USDJPY Weekly Outlook: Slightly Bullish Bias – September 23,2024USDJPY Weekly Outlook: Slightly Bullish Bias – September 23, 2024
The USDJPY pair has been a focal point for traders, and as we enter the week of September 23, 2024, a slightly bullish bias seems to be developing. Several key factors suggest that the US Dollar (USD) could continue to edge higher against the Japanese Yen (JPY), driven by fundamental and technical market conditions. This article provides an in-depth analysis, highlighting critical elements affecting USDJPY this week.
Key Drivers Behind the Bullish Bias for USDJPY
1. Federal Reserve's Hawkish Stance
The primary driver for the USD strength is the Federal Reserve’s recent monetary policy stance. With the central bank signaling that interest rates could remain elevated for an extended period, the US Dollar has found solid support. Traders are pricing in the possibility that the Fed may hike rates again in the near future, which tends to strengthen the USD. Higher interest rates in the U.S. make the dollar more attractive to investors compared to the low-yielding Japanese Yen, which still sits in a negative interest rate environment.
2. BOJ's Ultra-Dovish Policy
The Bank of Japan (BOJ) continues to maintain its ultra-loose monetary policy, with no significant shifts expected in the near term. This dovish stance puts pressure on the Japanese Yen, especially as other central banks, including the Federal Reserve, are moving toward tighter monetary policies. The policy divergence between the Federal Reserve and the BOJ remains a significant factor driving USDJPY higher.
3. US Economic Strength
Recent U.S. economic data has shown resilience, with key indicators such as employment figures, retail sales, and inflation trends supporting the idea that the economy is in a solid position. This economic strength underpins the USD's upward trajectory. The robust economic outlook increases the likelihood of sustained monetary tightening by the Federal Reserve, further bolstering the USD.
4. Safe-Haven Flows Favoring USD Over JPY
While the Japanese Yen has traditionally been a safe-haven currency, the USD has increasingly taken on that role in times of global uncertainty. With ongoing geopolitical tensions and concerns about global economic growth, the USD has been more appealing to investors seeking safety, diminishing the Yen's haven status. This factor adds to the bullish momentum for USDJPY.
5. Technical Factors Supporting USDJPY
From a technical standpoint, USDJPY has been trading in a bullish channel, with higher highs and higher lows observed on the daily chart. Key support levels around 148.00 have held strong, providing a base for potential upside movement. On the upside, a break above the 149.50 resistance could trigger further gains, targeting the psychological level of 150.00.
Conclusion: USDJPY Slightly Bullish This Week
In conclusion, USDJPY is expected to exhibit a slightly bullish bias this week, primarily driven by the Federal Reserve’s hawkish stance, the BOJ’s dovish approach, and the relative strength of the US economy. Safe-haven flows are also favoring the USD over the Yen, while technical factors suggest room for further upside.
As we navigate the markets this week, traders should closely monitor central bank commentary, economic data releases, and geopolitical developments, as these will likely shape USDJPY’s trajectory in the coming days.
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Federalreserve
Lower Rates Expected by 9/27/24Ahead of the Fed meeting Wednesday the market was pretty much 50/50 split on whether the fed funds rate would be cut by 25 or 50 basis points. After the 50bps announcement the counter intuitive move occurred, which was rates began rising, but this should have been a surprise. This was as straight forward "buy the rumor, sell the news" gets. Today however it appears the rates attempted to rally past 3.76% but failed.
3.76% happens to be the 50% fib level from the recent highs to lows and now we'll look to see the 10-yr break below 3.70 for a sustained move lower. Marking this as a "Long Investment Idea" since lower rates imply higher bond prices, don't be fooled by the rate chart.
Federal Reserve Cut Sends Bitcoin UpThis week, the Federal Reserve delivered a highly anticipated 50 basis point interest rate cut, the first of its kind in over four years. Crypto markets, as expected, reacted swiftly, with Bitcoin jumping over 4% and breaking past the $62,000 level. The broader cryptocurrency market followed, with Ethereum, Solana, and others posting gains as investors recalibrated to the Fed’s more dovish stance.
