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Pound steady after hot UK wage growth, CPI nextThe Canadian dollar continues to lose ground. In the North American session, USD/CAD is trading at 1.4315, up 0.48% at the time of writing. The Canadian dollar has declined 2.2% in December and is trading at its lowest level since mid-March. Canada's inflation eased to 1.9% in November, down from 2% in October and shy of the market expectations of 2%. However, the trimmed-mean core rate remained unchanged at  2.7%, higher than the market estimate of 2.5%. This is above the Bank of Canada's target of 2% and will complicate plans to continue to lower interest rates. The BoC has been the leader among major central banks in lowering rates, with five rate cuts since June for a total of 175 basis points. The central bank chopped the benchmark rate by 50 basis points to 3.25% last week but indicated in the rate statement that it expected a "more gradual approach to monetary policy", which means we can expect 25-bp increments in rate cuts if there are no surprises in inflation or employment data. US retail sales sparkled, another sign that the US economy remains robust. Retail sales jumped 3.8% y/y in November, following an upwardly revised 2.9% in October. This was the highest annual gain since last December. Monthly, retail sales rose 0.7%, above the upwardly revised 0.5% gain in October and the market estimate of 0.5%. US consumers have opened their wallets for the holiday season and motor vehicles and online sales helped drive the gain. The strong retail sales report didn't change expectations for a rate cut on Wednesday, which stand at 99%, according to the CME's FedWatch. US PMIs on Monday pointed to a mixed bag. The Services PMI rose in December to 58.5 from 56.1 in November and above the forecast of 55.7. This was the highest level in over three years as the services economy is showing impressive expansion. The manufacturing sector is in dreadful shape and weakened to 48.3, down from 49.7 in November and below the market estimate of 49.8. Output and new orders are down as the demand for exports remains weak. USD/CAD is testing resistance at 1.4289. Above, there is resistance at 1.4343 1.4191 and 1.4137 are the next support levels
by OANDA
Pound higher as Services PMI rises, job report nextThe British pound has moved higher on Monday, after declining 1% last week. In the  European session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2747, up 0.30% on the day. The UK Services PMI rose to 51.4 in December, up from 50.8 in November, which was a 13-month low. This beat the market estimate of 51.0, but points to weak business activity as demand for UK exports has been weak and confidence among services providers remains subdued. UK manufacturing is mired in a depression, and the PMI fell to 47.3 in December, down from 48.0 in November and shy of the market estimate of 48.2. This marked the lowest level in eleven months, as production and new orders showed an accelerated decrease. The weak PMI data followed Friday's GDP report, which showed a 0.1% decline for a second straight month in October. This missed the market estimate of 0.1%. GDP rose just 0.1% in the three months to October. The UK releases employment and wage growth numbers on Tuesday. The economy is projected to have lost 12 thousand jobs in the three months to October, after a sparking 200 thousand gain in the previous report. Wages including bonuses is expected to climb to 5% from 4.8%. The Bank of England meets on Thursday and is expected to hold the cash rate at 4.75% after cutting rates by 25 basis points in November. The economy could use another rate cut but inflation remains a risk to upside, with CPI climbing in October to 2.3% from 1.7%. The BoE will be keeping a close eye on wage growth, which has been a driver of inflation. The US releases PMIs later today. Manufacturing remained in contraction territory in November at an upwardly revised 49.7 and there is optimism that the new Trump administration's protectionist stance could benefit US manufacturers. The services sector is in good shape and improved in November to 56.1, up from 55.0 in October. The uncertainty ahead of the US election is over and lower interest rates have contributed to stronger expansion in services. GBP/USD is testing resistance at 1.2638. The next resistance line is 1.2668 1.2592 and 1.2562 are the next support levels
by OANDA
GBPAUD - Employment in Australia is at good levels!The GBPAUD currency pair is above the EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its upward channel. In case of failure of this channel, we can see the demand zone and buy within that zone with appropriate risk reward. Continuing to move in the channel will pave the way for this currency pair to rise to the supply zone. Within the supply zone can look for GBPAUD sell positions. 1. Renewable Energy in the UK: British ministers are preparing for the largest renewable energy subsidy auction in the country’s history to achieve the challenging goal of generating clean electricity by 2030. Ed Miliband, the Energy Secretary, is set to launch the “2030 Clean Electricity Action Plan” today, aiming to decarbonize the power system by the end of the decade. A recent auction secured funding for 131 clean energy projects, guaranteeing 9.6 gigawatts of energy capacity, enough to power 11 million homes. Government officials plan to hold the largest auction to date by 2025 to meet the 2030 target of at least 95% low-carbon electricity. 2. Trump’s Proposed Tariffs: According to a Reuters survey, most economists believe that Trump’s proposed tariffs would have minimal impact on the UK economy. The survey revealed that the Bank of England is likely to cut interest rates by 100 basis points by 2025, with reductions probably occurring quarterly at 25 basis points each. Additionally, all 71 economists surveyed predicted that the central bank would hold the interest rate steady at 4.75% during its December 19 meeting. 3. Challenges in AI Oversight: The UK is facing challenges in its efforts to expand global oversight of artificial intelligence. The country aims to strengthen its “Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute” (AISI) and solidify its position as a leading institution in researching AI risks. However, plans to open a new office in San Francisco have been delayed due to elections in the US and the UK, as well as hiring challenges. 4. London’s IPO Market Decline: The London Stock Exchange, once a leading and prestigious center for initial public offerings (IPOs), has now fallen to 20th place among global markets, recording none of the top 100 IPOs in 2024. Markets like Oman, Malaysia, and Luxembourg have outperformed London in attracting IPO capital. The outflow of companies from the London Stock Exchange has also risen, exacerbated by 41 consecutive months of capital outflow from UK equity funds, increasing pressure on market brokers to merge or sell. 5. Australia’s Unemployment Rate: Australia’s unemployment rate in November dropped to its lowest level in eight months, while employment continued its strong growth trend. This surprising strength led markets to reassess the likelihood of a rate cut in February, following the Reserve Bank of Australia’s unexpected dovish shift that hinted at potential monetary easing. Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed that the unemployment rate fell from 4.1% in October to 3.9% in November, the lowest since March. Analysts had expected unemployment to rise to 4.2%. The participation rate declined from 67.1% to 67.0%. Net employment in November increased by 35,600 compared to a revised figure of 12,200 in October, exceeding market expectations of a 25,000-job gain, driven largely by full-time employment growth.
