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Australiandollar

AUD USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSAUD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy At the May policy decision, the RBA made a hawkish turn by raising the cash rate by 0.25% versus STIR expectations of a 15bsp move. Even though there were some hawkish takes looking for a 40bsp move, the 25bsp was still higher than consensus expectations. The bank noted that inflation pressures have risen more than they expected, even without a sharp rise in wages, and means that further increases in the cash rate will be required to bring inflation back in line with their target. They also surprised markets on the balance sheet side by announcing that they are starting passive QT by stopping the reinvestment of maturing bonds. The hawkish surprise was enough to see STIR markets price in >60% chance of a 50bsp hike for the June meeting despite comments from Gov Lowe who said they don’t preclude a bigger or smaller rate move than 25bsp in the future. All-in-all the decision from the RBA was hawkish and has finally kick started the bank’s hiking cycle and should provide support for the AUD in the med-term as long as the bank keeps tightening expectations intact. 2. Idiosyncratic Drivers & Intermarket Analysis Apart from the RBA, there are 2 key drivers we’re watching for the med-term outlook: China – With the PBoC & CCP stepping up monetary and fiscal stimulus, any recovery in China usually bodes well for Australia (40% of exports goes to China). It has also meant that the virus situation in China posed short-term downside risks for AUD as it has pushed back recovery expectations. Thus, virus and stimulus developments in China remains key for the AUD. However, as long as recovery expectations in China remain intact, it bodes well for the med-term economic outlook for Australia as well. The AUKUS defence pact could see retaliation against Aussie goods and is worth keeping on the radar as well Commodities – Iron Ore (31%), Coal (14%) and LNG (10%) is more than 50% of Aussie exports, with the recent rise in prices giving the AUD a lot of support from a terms of trade perspective. As long as these key commodities remain supported it remains supportive for the AUD, but of course that also means any sizeable corrections will weigh on the AUD. Thus, geopolitical and China demand developments remain key focus points. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the AUD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the AUD. 4. CFTC Analysis Very close to neutral signals for AUD positioning. Recent price action has been tricky with overall risk off sentiment and China growth concerns. That also means if risk sentiment can continue to find some reprieve this week it could see some short-term recovery in the AUD and will as always be a key focus for the week ahead. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy In May the Fed delivered on hawkish expectations by hiking the Fed Funds Rate by 50bsp and also confirmed that the committee expects further 50bsp hikes to be appropriate. The fed also stuck to a familiar hawkish tone by downplaying the prospects of an imminent recession by explaining that even though the economy contracted in Q1, that household spending and business investment remained strong. The Chair also stuck to their guns regarding the rate path by suggesting that they think reaching neutral (currently estimated at 2.4%) before year-end would be appropriate and will assess the need for further hikes when they get there. There were however some less hawkish elements which saw a very classic ‘sell-the-fact’ reaction in major asset classes. The first one was on the Quantitative Tightening front where the bank decided on a phased approach for balance sheet reduction by starting the monthly caps at 30bn (treasuries) and 17.5bn ( MBS ) and pushing it up to the expected $60bn (treasuries) and $35bn ( MBS ) over a three-month timeframe. The second less hawkish element was comments from Chair Powell who took 75bsp hikes off the table saying the committee was not actively considering rate moves of that size. Interestingly, it seems STIR markets did not really believe the Fed as the probability of a 75bsp hike stood at >70% directly following the presser. All-in-all, the meeting provided a short-term ‘sell-the-fact’ opportunity, but also cemented the view that despite signs of a slowing economy and despite clear stress in financial markets, the Fed is sticking to their aggressive tightening for now. 2. Global & Domestic Economy The USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. The USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slows (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). Expectations of a cyclical slowdown have been USD positive. However, we think a lot of the growth concerns might be reflected in recent USD appreciation already. Furthermore, the USD has not been responding positively to bad data like we’ve seen from the start of the year. More recently we’ve seen the USD depreciate on bad data which could suggest that the USD’s driver has temporarily shifted away from the growth focus and shifted towards a Fed focus as the worse the incoming data becomes the higher the likelihood of a less aggressive Fed in the months ahead. Incoming data will be watched closely in relation to the infamous ‘Fed Put’. If growth data slows but not enough to stop the Fed’s hawkish path it’s USD positive, but if the data cause a Fed pivot that’ll be a big negative for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis An overall bearish positioning change across major participant categories last week. Aggregate USD positioning remains close to 1 standard deviation above the mean, and close to prior tops where the USD topped out in previous cycles. That means we don’t want to chase the USD higher from here in the short-term.
by thunderpips
1
AudJpy ready for short!Hello Traders, here is the full analysis for the pair AudJpy , let me know in the comment section below if you have any questions. The ellipse could represent a possible zone with good risk/reward to accumulate short position. Please note that all the information and publications here are not meant to be, and do not constitute, financial, investment, trading, or other types of advice or recommendations. What you will find here, are only views of a Cat passionate about Finance.
