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Inflation

$GBINTR - U.K Interest Rates (March/2025)ECONOMICS:GBINTR March/2025 source: Bank of England - The Bank of England voted 8-1 to keep the Bank Rate at 4.5% during its March meeting, as policymakers adopted a wait-and-see approach amid stubbornly high inflation and global economic uncertainties. The bank highlighted that, given the medium-term inflation outlook, a gradual and cautious approach to further withdrawal of monetary policy restraint remains appropriate. CPI inflation increased to 3.0% in January, and while global energy prices fell, inflation is expected to rise to 3¾% by Q3 2025. Also, the MPC noted that global trade policy uncertainties and geopolitical risks increased, with financial market volatility rising. source: Bank of England
ECONOMICS:GBINTR
by Mr_J__fx
$JPIRYY -Japan's Inflation Rate (February/2025)ECONOMICS:JPIRYY February/2025 source: Ministry of Internal Affairs & Communications - The annual inflation rate in Japan fell to 3.7% in February 2025 from a 2-year high of 4.0% in the prior month, amid a sharp slowdown in prices of electricity (9.0% vs 18.0% in January )and gas (3.4% vs 6.8%) following the government's reinstatement of energy subsidies. Also, food prices rose slightly slower after hitting a 15-month high in January (7.6% vs 7.8%). Further, inflation eased for healthcare (1.7% vs. 1.8%), recreation (2.1% vs. 2.6%), and miscellaneous items (1.1% vs. 1.4%). At the same time, education costs continued to fall (-1.1% vs. -1.1%). In contrast, inflation remained steady for housing (at 0.8%) and clothing (at 2.8%), while accelerating for transport (2.4% vs. 2.0%) and furniture and household items (4.0% vs. 3.4%), and bouncing back for communications (0.1% vs. -0.3%). The core inflation rate dropped to 3.0% from January's 19-month top of 3.2%, above forecasts of 2.9%. Monthly, the CPI dropped 0.1%, the first fall since September, after a 0.5% gain in January.
ECONOMICS:JPIRYY
by Mr_J__fx
$JPINTR -Japan's Interest Rates (March/2025)ECONOMICS:JPINTR March/2025 source: Bank of Japan -The Bank of Japan (BoJ) kept its key short-term interest rate at around 0.5% during its March meeting, maintaining it at its highest level since 2008 and in line with market expectations. The unanimous decision followed the central bank’s third rate hike in January and came before the U.S. Federal Reserve’s rate announcement. The board took a cautious stance, focusing on assessing the impact of rising global economic risks on Japan’s fragile recovery. The BoJ pointed to ongoing uncertainties in the domestic economic outlook amid higher U.S. tariffs and headwinds from overseas conditions. While the Japanese economy had recovered moderately, some weaknesses remained. Private consumption continued to grow, helped by wage hikes, even as cost pressures persisted. However, exports and industrial output were mostly flat. Inflation ranged between 3.0% and 3.5% yearly, driven by higher service prices. Inflation expectations increased moderately, with underlying CPI projected to rise gradually.
ECONOMICS:JPINTR
by Mr_J__fx
Ultimate summary of Powell’s comments today As expected, Powell reiterated that the Fed is in no rush to adjust rates, and the labour market is stable. He also reaffirmed the Fed’s reliance on hard data over sentiment and the approach of slowing balance sheet reduction. What’s different this time: Inflation & tariffs: Powell acknowledged that recent inflation upticks may be tariff-driven, delaying progress toward price stability. The Fed’s base case assumes tariff inflation is temporary. Economic sentiment: Consumer sentiment has weakened, partly due to Trump policy changes, and concerns over inflation are growing. Recession risk: Forecasts now lean toward weaker growth and higher inflation, with recession risks slightly elevated but still not high.