Short
by Ali_PSND
GBP/USD falls ahead of UK employment reportThe British pound is lower on Monday. In the North American session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2870, down 0.33% on the day. The pound is coming of a sixth straight losing week, declining 3.5% during that time. It’s a quiet day on the data calendar, with no US events and only one minor UK release. The UK releases the employment report for the three months to September on Tuesday. Job growth soared by 373 thousand in the prior report, crushing the market estimate of 250 thousand. The labor market is expected to reverse directions, with a market estimate of -50 thousand. As well, the unemployment rate is projected to inch up to 4.1%, up from 4%. Wage growth excluding bonuses is expected to fall to 4.7% in the three months to September, down from 4.9% in the previous report. Wage growth has been easing but is still high and BoE policymakers are concerned about the possibility of a wage-price spiral. The strong growth in wages has contributed to high inflation in the services sector. The BoE holds its final policy meeting in December and Tuesday’s jobs report could impact market expectations. The BoE reduced rates by 25 basis points last week to 4.75% but with inflation falling to 1.7% in September, more rate cuts are likely on the way. A host of Federal Reserve members will deliver remarks on Tuesday and investors will be looking for clues about future rate moves. The Fed lowered rates by 25 basis points last week, a move that was well-telegraphed in advance. What will the Fed do at the December meeting? That is much less clear, as the markets have priced in a pause at 23%, a 25-basis cut at 2.9%, and a 50-basis cut at 22%, according to the CME’s FedWatch. GBP/USD is testing support at 1.2870. Below, there is support at 1.2822 There is resistance at 1.2933 and 1.2981
by OANDA
New Zealand dollar higher despite pessimistic RBNZThe New Zealand dollar has moved higher on Tuesday. In the North American session, NZD/USD is trading at 0.5998, up 0.46% on the day. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand released its semi-annual Financial Stability Report and the financial system received a favorable grade. That was it for the good news, as the report pointed to weak economic conditions that were hampering households and businesses. The report noted that rising unemployment was causing “acute” financial difficulties for some households and that businesses had been impacted by weak demand and high cost pressures. This had caused households to reduce spending and businesses to freeze investing. Although inflation and interest rates had fallen, “significant further weakening in the economy remains a risk.” The negative tone of the report could mean that the central bank will remain aggressive in its rate-cutting cycle. The RBNZ slashed rates by 50 basis points in October, lowering the cash rate to 4.75%. The final meeting of the year is on Nov. 27 and another 50-bp is likely, with a supersize 75-bp cut an outside possibility. The RBNZ will be keeping a close eye on Wednesday’s third-quarter employment report. Employment change is expected to decline by 0.4% after a 0.4% gain in the second quarter. As well, the unemployment rate is projected to jump to 5%, from 4.6% in the second quarter. With inflation easing, the RBNZ is keeping a closer eye on the labor market and if the deterioration in employment is worse than expected in Q3, the calls for a 75-bp cut at the next meeting will get louder. NZD/USD has pushed above resistance at 0.5987 and is testing resistance at 0.6002 There is support at 0.5957 and 0.5942
by OANDA
NZD/USD rises ahead of jobs data, US electionThe New Zealand dollar is higher on Monday. In the European session, NZD/USD is trading at 0.5991, up 0.49% on the day. The New Zealand dollar is coming off a miserable October, plunging 5.9%. New Zealand releases the third quarter employment report on Wednesday. The markets are braced for soft numbers that point to a deterioration in the labor market. Employment change is expected to decline by 0.4% after a 0.4% gain in the second quarter. As well, the unemployment rate is expected to jump to 5%, from 4.6% in the second quarter. The New Zealand dollar is vulnerable to a weak employment report. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand will be keeping a close eye on the job release. A weak employment report will support for the case for a rate cut at the Nov. 27 meeting. Last month, the central bank made an aggressive cut of 50 basis points, lowering the cash rate to 4.75%. What can we expect at the next meeting? Inflation has been moving lower and eased to 2.2% y/y in the third quarter. This was down sharply from 3.3% in Q2 and more importantly, was back within the RBNZ’s target band of 1%-3%. The decline in inflation has raised expectations of further aggressive cuts and the most likely scenario is another 50-bp cut. Still, the RBNZ has demonstrated in the past that it can be very aggressive and a 75-bp cut cannot be ruled out. The US election on Tuesday is too close to call and the political uncertainty could translate in volatility in the financial markets. With the votes in some swing states expected to be very close, we can expect recounts and even court challenges, which means that the election outcome won’t be determined for days or even weeks, which could leave investors uneasy. The election will be followed by the Federal Reserve rate decision on Thursday, with the markets pricing in a 25-bp cut at close to 100%. NZD/USD tested resistance at 0.6014 earlier. Above, there is resistance at 0.6028 There is support at 0.5988 and 0.5974
by OANDA
1
