at TD Securities shared their insights: “US Q3 GDP strength is likely to persist with a 3% gain, driven by strong domestic demand and a resilient consumer base.”
The US GDP report will be published at 12:30 GMT on Wednesday. In addition to the headline real GDP figure,changes in private domestic purchases, the GDP Price Index and the Q3 PCE Price Index figures could impact the US Dollar’s (USD) valuation.
Sticky inflation readings in September, combined with the still robust US labour market, have recently fuelled expectations for a smaller Fed rate cut in November.
According to the CME FedWatch Tool, a 25 basis points (bps) rate reduction in November is almost fully priced in.
Looking at the USD, a firm GDP could provide the Fed with additional justification to go for the small option at next month’s meeting. On the other hand, a disappointing GDP print—albeit unlikely—could motivate the Greenback to take a momentary breather, if any at all.
Pablo Piovano, Senior Analyst at FXStreet, gives his view on the technical outlook for the US Dollar Index (DXY): “Amidst the ongoing rally in the US Dollar Index (DXY), the next key target is the October 29 high of 104.63 (October 29). Once this region is cleared, the index could embark on a potential test of the weekly top of 104.79 (July 30).”
“On the downside, strong support remains at the year-to-date low of 100.15 (September 27). Should selling pressure reappear and the DXY breach this level, it may retest the psychological 100.00 milestone, potentially leading to a drop to the 2023 low of 99.57 (July 14)”, added Pablo.
The real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Annualized, released quarterly by the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, measures the value of the final goods and services produced in the United States in a given period of time. Changes in GDP are the most popular indicator of the nation’s overall economic health. The data is expressed at an annualized rate, which means that the rate has been adjusted to reflect the amount GDP would have changed over a year’s time, had it continued to grow at that specific rate. Generally speaking, a high reading is seen as bullish for the US Dollar (USD), while a low reading is seen as bearish.
Read more.Next release: Wed Oct 30, 2024 12:30 (Prel)
Frequency: Quarterly
Consensus: 3%
Previous: 3%
Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis
The US Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) releases the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth on an annualized basis for each quarter. After publishing the first estimate, the BEA revises the data two more times, with the third release representing the final reading. Usually, the first estimate is the main market mover and a positive surprise is seen as a USD-positive development while a disappointing print is likely to weigh on the greenback. Market participants usually dismiss the second and third releases as they are generally not significant enough to meaningfully alter the growth picture.
A country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the rate of growth of its economy over a given period of time, usually a quarter. The most reliable figures are those that compare GDP to the previous quarter e.g Q2 of 2023 vs Q1 of 2023, or to the same period in the previous year, e.g Q2 of 2023 vs Q2 of 2022. Annualized quarterly GDP figures extrapolate the growth rate of the quarter as if it were constant for the rest of the year. These can be misleading, however, if temporary shocks impact growth in one quarter but are unlikely to last all year – such as happened in the first quarter of 2020 at the outbreak of the covid pandemic, when growth plummeted.
A higher GDP result is generally positive for a nation’s currency as it reflects a growing economy, which is more likely to produce goods and services that can be exported, as well as attracting higher foreign investment. By the same token, when GDP falls it is usually negative for the currency. When an economy grows people tend to spend more, which leads to inflation. The country’s central bank then has to put up interest rates to combat the inflation with the side effect of attracting more capital inflows from global investors, thus helping the local currency appreciate.
When an economy grows and GDP is rising, people tend to spend more which leads to inflation. The country’s central bank then has to put up interest rates to combat the inflation. Higher interest rates are negative for Gold because they increase the opportunity-cost of holding Gold versus placing the money in a cash deposit account. Therefore, a higher GDP growth rate is usually a bearish factor for Gold price.
The GBP/USD pair trades in negative territory around 1.3005 on Wednesday during the early European trading hours. Investors will closely monitor the UK Autumn Budget 2024. The UK government is set to deliver Labour’s first budget in almost 15 years on Wednesday. Commerzbank analysts said that if the budget combines austerity with the hope of tackling long-term investment, “this should be positive for the pound as it would strengthen the U.K.’s long-term growth potential.”
GBP/USD keeps the bearish vibe on the 4-hour chart as the major pair is below the key 100-period Exponential Moving Average (EMA). Nonetheless, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands above the 50-midline near 57.60, indicating that further upside cannot be ruled out in the near term.
The lower limit of the Bollinger Band at 1.2943 acts as an initial support level for GBP/USD. A breach of this level could expose the 1.2910-1.2900 region, portraying the low of October 24 and the psychological figure. The next contention level to watch is 1.2813, the low of August 14.
On the bright side, the upper boundary of the Bollinger Band at 1.3016 acts as the first upside barrier for the major pair. Extended gains could pave the way to the 100-period EMA at 1.3032. The next hurdle is located at 1.3071, the high of October 18.
The Pound Sterling (GBP) is the oldest currency in the world (886 AD) and the official currency of the United Kingdom. It is the fourth most traded unit for foreign exchange (FX) in the world, accounting for 12% of all transactions, averaging $630 billion a day, according to 2022 data. Its key trading pairs are GBP/USD, also known as ‘Cable’, which accounts for 11% of FX, GBP/JPY, or the ‘Dragon’ as it is known by traders (3%), and EUR/GBP (2%). The Pound Sterling is issued by the Bank of England (BoE).
The single most important factor influencing the value of the Pound Sterling is monetary policy decided by the Bank of England. The BoE bases its decisions on whether it has achieved its primary goal of “price stability” – a steady inflation rate of around 2%. Its primary tool for achieving this is the adjustment of interest rates. When inflation is too high, the BoE will try to rein it in by raising interest rates, making it more expensive for people and businesses to access credit. This is generally positive for GBP, as higher interest rates make the UK a more attractive place for global investors to park their money. When inflation falls too low it is a sign economic growth is slowing. In this scenario, the BoE will consider lowering interest rates to cheapen credit so businesses will borrow more to invest in growth-generating projects.
Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact the value of the Pound Sterling. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, and employment can all influence the direction of the GBP. A strong economy is good for Sterling. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the BoE to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen GBP. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Pound Sterling is likely to fall.
Another significant data release for the Pound Sterling is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought-after exports, its currency will benefit purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.
Here is what you need to know on Wednesday, October 30:
The action in foreign exchange markets remain subdued early Wednesday as investors gear up for key macroeconomic data releases. The European economic docket will feature inflation and Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data for Spain, Italy and Germany, as well as GDP figures for the Eurozone. Later in the day, ADP Employment Change data from the US will be watched closely and the US Bureau of Economic Analysis will publish the first estimate of the annualized GDP growth for the third quarter.