But while the headlines may paint a picture of optimism, market sentiment remains divided. For some, this rate cut signals the beginning of a new liquidity-driven rally. For others, it raises red flags about the health of the economy.
At first glance, the Fed’s decision was a boon for risk assets. With the dollar weakening, Bitcoin benefitted as investors sought alternative stores of value. In just a day, Bitcoin crossed the $62K mark for the first time in weeks, while Ethereum hovered around $2,350. But traders are already questioning how long this rally can last.
A significant portion of the crypto market remains unconvinced. Analysts are cautious, noting that the aggressive nature of the rate cut might signal deeper economic concerns. The 50 bps reduction, larger than initially predicted, seems to be an attempt to stay ahead of a potential economic slowdown, with rising unemployment and muted inflation indicating trouble on the horizon.
Despite the positive price movement, questions remain. The $1.6 billion in Bitcoin and Ethereum options set to expire this week could lead to increased volatility, with a put-to-call ratio suggesting that traders are evenly split between bullish and bearish positions. Bitcoin’s maximum pain point sits around $58,500, raising the possibility of near-term price declines if the market takes a turn.
Looking ahead, traders are already placing bets on further rate cuts. With the next Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meetings scheduled for November and December, expectations are building for an additional reduction by the end of the year. However, the size of the cut remains to be seen. Polymarket, a popular crypto prediction market, indicates high uncertaintly as to the size of the cut. Currently, traders see a 57% chance on a 25bps decrease. This has prompted speculation that Bitcoin could retest its all-time high, but there are also plenty of risks ahead.
Additionally, the timing of the next rate cut is crucial. If the Fed’s easing aligns with the US presidential election in November, the market could experience heightened volatility. Although pro-crypto stances from candidates like Trump are seen as positive for Bitcoin, uncertainty around the election could still rattle investor confidence.
For now, the market is cautiously optimistic. Bitcoin’s surge post-cut is encouraging, but it’s still too early to declare the start of a new bull run. Institutional inflows, buoyed by the growing popularity of Bitcoin and Ethereum ETFs, suggest that long-term sentiment remains positive. However, it’s clear that many investors are hedging their bets, bracing for potential market turbulence as the year progresses.
Patience will be key in the weeks ahead. The crypto market has always been volatile, and while the Fed’s rate cut provides a temporary boost, the broader economic picture remains uncertain. Traders will need to keep a close eye on both the macroeconomic landscape and the internal dynamics of the crypto market as the year draws to a close.
In the meantime, the Fed’s next move will be crucial. With more rate cuts likely on the horizon, the question is whether the crypto market can continue its upward momentum. Otherwise, another period of turbulence is in store.
Interest Rates Dropped to 5%!The fact the Federal Reserve & U.S. government cut interest rates by 50BPS, more then they were expected to, goes to show that interest rates have done MORE DAMAGE then they were suppose to, to the economy.
Now the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates by 50BPS, is them trying to put on a show to the public & saying “look we know the damage has been done by us, but we are trying to rectify it by making rates lower”
GET READY FOR A GLOBAL FINANCIAL & ECONOMY CRASH IN 2025!
SPY500 $SPY | RALLY AFTER FED RATE CUT - Sep. 19th, 2024SPY AMEX:SPY | RALLY AFTER FED RATE CUT - Sep. 19th, 2024
BUY/LONG ZONE (GREEN): $552.50 - $575.00
WEAKER BULLISH ZONE (PALE GREEN): $552.50 - $540.50
Weekly: Bullish
Daily: Bullish
4H: Bullish
This was my analysis for the end of the day yesterday, forgot to post it. Price has already rallied fairly well today. The Fed cut rates yesterday 50bps, down from 5.50 to 5.00. Here is what I was looking at as the market became volatile when reacting to the news. Despite the market already quickly moving in favor of the bullish zone, I still think we will reach the top of that zone before any form of reversal or significant pullback.