Canada’s job growth sparkles but Canadian dollar fallsThe Canadian dollar can’t find its footing and is trading at nine-week low against the US dollar. In the North American session, USD/CAD is trading at 1.3792 at the time of writing, up 0.21%. The Canadian dollar has recorded eight straight losing sessions and is down 1.9% in October. The week ended on a high note, as Canada’s employment growth jumped by 46.7 thousand, crushing the market estimate of 27 thousand and sharply higher than the August reading of 22.1 thousand. Full-time employment surged by 112 thousand, following a decline of 43.6 thousand in August, while the unemployment rate dropped from 6.6% to 6.5%. The impressive numbers couldn’t stop the Canadian dollar’s nasty slide but it will please Bank of Canada policymakers. The central bank has shifted its primary focus from inflation to risks to the labor market, now that inflation has been largely contained. In August, CPI dropped to 2%, its lowest level since February 2021. The BoC meets next week and has a tough decision to make. The drop in inflation raised the odds of a 50-basis point cut but Friday’s employment report was stronger than expected and supports the case for a modest 25-bps cut. The BoC has been aggressive in its rate-cutting cycle and has lowered rates three times this year in a bid to ease the pressure of elevated rates. The Federal Reserve has been late to the rate-lowering party, delivering its first rate cut in September. Still, the oversized 50-basis point cut in September signaled that the Fed means business and isn’t afraid to slash rates with large cuts. The Fed is expected to trim rates by an additional 50 or 75 basis points before year’s end. The most likely scenario is rate cuts of 25 bps in both November and December. The Fed could, however, deliver one more 50-bps cut if employment or inflation numbers are lower than expected. USD/CAD has pushed above resistance at 1.3758 and is testing resistance at 1.3790. The next resistance line is 1.3817 1.3731 and 1.3699 are the next support levels
by OANDA
AUD/USD climbs on Aussie job data, Fed rate cutThe Australian dollar has posted sharp gains on Thursday. AUD/USD rose as much as 1% before paring most of those gains. In the North American session, the Australian dollar is trading at 0.6792, up 0.41% on the day. Australia created 47.5 thousand jobs in August, close to the revised 48.9 thousand in July and crushing the market estimate of 25 thousand. The gains were all part-time positions as full-time jobs actually declined by 3.1 thousand. Still, investors gave a thumbs-up and the Australian dollar is up sharply today. The unemployment rate remained steady at 4.2%, in line with market expectations. The Reserve Bank of Australia remains an outlier among the major central banks as it is yet to lower rates. The RBA has maintained rates at 4.35% since November but its “higher for longer” stance has not brought down inflation as much as expected. Inflation has dropped to 3.5% but that is still higher than the inflation target range of between 2 and 3 percent. The RBA meets next Wednesday, a day before the August inflation report and is expected to maintain rates. In one of the most anticipated rate meetings in recent memory, the Federal Reserve surprised the markets with an oversize cut of 50 basis points. The markets were unsure right up to decision time whether the Fed would go with a modest 25 bps cut or the large 50 bps cut. In the end, the Fed opted for the deeper cut in a near-unanimous decision (11 of 12 members voted in favor). The message from the Fed was that it is confident that inflation will remain sustainably near the 2% target and that the weak labor market was in need of strong relief. In his press conference, Fed Chair Powell tried to assure the markets that the US economy was in good shape and that today’s move was not a signal that further 50 bps cuts were on the way. AUD/USD is testing resistance at 0.6798. Above, there is resistance at 0.6862 0.6751 and 0.6687 are the next support levels
by OANDA
GBP/USD steady as UK wage growth eases, GDP nextThe British pound has edged lower on Tuesday. In the North American session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.3055, down 0.14% on the day. UK wage growth eased in the three months to July, an encouraging sign for the Bank of England as it looks to continue lowering rates. Average earnings excluding bonuses climbed 5.1% y/y, down from 5.4% in the previous period and in line with the market estimate. This was the lowest level since June 2022. Wage growth is moving in the right direction but is still much too high for the BoE’s liking as it is incompatible with the target of keeping inflation at 2%. The UK labour market remains strong, as the unemployment rate edged down to 4.1%, down from 4%. The economy created 265 thousand jobs in the three months to July, up sharply from 97 thousand in the previous report and blowing past the market estimate of 115 thousand. The solid data means that the BoE isn’t under pressure to cut rates next week, and the markets are looking at another cut in November. The UK economy gets a report card on Wednesday, with the release of GDP for July. The economy flatlined in June and rose just 0.6% in the three months to June. Another weak GDP release could put pressure on the British pound. Investors will be keeping a close eye on Wednesday’s US inflation release. The Federal Reserve is now focused on employment now that inflation is between 2% and 3%, but a CPI surprise could shake up the markets and change market pricing for a Fed rate cut. The odds of a 50-basis point cut have been slashed to 29%, compared to 59% on Friday. There is resistance at 1.3167 and 1.3225 1.3069 and 1.3011 are providing support
by OANDA
