GOLD| Approaching Historic Highs Amid Geopolitical UncertaintyThe analysis of XAU/USD highlights a strong bullish trend, closing at approximately $2,939.41 on February 20, 2025, marking a 0.23% increase from the previous day. The recent high of $2,946.83 on February 19 indicates continued positive momentum, driven by geopolitical tensions, inflation concerns, and fears of potential trade wars, all of which have strengthened gold’s status as a safe-haven asset. The current momentum has pushed prices toward historic levels, with the potential to surpass $3,000, supported by a weaker U.S. dollar and declining U.S. yields. The chart shows a key resistance zone around $2,960, with a potential retracement towards the $2,880 area, identified as the first major support level. The current price action suggests a possible pullback before another breakout attempt. If the price consolidates above $2,900, it could accelerate towards new highs, while a break below $2,880 may drive the price toward the next support level around $2,840. The overall outlook remains bullish, with investor interest fueled by global uncertainties and the increasing demand for gold as a hedge against economic risks.
Fed
US30 stalls amid Fed uncertainty and trade policy risks
Macro:
- The Dow remained in a prolonged sideways trend within a tightening range, navigating Fed policy uncertainty, geopolitical risks, and evolving trade policies.
- Markets expect it to stay range-bound until the Trump administration finalizes tariff measures early next month.
Technical:
- US30 is trading in a tight range at the previous top level and awaits an apparent breakout to determine the potential trend.
- If US30 breaks above the resistance at 45000, the index may continue rising to 47146, the 100% Fibonacci Extension level, which is confluence with the Ascending Channel's upper bound.
- On the contrary, a closing below 44000-44200 may prompt a further correction to restest the following support at 43300.
Analysis by: Dat Tong, Senior Financial Markets Strategist at Exness
XAUUSD - Gold, no competitors!Gold is located in a 2 -hour timeframe, above EMA200 and EMA50 and is on its uptrend channel. Gold reform to the demand range will provide us with a good risk position for us.
According to Tom Stevenson from Fidelity International, gold remains resilient despite challenges such as high interest rates and a strong dollar, continuing its march towards the $3,000 mark. However, while these fundamental factors persist, he believes that silver could be a more attractive investment option in the future.
Stevenson notes that gold prices have increased tenfold since 2000 and have surged by over $1,000 since late 2023. Yet, he argues that fundamentally, gold should not be this expensive.
He explains: “Historically, precious metals tend to underperform when interest rates rise. This is because, unlike bonds, stocks, cash, or real estate, gold does not generate income for investors. When other assets offer appealing returns, there is less incentive to hold onto what economist John Maynard Keynes once referred to as the ‘barbarous relic.’ This situation remains true today, yet gold continues to set new record highs.”
Stevenson also believes that gold should benefit from a weaker dollar. He states: “Since gold is priced in U.S. dollars, when other currencies strengthen against the dollar, their purchasing power for gold increases.Conversely, when the dollar strengthens, global demand for gold should decline. However, despite Trump’s policies reinforcing the dollar, gold remains on an upward trajectory.”
He concludes that this signals something important to the market: “Gold’s performance suggests that not everything is as stable in the world as some may think. It indicates investor concerns, and history has shown that ignoring gold’s signals during times of uncertainty is a mistake.”
Stevenson further emphasizes that central banks around the world are taking steps to hedge against risks. Since the onset of the Ukraine war and subsequent sanctions, countries like Russia, China, India, and Turkey have increased their gold purchases in an effort to reduce their dependence on the U.S. dollar. He points out that gold has long been recognized as a valuable store of wealth and a diversification tool, as it carries no credit risk unlike paper currencies. According to him, central bank gold purchases in 2024 have surpassed 1,000 tons for the third consecutive year.
Meanwhile, Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and head of the Department of Government Efficiency (D.O.G.E), has shared memes resurfacing old conspiracy theories regarding the status of the U.S. government’s gold reserves at Fort Knox. In response, a prominent politician seized this rare opportunity to call for greater transparency.
Senator Rand Paul, a Republican representative from Kentucky, replied to one of Musk’s posts advocating for an annual audit of Fort Knox, writing, “Let’s do it.” So far, no evidence has surfaced to support Musk’s theory of missing gold, but the status of these reserves remains highly classified.