Short
by TheForexMethod
AUDCAD Bearish unless the 1D MA200 breaksThe AUDCAD pair has been trading within a Channel Down pattern since the April 05 2022 High. Four days ago, it made a Lower High on the Channel Down and got rejected just below the 1D MA50 (blue trend-line), while also forming a Death Cross (when the MA50 crosses below the MA200). The 1D MACD is about to make a Bearish Cross, so it times well for a Sell trade to a new Lower Low, despite the significance of the 0.89100 Support, towards the 1.182 and 1.382 Fibonacci extension levels (the latter only if after a bounce the 0.89100 level rejects an uptrend attempt. On the other hand, if the price breaks and closes an 1D candle above the 1D MA200 (orange trend-line), as it did in late February 2022, be ready to counter with a buy, targeting the 2.0 Fibonacci extension around 0.94500. P.S. See a longer-term picture as presented by our last AUDCAD idea almost 2 months ago that based on a 2020/21 fractal, it hit its target: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ** Please support this idea with your likes and comments, it is the best way to keep it relevant and support me. ** --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
by TradingShot
4
AUD USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSAUD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy At the May policy decision, the RBA made a hawkish turn by raising the cash rate by 0.25% versus STIR expectations of a 15bsp move. Even though there were some hawkish takes looking for a 40bsp move, the 25bsp was still higher than consensus expectations. The bank noted that inflation pressures have risen more than they expected, even without a sharp rise in wages, and means that further increases in the cash rate will be required to bring inflation back in line with their target. They also surprised markets on the balance sheet side by announcing that they are starting passive QT by stopping the reinvestment of maturing bonds. The hawkish surprise was enough to see STIR markets price in >60% chance of a 50bsp hike for the June meeting despite comments from Gov Lowe who said they don’t preclude a bigger or smaller rate move than 25bsp in the future. All-in-all the decision from the RBA was hawkish and has finally kick started the bank’s hiking cycle and should provide support for the AUD in the med-term as long as the bank keeps tightening expectations intact. 2. Idiosyncratic Drivers & Intermarket Analysis Apart from the RBA, there are 2 key drivers we’re watching for the med-term outlook: China – With the PBoC & CCP stepping up monetary and fiscal stimulus, any recovery in China usually bodes well for Australia (40% of exports goes to China). It has also meant that the virus situation in China posed short-term downside risks for AUD as it has pushed back recovery expectations. Thus, virus and stimulus developments in China remains key for the AUD. However, as long as recovery expectations in China remain intact, it bodes well for the med-term economic outlook for Australia as well. The AUKUS defence pact could see retaliation against Aussie goods and is worth keeping on the radar as well Commodities – Iron Ore (31%), Coal (14%) and LNG (10%) is more than 50% of Aussie exports, with the recent rise in prices giving the AUD a lot of support from a terms of trade perspective. As long as these key commodities remain supported it remains supportive for the AUD, but of course that also means any sizeable corrections will weigh on the AUD. Thus, geopolitical and China demand developments remain key focus points. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the AUD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the AUD. 4. CFTC Analysis Very close to neutral signals for AUD positioning. Recent price action has been tricky with overall risk off sentiment and China growth concerns. That also means if risk sentiment can continue to find some reprieve this week it could see some short-term recovery in the AUD and will as always be a key focus for the week ahead. 5. The Week Ahead For the AUD the focus for the week ahead will be on China, commodities , and the RBA policy decision. The covid situation in China remains important, and the hope is that either the government eases up more of the draconian restrictions or we see additional economic support. Commodities like Iron Ore and Coal prices will be eyed as usual, as both commodities have been struggling to hold onto any decent upside momentum. Any negative price action will be important for the AUD. We also have the RBA policy decision coming up on Tuesday, where markets are fully pricing in another 25bsp hike for the bank. Even though STIR markets are pricing in 30bsp of tightening, there is a few participants calling for a 40bsp hike given the growing inflation concerns and cost living squeeze facing Australia consumers. It would make sense for the RBA to learn from other central banks and slam on the breaks a bit harder as early as they can. The big risk to this view of course is the Q1 wage print which came in fairly soft and still a distance away from the RBA’s preferred 3.0% wage growth level. That might see the bank opting for a calmer 25bsp hike instead. An as expected 25bsp probably won’t be enough to give the AUD a lift, but a surprise aggressive tilt could be just what the doctor ordered to provide some upside for the AUD. As always, risk sentiment will also be in focus, especially after another stronger close for equities on Friday. Any continuation in that positive risk sentiment should offer some support for the AUD, while a resumption of the negative mood is expected to weigh on the currency. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy In May the Fed delivered on hawkish expectations by hiking the Fed Funds Rate by 50bsp and also confirmed that the committee expects further 50bsp hikes to be appropriate. The fed also stuck to a familiar hawkish tone by downplaying the prospects of an imminent recession by explaining that even though the economy contracted in Q1, that household spending and business investment remained strong. The Chair also stuck to their guns regarding the rate path by suggesting that they think reaching neutral (currently estimated at 2.4%) before year-end would be appropriate and will assess the need for further hikes when they get there. There were however some less hawkish elements which saw a very classic ‘sell-the-fact’ reaction in major asset classes. The first one was on the Quantitative Tightening front where the bank decided on a phased approach for balance sheet reduction by starting the monthly caps at 30bn (treasuries) and 17.5bn ( MBS ) and pushing it up to the expected $60bn (treasuries) and $35bn ( MBS ) over a three-month timeframe. The second less hawkish element was comments from Chair Powell who took 75bsp hikes off the table saying the committee was not actively considering rate moves of that size. Interestingly, it seems STIR markets did not really believe the Fed as the probability of a 75bsp hike stood at >70% directly following the presser. All-in-all, the meeting provided a short-term ‘sell-the-fact’ opportunity, but also cemented the view that despite signs of a slowing economy and despite clear stress in financial markets, the Fed is sticking to their aggressive tightening for now. 2. Global & Domestic Economy The USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. The USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slows (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). Expectations of a cyclical slowdown have been USD positive. However, we think a lot of the growth concerns might be reflected in recent USD appreciation already. Furthermore, the USD has not been responding positively to bad data like we’ve seen from the start of the year. More recently we’ve seen the USD depreciate on bad data which could suggest that the USD’s driver has temporarily shifted away from the growth focus and shifted towards a Fed focus as the worse the incoming data becomes the higher the likelihood of a less aggressive Fed in the months ahead. Incoming data will be watched closely in relation to the infamous ‘Fed Put’. If growth data slows but not enough to stop the Fed’s hawkish path it’s USD positive, but if the data cause a Fed pivot that’ll be a big negative for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis An overall bearish positioning change across major participant categories last week. Aggregate USD positioning remains close to 1 standard deviation above the mean, and close to prior tops where the USD topped out in previous cycles. That means we don’t want to chase the USD higher from here in the short-term. 4. The Week Ahead We have shifted our bias for the USD from bullish to weak bullish based on the USD’s recent negative reaction to bad US economic data. If this trend persists, we could very likely be changing our fundamental bias for the USD to neutral. In the week ahead the main event in focus for the USD will be the May CPI data. It was clear from the past two CPI prints that we are likely past the peak in YY terms, but the peak is no longer enough to satisfy markets. From here the focus for CPI won’t only be on the declining level but also the pace at which it slows, which means monthly data points are very important as well. That means a lot of focus on how monthly CPI figures are impacted by big fluctuations in things like food, energy, and shelter prices. Both core measures are expected to slow again, while headline YY expected to stay flat, but a big acceleration expected for headline CPI due to recent upside seen in commodity prices. With markets already expecting a further move lower in the core components we will likely need a very significant miss to really ‘surprise’ markets. However, big surprise drops in both headline and core would still be expected to put pressure on the USD and US10Y while offering support for things like Gold and equities.
by thunderpips
AUD CAD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSAUD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy At the May policy decision, the RBA made a hawkish turn by raising the cash rate by 0.25% versus STIR expectations of a 15bsp move. Even though there were some hawkish takes looking for a 40bsp move, the 25bsp was still higher than consensus expectations. The bank noted that inflation pressures have risen more than they expected, even without a sharp rise in wages, and means that further increases in the cash rate will be required to bring inflation back in line with their target. They also surprised markets on the balance sheet side by announcing that they are starting passive QT by stopping the reinvestment of maturing bonds. The hawkish surprise was enough to see STIR markets price in >60% chance of a 50bsp hike for the June meeting despite comments from Gov Lowe who said they don’t preclude a bigger or smaller rate move than 25bsp in the future. All-in-all the decision from the RBA was hawkish and has finally kick started the bank’s hiking cycle and should provide support for the AUD in the med-term as long as the bank keeps tightening expectations intact. 2. Idiosyncratic Drivers & Intermarket Analysis Apart from the RBA, there are 2 key drivers we’re watching for the med-term outlook: China – With the PBoC & CCP stepping up monetary and fiscal stimulus, any recovery in China usually bodes well for Australia (40% of exports goes to China). It has also meant that the virus situation in China posed short-term downside risks for AUD as it has pushed back recovery expectations. Thus, virus and stimulus developments in China remains key for the AUD. However, as long as recovery expectations in China remain intact, it bodes well for the med-term economic outlook for Australia as well. The AUKUS defence pact could see retaliation against Aussie goods and is worth keeping on the radar as well Commodities – Iron Ore (31%), Coal (14%) and LNG (10%) is more than 50% of Aussie exports, with the recent rise in prices giving the AUD a lot of support from a terms of trade perspective. As long as these key commodities remain supported it remains supportive for the AUD, but of course that also means any sizeable corrections will weigh on the AUD. Thus, geopolitical and China demand developments remain key focus points. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the AUD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the AUD. 4. CFTC Analysis Very close to neutral signals for AUD positioning. Recent price action has been tricky with overall risk off sentiment and China growth concerns. That also means if risk sentiment can continue to find some reprieve this week it could see some short-term recovery in the AUD and will as always be a key focus for the week ahead. 5. The Week Ahead For the AUD the focus for the week ahead will be on China, commodities, and the RBA policy decision. The covid situation in China remains important, and the hope is that either the government eases up more of the draconian restrictions or we see additional economic support. Commodities like Iron Ore and Coal prices will be eyed as usual, as both commodities have been struggling to hold onto any decent upside momentum. Any negative price action will be important for the AUD. We also have the RBA policy decision coming up on Tuesday, where markets are fully pricing in another 25bsp hike for the bank. Even though STIR markets are pricing in 30bsp of tightening, there is a few participants calling for a 40bsp hike given the growing inflation concerns and cost living squeeze facing Australia consumers. It would make sense for the RBA to learn from other central banks and slam on the breaks a bit harder as early as they can. The big risk to this view of course is the Q1 wage print which came in fairly soft and still a distance away from the RBA’s preferred 3.0% wage growth level. That might see the bank opting for a calmer 25bsp hike instead. An as expected 25bsp probably won’t be enough to give the AUD a lift, but a surprise aggressive tilt could be just what the doctor ordered to provide some upside for the AUD. As always, risk sentiment will also be in focus, especially after another stronger close for equities on Friday. Any continuation in that positive risk sentiment should offer some support for the AUD, while a resumption of the negative mood is expected to weigh on the currency. CAD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy In June the BoC delivered on market expectations by hiking rates by 50bps to 1.75% and kept its QT process intact. The statement-only decision was interpreted as more hawkish than expected with the bank saying it was ‘prepared to act more forcefully if needed’ to meet its inflation target. This saw markets implying either a few more additional 50bsp hikes or potentially opening the door to 75bsp hikes. The bank also delivered a hawkish tone regarding price pressures, noting that risks of elevated inflation becoming entrenched had risen and price pressures was persisting well above target. The biggest surprise was the lack of any real concern regarding growth. Instead, the bank was very optimistic about activity by noting it was strong and still operating above trend. The lack of concern about the clear slowdown in growth in their biggest trading partner, and the lack of concerns about debt levels and the housing market was a big surprise for us. Instead of sounding concerned about falling house prices and its possible effect on the economy, they welcomed the drop as a sign that their normalisation process is taking effect. To summarize, the bank remained much more hawkish than we anticipated and means our neutral bias for the CAD is taking a bit of a beating as CAD continues to trade at 9-year highs at the index level. 2. Intermarket Analysis Considerations Oil’s impressive post-covid recovery has been driven by many factors such as supply & demand, global demand recovery, and more recently geopolitical concerns. At current prices the risk to demand destruction and stagflation is high, which means we remain cautious of oil in the med-term. Reason for caution: Synchronised policy tightening targeting demand, slowing growth, consensus longs, steep backwardation curve, heightened implied volatility. We remain cautious oil, but geopolitics are a key driver and focus for Petro-currencies like the CAD (even though the CAD-Oil correlation has been hit and miss). 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the CAD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the CAD. 4. CFTC Analysis Positioning was more mixed last week for the CAD, but we continue to think that markets are setting up a similar path compared to April 2021, Oct 2021 and Jan 2022 where markets were too aggressive to price in CAD upside only to see majority of it unwind later. As always though, timing those shorts will be very important. 5. The Week Ahead For the Canadian Dollar the main focus in the week ahead will be employment data on Friday as well as ongoing developments in energy markets. Starting with oil prices, we know that the common correlation between Oil and the CAD has not been statistically significant over various lookback periods. However, that doesn’t mean we can ignore what is happening in commodity markets where Oil has seen further appreciation in recent sessions. As long as oil prices remain elevated, we would expect that to provide support for the CAD, but we need to keep the correlations in mind and understand that it has not been a key driver for the Petro-currency in recent weeks. As for the employment data, the biggest reaction will come from a miss as opposed to a beat. Why do we say that? Well, considering that markets have already priced in an aggressive policy path, and given the fact that the CAD is trading at 9-year highs, a beat won’t really chance much. However, a surprise miss, that pours some cold water on the BoC’s overly optimistic outlook for the economy could provide some decent downside in the CAD if the miss is big enough of course. Our preferred way to trade the CAD is still with pairs like AUDCAD and EURCAD, and with both of these two currencies having policy decisions we want to pay close attention to them this week.