GBP/USD shrugs as UK CPI rises less than expectedThe British pound is showing limited movement on Wednesday. GBP/USD is trading at 1.2844 in the European session, down 0.15% on the day. Headline inflation in the UK rose 2.2% y/y in July, up from 2% in June but below the market estimate of 2.3%. Perhaps most important for the Bank of England, services inflation slowed to 5.2%, the lowest since June 2022 and well below the BoE’s forecast of 5.6%. Monthly, inflation fell 0.2% in July, down from 0.1% in June and the first decline in six months. Core inflation fell from 3.5% y/y to 3.3% and monthly from 0.2% to 0.1%, also below expectations. The soft inflation report supports the case for another rate cut in September, which the money markets have priced in at 45%. The BoE joined the new phase of the central banking cycle when it cut rates on August 1 by a quarter-point to 5%. The BoE meets next on September 19. The UK released a mixed employment report on Tuesday. The unemployment rate dipped to 4.2% in the second quarter, down from 4.4% in Q1 and wage growth with bonuses slowed from a revised 5.8% y/y to 5.4%, its lowest level in two years. Still, this was much higher than the market estimate of 4.6% and is much higher than the inflation rate. Unemployment claims shot up to 135 thousand in July, blowing past the market estimate of revised 36.2 thousand and the market estimate of 4.6%.  There is resistance at 1.2833 and 1.2903  1.2792 and 1.2722 are the next support levels
by OANDA
British pound calm ahead of UK jobs reportThe British pound is drifting on Monday. GBP/USD is trading at 1.2768 early in the North American session, up 0.08% on the day. The UK releases the employment report for the three months to June and we could see signs of a cooling labour market. Annualized average earnings including bonuses, which has hovered between 5.5%-6% all year, is expected to fall sharply to 4.6%. The previous reading came in at 5.7%, the lowest since September 2022. The unemployment rate has remained unchanged at 4.4% for the past two readings, the highest since September 2021. Unemployment is expected to nudge up to 4.5% in the three months to June. This would signal that the labor market is weakening and would make If wage growth declines and the unemployment rate rises in tomorrow’s report, it would support the case for the Bank of England delivering another rate cut, perhaps as soon as next month. The BoE meets on September 19, just one day after the Federal Reserve is widely expected to cut rates by at least a quarter-point. The BoE joined the central bank trend of cutting rates earlier this month when it lowered rates by a quarter-point to 5%. We have entered a new phase of the central bank cycle, with most of the major central banks having already lowered rates. The Federal Reserve will almost certainly lower rates at the September meeting, but by how much? Just one month ago, the markets had priced in a quarter-point cut at 90%, according to the CME’s FedWatch, but then the US posted some weak numbers and the financial markets sank. This has boosted the likelihood of a half-point cut, which on Friday was around a 50/50 split with a quarter-point cut. Still, not everybody who has a say is urging a rate cut. Fed Governor Michelle Bowman, a voting member on the FOMC, said on Friday that she is hesitant about cutting rates, since inflation is “uncomfortably above” the 2% target and the labor market remains strong. GBP/USD is testing resistance at 1.2779. Above, there is resistance at 1.2801 1.2753 was tested in support earlier. The next support level is 1.2731
by OANDA
NZ dollar surges on strong employment dataThe New Zealand dollar has soared today. In the European session, NZD/USD is trading at 0.6018, up an impressive 1.1% at the time of writing. New Zealand’s labour market has been cooling off due to elevated interest rates and the markets were braced for a soft jobs report for the second quarter. Instead, job growth rebounded and unemployment was lower than expected, sending the New Zealand dollar sharply higher. Job growth expanded by 0.4% in the second quarter, up from -0.2% in Q1 and above the market estimate of -0.2%. The unemployment rate rose from 4.4% to 4.6%, a notch under the market estimate of 4.7%. This is the highest level since Q1 of 2021 but investors were pleased that it was lower than expected. The positive employment report has reduced market expectations of a rate cut from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, which has driven the New Zealand dollar sharply higher today. Inflation has fallen to 3.3%, its lowest level in three years and close to the upper level of the central bank’s target range between 1% and 3%. A weak employment report could have cemented a rate cut at next week’s meeting but the job data was better than expected, which will complicate the rate decision. The final tier-1 release before the August 14 meeting is Inflation Expectations on Thursday. This indicator is closely followed by the central bank and will be a factor in the rate decision. Inflation Expectations has been on a steady downtrend and is expected to ease to 2.33% in the second quarter, compared to 2.5% in the first quarter. NZD/USD is testing resistance at 0.6009. Above, there is resistance at 0.6061 There is support at 0.5934 and 0.5882
by OANDA
240729 Weekly OutlookThe following week have major data release including, 240730 Tue CB Consumer Confidence **** 240731 Wed Fed Interest Rate Decision ***** 240801 Thu Initial Jobless Claims **** 240801 Fri Nonfarm Payrolls ***** Unemployment Rate ***** Consumer Confidence is the major leading indicator alongside Michigan Consumer index. Investors should follow the rise of two indexes to lead increase in economic data like inflation, GDP, labor market conditions, as well as economic conditions. Fed rate is expected to remain unchanged, while market discounting the first cut in the cycle to come in September. Labor market show resilience all the way that give space to maintain higher rates in this cycle for longer. Even the first rate cute is forecasted for September, I would still expect the higher rates to stay here for longer period due to resilient labor market, as shown by labor market indicators. There are no signs for S&P to weaken this time, rather shuttle up and down at high levels. Note that last adjustment in S&P followed the deviation of 12% from major trend line 200SMA. Attentive investors could observe it previously. When the market finally digest selling orders, S&P should resume the rising trend.