GBP/NZD Analysis: Market Uncertainty Amid Key Technical LevelsThe analysis of GBP/NZD shows recent volatility, with a close at 2.20571 on February 19, 2025, slightly down from the previous day, indicating a phase of market indecision. The previous trend saw moderate progression from February 16 to 18, supported by an increase in UK GDP, which temporarily strengthened the Pound. However, the absence of new economic data left the pair exposed to market sentiment, contributing to the decline on February 19. From a technical perspective, the chart highlights a strong resistance area between 2.21770 and 2.22180, a level that has rejected the price multiple times, suggesting that without a decisive breakout above this zone, the bullish trend may weaken. Conversely, a significant support area is located around 2.17616, a level that has already provided a positive reaction, pushing the price back up. The current price action shows a consolidation phase between these two key levels, with a recent structure of higher lows that could indicate an accumulation attempt before a potential bullish breakout. If the price manages to break above the upper resistance decisively, the next target would be around the recent highs in the 2.24000 area. On the other hand, a break below the 2.17616 support could trigger a decline towards the next key level at 2.15000, where an interesting liquidity zone is present. The combination of the recent positive GDP data and a more cautious market sentiment leaves the pair in a state of uncertainty, with a key reaction expected in the coming days depending on the holding or breaking of the main technical levels.
XAUUSD - Consolidation, what’s next?Here is our in-depth detailed view on XAUUSD . Potential opportunities and what to look out for. This is a detailed overview on the pair sharing possible entries and important Key Levels.
Alright first, taking a look at XAUUSD from a lower time-frame . For this we will be looking at the m15 time-frame .
As of right now, we are consolidating on OANDA:XAUUSD The best “signal” for now is to sit on our hands and wait for a clear break. Right now we are in a range from around 2905.6 and 2896 . Until we get a clear break , we can’t know the direction of the pair just yet. So, breaking down everything and understanding the importance of Key Levels we have several outcomes possibly in play.
Scenario 1: BUYS at the break to the upside (from the consolidation area)
- We broke above our consolidation area.
With the break to the upside, we can expect to see 2915 or a deeper revisit of 2920. At this point we would have to see if we make any pullbacks, possibly revisiting the top of the consolidation area (now becoming our support).
Scenario 2: SELLS at the break to the downside (from the consolidation area)
- We broke below our consolidation area.
With the break to the downside, we can expect to see lower levels such as 2880. At this point we would have to see if we make any pullbacks and continue chugging away to the downside. With the breaks of current lows we have on gold, we can expect drops even down to 2840.
KEY NOTES
- XAUUSD is consolidating.
- Breaks to the upside would confirm buys.
- Breaks to the downside would confirm sells.
- Possible deeper digs to the upside from 2915.
Happy trading!
FxPocket
EURNZD: Key Resistance at 1.8430 and Rejection from HighsAs of February 14, 2025, the EURNZD pair is once again testing the key resistance zone around 1.8430 after showing a clear rejection in previous sessions. The price has reacted from the support zone at 1.8235, which continues to act as a strong defense level for buyers. However, the strong rejection from the weekly resistance area suggests a possible new phase of weakness.
Technical analysis indicates interaction with key moving averages, with the price rebounding from the mid-term moving average but struggling to break through the upper liquidity zone. If the market stays below 1.8435, it could trigger a decline towards 1.8235, and if broken, a further extension towards 1.8100. Conversely, a decisive close above 1.8435 could open the way for a breakout attempt towards 1.8500. The macroeconomic context remains a key factor to monitor, with the strength of the euro and the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s policy likely to influence the future direction of the pair.
Brent Declines Amid Rising Inventories and Peace HopesOn February 13, 2025, Brent crude fell by 0.9% to $74.50 per barrel, driven by expectations of a potential peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, which could ease supply disruptions caused by sanctions. Additionally, U.S. crude inventories increased for the third consecutive week by 4.1 million barrels, surpassing analysts' forecasts. These factors, combined with new U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, have reinforced the bearish sentiment in the oil market.