After edging higher during the European trading hours on Tuesday, the US Dollar (USD) Index lost its traction on disappointing JOLTS Job Openings data for September and closed the day virtually unchanged. Early Wednesday, the index continues to move sideways above 104.00. Meanwhile, US stock index futures trade marginally higher following the mixed action seen in Wall Street on Tuesday. The US GDP report will also include quarterly Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index readings.
The table below shows the percentage change of US Dollar (USD) against listed major currencies this week. US Dollar was the strongest against the Australian Dollar.
USD | EUR | GBP | JPY | CAD | AUD | NZD | CHF | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
USD | -0.28% | -0.40% | -0.02% | 0.16% | 0.77% | 0.25% | -0.19% | |
EUR | 0.28% | 0.00% | 0.18% | 0.44% | 1.13% | 0.51% | 0.11% | |
GBP | 0.40% | -0.00% | 1.02% | 0.56% | 1.18% | 0.62% | 0.37% | |
JPY | 0.02% | -0.18% | -1.02% | 0.24% | 0.14% | -0.48% | -0.64% | |
CAD | -0.16% | -0.44% | -0.56% | -0.24% | 0.56% | 0.02% | -0.31% | |
AUD | -0.77% | -1.13% | -1.18% | -0.14% | -0.56% | -0.63% | -1.00% | |
NZD | -0.25% | -0.51% | -0.62% | 0.48% | -0.02% | 0.63% | -0.44% | |
CHF | 0.19% | -0.11% | -0.37% | 0.64% | 0.31% | 1.00% | 0.44% |
The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the US Dollar from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the Japanese Yen, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent USD (base)/JPY (quote).
EUR/USD fell below 1.0800 on Tuesday but staged a rebound in the American session to end the day flat. The pair holds steady at around 1.0820 to begin the European session. In addition to above-mentioned data, the European Commission will publish business and consumer sentiment figures for October.
GBP/USD registered small gains and closed above 1.3000 on Tuesday. The pair stays in a consolidation phase early Wednesday. The UK government will release the Autumn Forecast Statement and unveil the Autumn Budget later in the day.
During the Asian trading hours, the data from Australia showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.2% on a quarterly basis in the third quarter. This reading followed the 1% increase recorded in the second quarter and came in slightly below the market expectation of 0.3%. On a yearly basis, the CPI rose 2.8%, compared to analysts' estimate of 2.9%. AUD/USD stays under modest bearish pressure and trades near 0.6550 in the European morning on Wednesday.
USD/JPY failed to gather directional momentum and ended the day flat on Tuesday. The pair stays relatively quiet early Wednesday and fluctuates in a narrow band above 153.00.
Gold gathered bullish momentum and gained more than 1% on Tuesday. XAU/USD continues to stretch higher toward $2,800 and trades at a new record-high on Wednesday.
A country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) measures the rate of growth of its economy over a given period of time, usually a quarter. The most reliable figures are those that compare GDP to the previous quarter e.g Q2 of 2023 vs Q1 of 2023, or to the same period in the previous year, e.g Q2 of 2023 vs Q2 of 2022. Annualized quarterly GDP figures extrapolate the growth rate of the quarter as if it were constant for the rest of the year. These can be misleading, however, if temporary shocks impact growth in one quarter but are unlikely to last all year – such as happened in the first quarter of 2020 at the outbreak of the covid pandemic, when growth plummeted.
A higher GDP result is generally positive for a nation’s currency as it reflects a growing economy, which is more likely to produce goods and services that can be exported, as well as attracting higher foreign investment. By the same token, when GDP falls it is usually negative for the currency. When an economy grows people tend to spend more, which leads to inflation. The country’s central bank then has to put up interest rates to combat the inflation with the side effect of attracting more capital inflows from global investors, thus helping the local currency appreciate.
When an economy grows and GDP is rising, people tend to spend more which leads to inflation. The country’s central bank then has to put up interest rates to combat the inflation. Higher interest rates are negative for Gold because they increase the opportunity-cost of holding Gold versus placing the money in a cash deposit account. Therefore, a higher GDP growth rate is usually a bearish factor for Gold price.
FX option expiries for Oct 30 NY cut at 10:00 Eastern Time, via DTCC, can be found below.
EUR/USD: EUR amounts
USD/JPY: USD amounts
USD/CHF: USD amounts
AUD/USD: AUD amounts
USD/CAD: USD amounts
The EUR/JPY cross weakens to near 165.75 during the early European trading session on Wednesday. The anticipation that the European Central Bank (ECB) would cut its Deposit Facility Rate again this year exerts some selling pressure on the Euro (EUR).
According to the 4-hour chart, the positive outlook of EUR/JPY prevails as the cross holds above the key 100-period Exponential Moving Average (EMA). Additionally, the upward momentum is supported by the Relative Strength Index (RSI), which stands above the midline near 62.20, supporting the buyers in the near term.
The first upside barrier for the cross emerges at the 166.00-166.10 zone, representing the high of October 29 and the psychological level. A decisive break above this level could see a rally to 166.55, the upper boundary of the Bollinger Band. The next resistance level is located at 167.95, the high of July 30.
On the downside, the initial support level for EUR/JPY is seen at 165.16, the low of October 29. Any follow-through selling below the mentioned level could see a drop to 164.32, the low of October 26. The additional downside filter to watch is 164.06, the lower limit of the Bollinger Band.
The Euro is the currency for the 19 European Union countries that belong to the Eurozone. It is the second most heavily traded currency in the world behind the US Dollar. In 2022, it accounted for 31% of all foreign exchange transactions, with an average daily turnover of over $2.2 trillion a day. EUR/USD is the most heavily traded currency pair in the world, accounting for an estimated 30% off all transactions, followed by EUR/JPY (4%), EUR/GBP (3%) and EUR/AUD (2%).
The European Central Bank (ECB) in Frankfurt, Germany, is the reserve bank for the Eurozone. The ECB sets interest rates and manages monetary policy. The ECB’s primary mandate is to maintain price stability, which means either controlling inflation or stimulating growth. Its primary tool is the raising or lowering of interest rates. Relatively high interest rates – or the expectation of higher rates – will usually benefit the Euro and vice versa. The ECB Governing Council makes monetary policy decisions at meetings held eight times a year. Decisions are made by heads of the Eurozone national banks and six permanent members, including the President of the ECB, Christine Lagarde.