AMEX:VOO
by moncap2023
USD/CAD steady as job growth falls in Canada, USThe Canadian dollar is showing little movement on Friday. In the North American session, USD/CAD is trading at 1.3618, up 0.05% on the day. Canada and the US released employment data today and surprisingly, the Canadian dollar has showed almost no reaction. Canada’s labor market contracted in June, with a decrease of 1.4 thousand. This follows a gain of 26.7 thousand in May and was well below the market estimate of a 22.5 thousand gain. The unemployment rate rose to 6.4%, up from 6.2% in May and higher than the market estimate of 6.3%. At the same time, wage growth climbed 5.6% in June, up from 5.2% and the 5.3% market estimate. The Bank of Canada will be pleased with the weaker job data but the sharp increase in wages could complicate plans to lower interest rates. The BoC cut rates in June for the first time since March 2020, the first major central bank to do so. The Bank wants to see a further cooling of the economy and lower inflation before it feels confident delivering a second rate cut. The US economy added 206 thousand jobs in June, beating the market estimated of 190 thousand. The May reading was revised sharply lower from an initial 272 thousand and the April data was also revised lower. This indicates that the labor market is weakening and could set up a quarter-point rate cut in September. Federal Reserve officials remain cautious about shifting rate policy and have stressed that a rate cut will have to wait until they are confident that inflation will continue to move sustainably towards the 2% target. New York Fed President John Williams echoed this stance on Friday, saying that the Fed had lowered inflation significantly but “we still have a way to go to reach our 2% target on a sustained basis”. The Fed may be in a cautious mood but the markets are becoming more confident of a September cut. The odds have risen to 72% following today’s employment release, up from 68% immediately before the release and just 58% one week ago, according to the CME’s FedWatch. USD/CAD is testing resistance at 1.3621. Above, there is resistance at 1.3656 There is support at 1.3600 and 1.3586
by OANDA
GBP/USD higher with eye on employment reportThe British pound is slightly higher on Monday. GBP/USD is up 0.20%, trading at 1.2549 in the European session at the time of writing. The UK labor market has held up well despite high interest rates but cracks have appeared and Tuesday’s job report is expected to be soft. Employment change is expected to slide by 215,000 in the three months to March, after declining by 156,000 in the previous release.UK wage growth including bonuses is forecast to fall to 5.3%, down from 5.6% and the unemployment rate is expected to creep up to 4.3%, up from 4.2%. The Bank of England will be keeping a close eye on Tuesday’s employment report. A decline in employment and wage growth will indicate that the labor market continues to cool down which could complicate the BoE’s plans to lower interest rates. The UK ended last week on a high note, as GDP grew 0.6% q/q in the first quarter, higher than the 0.4% market estimate. The stronger data still left a question mark about the central bank’s rate path, as the market pricing of a rate cut in June is around 48%. BoE Governor was non-committal about a June hike at his press conference at last week’s policy meeting. Still, Bailey didn’t rule out a June hike and said that he was “optimistic that things are moving in the right direction”. In the US, the University of Michigan consumer confidence index fell to 67.4 in May, compared to 77.2 in April and shy of the market estimate of 76.2. One-year inflation expectations rose from 3.2% to 3.5%, which indicates that consumers are less confident about inflation receding. GBP/USD tested support at 1.2522 earlier. Below, there is support at 1.2449 1.2597 and 1.2680 are the next resistance lines
by OANDA
AUD/USD hits one-month high, RBA decision nextThe Australian dollar has started the week with modest gains. AUD/USD is up 0.25%, trading at 0.6624 in the European session at the time of writing. The Aussie is coming off a strong week, having gained 1.19%. The Reserve Bank of Australia meets on Tuesday and is widely expected to hold the cash rate at 4.35%, a 12-year high. The central bank has maintained rates three straight times and there is a strong likelihood that the rate statement will be hawkish, as inflation in the first quarter dropped from 4.1% to 3.6% but was above the market estimate of 3.4%. Inflation has come down significantly but remains sticky as the RBA tries to bring it back down to the 2%-3% target range. The RBA is making its rate decisions based on the data and that has the markets guessing as to what the rate path will look like. A rate cut isn’t coming until inflation falls and the RBA doesn’t expect inflation to fall within the target range before 2025. If inflation resumes its downward path in the next few months we could see a rate cut in November but at the same time, the risk of a rate hike has increased since the Q1 inflation report. As well, the job market has been tighter than anticipated, which makes it more difficult to lower rates. The RBA was very late in starting its rate-tightening cycle and policy makers will be very hesitant to lower rates until they are confident that inflation won’t rebound. US nonfarm payrolls eased to 175,000 in April, well below the market estimate of 240,000. The unemployment rate rose from 3.8% to 3.9%, above the forecast of 3.8%. Wage growth rose 0.2% m/m, lower than the 0.3% gain in March and shy of the market estimate of 0.2%. We haven’t seen all three components of the employment report miss their estimates for quite some time, which could point to cracks in the US labor market. AUD/USD tested support at 0.6606 earlier. Below, there is support at 0.6564 0.6651 and 0.6693 are the next resistance lines
by OANDA