GBP/JPY: Persistent Bearish Pressure Amid Recovery AttemptsThe GBP/JPY pair has shown recent volatility, attempting a rebound to 188.00 on February 10, breaking a three-day losing streak after hitting the weekly low at 187.00. The Bank of England’s dovish monetary policy, including the recent rate cut, has worsened the bearish sentiment on the pound, while downward revisions in the UK's growth forecasts have further weakened the GBP. Despite recovery attempts above 190.00, economic uncertainty and the central bank's negative outlook keep the risk of further declines high. The price is near a daily FVG, with potential liquidity grabs within and around the 0.62% Fibonacci level before resuming its downward movement.
XAG/USD: Silver Uptrend with Short-Term ConsolidationAs of February 11, 2025, the XAG/USD (Silver Spot/US Dollar) exchange rate exhibits a positive medium-term trend despite a recent short-term slowdown. Currently, the price is around $32.83 per ounce at the time of writing. The first resistance level is identified at $32.24, followed by a second resistance at $32.96. The first support level is at $31.52, with an additional support at $31.21. In the short term, a weakening of the bullish trendline is observed, with the price testing the high at $32.24. Technically, a potential decline towards the $31.21 support level remains possible. Recent political decisions, such as the announcement of a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports to the United States, have impacted financial markets, leading to an appreciation of the US dollar and a decline in stocks. These developments could affect the precious metals market, including silver. Despite the positive medium-term trend, silver is currently undergoing a consolidation phase in the short term.
USD/JPY Approaches 152.00 Amid Yen Weakness and Trade War FearsThe USD/JPY exchange rate is recovering from recent lows, reaching 151.90 on February 10, 2025, compared to the previous close of 151.30. After a significant drop in early February, the trend shows a gradual rebound, supported by the Japanese Yen’s weakness due to disappointing macroeconomic data, particularly the sharp decline in Japan’s current account balance to 1,077.3 billion Yen from November’s 3,352.5 billion Yen. The strength of the US Dollar is also fueled by concerns over new 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum announced by President Trump, driving investors toward safe-haven assets like the Greenback.
From a technical perspective, USD/JPY is nearing the psychological level of 152.00, with key resistance between 152.40 and 152.90. A breakout above this range could signal further gains, while a rejection may trigger a corrective phase. Volatility is heightened by uncertainty surrounding the Fed’s monetary policy, as it may maintain a cautious stance on rates to counter inflationary pressures. Meanwhile, speculation about a potential rate hike by the Bank of Japan (BoJ) could reduce the interest rate differential between the US and Japan.
The Dollar Index (DXY) stands at 108.20, slightly up by 0.1% but down from the intraday high of 108.50, indicating a cautious market sentiment ahead of Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s testimony before Congress on Tuesday and Wednesday. Traders will closely watch his statements for any hints of a policy shift.
EUR/AUD: Weekly Engulfing Bar Pullback!The recent performance of the EUR/AUD exchange rate shows a fluctuating trend, with a slight recovery, closing at approximately 1.6450 in the first week of February. In the preceding days, the rate experienced several declines, with a significant drop. These fluctuations reflect the economic dynamics of both the Eurozone and Australia. In the Eurozone, inflation unexpectedly rose to 2.5% in January, exceeding the European Central Bank’s 2% target for the third consecutive month. Despite this, the ECB plans to continue cutting interest rates, expecting inflation to reach its 2% target over the year. Meanwhile, the Eurozone economy showed no growth in the last quarter of 2024, with contractions in Germany and France and stagnation in Italy. In Australia, the leading economic indicators index increased by 0.2% in October 2024, suggesting a slight economic recovery. However, Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirmed a worsening fiscal deficit, projected to rise by AUD 21.8 billion over the next four years, mainly due to unavoidable expenditures. These economic developments impact the EUR/AUD exchange rate, with the Euro benefiting from a more accommodative monetary policy while Australia faces fiscal challenges. Despite the recent upward movement, the negative trends from previous sessions and technical analysis suggest caution is warranted when assessing the short-term trajectory of the EUR/AUD exchange rate.