This is what I would personally look at before entering trades, everything is subject to change on a daily basis and as I analyze different timeframes and ideas.
ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY, NOT FINANCIAL ADVICE!
trendanalysis, trendtrading, priceaction, priceactiontrading, technicalindicators, supportandresistance, rangebreakout, rangebreakdown, rangetrading, chartpatterntrading, chartpatterns, spy, sp500, s&p, AMEX:SPY , fed, federalreserve, fedrate, fedratecut, interestrate, jeromepowell, fedchair, 50bps, volatile, volatility,
Fed Kicks Off Rate-Cutting Cycle. Why the Muted Market Reaction?Central bank bros met traders’ loftiest expectations with a half-point cut to interest rates on Wednesday. But is that too good to be true and maybe even a signal of some problems with the US economy and looming fears over at the Fed?
Trading today isn’t the same as trading yesterday. Even though prices don’t really confirm it — there wasn’t a super-duper rally in stocks. Maybe gold XAU/USD flickered a bit, but it was mostly froth . And here we are — the first day of trading in an environment with lower interest rates.
Jay Powell, head of the Federal Reserve, announced on Wednesday the first trim to borrowing costs in four years. The move ushers in a new normal where US interest rates USINTR are projected to continue moving lower from their 23-year high of 5.5%.
The easing cycle kicked off with a jumbo-sized 50 bps (basis points) slash. Surprisingly, the Fed went for the juicier, bolder and more aggressive option, leapfrogging the less interesting and exciting cut of 25 bps.
First reactions across the board showed investors were hyped to get what they wanted — the broad-based S&P 500 hit an intraday record .
Shortly after, however, stocks across the board pulled back and markets became anxious over the outlook as the realization kicked in. If the economy is doing fine, why go big on cuts from the get-go?
What’s more, central bankers are keen to ax interest rates by another half point in 2024, ultimately wrapping up the year with the benchmark rate sitting at 4.25% to 4.5%. Christmas may come early — the Fed meets twice more this year, on November 7 and December 18.
Better Safe Than Sorry?
A super-sized half-point cut could actually be a pre-emptive measure to alleviate a strained economy. But if inflation is now largely in the rearview mirror , what could the problem be? The other mandate. The Fed has a dual mandate of keeping prices in check (inflation) and upholding a stable labor market (jobs).
“We will do everything we can to support a strong labor market as we make further progress towards price stability,” Jay Powell said at the annual Jackson Hole gathering last month. And indeed, America’s jobs have seen a pronounced slowdown over the past few months. In July, markets added just 89,000 jobs (revised from an initial estimation of 114,000 ). In August, hiring had picked up modestly to 142,000 , but below expectations for 164,000.
Pros and Cons of Bumper Cut
Essentially, this big-boy cut of 50 bps is a double-edged sword. It cuts into borrowing costs, making money more affordable, potentially stimulating businesses to add more jobs and grow their gig. And it also prompts consumers to take on debt and get that house.
But on the flip side, a cut of that magnitude risks stirring up price pressures again. To get to full employment, the Fed faces the challenge of knocked inflation waking up from its slumber.
The size of the cut at this particular time doesn’t mean anything without the markets’ reaction to it. Apparently, investors were unimpressed and shrugged it off as no big deal. Looking ahead, however, the stakes are high because stocks are at all-time highs.
The S&P 500 touched a record, Big Tech is leading the charge into artificial intelligence and investors can’t own enough of the highflyers Nvidia NVDA , Meta META , Apple AAPL , etc.
The actual picture will become clear once markets figure out what the Fed’s rate-cutting cycle means and what to do about it.