Eurozone inflation data, measured by the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), is an important econometric for the Euro. If inflation rises more than expected, especially if above the ECB’s 2% target, it obliges the ECB to raise interest rates to bring it back under control. Relatively high interest rates compared to its counterparts will usually benefit the Euro, as it makes the region more attractive as a place for global investors to park their money.
Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact on the Euro. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the single currency. A strong economy is good for the Euro. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the ECB to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen the Euro. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Euro is likely to fall. Economic data for the four largest economies in the euro area (Germany, France, Italy and Spain) are especially significant, as they account for 75% of the Eurozone’s economy.
Another significant data release for the Euro is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought after exports then its currency will gain in value purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.
USD/CHF steadies with a bias of extending gains for the second consecutive day amid higher US Dollar (USD) and improved Treasury yields. The pair trades around 0.8670 during the Asian hours on Wednesday. The US Q3 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures and October's ADP Employment Change are set to be released later in the North American session.
The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the value of the US Dollar against six other major currencies, trades around 104.30 with 2-year and 10-year yields on US Treasury bonds standing at 4.09% and 4.24%, respectively, at the time of writing.
Regarding the US presidential election, a three-day poll conducted by Reuters/Ipsos, which concluded on Sunday and was released on Tuesday, indicated that the race is essentially tied as the November 5 election approaches. Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, has seen her lead over Republican nominee Donald Trump narrow to just one percentage point, with 44% support compared to Trump's 43%.
The demand for the safe-haven Swiss Franc (CHF) may decline due to easing concerns over a potential all-out war in the Middle East. An Axios reporter posted on X that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would soon meet with several ministers and military and intelligence leaders to discuss a diplomatic resolution to the war in Lebanon, per Reuters.
Traders are expected to monitor the Swiss Consumer Price Index (CPI) for October and the Real Retail Sales for September, both set to be released on Friday. These data points could provide insights into the economic conditions in Switzerland.
The Swiss Franc (CHF) is Switzerland’s official currency. It is among the top ten most traded currencies globally, reaching volumes that well exceed the size of the Swiss economy. Its value is determined by the broad market sentiment, the country’s economic health or action taken by the Swiss National Bank (SNB), among other factors. Between 2011 and 2015, the Swiss Franc was pegged to the Euro (EUR). The peg was abruptly removed, resulting in a more than 20% increase in the Franc’s value, causing a turmoil in markets. Even though the peg isn’t in force anymore, CHF fortunes tend to be highly correlated with the Euro ones due to the high dependency of the Swiss economy on the neighboring Eurozone.
The Swiss Franc (CHF) is considered a safe-haven asset, or a currency that investors tend to buy in times of market stress. This is due to the perceived status of Switzerland in the world: a stable economy, a strong export sector, big central bank reserves or a longstanding political stance towards neutrality in global conflicts make the country’s currency a good choice for investors fleeing from risks. Turbulent times are likely to strengthen CHF value against other currencies that are seen as more risky to invest in.
The Swiss National Bank (SNB) meets four times a year – once every quarter, less than other major central banks – to decide on monetary policy. The bank aims for an annual inflation rate of less than 2%. When inflation is above target or forecasted to be above target in the foreseeable future, the bank will attempt to tame price growth by raising its policy rate. Higher interest rates are generally positive for the Swiss Franc (CHF) as they lead to higher yields, making the country a more attractive place for investors. On the contrary, lower interest rates tend to weaken CHF.
Macroeconomic data releases in Switzerland are key to assessing the state of the economy and can impact the Swiss Franc’s (CHF) valuation. The Swiss economy is broadly stable, but any sudden change in economic growth, inflation, current account or the central bank’s currency reserves have the potential to trigger moves in CHF. Generally, high economic growth, low unemployment and high confidence are good for CHF. Conversely, if economic data points to weakening momentum, CHF is likely to depreciate.
As a small and open economy, Switzerland is heavily dependent on the health of the neighboring Eurozone economies. The broader European Union is Switzerland’s main economic partner and a key political ally, so macroeconomic and monetary policy stability in the Eurozone is essential for Switzerland and, thus, for the Swiss Franc (CHF). With such dependency, some models suggest that the correlation between the fortunes of the Euro (EUR) and the CHF is more than 90%, or close to perfect.
The GBP/JPY cross edges lower during the Asian session on Wednesday and erodes a part of the previous day's gains to over a three-month peak, around the 199.70 region. Spot prices, however, lack follow-through selling and manage to hold above the 199.00 mark as trades look to the UK Autumn Budget for some meaningful impetus.
This will be the first budget announcement under the recently elected Labour government where Rachel Reeves, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, is expected to raise taxes and increase public spending as suggested by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Traders will keenly focus on the overall spending plans as it will influence the Bank of England’s (BoE) interest rate path, which, in turn, should influence the British Pound (GBP) and provide some meaningful impetus to the GBP/JPY cross.
In the meantime, the possibility of more BoE rate cuts in November and December, bolstered by a fall in the UK Consumer Price Index to the lowest level since April 2021 and below the central bank's 2% target, is seen acting as a headwind for the GBP. The Japanese Yen (JPY), on the other hand, draws some support from fears that authorities will intervene in the market to prop up the domestic currency. This turns out to be another factor exerting some pressure on the GBP/JPY cross.
Meanwhile, the loss of a parliamentary majority by Japan's ruling coalition raised doubts over the Bank of Japan's (BoJ) ability to tighten its monetary policy further. This, along with the prevalent risk-on environment, might keep a lid on any meaningful appreciating move for the JPY and help limit the downside for the GBP/JPY cross. Hence, any subsequent slide might still be seen as a buying opportunity, warranting some caution before confirming that spot prices have topped out.
The Pound Sterling (GBP) is the oldest currency in the world (886 AD) and the official currency of the United Kingdom. It is the fourth most traded unit for foreign exchange (FX) in the world, accounting for 12% of all transactions, averaging $630 billion a day, according to 2022 data. Its key trading pairs are GBP/USD, also known as ‘Cable’, which accounts for 11% of FX, GBP/JPY, or the ‘Dragon’ as it is known by traders (3%), and EUR/GBP (2%). The Pound Sterling is issued by the Bank of England (BoE).
The single most important factor influencing the value of the Pound Sterling is monetary policy decided by the Bank of England. The BoE bases its decisions on whether it has achieved its primary goal of “price stability” – a steady inflation rate of around 2%. Its primary tool for achieving this is the adjustment of interest rates. When inflation is too high, the BoE will try to rein it in by raising interest rates, making it more expensive for people and businesses to access credit. This is generally positive for GBP, as higher interest rates make the UK a more attractive place for global investors to park their money. When inflation falls too low it is a sign economic growth is slowing. In this scenario, the BoE will consider lowering interest rates to cheapen credit so businesses will borrow more to invest in growth-generating projects.
Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact the value of the Pound Sterling. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, and employment can all influence the direction of the GBP. A strong economy is good for Sterling. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the BoE to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen GBP. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Pound Sterling is likely to fall.
Another significant data release for the Pound Sterling is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought-after exports, its currency will benefit purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.
EUR/USD loses ground after two days of gains, trading around 1.0810 during the Asian hours on Wednesday. The Euro receives downward pressure as the European Central Bank (ECB) is widely anticipated to reduce its Deposit Facility Rate once again. Money markets are currently pricing in nearly a 50% chance of a 50 basis point rate cut during the December meeting.
Investors will closely watch preliminary Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data from Germany and the Eurozone, as well as Germany’s preliminary Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) data, which are scheduled for release on Wednesday. The focus will shift to the preliminary US Q3 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures and October's ADP Employment Change release on Wednesday.
Recently, ECB policymakers have expressed varying views on monetary policy. Pierre Wunsch, the Governor of the National Bank of Belgium, noted that there is no pressing need for the central bank to speed up interest rate cuts, suggesting it could even accommodate a modest rate. In contrast, Mario Centeno, Governor of the Bank of Portugal, advocated for considering a 50 basis point rate cut as a viable option for December.
The downside of the EUR/USD pair could also be attributed to the higher US Dollar (USD) amid improved Treasury yields. The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the value of the US Dollar against six other major currencies, trades around 104.30 with 2-year and 10-year yields on US Treasury bonds standing at 4.09% and 4.24%, respectively, at the time of writing.
The risk-sensitive EUR/USD pair may further depreciate amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the US presidential election. A three-day poll conducted by Reuters/Ipsos, which concluded on Sunday and was released on Tuesday, indicated that the race is essentially tied as the November 5 election approaches.
Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, has seen her lead over Republican nominee Donald Trump narrow to just one percentage point, with 44% support compared to Trump's 43%.
The Gross Domestic Product (GDP), released by the Eurostat on a quarterly basis, is a measure of the total value of all goods and services produced in the Eurozone during a certain period of time. The GDP and its main aggregates are among the most significant indicators of the state of any economy. The YoY reading compares economic activity in the reference quarter compared with the same quarter a year earlier. Generally speaking, a rise in this indicator is bullish for the Euro (EUR), while a low reading is seen as bearish.
Read more.Next release: Wed Oct 30, 2024 10:00 (Prel)
Frequency: Quarterly
Consensus: 0.8%
Previous: 0.6%
Source: Eurostat
Gold prices rose in India on Wednesday, according to data compiled by FXStreet.
The price for Gold stood at 7,514.59 Indian Rupees (INR) per gram, up compared with the INR 7,500.72 it cost on Tuesday.
The price for Gold increased to INR 87,648.67 per tola from INR 87,486.93 per tola a day earlier.
Unit measure | Gold Price in INR |
---|---|
1 Gram | 7,514.59 |
10 Grams | 75,145.88 |
Tola | 87,648.67 |
Troy Ounce | 233,730.00 |
FXStreet calculates Gold prices in India by adapting international prices (USD/INR) to the local currency and measurement units. Prices are updated daily based on the market rates taken at the time of publication. Prices are just for reference and local rates could diverge slightly.
Gold has played a key role in human’s history as it has been widely used as a store of value and medium of exchange. Currently, apart from its shine and usage for jewelry, the precious metal is widely seen as a safe-haven asset, meaning that it is considered a good investment during turbulent times. Gold is also widely seen as a hedge against inflation and against depreciating currencies as it doesn’t rely on any specific issuer or government.
Central banks are the biggest Gold holders. In their aim to support their currencies in turbulent times, central banks tend to diversify their reserves and buy Gold to improve the perceived strength of the economy and the currency. High Gold reserves can be a source of trust for a country’s solvency. Central banks added 1,136 tonnes of Gold worth around $70 billion to their reserves in 2022, according to data from the World Gold Council. This is the highest yearly purchase since records began. Central banks from emerging economies such as China, India and Turkey are quickly increasing their Gold reserves.
Gold has an inverse correlation with the US Dollar and US Treasuries, which are both major reserve and safe-haven assets. When the Dollar depreciates, Gold tends to rise, enabling investors and central banks to diversify their assets in turbulent times. Gold is also inversely correlated with risk assets. A rally in the stock market tends to weaken Gold price, while sell-offs in riskier markets tend to favor the precious metal.
The price can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can quickly make Gold price escalate due to its safe-haven status. As a yield-less asset, Gold tends to rise with lower interest rates, while higher cost of money usually weighs down on the yellow metal. Still, most moves depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAU/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Gold controlled, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to push Gold prices up.
(An automation tool was used in creating this post.)
The USD/CAD pair trades near its highest level since August 5, around the 1.3920-1.3925 region during the Asian session on Wednesday and seems poised to prolong its recent upward trajectory witnessed over the past month or so. A combination of factors might continue to weigh on the Canadian Dollar (CAD), which, along with the emergence of some US Dollar (USD) dip-buying, validate the near-term positive outlook for the currency pair.
The Bank of Canada (BoC) Governor Tiff Macklem sounded dovish last Friday and said that the headline GDP will be lower if population growth slows faster than assumed. Furthermore, Macklem, speaking to the House of Commons finance committee on Tuesday, reiterated that the central bank would be able to cut rates further if the economy evolved broadly in line with forecasts. Adding to this, the recent slump in Crude Oil prices, triggered by concerns about flagging global demand growth, is seen undermining the commodity-linked Loonie and acting as a tailwind for the USD/CAD pair.
The US Dollar (USD), on the other hand, attracts some dip-buying and stalls the previous day's modest pullback from its highest level since July 30 amid growing acceptance that the Federal Reserve (Fed) will proceed with smaller rate cuts. Adding to 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, supports prospects for a further USD appreciation and suggests that the path of least resistance for the USD/CAD pair is to the upside.
Traders, however, might refrain from placing aggressive bets and opt to move to the sidelines ahead of key US macro releases, featuring the ADP report on private-sector employment and the Advance Q3 GDP print. The market attention will then shift to the US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index on Thursday and the closely watched US Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report on Friday. The data should provide fresh cues about the Fed's interest rate outlook, which, in turn, will influence the USD price dynamics and help determine the next leg of a directional move for the USD/CAD pair.