USD/JPY: Bearish Momentum and Key Support TestThe USD/JPY analysis as of February 18, 2025, shows a clear bearish structure, with the price breaking below key support levels, particularly around 152.70, which aligns with the 200-day moving average. The February 17 close at 151.456 confirms the downward trend after the recent high of 154.79 on February 12, highlighting the weakness of the US dollar against the strengthening Japanese yen. The yen’s appreciation was driven by Japan’s unexpectedly strong GDP data, which showed an annualized growth of 2.8%, far exceeding expectations and fueling speculation of a potential rate hike by the Bank of Japan. In contrast, the US dollar has been under pressure due to weak retail sales data and a general lack of bullish catalysts.
The chart setup highlights a key demand zone between 150.50 and 151.00, where the price is showing an initial reaction, suggesting a possible technical rebound. However, the overall structure remains weak, and unless the price can stabilize above 152.50-153.00, the risk of further downside remains high. The next significant resistance lies between 154.50 and 156.00, an area with concentrated sell orders and a potential reversal point in case of recovery. Conversely, a break below 150.50 would open the way toward 148.00 and even lower levels, with a critical support zone around 146.00.
The short-term trading range could remain between 151.00 and 155.00, with strong dependence on upcoming macroeconomic developments, particularly statements from the Bank of Japan and economic updates from the United States.
2025 Market Outlook - Cautiously Bullish (Important Bar Counts)Hey Everybody,
Thanks for checking out the video. I'm reviewing all major instruments, US and Non US.
US has carried the financial markets since 2020 and 2022 and this year out of the gate we're seeing big runs in "uninvestable" spaces like Europe and China. I say that jokingly because of how bad everything thought non US assets were, but here we are watching DAX, FTSE, and HSI running to double digit gains while the US lags behind.
Will the US catch up and the global economy tide rise to lift all boats or are we truly seeing a catch up trade that will have headwinds uncertainties a plenty? Time will tell.
This week is a holiday shortened trading week, RBA and RBNZ expected to cut rates, Europe and US printing PMI on Friday. BABA and BIDU earnings this week (China related), and NVDA earnings next week (#2 market cap in US).
I discuss the big bar counts that I'm watching closely on SPY, SPX, XSP, RSP, NDX, QQQ, DIA, NVDA, META, NFLX, and others that I believe technically will matter for limited upside momentum without a bigger pause, snapback or correction ahead.
Cautiously optimistic is a perfect play for 2025. I'm off to a good start for the year and intend to keep that way without chasing or doing anything silly.
Thank for watching.
NAS100 - Nasdaq is setting a new ATH!The index is trading above the EMA200 and EMA50 on the 4-hour timeframe and is trading in its ascending channel. If the index corrects towards the marked trend line, which is also intersecting the demand zone, we can look for further buying opportunities in Nasdaq.
At the start of the week, the U.S. dollar strengthened significantly after President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports. He also stated that any country imposing tariffs on American products would face reciprocal tariffs from the U.S. Later, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, in his congressional testimony, emphasized that the central bank is in no hurry to implement further rate cuts. Additionally, data from the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) for January came in higher than expected, further supporting the dollar.
Although the dollar experienced a slight correction on Thursday and Friday, these factors, combined with a strong non-farm payroll report for January, led investors to anticipate a rate cut of only 30 basis points for the year. This outlook is more hawkish than the Federal Reserve’s own forecast of a 50-basis-point reduction. In other words, traders in financial markets have fully priced in just a single 0.25% rate cut by December.
Kevin Hassett, Chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, revealed in an interview with CBS’s Face The Nation that he meets regularly with Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. He stressed that these meetings are not intended to influence interest rate policy and that Powell’s independence is respected, although the President’s views are still conveyed.
Hassett also pointed out that long-term yields have declined, with a 40-basis-point drop in the 10-year Treasury yield, indicating market expectations of lower inflation.
Retail sales data showed a 0.9% decline following an upwardly revised 0.7% increase in December. Out of 13 reported categories, nine recorded declines, with the largest drops observed in automobiles, sporting goods, and furniture stores.
Following a tense week filled with impactful economic news, the upcoming week is expected to be quieter and shorter, as U.S. markets will be closed on Monday in observance of Presidents’ Day.