by thunderpips
Today’s Notable Sentiment ShiftsAUD – The Australian dollar was indecisive on Monday, with investors split on whether Australia’s central bank will hike interest rates by a “usual” quarter point at their June meeting or opt for something more dramatic. Consensus looks for a quarter point hike to 0.60%, but Nomura notes that “by returning the cash rate to 0.75%, the RBA would be completing an unwind of the emergency rate cuts it delivered in 2020. This would fit with a narrative that the emergency has passed and might be a relatively easy message to convey.”
by thunderpips
AUD CAD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSAUD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy At the May policy decision, the RBA made a hawkish turn by raising the cash rate by 0.25% versus STIR expectations of a 15bsp move. Even though there were some hawkish takes looking for a 40bsp move, the 25bsp was still higher than consensus expectations. The bank noted that inflation pressures have risen more than they expected, even without a sharp rise in wages, and means that further increases in the cash rate will be required to bring inflation back in line with their target. They also surprised markets on the balance sheet side by announcing that they are starting passive QT by stopping the reinvestment of maturing bonds. The hawkish surprise was enough to see STIR markets price in >60% chance of a 50bsp hike for the June meeting despite comments from Gov Lowe who said they don’t preclude a bigger or smaller rate move than 25bsp in the future. All-in-all the decision from the RBA was hawkish and has finally kick started the bank’s hiking cycle and should provide support for the AUD in the med-term as long as the bank keeps tightening expectations intact. 2. Idiosyncratic Drivers & Intermarket Analysis Apart from the RBA, there are 3 drivers we’re watching for the med-term outlook: Recovery – unlike other nations where growth & inflation is expected to slow, Australia is expected to see recovery, mostly thanks to stimulus and recovery in China China – With the PBoC & CCP stepping up monetary and fiscal stimulus, any recovery in China bodes well for Australia (40% of exports goes to China). It has also meant that the virus situation in China posed short-term downside risks for AUD as it has pushed back recovery expectations. Thus, virus and stimulus developments in China remains key for the AUD. The AUKUS defence pact could see retaliation against Aussie goods and is worth keeping on the radar as well Commodities – Iron Ore (31%), Coal (14%) and LNG (10%) is more than 50% of Aussie exports, with rising prices giving the AUD huge support from terms of trade. If commodities remain supported it remains a support for AUD, but of course also means any sizeable corrections will weigh on the AUD. That means geopolitical and China demand developments remain key focus points. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the AUD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the AUD. 4. CFTC Analysis Very close to neutral signals for AUD positioning. Recent price action has been tricky with overall risk off sentiment and China growth concerns. That also means if risk sentiment can continue to find some reprieve this week it could see some short-term recovery in the AUD and will as always be a key focus for the week ahead. CAD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy The BoC delivered on expectations with a 50bsp hike as well as announcing a start to passive QT from the end of April by ending its reinvestment of maturing bonds. The bank upgraded both inflation and growth estimates as markets were expecting but did play a hawkish card by also increasing their neutral rate estimate to 2.5% from 2.25%. They acknowledged the growing risks from the current geopolitical situation but made it very clear that they are concerned about inflation and their hike of 50bsp showed that they think that policy needs to be normalized quickly (which some took as a hint that another 50bsp is on the way). The bank didn’t offer any additional clarity on QT but did note that they are not considering active QT of selling bonds just yet. Some conditionality also surfaced, where they explained that any sudden negative shocks to growth or inflation could see them pause hikes once they get closer towards neutral ( Gov Macklem also added that they might need to get rates slightly above neutral in the current cycle). Overall, it was a more hawkish than expected BoC decision, but interesting to note that STIR markets did not price in another 50bsp following the meeting (only a 25bsp) hike. We remain of the opinion that we are close to peak hawkishness for the BoC and are looking for the last push higher in the CAD for opportunities to sell. 2. Intermarket Analysis Oil’s impressive post-covid recovery has been driven by many factors such as supply & demand , global demand recovery, and more recently geopolitical concerns. At current prices the risk to demand destruction and stagflation is high, which means we remain cautious of oil in the med-term . Reason for caution: Synchronised policy tightening targeting demand, slowing growth, consensus longs, steep backwardation curve, heightened implied volatility . We remain cautious oil , but geopolitics are a key driver and focus for Petro-currencies like the CAD (even though the CAD-Oil correlation has been hit and miss). Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the CAD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the CAD. 3. CFTC Analysis Positioning was more mixed last week for the CAD, but we continue to think that markets are setting up a similar path compared to April 2021, Oct 2021 and Jan 2022 where markets were too aggressive to price in CAD upside only to see majority of it unwind later. As always though, timing those shorts will be very important.