AUD/USD steadies ahead of employment dataThe Australian dollar has stabilized on Wednesday, after a 2.2% decline over the past three days. In the North American session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.62254, up 0.37% but remains close to five-month lows. Australia’s employment is expected to post a small gain of 7,200 in March after a blowout gain of 116,500 in February. The unemployment rate is expected to bump up to 3.9% after falling from 4.1% to 3.7% in February. The stunning February jobs report made the Reserve Bank of Australia look good, as it paused rates (rather than cut) just two days earlier at its policy meeting. If the March data shows that the February release was a one-time blip and that the labor market is indeed cooling down, expectations for a rate cut will increase. The RBA has held the cash rate at 4.35% for three straight times and meets next on May 7. The RBA will be monitoring key data ahead of the meeting and next week’s CPI release for the first quarter will be a key factor in the rate decision. Inflation has been moving lower but still remains above the target range of 2-3%. In February, headline CPI was unchanged at 3.4% while core inflation dropped from 4.1% to 3.9%. In the US, the Federal Reserve is dealing with a robust US economy and rising inflation. This is complicating the battle with inflation and prompted Fed Chair Powell to deliver a blunt message on Tuesday. Powell said that the Fed would wait longer than previously expected to lower rates as a result of higher than expected inflation reports. This warning led the markets to pare the odds of rate cut expectations, raising the possibility that the Fed might forgo rate cuts until 2025. AUD/USD tested resistance at 0.6437 earlier. Above, there is resistance at 0.6472 0.6413 and 0.6378 are the next support levels
by OANDA
GBP/USD edges lower, UK employment nextThe British pound has started the trading week in negative territory. In the North American session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2807, down 0.39%. The pound has posted six straight winning days and climbed 1.56% last week against the US dollar. The UK releases the employment report on Tuesday. The labor market has remained resilient even with the steep rise in interest rates, and the new measure for employment data has indicated that the labour market is stronger than previously thought. For instance, the unemployment rate in the fourth quarter of 2023 stood at 3.8%, compared to 4.2% under the old measure. The unemployment rate is expected to remain steady at 3.8% in the first quarter. We could see a large drop in job growth, with an estimate of 10,000 for Q4, compared to 72,000 in Q3. Wage growth has been dropping steadily and is expected to tick lower to 5.7% y/y including bonuses, down from 5.8% in the third quarter. The Bank of England will be keeping a close eye on the employment release. The BoE meets on March 21 and Governor Bailey has eased up on his pushback against rate cut expectations. If Tuesday’s employment numbers are stronger than expected, it will likely raise the odds of a rate cut later this year. In the US, Friday’s employment release was a mix. Job growth remained strong as nonfarm payrolls rose 275,000, easily beating the market estimate of 200,000 and the downwardly revised 229,000 in January. However, the unemployment rate surprised by climbing to 3.9% after holding at 3.7% for three consecutive months, which was also the market estimate. This was the highest unemployment rate in two years and points to softer labor market conditions. The rise in the unemployment rate has raised the odds of a rate cut in June by the Federal Reserve. Currently, the likelihood of a cut is 71%, compared to 64% just one week ago, according to the CME’s FedWatch tool. There is resistance at 1.2902 and 1.2945 GBP/USD pushed below support at 1.2852 and is testing support at 1.2809
by OANDA
Continuous Jobless Claims Continues to IncreaseU.S. Continuous Jobless Claims Rep: 1,895 🚨 20k HIGHER THAN EXPECTED🚨 Exp: 1,875K Prev: 1,865k (revised down from 1,871k) 20,000 higher continuous claims than expected. This is keeping the long term trend rising and remains one of thee most concerning charts out there. Chart Trend Since Sept 2022 continuing claims increased from 1.302m to 1.895m (593k+). This is significantly concerning trend and suggests that an increasing number of people that have become unemployed are remaining unemployed for longer. Recession Watch For the last 6 Recessions the 2.86m level was surpassed confirming or coinciding with recession initiation (see red dashed line). This is noted as the “Last 6 Recessions Threshold” on the chart. This is a level that was surpassed on confirmation of recession commencement (recessions are in red). The blue levels are pre-recession increases which are the warnings we are trying to interpret to get a lead. The above chart above has min, avg and max levels on the bottom right to illustrate the levels we would need to hit for increased the pre recession risk. Right now this chart demonstrates we are at max timeframe and close to max levels for an advance recession warning. PUKA
ECONOMICS:USCJC
by PukaCharts
1
Macro Monday 35~Richmond Fed Manufacturing and Services IndexMacro Monday 35 Richmond Fed Manufacturing and Services Index (Released Tuesday 27th Feb 2024 @ 15:00 GMT or 9:00 CT) The Richmond Manufacturing and Services Indexes measures the conditions of each respective industry for the 5th Federal Reserve District which covers the District of Columbia (Washington DC), Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and most of West Virginia. Both the indexes are derived from surveys conducted each month of relevant businesses in each respective industry. ▫️ The Richmond Manufacturing Index survey focuses on questions related to production, new orders, employment, prices, capacity utilization, and future expectations within the manufacturing sector. ▫️ The Richmond Services Index survey, on the other hand, asks questions about business activity, new business, employment, prices, inventory, capital expenditures, and future expectations within the service sector. While the specific questions and data points might differ between the surveys, the basic structure and methodology for calculating the diffusion indices remain