Key economic events for the week include the release of the Empire State Manufacturing Index on Tuesday, the minutes from the latest Federal Reserve policy meeting, and U.S. housing starts and building permits data on Wednesday. On Thursday, weekly jobless claims and the Philadelphia Fed Manufacturing Index will be released. Finally, Friday will see the publication of preliminary S&P Flash PMI reports and existing home sales data.
GBP/JPY: Uncertainty and Bearish PressuresGBP/JPY has shown a volatile trend in recent sessions, with a combination of ups and downs highlighting a phase of uncertainty. The last closing on February 15, 2025, at 191.618 marks the beginning of a bearish trend after the doji on February 14. This movement reflects a complex dynamic, where macroeconomic and technical factors play a decisive role in price direction. The recent rebound was supported by positive UK GDP data, which helped the pound recover from bearish pressures over the past months. Notably, on February 12, a reversal of the bearish trend occurred, with GBP/JPY starting to regain ground due to an improvement in market sentiment. Additionally, the strengthening of US inflation negatively impacted the Japanese yen, pushing GBP/JPY up by 1.22% around February 12, driven by a weaker yen following the increased strength of the US dollar. However, despite these positive elements, the Bank of England’s monetary policy has introduced uncertainty, with a dovish stance fueling pressure on the pound. The interest rate cut has raised concerns about further depreciation, negatively affecting GBP/JPY. Added to this is the earlier decline in early February, triggered by disappointing UK economic data and expectations of further BoE interventions, which contributed to a widespread bearish sentiment. From a technical perspective, the price is currently in a consolidation phase between 187.610 and 193.120, with a structure suggesting a possible expansion of volatility in the coming weeks. The key resistance at 193.120 represents a critical obstacle for a potential continuation of the bullish trend, while support at 187.610 remains the main level to watch in case of renewed bearish pressure. A breakout above the 193.50 threshold could confirm further pound strengthening, while a break below 188.00 could reopen scenarios of weakness. With a combination of technical and macroeconomic factors in play, GBP/JPY’s trend remains subject to upcoming BoE decisions and the evolution of global economic conditions, making it crucial to monitor upcoming economic releases to determine the market’s direction.
GBP/USD: Bearish Pressure Amid US Inflation and Trade TensionsThe GBP/USD pair has recently declined, closing at 1.24445 on February 12 (-0.0233%) after a 0.6688% increase on February 11. Volatility has dominated recent sessions, with fluctuations between 1.2400 and 1.2500. The decline was triggered by US inflation data, which strengthened expectations of higher Fed rates, weighing on the pound. Despite a 2.5% increase in UK retail sales (compared to the expected 0.2%), GBP struggled to maintain upward momentum, further pressured by uncertainty surrounding US tariffs on steel and aluminum. Technically, support between 1.2320 - 1.2330 remains crucial for potential rebounds towards 1.2550 - 1.2600, but future movements will depend on upcoming economic data and monetary policy expectations on both sides of the Atlantic.
GBP/USD dips on hot US inflation reportThe British pound is lower on Wednesday. GBP/USD is trading at 1.2400, down 0.37% on the day.
The January inflation report was hotter than expected, giving the US dollar a boost against the major currencies today. Headline CPI rose 3% y/y, above the December gain of 2.9% which was also the market estimate. Monthly, CPI rose 0.5%, up from 0.4% in December and above the market estimate of 0.3%. It was the highest monthly inflation rate since August 2023.
The core rate, which excludes food and energy, rose 3.3% from 3.2%, above the market estimate of 3.2%. Monthly core CPI accelerated to 0.4% from 0.2%, above the market estimate of 0.3%.
The inflation report didn't change expectations about the March meeting, with the Fed virtually certain to hold rates. However, expectations for a cut in May have dropped to just 9%, compared to 21% a day ago. The economy is performing well and the Fed will be reluctant to lower rates again until it sees inflation moving lower.
Fed Chair Powell repeated a familiar message in testimony before a Senate Banking committee on Tuesday, saying that the Fed "does not need to be in a hurry" to adjust policy. Powell said that rate policy remains restrictive but the Fed would be careful not to lower rates too quickly or too slowly. Powell deflected a question about Trump's tariffs and US trade policy but acknowledged that tariffs could lift inflation and complicate the Fed's ability to lower rates.