by thunderpips
1
AUDJPY forming a bullish patternThis is an update of the AUDJPY pair on my previous sell signal upon the 1D RSI Resistance rejection, as illustrated below: With the price now recovered from the sub 88.000 level, the pair is waving a buy signal as it broke above both the 1D MA50 (blue trend-line) and the 0.618 Fibonacci retracement level. Since it started trading on this long-term Fibonacci Channel back in 2020, this break-out combination has only happened twice (see the circles) and on both cases after a short-term pull-back, the price rallied strongly. For example see late June 2021, where the price failed to break above the 1D MA50 and 0.618 Fib. Consider also the important of the 1D RSI Symmetrical Zone. The RSI is now exactly on the same level (flag symbol) that it was during those two break-outs I mentioned (mid November 2020 and early January 2022). This further suggests that we may be replicating currently that exact same bullish pattern. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Please like, subscribe and share your ideas and charts with the community! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Long
by TradingShot
6
AUD CAD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSAUD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy At the May policy decision, the RBA made a hawkish turn by raising the cash rate by 0.25% versus STIR expectations of a 15bsp move. Even though there were some hawkish takes looking for a 40bsp move, the 25bsp was still higher than consensus expectations. The bank noted that inflation pressures have risen more than they expected, even without a sharp rise in wages, and means that further increases in the cash rate will be required to bring inflation back in line with their target. They also surprised markets on the balance sheet side by announcing that they are starting passive QT by stopping the reinvestment of maturing bonds. The hawkish surprise was enough to see STIR markets price in >60% chance of a 50bsp hike for the June meeting despite comments from Gov Lowe who said they don’t preclude a bigger or smaller rate move than 25bsp in the future. All-in-all the decision from the RBA was hawkish and has finally kick started the bank’s hiking cycle and should provide support for the AUD in the med-term as long as the bank keeps tightening expectations intact. 2. Idiosyncratic Drivers & Intermarket Analysis Apart from the RBA, there are 3 drivers we’re watching for the med-term outlook: Recovery – unlike other nations where growth & inflation is expected to slow, Australia is expected to see recovery, mostly thanks to stimulus and recovery in China China – With the PBoC & CCP stepping up monetary and fiscal stimulus, any recovery in China bodes well for Australia (40% of exports goes to China). It has also meant that the virus situation in China posed short-term downside risks for AUD as it has pushed back recovery expectations. Thus, virus and stimulus developments in China remains key for the AUD. The AUKUS defence pact could see retaliation against Aussie goods and is worth keeping on the radar as well Commodities – Iron Ore (31%), Coal (14%) and LNG (10%) is more than 50% of Aussie exports, with rising prices giving the AUD huge support from terms of trade. If commodities remain supported it remains a support for AUD, but of course also means any sizeable corrections will weigh on the AUD. That means geopolitical and China demand developments remain key focus points. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the AUD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the AUD. 4. CFTC Analysis Very close to neutral signals for AUD positioning. Recent price action has been tricky with overall risk off sentiment and China growth concerns. That also means if risk sentiment can continue to find some reprieve this week it could see some short-term recovery in the AUD and will as always be a key focus for the week ahead. 5. The Week Ahead For the AUD the focus for the week ahead will be on China, commodities and Q1 GDP. The covid situation in China remains important, and the hope is that either the government eases up some of the draconian restrictions or we see some easing of restrictions. China also releases their latest batch of PMIs on Tuesday which will be eyed closely to see how bad the recent lockdowns have continued to weigh on growth. Any better-then-expected print could offer upside for the AUD and the China A50 index. On the data front, we have Q1 GDP, which could offer some volatility for the AUD. Keep in mind that key inputs for GDP like construction work done and private capex both surprised lower last week, so a miss in company profits could point to a downside surprise in GDP on Wednesday. Commodities like Iron Ore and Coal prices will be eyed as usual, as both commodities have been struggling to hold onto any decent upside momentum. Any negative price action will be important for the AUD. As always, risk sentiment will also be in focus, especially after another stronger close for equities on Friday. Any continuation in that positive risk sentiment should offer some support for the AUD, while a resumption of the negative mood is expected to weigh on the currency. CAD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy The BoC delivered on expectations with a 50bsp hike as well as announcing a start to passive QT from the end of April by ending its reinvestment of maturing bonds. The bank upgraded both inflation and growth estimates as markets were expecting but did play a hawkish card by also increasing their neutral rate estimate to 2.5% from 2.25%. They acknowledged the growing risks from the current geopolitical situation but made it very clear that they are concerned about inflation and their hike of 50bsp showed that they think that policy needs to be normalized quickly (which some took as a hint that another 50bsp is on the way). The bank didn’t offer any additional clarity on QT but did note that they are not considering active QT of selling bonds just yet. Some conditionality also surfaced, where they