consistent; The Chart You can see that the green zone is expansionary and the red zone is contractionary. At present Manufacturing (blue line) is in fairly deep contraction at -15 and whilst Services (red line) has recovered from -22 (Apr 2023) to +4 (Jan 2024). Reading the Chart: 🟢Above 0 is expansionary (green zone) 🔴Below 0 is contractionary (red zone) Historic Recession Patterns I have highlighted some patterns on the chart (orange) which demonstrate that historically when Services and Manufacturing declined for a period of between 27 and 45 months a recession can follow such declines. Importantly there was a period of decline in from Apr 2010 – Dec 2013(45 months) which did not result in a recession. During this period Services remained elevated and only fell marginally into contractionary territory for brief spells (which could be a tell of some buoyancy in the market during this period). At present we are 32 months into a general decline in both manufacturing and services. Services have been on the incline since Apr 2023 and recently moved into expansionary territory at +4 in Jan 2024 which is promising and may indicate the beginning of a trend change, however until manufacturing follows this trajectory I believe we are still at risk of repeating history. Manufacturing is down at -15 at present and needs to start as sustainable recovery into expansionary territory. It has remained more a less in contractionary territory since Apr 2022. Why even consider the Richmond Fed index? I think the best way to outline the utility of the Richmond Fed is to compare it to the Dallas Fed Index which will be released later today (Monday). I have covered the Dallas Fed on a previous Macro Monday (link will be in the comments) and I will update you on this index when it is released later today also. Both the Richmond Manufacturing Index and the Dallas Fed Manufacturing Index are valuable indicators of regional manufacturing activity, each offering unique insights. Dallas Fed Index focuses on a major economic manufacturing hub – Texas (An estimated 14.4 million people are employed in the state of Texas) The Dallas Fed Manufacturing Index covers manufacturing activity mainly in the state of Texas. The state of Texas ranks 2nd only to California in factory production & comes in at 1st as an exporter of manufactured goods, thus Texas is an important state for gauging manufacturing & production in the U.S. economy (not services is not included here). Texas also contributes an incredible c.10% towards the U.S. Manufacturing gross domestic product making the index an important metric to consider towards potential GDP trends in the U.S. So, the Dallas Fed is very good at gauging manufacturing in the U.S. simply because of the volume of manufactured goods from the region. Whilst the Dallas Fed Index focuses on a high volume of manufacturing activity and production within the state of Texas, it also specifically focuses on durable goods industries like aerospace, energy, and technology whilst the Richmond Index below is much more diversified in terms of its manufacturing industries, its services sector and regionally diverse. Richmond Index focuses on more economically diverse regions (inclusive of a large services sector) (An estimated 23 - 25 million people are employed in the fifth federal reserve district) This Richmond Index covers the Fifth Federal Reserve District, encompassing an incredibly diverse range of industries across six states. Its difficult to portray the expansive array of various manufacturing and services within these regions but I will try. This index goes far beyond the specific performance of durable goods in an isolated state like Texas and reflects manufacturing and services health across various sectors and regions. It offers economists a broader picture of manufacturing health in the U.S. compared to indices focused on specific industries or regions. To give you an idea of the diverse ranges here: In Washington DC you have a major corporate & services hub; think Accenture, Deloitte, KPMG, Capital One) combined with tech and comms center with the likes of Amazon web services, Verizon Communications & General Dynamics. You obviously have a strong political and legal presence in this region also. Maryland, Virginia and North Carolina appear to have a very strong healthcare dynamic with the likes of Bon Secours Mercy Health System, VCU Health System, Duke University Health System and Atrium Health. Baltimore in Maryland has the Johns Hopkins Hospital and Health System employing over 40,000 employees. All these states appear to have strong university presences also (offering education employment and services) which likely supply the necessary expertise for the medical manufacturing and services that are present across these states. South Carolina is known for having one of the major three Boeing aircraft manufacturing facilities and is also known the manufacturing of Michelin tires. Across all six states you have a rich and diverse farming and forestry industry, food production facilities and waste productions plants. Walmart, Home Depot, Target and Amazon are also present across all these states. You can clearly see why the Richmond Fed offers a more nuanced and complex picture of the U.S. manufacturing and services economy. This diversity in sectors, regions and employment demographic gives us a different insight against the more centralized manufacturing hub contained in Texas under Dallas Fed Index. Furthermore, in terms of employment the six states included in the Richmond Fed Index is approx. 24 million versus the approx. 14.4 million employed in the state of Texas (under the Dallas fed Index). Both indexes are very valuable and should both be equally considered in our assessments of the U.S. economy. Thanks for coming along and learning about the chart history on the Richmond Fed Index, the historic trends and the combined utility of both the Dallas and Richmond Fed Index . PUKA
ECONOMICS:USRFMILong
by PukaCharts
9