The UK releases GDP on Thursday, with little change expected from the sputtering UK economy. Annually, GDP is projected to remain unchanged at 1%, while the GDP 3-month average to December is expected to decline by 0.1%, compared to a flat reading in the previous release. The economy contracted in the third quarter and may show a small gain in Q4 thanks to increased government spending.
GBP/USD tested support at 1.2411 earlier. Below, there is support at 1.2368
1.2491 and 1.2534 are the next resistance lines
When Alt-Season? Here's the Key FactorAlt-Season = BTC.D going down, but liquidity is king.
Right now, I don’t believe we’ll see a true alt-season until the Fed starts QE.
At the last FOMC meeting, Powell confirmed that QT will continue, meaning there is no reason to expect QE soon.
For QE to return, something needs to break—whether in the stock market or the broader economy.
Right now:
- Stock indices are at all-time highs
- The economy remains resilient
But cracks could form later this year
Possible triggers for QE:
- A stock market correction
- A credit event (bank failures, debt crisis)
- A sudden economic downturn
Why QE Matters for Crypto
- QE (Quantitative Easing) = Fed buys assets → Lowers interest rates → Pumps risk assets.
- QT (Quantitative Tightening) = Fed sells assets → Raises interest rates → Drains liquidity.
Crypto thrives in QE environments—that’s why we had the last alt-season in 2021, during extreme money printing.
In the chart, BTC.D is overlaid with Total Fed Assets.
- When the Fed’s balance sheet expands (QE) → BTC.D drops → Alts pump.
- When the Fed’s balance sheet contracts (QT) → BTC.D rises → BTC dominance increases.
Bottom Line:
For altcoins to outperform, we likely need another QE cycle. Without it, liquidity remains tight, and BTC.D stays high.
What’s your take? Will QE return in 2024, or will the Fed hold the line?
My CPI/ Inflation PredictionECONOMICS:USCIR NASDAQ:QQQ AMEX:SPY AMEX:IWM
We are just 15 minutes away from some very important inflation data coming out.
Here is my prediction: 3.1 YoY CPI or Lower
- Double top to drop continues
- Had a small lower high form and deflect off the 9ema
- Curling over and pointed down again
- Bearish WCB is still thriving
- The trend is your friend and the trend says we are going to continue to fall lower
Not financial advice
$GOLD EASES FROM RECORD HIGHS AHEAD OF U.S. INFLATION DATAGOLD EASES FROM RECORD HIGHS AHEAD OF U.S. INFLATION DATA
1/7
Gold hit a record high of $2,942.70/oz on Feb 11, fueled by safe-haven demand amid fresh U.S. tariffs. Today, it’s dipped 0.2% to $2,892.50 as investors take profits and watch U.S. inflation data. Let’s dig in! 💰⚖️
2/7 – RECENT PRICE ACTION
• All-time high at $2,942.70/oz—sparked by President Trump’s 25% tariffs on steel & aluminum
• Spot gold now at $2,892.50 (↓0.2%), with futures at $2,931.40 (↓0.1%)
• The rally’s paused—are we in for a short breather or a bigger correction? 🤔
3/7 – TARIFF TENSIONS
• 25% tariffs raise global trade war fears, boosting gold’s safe-haven appeal
• Markets worried about inflation, as import costs could climb
• Gold remains a hedge against economic uncertainty and currency devaluation 🌐⛔️
4/7 – MACROECONOMIC DRIVERS
• Fed Chair Powell’s hawkish comments on rate policy sent gold lower—higher rates often weigh on non-yielding assets
• U.S. inflation data (due soon) could shape the Fed’s next move—any upside surprise might strengthen the dollar, pressuring gold further
5/7 – INVESTOR SENTIMENT
• Profit-taking: After a massive run-up, traders might lock in gains
• Safe Haven: Still an underlying bullish sentiment if tariffs escalate
• The $2,900–$2,950 range is in focus—will gold consolidate or stage another breakout?
6/7 Where’s gold heading next?