BLACKBULL:SPX500
by BlackBull_Markets
Behind the Curtain: Unveiling Gold’s Economic Catalysts1. Introduction Gold Futures (GC, MGC and 1OZ), traded on the CME market, are one of the most widely used financial instruments for hedging against inflation, currency fluctuations, and macroeconomic uncertainty. As a safe-haven asset, gold reacts to a wide range of economic indicators, making it crucial for traders to understand the underlying forces driving price movements. By leveraging machine learning, specifically a Random Forest Regressor, we analyze the top economic indicators influencing Gold Futures on daily, weekly, and monthly timeframes. This data-driven approach reveals the key catalysts shaping GC Futures and provides traders with actionable insights to refine their strategies. 2. Understanding Gold Futures Contracts Gold Futures (GC) are among the most actively traded futures contracts, offering traders and investors exposure to gold price movements with a range of contract sizes to suit different trading strategies. CME Group provides three types of Gold Futures contracts to accommodate traders of all levels: o Standard Gold Futures (GC): Contract Size: Represents 100 troy ounces of gold. Tick Size: Each tick is 0.10 per ounce, equating to $10 per tick per contract. Purpose: Ideal for institutional traders and large-scale hedgers. Margin: Approximately $12,500 per contract. o Micro Gold Futures (MGC): Contract Size: Represents 10 troy ounces of gold, 1/10th the size of the standard GC contract. Tick Size: Each tick is $1 per contract. Purpose: Allows smaller-scale traders to participate in gold markets with lower capital requirements. Margin: Approximately $1,250 per contract. o 1-Ounce Gold Futures (1OZ): Contract Size: Represents 1 troy ounce of gold. Tick Size: Each tick is 0.25 per ounce, equating to $0.25 per tick per contract. Purpose: Provides precision trading for retail participants who want exposure to gold at a smaller contract size. Margin: Approximately $125 per contract. Keep in mind that margin requirements vary through time as market volatility changes. 3. Daily Timeframe: Key Economic Indicators Gold Futures respond quickly to short-term economic fluctuations, and three key indicators play a crucial role in daily price movements: o Velocity of Money (M2): Measures how quickly money circulates within the economy. A higher velocity suggests increased spending and inflationary pressure, often boosting gold prices. A lower velocity indicates stagnation, which may reduce inflation concerns and weigh on gold. o Unemployment Rate: Reflects the strength of the labor market. Rising unemployment increases economic uncertainty, often driving demand for gold as a safe-haven asset. Declining unemployment can strengthen risk assets, potentially reducing gold’s appeal. o Oil Import Price Index: Represents the cost of imported crude oil, influencing inflation trends. Higher oil prices contribute to inflationary pressures, supporting gold as a hedge. Lower oil prices may ease inflation concerns, weakening gold demand. 4. Weekly Timeframe: Key Economic Indicators While daily fluctuations impact short-term traders, weekly economic data provides a broader perspective on gold price movements. The top weekly indicators include: o Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP): Measures the number of new jobs added in the U.S. economy each month. Strong NFP numbers typically strengthen the U.S. dollar and increase interest rate hike expectations, pressuring gold prices. Weak NFP figures can drive economic uncertainty, increasing gold’s safe-haven appeal. o Nonfarm Productivity: Represents labor efficiency and economic output per hour worked. Rising productivity suggests economic growth, potentially reducing demand for gold. Falling productivity can signal economic weakness, increasing gold’s appeal. o Personal Spending: Tracks consumer spending habits, influencing economic activity and inflation expectations. Higher spending can lead to inflation, often pushing gold prices higher. Lower spending suggests economic slowing, which may either weaken or support gold depending on inflationary outlooks. 5. Monthly Timeframe: Key Economic Indicators Long-term trends in Gold Futures are shaped by macroeconomic forces that impact investor sentiment, inflation expectations, and interest rates. The most influential monthly indicators include: o China GDP Growth Rate: China is one of the largest consumers of gold, both for investment and jewelry. Strong GDP growth signals robust demand for gold, pushing prices higher. Slower growth may weaken gold demand, applying downward pressure on prices. o Corporate Bond Spread (BAA - 10Y): Measures the risk premium between corporate bonds and U.S. Treasury bonds. A widening spread signals economic uncertainty, increasing demand for gold as a safe-haven asset. A narrowing spread suggests confidence in risk assets, potentially reducing gold’s appeal. o 10-Year Treasury Yield: Gold has an inverse relationship with bond yields since it does not generate interest. Rising yields increase the opportunity cost of holding gold, often leading to price declines. Falling yields make gold more attractive, leading to price appreciation. 6. Risk Management Strategies Given gold’s volatility and sensitivity to macroeconomic changes, risk management is essential for trading GC Futures. Key risk strategies may include: Monitoring Global Liquidity Conditions: Keep an eye on M2 Money Supply and inflation trends to anticipate major shifts in gold pricing. Interest Rate Sensitivity: Since gold competes with yield-bearing assets, traders should closely track interest rate movements. Higher 10-Year Treasury Yields can weaken gold’s value as a non-yielding asset. Diversification and Hedging: Traders can hedge gold positions using interest rate-sensitive assets such as bonds or inflation-linked securities. Gold often performs well in times of equity market distress, making it a commonly used portfolio diversifier. 7. Conclusion Gold Futures remain one of the most influential instruments in the global financial markets. By leveraging machine learning insights and macroeconomic data, traders can better position themselves for profitable trading opportunities. Whether trading daily, weekly, or monthly trends, understanding these indicators allows market participants to align their strategies with broader economic conditions. Stay tuned for the next "Behind the Curtain" installment, where we explore economic forces shaping another key futures market. When charting futures, the data provided could be delayed. Traders working with the ticker symbols discussed in this idea may prefer to use CME Group real-time data plan on TradingView: www.tradingview.com - This consideration is particularly important for shorter-term traders, whereas it may be less critical for those focused on longer-term trading strategies. General Disclaimer: The trade ideas presented herein are solely for illustrative purposes forming a part of a case study intended to demonstrate key principles in risk management within the context of the specific market scenarios discussed. These ideas are not to be interpreted as investment recommendations or financial advice. They do not endorse or promote any specific trading strategies, financial products, or services. The information provided is based on data believed to be reliable; however, its accuracy or completeness cannot be guaranteed. Trading in financial markets involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. Each individual should conduct their own research and consult with professional financial advisors before making any investment decisions. The author or publisher of this content bears no responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any resultant financial or other losses.