“Dollar Index Declines After Fed Decision”The U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) cut its policy rate for the first time in four years, lowering it by 50 basis points to the range of 4.75%-5.00%. Following this decision, the decline in the dollar index accelerated. Fed Chair Jerome Powell stated that the decision shows increased confidence in maintaining a strong labor market while ensuring moderate growth and bringing inflation down to 2% sustainably. Additionally, the Fed lowered its federal funds rate projection for the end of this year from 5.1% to 4.4%, suggesting the possibility of a further 50 basis point rate cut by the Fed this year.
Technically, if the index falls below the 100.50 level, the 100.0 and 99.50 levels can be considered support. However, if it recovers and moves above the 101.0 level, resistance can be observed at the 101.85 and 102.70 levels.
THE KOG REPORT - FOMCTHE KOG REPORT – FOMC
This is our view for FOMC, please do your own research and analysis to make an informed decision on the markets. It is not recommended you try to trade the event if you have less than 6 months trading experience and have a trusted risk strategy in place. The markets are extremely volatile, and these events can cause aggressive swings in price.
We’re expecting some volatility this Session with the pending FOMC statement so for this report we’ll again look at the extreme levels. We’ve done well already this week, no need to risk anything trying to capture tops and bottoms, so keep an eye on the levels but remember, the trade comes after the event.
The move started early in the week with the price hitting our resistance level and then making the move we wanted completing our first target. This has however left the completion of the move on the table, so we’ll stick with Sundays KOG Report idea for now, but expect a move to the upside potentially into that 2602-5 region and above that 2610! It’s 2610 as the extension that needs to reject the price in order for it make that move downside, as breaking above that will take us further into the 2625-30 region before any breather.
So, as the chart shows, if we get 2602-5 and reject, we could see price move downside to clear the liquidity sitting first at 2550-55 and below that 2525-30.
2525-35 if visited, we feel would represent an opportunity to capture the swing low and then attempt to target that 2550-55 region as the first target.
We’re going to play it safe this time and say if it works it works, if it doesn’t, it doesn’t. If you followed us this week, again we’ve done what we needed to for the week, everything else here is a bonus and should be treated with minimal risk on the markets, until they have settled.
Please do support us by hitting the like button, leaving a comment, and giving us a follow. We’ve been doing this for a long time now providing traders with in-depth free analysis on Gold, so your likes and comments are very much appreciated.
As always, trade safe.
KOG
Pre FOMC Rates Decision Analysis18th September
DXY: Consolidate around 100.90, (if 50bps cut) needs to break 100.60 to trade down to 100 round number support. (if 25bps cut) bounce from 100.60 to bearish trendline
NZDUSD: Buy 0.6220 SL 25 TP 75 (DXY weakness)
AUDUSD: Buy 0.6780 SL 20 TP 70 (DXY weakness)
GBPUSD: Look for test and reject of resistance area, Sell 1.32 SL 30 TP 80 (DXY strength)
EURUSD: Buy 1.1150 SL 25 TP 50 OR Sell 1.1110 SL 20 TP 50 (Straddle)
USDJPY: Buy 142.80 SL 50 TP 150 (DXY strength)
USDCHF: Sell 0.8420 SL 30 TP 45 (DXY weakness)
USDCAD: Sell 1.3560 SL 30 TP 60 (DXY weakness)
Gold: Could range between 2570 and 2590, Looking for a test of 2600 and possible correction lower
Rate Cut Incoming. Buckle Up"What the Yield Curve and Fed Moves Mean for Your Next Trade."
Historically, when the Federal Reserve lowers the federal funds rate while the yield spread is negative (also known as an inverted yield curve), it has often been an indicator of an impending market correction or recession.
Let’s break this down:
Historically, the bond market is a key indicator. Typically, long-term bonds offer higher yields than short-term bonds; This a healthy sign. When that flips and short-term yields surpass long-term ones, we get what’s called an inverted yield curve. This inversion signals that investors are getting nervous about the near-term economy. When the Fed then steps in to lower rates, they’re trying to stimulate growth, but it often comes too late.