The key factors driving the Canadian Dollar (CAD) are the level of interest rates set by the Bank of Canada (BoC), the price of Oil, Canada’s largest export, the health of its economy, inflation and the Trade Balance, which is the difference between the value of Canada’s exports versus its imports. Other factors include market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – with risk-on being CAD-positive. As its largest trading partner, the health of the US economy is also a key factor influencing the Canadian Dollar.
The Bank of Canada (BoC) has a significant influence on the Canadian Dollar by setting the level of interest rates that banks can lend to one another. This influences the level of interest rates for everyone. The main goal of the BoC is to maintain inflation at 1-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively higher interest rates tend to be positive for the CAD. The Bank of Canada can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former CAD-negative and the latter CAD-positive.
The price of Oil is a key factor impacting the value of the Canadian Dollar. Petroleum is Canada’s biggest export, so Oil price tends to have an immediate impact on the CAD value. Generally, if Oil price rises CAD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Oil falls. Higher Oil prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance, which is also supportive of the CAD.
While inflation had always traditionally been thought of as a negative factor for a currency since it lowers the value of money, the opposite has actually been the case in modern times with the relaxation of cross-border capital controls. Higher inflation tends to lead central banks to put up interest rates which attracts more capital inflows from global investors seeking a lucrative place to keep their money. This increases demand for the local currency, which in Canada’s case is the Canadian Dollar.
Macroeconomic data releases gauge the health of the economy and can have an impact on the Canadian Dollar. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the CAD. A strong economy is good for the Canadian Dollar. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the Bank of Canada to put up interest rates, leading to a stronger currency. If economic data is weak, however, the CAD is likely to fall.
Gold prices (XAU/USD) climbs to a fresh record high during the Asian session on Wednesday as uncertainties surrounding the US presidential election, and the Middle East conflict continue to boost demand for traditional safe-haven assets. Apart from this, a modest pullback in the US Treasury bond yields and subdued US Dollar (USD) price action benefit the precious metal. The supporting factors, to a larger extent, overshadow the upbeat market mood, which tends to undermine the commodity.
Even expectations for smaller interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve (Fed) and elevated US Treasury bond yields do little to hider the underlying bullish sentiment surrounding the non-yielding Gold price. It, however, remains to be seen if bulls can build on the momentum amid slightly overbought conditions on the daily chart and ahead of key US macro releases. The data might provide cues about the Fed's rate outlook and determine the next leg of a directional move for the XAU/USD.
From a technical perspective, the overnight breakout above a one-week-old trading range was seen as a fresh trigger for bulls. The subsequent move up lifts the Gold price to an ascending trend-line resistance extending from early July, currently pegged near the $2,780-2,785 region, which could now act as a strong barrier amid a slightly overbought Relative Strength Index (RSI) on the daily chart. A sustained strength beyond the said barrier, however, could lift the XAU/USD further towards the $2,800 mark.
On the flip side, any meaningful corrective slide now seems to find decent support near the trading range hurdle breakpoint, around the $2,750 region. Some follow-through selling could make the Gold price vulnerable to extend the fall further towards the $2,732-2,730 intermediate support en route to the $2,715 area. This is followed by the $2,700 mark, which if broken should pave the way for a decline towards the next relevant support near the $2,675 zone en route to the $2,657-2,655 region.
Gold has played a key role in human’s history as it has been widely used as a store of value and medium of exchange. Currently, apart from its shine and usage for jewelry, the precious metal is widely seen as a safe-haven asset, meaning that it is considered a good investment during turbulent times. Gold is also widely seen as a hedge against inflation and against depreciating currencies as it doesn’t rely on any specific issuer or government.
Central banks are the biggest Gold holders. In their aim to support their currencies in turbulent times, central banks tend to diversify their reserves and buy Gold to improve the perceived strength of the economy and the currency. High Gold reserves can be a source of trust for a country’s solvency. Central banks added 1,136 tonnes of Gold worth around $70 billion to their reserves in 2022, according to data from the World Gold Council. This is the highest yearly purchase since records began. Central banks from emerging economies such as China, India and Turkey are quickly increasing their Gold reserves.
Gold has an inverse correlation with the US Dollar and US Treasuries, which are both major reserve and safe-haven assets. When the Dollar depreciates, Gold tends to rise, enabling investors and central banks to diversify their assets in turbulent times. Gold is also inversely correlated with risk assets. A rally in the stock market tends to weaken Gold price, while sell-offs in riskier markets tend to favor the precious metal.
The price can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can quickly make Gold price escalate due to its safe-haven status. As a yield-less asset, Gold tends to rise with lower interest rates, while higher cost of money usually weighs down on the yellow metal. Still, most moves depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAU/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Gold controlled, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to push Gold prices up.
The Indian Rupee (INR) trades flat on Wednesday amid the consolidation of the US Dollar (USD). Rising US Treasury bond yields and sustained foreign outflows from domestic stocks might exert some selling pressure on the INR. Nonetheless, a further decline in crude oil prices might support the Indian Rupee as India is the world's third-largest oil consumer. Additionally, the downside for the INR might be limited as the RBI has been intervening regularly to prevent the local currency from depreciating.
Looking ahead, traders will keep an eye on the US October ADP Employment Change, the advanced US Q3 Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and September Pending Home Sales, which are due later on Wednesday. The Indian market will be closed on Friday for the occasion of Diwali.
The Indian Rupee trades on a flat note on the day. The constructive outlook of the USD/INR pair remains unchanged, with the price holding above the key 100-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) on the daily timeframe. The path of least resistance level is to the upside, as the 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands above the midline near 59.20.
The immediate resistance level for the pair emerges at the upper boundary of the ascending trend channel of 84.22. Extended gains could pave the way to 84.50, followed by the 85.00 psychological level.
On the other hand, sustained trading below the lower limit of the trend channel near 84.05 could expose USD/INR to a possible move down to 83.76, the 100-day EMA.
The Indian Rupee (INR) is one of the most sensitive currencies to external factors. The price of Crude Oil (the country is highly dependent on imported Oil), the value of the US Dollar – most trade is conducted in USD – and the level of foreign investment, are all influential. Direct intervention by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in FX markets to keep the exchange rate stable, as well as the level of interest rates set by the RBI, are further major influencing factors on the Rupee.
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) actively intervenes in forex markets to maintain a stable exchange rate, to help facilitate trade. In addition, the RBI tries to maintain the inflation rate at its 4% target by adjusting interest rates. Higher interest rates usually strengthen the Rupee. This is due to the role of the ‘carry trade’ in which investors borrow in countries with lower interest rates so as to place their money in countries’ offering relatively higher interest rates and profit from the difference.