Australian dollar rebounds, employment data loomsThe Australian dollar is in positive territory on Wednesday. In the North American session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.6488, up 0.54%. The Australian currency slid 1.18% on Tuesday, following the stronger-than-expected US inflation report. The Australian dollar suffered its worst one-day performance on Monday since October 2023, sinking 1.16%. This was due to the US inflation report, which fell from 3.4% to 3.1% but was higher than the market estimate of 2.9%. Core CPI remained unchanged at 3.9%, above the market estimate of 3.7%. The markets reacted to the inflation reading by paring expectations of a March rate cut to just 4%, compared to 16% prior to the report, according to the CME FedWatch tool. In December, the odds of a rate cut in March were above 70%, but strong US data and the Fed’s pushback against a March cut have virtually wiped out the chances of a March move. The markets have fully priced in an initial cut in June but if the economy shows signs of weakness, a May cut is also possible. Australia releases January employment data on Thursday. The economy lost 65,100 jobs in December, with full-time employment sliding by a massive 106,600, as part-time jobs rose 41,400. We should see a rebound from these very soft numbers, with the market estimate for employment change standing at 30,000. The reading could have a significant impact on interest rate policy, as the central bank has said that its rate decisions will be data-dependent. Australia will also release inflation expectations on Thursday. The RBA will be watching carefully, as inflation expectations can translate into real inflation. Inflation expectations were unchanged at 4.5% in January and are expected to ease to 4.3% in February. AUD/USD is testing resistance at 0.6478. The next resistance line is 0.6514 0.6419 and 0.6383 and providing support
by OANDA
GBP/USD volatile after UK jobs, US inflation dataIt has been a hectic day for the British pound, after key releases on both sides of the pond. In Tuesday’s North American session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2594, down 0.26%. The pound edged higher after the UK employment report but dropped sharply after US inflation was higher than expected. The UK employment report indicated that the labour market is cooling but remains strong. Employment change rose 72,000 in the three months to December, down from a revised 108,000 a month earlier and just shy of the market estimate of 73,000. Average earnings including bonuses fell to 5.8%, down from a revised 6.7% but above the market consensus of 5.6%. The Bank of England will be paying particular interest to the wage growth numbers. The decline in wages will be welcome, as it is a driver of inflation, but the current rate of wage growth is much too high as it is incompatible with a 2% inflation target. The UK releases inflation data on Wednesday, with CPI expected to rise from 4% to 4.2% and core CPI projected to inch up to 5.2%, up from 5.1%. A rise in the inflation rate would be disappointing for the BoE and would likely lower market expectations for a rate cut. The British pound climbed 0.25% after the UK employment report, but headed south after the US inflation report and declined by 0.65%. The US dollar posted strong gains against all the major currencies after January’s inflation report indicated that inflation was hotter than expected. US CPI rose 3.1% y/y in January, down from 3.4% in December but higher than the market estimate of 2.9%. Core CPI remained unchanged at 3.9%, above the market estimate of 3.7%. The Fed has been pushing back against market expectations for a rate cut in March, and the hotter-than-expected inflation release lowered the odds of a March cut to just 4%, compared to 16% prior to the release, according to the CME FedWatch tool. The markets have widely priced an initial rate cut for June but strong US data could mean a rate cut as early as May. GBP/USD tested support at 1.2597 and this line remains under pressure. Below, there is support at 1.2550 There is resistance at 1.2676 and 1.2723
by OANDA
GBP/USD eyes Bailey, jobs reportThe British pound is showing limited movement at the start of the week. In Monday's North American session, GBP/USD is unchanged at 1.2629. Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey will speak at a public event later today and the markets will be listening carefully, looking for hints about the BoE's future rate path. The BOE kept rates unchanged at 5.25% for a fifth straight time at the meeting on January 31, as expected. The MPC vote was a surprise, however, with a three-way split. This indicates a divergence of views among MPC members as to the future rate path. Inflation is running at a 3.9% clip, well above the 2% target and maintaining rates in restrictive territory should push inflation lower. At the same time, elevated interest rates could tip the weak UK economy into a recession, and weary home owners are looking for relief from high mortgage payments. After Bailey's remarks, market attention will focus on Tuesday's employment report. The labour market has been cooling but remains in good shape and strong wage growth continues to drive inflation, which is a major headache for the BoE. The economy is projected to have added 73,000 jobs in the three months to December, compared to 108,000 in the three months to November. Unemployment is expected to creep up to 4.0%, up from 3.9%, while average earnings including bonuses is projected to ease to 5.6%, down from 6.5%. The Federal Reserve may have signaled that rate cuts are coming, but it has remained hawkish and continues to push back against market expectations of a rate cut. In December, Fed rate odds for a March cut were above 70%, but the odds have been shaved down to just 15%, as the US economy remains surprisingly strong and Fed members have dampened hopes of a March cut. We'll hear later today from Richmond Fed President Thomas Barkin. Last week, Barkin said that he wants to be sure that inflation is clearly headed to 2% before he supports lowering rates and his comments later today will likely reflect this stance. There is resistance at 1.2675 and 1.2723 There is support at 1.2597 and 1.2550
by OANDA