explained that any sudden negative shocks to growth or inflation could see them pause hikes once they get closer towards neutral ( Gov Macklem also added that they might need to get rates slightly above neutral in the current cycle). Overall, it was a more hawkish than expected BoC decision, but interesting to note that STIR markets did not price in another 50bsp following the meeting (only a 25bsp) hike. We remain of the opinion that we are close to peak hawkishness for the BoC and are looking for the last push higher in the CAD for opportunities to sell. 2. Intermarket Analysis Oil’s impressive post-covid recovery has been driven by many factors such as supply & demand , global demand recovery, and more recently geopolitical concerns. At current prices the risk to demand destruction and stagflation is high, which means we remain cautious of oil in the med-term . Reason for caution: Synchronised policy tightening targeting demand, slowing growth, consensus longs, steep backwardation curve, heightened implied volatility . We remain cautious oil , but geopolitics are a key driver and focus for Petro-currencies like the CAD (even though the CAD-Oil correlation has been hit and miss). Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the CAD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the CAD. 3. CFTC Analysis Positioning was more mixed last week for the CAD, but we continue to think that markets are setting up a similar path compared to April 2021, Oct 2021 and Jan 2022 where markets were too aggressive to price in CAD upside only to see majority of it unwind later. As always though, timing those shorts will be very important. 4. The Week Ahead For the Canadian Dollar the main focus in the week ahead will of course be the upcoming BoC policy decision on Wednesday. From a baseline perspective, we know that STIR markets have been fully pricing in another 50bsp hike for the bank for quite some time. That’s important as it means a 50bsp by itself won’t be enough to really create volatility unless it’s a smaller or larger than 50bsp hike. That also means that all the attention will fall to the BoC’s tone and language. It’s been a bit too soon to see a spill over of the slowdown in the US into the Canadian economy, and GDP is expected to show another decent print this week. However, cracks have been starting to show, especially in the housing market where rising cost pressures and rising interest rates have been putting pressure on house prices. If that trend continues, and we think it will. It can cause a repricing in growth expectations for Canada and given the high levels of debt will be something the BoC will get more worried about in the months ahead. With all the upside that has been priced into the CAD at the index level, the risk to the downside is higher compared to further risk to the upside going into this week’s BoC . A dovish surprise could offer some upside for EURCAD and AUDCAD in the week ahead.
by thunderpips
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AUD USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSAUD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy At the May policy decision, the RBA made a hawkish turn by raising the cash rate by 0.25% versus STIR expectations of a 15bsp move. Even though there were some hawkish takes looking for a 40bsp move, the 25bsp was still higher than consensus expectations. The bank noted that inflation pressures have risen more than they expected, even without a sharp rise in wages, and means that further increases in the cash rate will be required to bring inflation back in line with their target. They also surprised markets on the balance sheet side by announcing that they are starting passive QT by stopping the reinvestment of maturing bonds. The hawkish surprise was enough to see STIR markets price in >60% chance of a 50bsp hike for the June meeting despite comments from Gov Lowe who said they don’t preclude a bigger or smaller rate move than 25bsp in the future. All-in-all the decision from the RBA was hawkish and has finally kick started the bank’s hiking cycle and should provide support for the AUD in the med-term as long as the bank keeps tightening expectations intact. 2. Idiosyncratic Drivers & Intermarket Analysis Apart from the RBA, there are 3 drivers we’re watching for the med-term outlook: Recovery – unlike other nations where growth & inflation is expected to slow, Australia is expected to see recovery, mostly thanks to stimulus and recovery in China China – With the PBoC & CCP stepping up monetary and fiscal stimulus, any recovery in China bodes well for Australia (40% of exports goes to China). It has also meant that the virus situation in China posed short-term downside risks for AUD as it has pushed back recovery expectations. Thus, virus and stimulus developments in China remains key for the AUD. The AUKUS defence pact could see retaliation against Aussie goods and is worth keeping on the radar as well Commodities – Iron Ore (31%), Coal (14%) and LNG (10%) is more than 50% of Aussie exports, with rising prices giving the AUD huge support from terms of trade. If commodities remain supported it remains a support for AUD, but of course also means any sizeable corrections will weigh on the AUD. That means geopolitical and China demand developments remain key focus points. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the AUD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the AUD. 4. CFTC Analysis Very close to neutral signals for AUD positioning. Recent price action has been tricky with overall risk off sentiment and China growth concerns. That also means if risk sentiment can continue to find some reprieve this week it could see some short-term recovery in the AUD and will as always be a key focus for the week ahead. 