Looking back at past events:
The dot-com crash of 2000: The yield curve inverted, the Fed cut rates, and a 35% market correction followed.
The 2008 financial crisis: Again, the yield curve inverted, rates were cut, and the market saw a major downturn exceeding 50%.
Going back even further, the same pattern held in the 1970s and 1980s.
The big questions are:
Why does this combination signal trouble?
Will this pattern repeat itself again?
While history tends to repeat itself, the data shows that when the Fed cuts rates with a negative yield spread, market corrections often follow. The inverted curve suggests tighter credit conditions, reduced lending, and lack of confidence, all piling on top of one another creating a recipe for disaster.
Stepping back even further, we see that investor sentiment and the bond market tend to lead the way. Credit tightens, and companies cut back on spending. Another a perfect recipe for an economic slowdown and market drop.
It's a familiar cycle. So lets buckle up.
Federal Reserve Interest Rate Decision!This Wednesday is the next Interest Rate decision by the Federal Reserve. This time last September the rate got raised to 5.5% & since then rates have not been lowered at all. Markets have been pricing in a rate cut down to 5.25% this week, for the first time in the past 1 year. If the Federal Reserve don't lower rates as expected, expect some serious market volatility!
What do you think the Fed will do? Cut rates or hold steady?
The Dollar Index Accelerates Its Decline!The dollar index has been losing strength recently, falling below the 100.50 level. Following the ECB's decision to cut interest rates, expectations for a rate cut by the Fed have also increased. According to money market pricing, there is a 51% probability that the Fed will cut interest rates by 25 basis points this week, and a 49% probability of a 50 basis point cut. This has pushed the dollar index below the 100.50 level.
Technically, if the index falls below the 100.45 level, the 100.30 and 100.00 levels can be considered support. However, if it recovers and moves above the 100.45 level, resistance can be observed at the 100.70 and 100.90 levels.
50-50 Odds for Big Rate Cut this Wednesday The Federal Reserve’s upcoming rate decision is teetering on a knife’s edge, with the odds of a significant cut climbing. According to the CME’s FedWatch tool, the chances of a 25 or 50-basis-point reduction are now evenly split at 50-50.
The decision from the cental bank comes in on Wednesday.
Former New York Fed President Bill Dudley, speaking last week, bolstered the case for a more aggressive move, stating the federal funds rate could be up to 200 basis points above neutral. Dudley argued there’s a “strong case” for the Fed to start big.
However, major banks are possibly leaning toward the Fed starting small. In a note, Bank of America’s analysts suggested “a small chance” of a 50bps cut, while UBS’s Brian Rose also acknowledged the possibility, though was not factoring it into his baseline.
GOLD: Buy, only a small retracement for current momentumWith the MACD having just crossed above the signal line on TVC:GOLD daily chart, there is little chance of the week starting off with any strong selling direction. I am holding and entering Buy positions.
I believe any meaningful retracement this week will be before Tuesday's Core Retail data and the market will look to position itself early in anticipation of major FED activity on Wednesday evening.
Support this week >=$2,530
Forecasted High of <$2,620
Trend to be more sensitive to ascending channel's mean that the support level indicated above.
I am very bullish this week.
Gold outlookPreviously Gold has made a new high in previous week now its all time high for the week is archived now in upcoming week gold can consolidate for the time being but as Feds rate cut is expected and gold can go for new high in upcoming week now as i am analyzing the pair we can expect a pull back to to its newly formed physiological support levels and can go further but as i said fed rate cut is expected gold can fly high and make new levels
Intel Corporation ($INTC) - Potential Squeeze After Rate CutIntel Corporation ( NASDAQ:INTC ) is setting up for an exciting squeeze potential following an anticipated rate cut. Here's why the technical landscape could be shaping up for a big move:
Fibonacci Support Holding Strong
The stock is currently holding well above the 0.786 Fibonacci retracement level, which is a critical area of support. Historically, holding this level is a strong indicator that a reversal could be imminent. A rate cut would provide a fundamental catalyst to accelerate a recovery from this level, as lower borrowing costs typically improve market sentiment, especially for large-cap tech stocks like Intel.