Macroeconomic factors that influence the value of the Rupee include inflation, interest rates, the economic growth rate (GDP), the balance of trade, and inflows from foreign investment. A higher growth rate can lead to more overseas investment, pushing up demand for the Rupee. A less negative balance of trade will eventually lead to a stronger Rupee. Higher interest rates, especially real rates (interest rates less inflation) are also positive for the Rupee. A risk-on environment can lead to greater inflows of Foreign Direct and Indirect Investment (FDI and FII), which also benefit the Rupee.
Higher inflation, particularly, if it is comparatively higher than India’s peers, is generally negative for the currency as it reflects devaluation through oversupply. Inflation also increases the cost of exports, leading to more Rupees being sold to purchase foreign imports, which is Rupee-negative. At the same time, higher inflation usually leads to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raising interest rates and this can be positive for the Rupee, due to increased demand from international investors. The opposite effect is true of lower inflation.
Silver prices (XAG/USD) dips slightly to around $34.30 during the Asian trading hours on Wednesday. However, Silver gained over 2% on Tuesday amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding the US presidential election.
A three-day poll conducted by Reuters/Ipsos, which concluded on Sunday and was released on Tuesday, indicated that the race is essentially tied as the November 5 election approaches. Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, has seen her lead over Republican nominee Donald Trump narrow to just one percentage point, with 44% support compared to Trump's 43%.
Silver prices might have encountered difficulties due to safe-haven flows, following an Axios reporter post on X that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet with various ministers and military and intelligence leaders to discuss a diplomatic resolution to the war in Lebanon, according to Reuters.
The dollar-denominated commodity, like Silver, typically benefits from a weaker US dollar and lower Treasury yields as traders exercise caution ahead of significant US economic data releases this week. A declining US dollar makes Silver more affordable for foreign buyers, which can boost demand for the precious metal.
The preliminary US Q3 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures and October's ADP Employment Change are set to be released on Wednesday. Additionally, US PCE inflation and Nonfarm Payrolls will be closely monitored on Thursday and Friday, respectively.
Investors are also anticipating the upcoming meeting of China's parliament, scheduled for November 4-8, as reported by state media on Friday. There is considerable interest in the gathering of the standing committee of the National People’s Congress, which is expected to provide updates on potential fiscal stimulus measures.
Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets.
Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold's. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices.
Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices.
Silver prices tend to follow Gold's moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver.
Raw materials | Closed | Change, % |
---|---|---|
Silver | 34.445 | 2.3 |
Gold | 277.397 | 1.19 |
Palladium | 1208.42 | -0.29 |
West Texas Intermediate (WTI) Oil price steadies around $67.40 during Wednesday’s Asian session, following two days of declines. Crude Oil prices found support from a surprise drop in US crude oil inventories.
Data from the American Petroleum Institute (API) on Tuesday showed that US weekly crude Oil stockpiles fell by 0.573 million barrels in the week ending October 25, contrary to expectations of a 2.3 million-barrel increase. The previous week's stock level was 1.643 million barrels. Investors now await the EIA crude oil stockpiles report, due Wednesday.
On Tuesday, Oil prices faced downward pressure after an Axios reporter stated on X that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would soon meet with several ministers and military and intelligence leaders to discuss a diplomatic resolution to the war in Lebanon, per Reuters.
However, the US plan to purchase Oil for its Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) provided some support for WTI prices. On Monday, the US announced intentions to acquire up to 3 million barrels for delivery by May next year. This purchase could deplete the remaining funds available for SPR replenishment until further funding is approved by Congress.
Crude Oil prices may encounter challenges as the OPEC+ alliance, which includes the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and partners like Russia, plans to begin easing its production cuts in December, aiming for an increase of 180,000 barrels per day (bpd).
WTI Oil is a type of Crude Oil sold on international markets. The WTI stands for West Texas Intermediate, one of three major types including Brent and Dubai Crude. WTI is also referred to as “light” and “sweet” because of its relatively low gravity and sulfur content respectively. It is considered a high quality Oil that is easily refined. It is sourced in the United States and distributed via the Cushing hub, which is considered “The Pipeline Crossroads of the World”. It is a benchmark for the Oil market and WTI price is frequently quoted in the media.
Like all assets, supply and demand are the key drivers of WTI Oil price. As such, global growth can be a driver of increased demand and vice versa for weak global growth. Political instability, wars, and sanctions can disrupt supply and impact prices. The decisions of OPEC, a group of major Oil-producing countries, is another key driver of price. The value of the US Dollar influences the price of WTI Crude Oil, since Oil is predominantly traded in US Dollars, thus a weaker US Dollar can make Oil more affordable and vice versa.
The weekly Oil inventory reports published by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and the Energy Information Agency (EIA) impact the price of WTI Oil. Changes in inventories reflect fluctuating supply and demand. If the data shows a drop in inventories it can indicate increased demand, pushing up Oil price. Higher inventories can reflect increased supply, pushing down prices. API’s report is published every Tuesday and EIA’s the day after. Their results are usually similar, falling within 1% of each other 75% of the time. The EIA data is considered more reliable, since it is a government agency.
OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) is a group of 12 Oil-producing nations who collectively decide production quotas for member countries at twice-yearly meetings. Their decisions often impact WTI Oil prices. When OPEC decides to lower quotas, it can tighten supply, pushing up Oil prices. When OPEC increases production, it has the opposite effect. OPEC+ refers to an expanded group that includes ten extra non-OPEC members, the most notable of which is Russia.
The NZD/USD pair remains on the defensive near 0.5970 during the Asian trading hours on Wednesday. The dovish stance of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) continues to weigh on the pair. Investors will take more cues from the advanced US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for the third quarter and the US ADP Employment Change for October on Wednesday.
Goldman Sachs analysts expect a possible more aggressive rate cut from the RBNZ. Goldman forecasts 50 bps rate cuts in both November and February, with an elevated risk of a 75 bps cut in November. The dovish outlook of the New Zealand central bank is likely to undermine the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) in the near term.
China is considering issuing around 10 trillion yuan ($1.4 trillion) in extra debt in the next years to revive its sluggish economy, per Reuters. The positive development surrounding China’s fresh stimulus measures might support the China-proxy Kiwi as China is a major trading partner to New Zealand.
The expectation of less aggressive rate cuts from the US Federal Reserve (Fed) this year lifts the Greenback. Traders have priced in a nearly 98.4% chance of a 25 bps rate cut by the Fed in the November meeting.