1️⃣ Above $3,000—safe haven demand remains strong ✨
2️⃣ Sideways around $2,900—pausing for data 🏖️
3️⃣ Back under $2,850—hawkish Fed sinks gold ⬇️
Vote below! 🗳️👇
7/7 – STRATEGY WATCH
• Short-Term: Watch U.S. inflation data & dollar moves—gold typically moves opposite the greenback
• Long-Term: If tariffs stoke inflationary pressure, gold may shine even brighter. Keep an eye on geopolitical developments! 🌎
Australian dollar drifting after mixed confidence dataThe Australian dollar is showing little movement on Tuesday. In the European session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.6279, up 0.05% on the day.
Australian confidence indicators were mixed on Tuesday. The Westpac consumer sentiment index climbed 0.1% in February to 92.2 points, which means a majority of the surveyed consumers were pessimistic about econmic conditions. The reading bounced back from a 0.7% decline in January but was shy of the forecast of 0.4%. Consumer confidence remains weak as consumers have been squeezed by high inflation and elevated interest rates. The survey noted that consumers have become more confident that the central bank will lower rates.
The National Australia Bank's (NAB) business confidence index, which rose 6 points in January to +4. However, business conditions index dropped to +3 from +6 a month earlier, as profitability and employment weakened. The NAB survey noted that retail spending has improved and this trend would need to continue if business conditions were to improve.
The mixed confidence numbers come just one week before a crucial Reserve Bank of Australia meeting. A rate cut is virtually certain at the meeting, which would mark the RBA's first rate cut since Nov. 2020. The RBA is yet to join the easing cycle which other major central banks have implemented as inflation has fallen.
The Federal Reserve is widely expected to continue to maintain interest rates at the March meeting. The US economy remains robust and the labor market has slowed gradually, which means there isn't much pressure on Fed policy makers to lower rates in the coming months. Barring unexpected economic news, the Fed is expected to cut rates no more than one or two times in 2025.
AUD/USD tested support at 0.6267 earlier. Below, there is support at 0.6245
There is resistance at 0.6299 and 0.6321
GBP/NZD: Bearish Outlook Confirmed by Head and ShouldersThe GBP/NZD exchange rate at NZ$2.1922 reflects a persistent downtrend, confirming recent weakness in the British Pound against major counterparts. The formation of a head and shoulders pattern on the daily chart suggests further downside risk, with the pair testing key support levels. Market fluctuations between NZ$2.1754 and NZ$2.22 highlight ongoing volatility driven by external economic factors, including U.S. tariffs and mixed macroeconomic data from both the UK and New Zealand. The Pound remains under pressure due to inflation concerns and lackluster GDP growth, while the NZD struggles to capitalize on the Pound’s weakness amid subdued domestic data. The technical setup and broader macroeconomic landscape signal a potential continuation of bearish momentum for GBP/NZD.
$BTC BITCOIN TRADERS EYE ‘HUGE’ US JOBS DATA AS BTC RISKS $95K BITCOIN TRADERS EYE ‘HUGE’ US JOBS DATA AS BTC RISKS $95K DIP
1/7
Bitcoin is hovering around GETTEX:97K , after dropping 3.5% yesterday. 🚀📉
Now, all eyes are on the upcoming US January jobs report—could it ignite the next major BTC move?
2/7
Prediction markets signal a 28% chance of a “huge beat” (300K+ jobs) vs. Wall Street’s 169K forecast. 📊
A stronger-than-expected jobs print might fuel more Fed hawkishness, pressuring risk assets like BTC.
3/7
Market Sentiment: If job numbers soar, the Fed could keep rates higher for longer. ⬆️🏦
CME’s FedWatch Tool shows a 14.5% chance for a 0.25% cut in March, meaning rate reductions are still unlikely.
4/7
Price & Liquidity: BTC sits in a narrow trading range. 💹
Traders see liquidity around $95K—we could dip there before another leg up.
5/7
BTC is “pinned” until a catalyst—like the jobs data—sparks real volatility. ⚡️
Will an oversized payroll number push BTC toward $95K or trigger a surprise bounce?
6/7 Where do you see BTC heading after the jobs data drop?
1️⃣ Dip to $95K
2️⃣ Sideways chop
3️⃣ Break above $100K
4️⃣ Something else?
Vote below! 👇🗳️
7/7
With strong job numbers, the Fed might keep its foot on the brake 🏁, challenging $BTC. But if the data disappoints, a relief rally could be on the table. Keep your risk management in check!