5. The Week Ahead For the AUD the focus for the week ahead will be on China, commodities and Q1 GDP. The covid situation in China remains important, and the hope is that either the government eases up some of the draconian restrictions or we see some easing of restrictions. China also releases their latest batch of PMIs on Tuesday which will be eyed closely to see how bad the recent lockdowns have continued to weigh on growth. Any better-then-expected print could offer upside for the AUD and the China A50 index. On the data front, we have Q1 GDP, which could offer some volatility for the AUD. Keep in mind that key inputs for GDP like construction work done and private capex both surprised lower last week, so a miss in company profits could point to a downside surprise in GDP on Wednesday. Commodities like Iron Ore and Coal prices will be eyed as usual, as both commodities have been struggling to hold onto any decent upside momentum. Any negative price action will be important for the AUD. As always, risk sentiment will also be in focus, especially after another stronger close for equities on Friday. Any continuation in that positive risk sentiment should offer some support for the AUD, while a resumption of the negative mood is expected to weigh on the currency. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy Monetary Policy At the May meeting, the Fed delivered on hawkish expectations regarding rates by hiking the Fed Funds Rate by 50bsp and also confirmed that the committee expects further 50bsp hikes to be appropriate. The fed also stuck to a familiar hawkish tone by downplaying the prospects of an imminent recession by explaining that even though the economy contracted in Q1, that household spending and business investment remained strong. The Chair also stuck to their guns regarding the rate path by suggesting that they think reaching neutral (currently estimated at 2.4%) before year-end would be appropriate and will assess the need for further hikes when they get there. There were however some less hawkish elements which saw a very classic ‘sell-the-fact’ reaction in major asset classes. The first one was on the Quantitative Tightening front where the bank decided on a phased approach for balance sheet reduction by starting the monthly caps at 30bn (treasuries) and 17.5bn ( MBS ) and pushing it up to the expected $60bn (treasuries) and $35bn ( MBS ) over a three-month timeframe. The second less hawkish element was comments from Chair Powell who took 75bsp hikes off the table saying the committee was not actively considering rate moves of that size. Interestingly, it seems STIR markets did not really believe the Fed as the probability of a 75bsp hike stood at >70% directly following the presser. All-in-all, the meeting provided a short-term ‘sell-the-fact’ opportunity, but also cemented the view that despite signs of a slowing economy and despite clear stress in financial markets, the Fed is sticking to their aggressive tightening for now. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. The USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slows (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). Thus, current expectations of a cyclical slowdown are a positive driver for the Dollar. Incoming data will be watched in relation to the ‘Fed Put’ as there are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightened into a slowdown. If growth data slows and the Fed stays hawkish it’s a positive for the USD, however if the Fed pivots dovish that’ll be a negative driver for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis Aggregate USD positioning remains close to 1 standard deviation above the mean, and close to prior tops where the USD topped out in previous cycles. That does not change the bullish outlook for the USD in the med-term but means that we would wait for pullbacks before initiating new med-term longs. 4. The Week Ahead For the week ahead the focus will fall on the latest PMI releases and of course Friday’s NFP. From the start of the year the USD has been mostly supported on bad data as markets were pricing in a global slowdown in growth. However, the USD’s reaction change, to economic data (negative data impacting the USD negatively) has been important. We think this could be a first step for markets to start pricing in higher probabilities of a less aggressive Fed if negative data continues to build. For the past few months, the labour market data has been solid, not showing the same type of slowing as we’ve seen in other parts of the economy. This should not be much of a surprise as labour data is usually considered as a lagging indicator, meaning that a slowdown in the economy will take longer to show up in the labour market. Even though the data has been solid, we’ve already heard from very big Tech giants like Microsoft , Amazon, Twitter and Facebook that they are planning to slowdown hiring. If the slowdown starts showing up in the labour market, it could add additional pressure on the USD and US10Y . A surprise miss could create some risk positive price action and some USD downside which could offer some attractive short-term opportunities. Risk sentiment will be important to watch after last week’s recovery in risk assets. On the other hand, if the recent risk positive price action runs out of steam, it should be supportive for the USD. For now, the USD is still looking tactically stretched, so we would prefer to look for some short-term downside on a big miss in US economic data as opposed to entering new med-term longs.
by thunderpips
GBPAUD: Classic Consolidation 🇬🇧🇦🇺 As we earlier discussed, GBPAUD is trading within a wide horizontal trading range on a daily. 1.7787 - 1.789 is its resistance. 1.717 - 1.727 is its support. Approaching an upper boundary of the range, the price started to coil and formed one more range. To short GBPAUD watch 1.7567 - 1.764 horizontal support. Wait for a daily candle close below that as your trigger to open a position. Then a bearish continuation will be expected to the support of the range. Alternatively, if the price breaks the upper boundary of the range, the setup will be invalid and a bullish continuation will be expected. ❤️If you have any questions, please, ask me in the comment section. Please, support my work with like, thank you!❤️
Short
by VasilyTrader
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