Worst-Case Scenario: Testing $13–$14 Support
While we are optimistic about the current setup, the worst-case scenario to watch for is a potential retest of the $13–$14 range. This level marks a significant historical support zone and, if touched, could provide a final flush-out of weak hands before the stock rebounds. Should this happen, it would likely signal a capitulation event, paving the way for long-term bulls to step back in at attractive prices.
Squeeze Potential and Rebound Targets
If Intel holds its current Fibonacci support, we could be setting up for a short squeeze driven by fresh liquidity entering the market post-rate cut. With technical and fundamental catalysts aligning, the stock has potential to rally toward the $40+ level over the medium term. This would mark a massive rebound, and a retest of previous highs would not be out of the question.
Key Levels to Watch
Immediate Support: 0.786 Fib level
Worst-Case Support: $13–$14
Upside Target: $40+
Fed’s Rate Decision to Set the Tone for Stocks, Gold and CryptoOfficials at the central bank are staying tight-lipped over the magnitude of the interest rate cut. What we know so far: there will be one. What we don’t know: is it going to be 25bps or 50bps?
Federal Reserve Chairman Jay Powell (or JPow if you’re a cool kid) is most likely having a hard time sleeping these days. Lurking in the near distance, September 18 to be precise, is a decision he should make that has the power to slosh trillions of dollars across global markets.
Stock valuations, crypto prices and the glow of gold all hinge on a single figure — the US interest rate ( USINTR ). Major central banks are on the move to unwind their restrictive monetary policies, especially when it comes to global interest rates . Investors have been trying to run ahead of the interest rate decision and position their portfolios to accommodate both a small casual trim to borrowing costs but also a bigger, juicier slash.
Clashing opinions over the size of the interest rate reduction have been swaying the financial markets in recent weeks. Fed officials haven’t sent out any comms regarding that question so markets do what they do best — speculate.
According to the FedWatch tool by CME Group, at the end of this week, investors were nearly even in their expectations for the upcoming interest rate cut with 55% calling for a 25bps (basis points) cut and 45% rooting for the fuller treatment of 50bps.
In any case, this would be the Federal Reserve’s first cut to borrowing costs in more than four years. The benchmark rate in the US is currently sitting at a 23-year high of 5.5% — a level that has stayed flat since July.
After a series of reports pointing to a wobbling economy — and on the back of mostly receding inflation — the central banking clique issued its uplifting guidance at their previous meeting, saying rates are about to go down when they meet again. But what they didn’t say — because they’re data dependent — is how much.
A 25bps cut to interest rates would most likely be already priced in across the spectrum. Stocks, the US dollar, gold and even cryptocurrency are now acting as if this level of rate cut is factored in. Moreover, some investors might even be disappointed to see a rate cut of that casual magnitude. Buy the rumor, sell the news, maybe?
A 50bps cut to interest rates could bring some needed fuel for the next leg up in stocks, gold and crypto. And, on the flip side, knock the dollar’s valuation.
Lower interest rates make money more affordable, enticing investors, businesses and consumers to get more cash out of the bank and spend more freely on big-ticket purchases. Obviously, investors shove the cash into various markets. Businesses expand operations and build new products. And consumers, well, they buy the new iPhone 16 and jam what's left in meme stocks ?
Perhaps even more importantly, lower interest rates help steer the economy, keeping it on an upward trajectory. Liquidity improves, because there’s more money flowing in the system, and valuations of public and private assets usually increase.