The US Department of Labor showed on Tuesday that the JOLTS Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey for September fell to its lowest level in three and a half years, missing expectations.
Meanwhile, the Conference Board (CB) Consumer Confidence for October registered the highest in nine months as perceptions of the labor market improved. Investors will shift their attention to the US Q3 GDP data on Wednesday ahead of the highly-anticipated Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) data.
The New Zealand Dollar (NZD), also known as the Kiwi, is a well-known traded currency among investors. Its value is broadly determined by the health of the New Zealand economy and the country’s central bank policy. Still, there are some unique particularities that also can make NZD move. The performance of the Chinese economy tends to move the Kiwi because China is New Zealand’s biggest trading partner. Bad news for the Chinese economy likely means less New Zealand exports to the country, hitting the economy and thus its currency. Another factor moving NZD is dairy prices as the dairy industry is New Zealand’s main export. High dairy prices boost export income, contributing positively to the economy and thus to the NZD.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) aims to achieve and maintain an inflation rate between 1% and 3% over the medium term, with a focus to keep it near the 2% mid-point. To this end, the bank sets an appropriate level of interest rates. When inflation is too high, the RBNZ will increase interest rates to cool the economy, but the move will also make bond yields higher, increasing investors’ appeal to invest in the country and thus boosting NZD. On the contrary, lower interest rates tend to weaken NZD. The so-called rate differential, or how rates in New Zealand are or are expected to be compared to the ones set by the US Federal Reserve, can also play a key role in moving the NZD/USD pair.
Macroeconomic data releases in New Zealand are key to assess the state of the economy and can impact the New Zealand Dollar’s (NZD) valuation. A strong economy, based on high economic growth, low unemployment and high confidence is good for NZD. High economic growth attracts foreign investment and may encourage the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to increase interest rates, if this economic strength comes together with elevated inflation. Conversely, if economic data is weak, NZD is likely to depreciate.
The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) tends to strengthen during risk-on periods, or when investors perceive that broader market risks are low and are optimistic about growth. This tends to lead to a more favorable outlook for commodities and so-called ‘commodity currencies’ such as the Kiwi. Conversely, NZD tends to weaken at times of market turbulence or economic uncertainty as investors tend to sell higher-risk assets and flee to the more-stable safe havens.
The Japanese Yen (JPY) edges higher against its American counterpart during the Asian session on Wednesday amid fears that authorities will intervene in the market to prop up the domestic currency. The uptick, however, lacks bullish conviction amid expectations that the loss of the parliamentary majority by Japan's ruling coalition could make it difficult for the Bank of Japan (BoJ) to tighten its monetary policy further. Furthermore, the upbeat market mood is seen as another factor that is acting as a headwind for the safe-haven JPY.
Traders also seem reluctant to place aggressive directional bets and might opt to wait on the sidelines ahead of the crucial BoJ decision on Thursday. Apart from this, investors this week will confront important US macro data – the Advance Q3 GDP print later today, the Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index on Thursday and the Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report on Friday. This will play a key role in influencing the near-term US Dollar (USD) price dynamics and provide some meaningful impetus to the USD/JPY pair.
From a technical perspective, last week's breakout through the 150.65 confluence – comprising the 100-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) and the 50% Fibonacci retracement level of the July-September downfall – was seen as a fresh trigger for bulls. That said, this week's repeated failures to find acceptance or build on the momentum beyond the 61.8% Fibo. level warrants some caution. Moreover, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) on the daily chart remains close to the overbought zone, making it prudent to wait for some near-term consolidation or a modest pullback before positioning for further gains.
Any subsequent slide below the 153.00 mark, however, is likely to find some support near the overnight swing low, around the 152.75 region, ahead of the 152.40 area, or the weekly through. Some follow-through selling could drag the USD/JPY pair to the 152.00 mark en route to the 151.45 support and the 151.00 mark. The downward trajectory could extend further towards challenging the 150.65 confluence resistance breakpoint, which should now act as a key pivotal point and a strong base for spot prices.
On the flip side, the 153.85-153.90 region now seems to have emerged as an immediate strong barrier. A sustained strength beyond, leading to a breakout through the 154.00 mark, could lift the USD/JPY pair beyond the 154.35-154.40 supply zone, towards reclaiming the 155.00 psychological mark. Spot prices could eventually climb to test the late-July swing high, around the 155.20 region.
The Japanese Yen (JPY) is one of the world’s most traded currencies. Its value is broadly determined by the performance of the Japanese economy, but more specifically by the Bank of Japan’s policy, the differential between Japanese and US bond yields, or risk sentiment among traders, among other factors.
One of the Bank of Japan’s mandates is currency control, so its moves are key for the Yen. The BoJ has directly intervened in currency markets sometimes, generally to lower the value of the Yen, although it refrains from doing it often due to political concerns of its main trading partners. The BoJ ultra-loose monetary policy between 2013 and 2024 caused the Yen to depreciate against its main currency peers due to an increasing policy divergence between the Bank of Japan and other main central banks. More recently, the gradually unwinding of this ultra-loose policy has given some support to the Yen.
Over the last decade, the BoJ’s stance of sticking to ultra-loose monetary policy has led to a widening policy divergence with other central banks, particularly with the US Federal Reserve. This supported a widening of the differential between the 10-year US and Japanese bonds, which favored the US Dollar against the Japanese Yen. The BoJ decision in 2024 to gradually abandon the ultra-loose policy, coupled with interest-rate cuts in other major central banks, is narrowing this differential.
The Japanese Yen is often seen as a safe-haven investment. This means that in times of market stress, investors are more likely to put their money in the Japanese currency due to its supposed reliability and stability. Turbulent times are likely to strengthen the Yen’s value against other currencies seen as more risky to invest in.
The Australian Dollar (AUD) edges higher against the US Dollar (USD) despite lower-than-expected Australia's third-quarter Consumer Price Index (CPI) data released on Wednesday. The upside of the AUD could be attributed to the hawkish sentiment surrounding the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) regarding its policy outlook.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose just 0.2% quarter-over-quarter in the third quarter, down from 1.0% in the previous quarter and slightly below the anticipated 0.3%. The monthly CPI rose by 2.1% year-over-year in September, coming in below market expectations of 2.3% and down from August's reading of 2.7%.
The US Dollar saw a slight downward correction as US Treasury yields edged lower. However, the USD’s downside may be limited, with market caution persisting due to uncertainty surrounding the upcoming US presidential election and anticipation of key US economic data releases.