Take gold ( XAU/USD ), for example. Gold hit an all-time high Friday morning, pumping above $2,570 per ounce . Driving the gains was the relationship between gold and the prospects of lower rates, which make bullion more appealing because they reduce the opportunity cost of holding a non-yielding asset. At the same time, the US dollar loses some of its allure because the reduction in rates triggers a lower yield on dollar deposits.
Bitcoin ( BTC/USD ) is another interest -ing candidate to join the rate interplay. The OG token has been increasingly correlated to macroeconomic factors and the rate decision is already seen impacting its price in a positive way.
Stocks have been in choppy trading mode over the past couple of months largely due to the looming uncertainty about the looming rate-setting meeting.
So what do you think it’s going to be — 25bps or 50bps? And how would it affect financial markets? Shoot your thoughts below!
FOMC Showdown Poised to Ignite a Surge in Yield SpreadsWith inflation finally cooling and the Fed signaling rate cuts, it seems relief is on the horizon—until you look at the job market. As recession risks grow and Treasury yields falter, a steepening yield curve presents a compelling opportunity.
Positioning in the yield curve ahead of the FOMC meeting offers a more measured way to navigate the uncertainty.
COOLING CPI SIGNALS GREEN LIGHT FOR RATE CUTS
This week’s inflation report showed headline CPI cooling to 2.5%, the lowest since February 2021. With this release, inflation has finally fallen decisively below the stubborn 3% mark and is now just 0.5% above the Fed’s target range. PCE inflation reflects similar levels, likely giving the Fed the signal to start cutting rates.
JOB MARKET REPRESENTS MATERIAL RECESSION RISKS
Recent job market data suggests it may be too soon to declare a soft landing. The labor market is significantly weakening, and with household savings dwindling and credit delinquencies increasing, conditions may worsen before improving.
U.S. economic data from the past week indicates that the labor market is in a precarious situation. The August JOLTS report showed job openings dropping to their lowest since early 2021, reflecting decreased labor demand, while unemployment edged up slightly.
Additionally, the August jobs report revealed a modest gain of 142,000 non-farm jobs, falling short of expectations, with downward revision for July bringing those figures down to just 89,000.
As covered by Mint Finance previously a recession is likely to lead to a sharp steepening of the yield curve.
We covered average levels of the yield spread at the start of recessions in detail previously, but in summary with the current 10Y-2Y spreads at 15 basis points, there may be up to 85 basis points of further upside in the spread.
TREASURY YIELD PERFORMANCE
Despite a short recovery following the ominous jobs report on 2/August, Treasury yields have continued to decline. Unsurprisingly, short-dated treasuries have underperformed as 2Y yields are 27 basis points lower, while 30Y yields have only declined by 12 basis points and 10Y by 15 basis points.
Overlaying yield performance with economic releases, the largest impact on yields over the last few months has been from FOMC releases and non-farm payrolls while performance around CPI releases has been mixed. Potentially suggesting traders are more concerned about recession risk than moderating inflation.
OUTLOOK FOR SEPTEMBER FOMC MEETING
Source: CME FedWatch
FedWatch currently suggests that a 25 basis point rate cut is more likely in the upcoming FOMC meeting scheduled on September 17/18. However, probabilities of a 50 basis point rate cut are also relatively high at 43%.
Source: CME FedWatch
While the odds of a 25 basis point cut have remained in majority, the 50 basis point cut has been uncertain with probability shifting over the past week.
FOMC meetings have driven a rally in yield spreads over the past year.
With FOMC meeting slated for next week, it is interesting to note that performance in yield spread prior to meetings has been more compelling than performance post-FOMC meeting. Over the last 5 meetings, pre-FOMC meetings, the 10Y-2Y spread has increased by 4 basis points.
Performance is even more compelling in the 30Y-2Y spread which has increased by an average of 13 basis points.
AUCTION DEMAND FAVORS 10Y
Recent auction for 10Y treasuries indicated strong demand with a bid/cover ratio of 2.64, which is higher than the average over the last 10 auctions of 2.45. Contrastingly, the 30Y auction was less positive with a bid/cover ratio of 2.38, below the average of 2.42. 2Y auction was sharply weaker with a bid/cover of 2.65 compared to average of 2.94.
Auction uptake suggests higher demand for 10Y treasuries than 30Y treasuries and fading demand for near-term 2Y treasuries.
HYPOTHETICAL TRADE SETUP
Recent economic data has made an upcoming rate cut nearly certain. However, the size of the cut remains unclear. CME FedWatch currently indicates a 42% probability of a larger 50-basis-point cut, driven by the recent CPI report and weak jobs data.
With rising recession risks, the Fed might opt for a larger rate cut. However, if they choose a moderate 25-basis-point cut, market sentiment could stabilize. Historically, yield spreads around FOMC meetings suggest that positioning before the meetings tends to be more advantageous than after. This is especially relevant now, as moderating sentiment from a 25-basis-point cut could trigger a temporary reversal in yield spreads.
Considering the underperformance of the 10Y-2Y spread in September and increased auction demand for 10-year Treasuries, a long position in the 10Y-2Y spread may be the most favorable strategy for gaining exposure to the steepening yield curve.
Investors can express views on the yield curve using CME Yield Futures through a long position in 10Y yield futures and a short position in 2Y yield futures.
CME Yield Futures are quoted directly in yield with a 1 basis point change representing USD 10 in one lot of Yield Future contract. This makes spread calculations trivial with a 1 basis point change in spread representing PnL of USD 10.
The individual margin requirements for 2Y and 10Y Yield futures are USD 330 and USD 320, respectively. However, with CME’s 50% margin offset for the spread, the required margin drops to USD 325 as of September 13, making this trade even more compelling.
A hypothetical trade setup offering a reward to risk ratio of 1.46x is provided below:
Entry: 14.2 basis points
Target: 35 basis points
Stop Loss: 0 basis point
Profit at Target: USD 208 (20.8 basis points x 10)
Loss at Stop: USD 142 (14.2 basis points x 10)
Reward to Risk: 1.46x
MARKET DATA
CME Real-time Market Data helps identify trading set-ups and express market views better. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs tradingview.com/cme .
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PIMCO Warning on Fed's First Cut in 4 Years next week The only event that matters next week is the US Federal Reserve's interest rate decision, which could result in its first rate cut in over four years
PIMCO analysts, in a fresh note, outlined what could be in store for the U.S. dollar as the Fed embarks on its rate-cutting cycle. Historically, the dollar has shown a tendency to weaken, at least briefly, following the Fed’s initial rate cuts since the 1990s.
The Fed now faces a tight decision on whether to opt for a larger-than-expected half-point cut or stick with a quarter-point reduction.
An aggressive half-point move could raise concerns that the central bank is concerned about the economic outlook for the US, potentially prompting markets to price in further, more drastic rate cuts beyond the Fed's current trajectory.
Silver is Rising!With the weakening of the U.S. labor market, expectations for a 25 basis point rate cut by the Fed remain intact. In this context, U.S. 10-year Treasury yields have turned downward. The dollar's depreciation in yesterday's session led to a recovery in commodities, supporting a rebound in silver prices from the 27.75 level. The inflation data to be released today will provide further clues regarding the extent of the Fed's interest rate cuts.
From a technical perspective, if prices hold above the 28.90 resistance level, a rise to 30.0 and then to 30.80 could occur. On the downside, if the price falls below the 27.75 support level, it could decline to 26.75 and then to 25.70.
Watch out as U.S full time employment peaked in 2023 June.While the U.S. nonfarm payroll growth is still averaging 0.12% , just slightly below the average long term 0.14% growth in the past 12 months, the full time employment picture is somewhat grimmer.
The U.S. full time employment peaked in 2023 June, and since there is approximately 1.7 million less full time employee. Probably not a sign for a healthy labour market.