Traders will likely watch the upcoming release of preliminary US Q3 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures and October’s Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report, as these could offer important insights into the timing and pace of the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) expected rate cuts.
AUD/USD trades near 0.6560 on Wednesday, with daily chart analysis indicating a short-term bearish bias as the pair remains within a descending channel. However, the 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) sits at 30, signaling an oversold condition that may lead to an upward correction.
On the support side, the AUD/USD pair could test the descending channel's lower boundary around 0.6520, followed by the psychological level of 0.6500.
For resistance, the first hurdle lies at the upper boundary of the descending channel near 0.6590, with a psychological level of 0.6600 above that. A breakout above the latter could pave the way for the AUD/USD pair to reach the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6619.
The table below shows the percentage change of Australian Dollar (AUD) against listed major currencies today. Australian Dollar was the strongest against the US Dollar.
USD | EUR | GBP | JPY | CAD | AUD | NZD | CHF | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
USD | -0.07% | -0.04% | -0.15% | -0.04% | -0.13% | -0.05% | -0.05% | |
EUR | 0.07% | 0.03% | -0.08% | 0.03% | -0.06% | 0.02% | 0.02% | |
GBP | 0.04% | -0.03% | -0.12% | -0.01% | -0.10% | -0.02% | 0.00% | |
JPY | 0.15% | 0.08% | 0.12% | 0.11% | 0.03% | 0.10% | 0.12% | |
CAD | 0.04% | -0.03% | 0.00% | -0.11% | -0.10% | -0.01% | 0.00% | |
AUD | 0.13% | 0.06% | 0.10% | -0.03% | 0.10% | 0.09% | 0.09% | |
NZD | 0.05% | -0.02% | 0.02% | -0.10% | 0.01% | -0.09% | 0.01% | |
CHF | 0.05% | -0.02% | 0.00% | -0.12% | -0.01% | -0.09% | -0.01% |
The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the Australian Dollar from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent AUD (base)/USD (quote).
The Monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI), released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics on a monthly basis, measures the changes in the price of a fixed basket of goods and services acquired by household consumers. The indicator was developed to provide inflation data at a higher frequency than the quarterly CPI. The YoY reading compares prices in the reference month to the same month a year earlier. A high reading is seen as bullish for the Australian Dollar (AUD), while a low reading is seen as bearish.
Read more.Last release: Wed Oct 30, 2024 00:30
Frequency: Monthly
Actual: 2.1%
Consensus: 2.3%
Previous: 2.7%
Source: Australian Bureau of Statistics
On Wednesday, the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) set the USD/CNY central rate for the trading session ahead at 7.1390, as compared to the previous day's fix of 7.1283 and 7.1398 Reuters estimates.
Index | Change, points | Closed | Change, % |
---|---|---|---|
NIKKEI 225 | 298.15 | 38903.68 | 0.77 |
Hang Seng | 101.78 | 20701.14 | 0.49 |
KOSPI | 5.37 | 2617.8 | 0.21 |
ASX 200 | 27.7 | 8249.2 | 0.34 |
DAX | -53.55 | 19478.07 | -0.27 |
CAC 40 | -45.83 | 7511.11 | -0.61 |
Dow Jones | -154.52 | 42233.05 | -0.36 |
S&P 500 | 9.4 | 5832.92 | 0.16 |
NASDAQ Composite | 145.56 | 18712.75 | 0.78 |
Pare | Closed | Change, % |
---|---|---|
AUDUSD | 0.65586 | -0.34 |
EURJPY | 165.873 | 0.09 |
EURUSD | 1.08152 | 0.02 |
GBPJPY | 199.526 | 0.38 |
GBPUSD | 1.30081 | 0.3 |
NZDUSD | 0.59671 | -0.19 |
USDCAD | 1.39135 | 0.15 |
USDCHF | 0.86724 | 0.23 |
USDJPY | 153.363 | 0.07 |
The GBP/USD pair weakens around 1.3010 despite the consolidation of the US Dollar (USD) during the early Asian session on Wednesday. Investors await the release of the UK’s Autumn Budget, the US October ADP Employment Change for October and the advanced US Q3 Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which are due later on Wednesday.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported in the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) on Tuesday that Job openings came in at 7.443 million, followed the 7.861 million (revised from 8.04 million) seen in August, and came in below the market expectation of 7.99 million. This report might prompt the Federal Reserve (Fed) dovish bets and weigh the Greenback against the Pound Sterling (GBP).
The Fed is likely to cut its key interest rate by 25 basis points (bps) on November 7, according to all 111 economists in a Reuters poll, with over a 90% majority expecting another quarter-percentage-point move in the December meeting.
On the UK’s front, the government is set to deliver Labour’s first Budget in almost 15 years on Wednesday. Rachel Reeves, the UK Chancellor of the Exchequer, might be preparing to unveil £40 billion in tax hikes and spending cuts overall. Employer National Insurance contributions, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax allowances are all possible targets.
Commerzbank analysts noted that if the budget combines austerity with hope of tackling long-term investment, “This should be positive for the pound as it would strengthen the U.K.’s long-term growth potential.”
The Pound Sterling (GBP) is the oldest currency in the world (886 AD) and the official currency of the United Kingdom. It is the fourth most traded unit for foreign exchange (FX) in the world, accounting for 12% of all transactions, averaging $630 billion a day, according to 2022 data. Its key trading pairs are GBP/USD, also known as ‘Cable’, which accounts for 11% of FX, GBP/JPY, or the ‘Dragon’ as it is known by traders (3%), and EUR/GBP (2%). The Pound Sterling is issued by the Bank of England (BoE).
The single most important factor influencing the value of the Pound Sterling is monetary policy decided by the Bank of England. The BoE bases its decisions on whether it has achieved its primary goal of “price stability” – a steady inflation rate of around 2%. Its primary tool for achieving this is the adjustment of interest rates. When inflation is too high, the BoE will try to rein it in by raising interest rates, making it more expensive for people and businesses to access credit. This is generally positive for GBP, as higher interest rates make the UK a more attractive place for global investors to park their money. When inflation falls too low it is a sign economic growth is slowing. In this scenario, the BoE will consider lowering interest rates to cheapen credit so businesses will borrow more to invest in growth-generating projects.
Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact the value of the Pound Sterling. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, and employment can all influence the direction of the GBP. A strong economy is good for Sterling. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the BoE to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen GBP. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Pound Sterling is likely to fall.
Another significant data release for the Pound Sterling is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought-after exports, its currency will benefit purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.
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