COMEX:GC1!Education
by traddictiv
GBP/USD shrugs as UK GDP unexpectedly declineshe British pound has edged lower against the US dollar on Friday.  GBP/USD is trading at 1.2928 in the European session, down 0.13% on the day. The UK economy barely registered any growth in the second half of 2024, rising 0.1% in the third quarter and flatlining in the third quarter.  The New Year hasn't seen any improvement, as GDP contracted 0.1% m/m in January, after a 0.4% gain in December and missing the market estimate of 0.1%. The surprise contraction was driven by declines in the production and manufacturing sectors. The economy expanded 0.2% in the three months to January, up from 0.1% in the three months to December but shy of the market estimate of 0.3%. The weak GDP report won't make things any easier for Finance Minister Rachel Reeves, who will announce the Treasury's "Spring Statement" on March 26.  Reeves is expected to outline plans for higher taxes and spending cuts.  The tax hikes on British businesses are expected to weigh on investment, hiring and growth. The Bank of England meets on March 20 and is widely expected to maintain rates at 4.5%.  The BoE trimmed rates by a quarter-point in February.  Inflation rose sharply in January to 3.0% y/y, up from 2.5% in December.  The rise in inflation and weak GDP has raised concerns about stagflation, which is characterized by persistent inflation and weak growth. Another headache for BoE policymakers is US President Donald Trump's tariff policy.  The UK had hoped to avoid the tariffs, but this week the US slapped 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports, including on UK products.  That could hurt UK growth and boost inflation. GBP/USD tested resistance at 1.2949 earlier.  Above, there is resistance at 1.2978 1.2923 and 1.2894 are the next support levels
by OANDA
SPX to dump 30% - 50% for Inflated Expectations in 2026I like to say the narrative follows the price . This was bound to happen after such an overheated year, couple years. Blame whomever you want, in the end its your wallet if you aren't ready to have your expectations met. Best case scenario, the breakout of macro is confirmed after the retest (blue arrows). Worst, more likely case, it smashes down to confirm a double bottom with a strong foundation to form a macro support. The sawtooth can provide opportunities for volatile scalps, but its gonna get gnarly I can already tell.
SP:SPXShort
by D4NKM4CH1N3
EURUSD PoVIn recent months, inflation data in both Europe and the United States has shown contrasting trends, creating an uncertain outlook for the EUR/USD pair. In Europe, inflation has remained relatively stable, but with signs of a slight increase, while in the United States, there has been a more pronounced rise in consumer prices. This scenario has prompted the European Central Bank and the Federal Reserve to carefully assess their respective monetary policies, with potential interest rate hikes in the future. At the same time, recent trade policies under U.S. President Donald Trump have added further volatility to the currency market. In February 2025, Trump imposed significant tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China, raising global concerns. The European Union criticized the Trump administration for not engaging in negotiations to avoid such tariffs, increasing trade tensions. Trump's actions, including the introduction of a universal 10% tariff on all imports and a 100% tariff on cars produced abroad, have raised questions about their effectiveness in strengthening the U.S. economy and reducing the trade deficit. If these policies do not produce the expected results, we could see the dollar weaken, with the EUR/USD pair potentially surpassing the 1.09300 level, a liquidity intersection point. On the other hand, if Trump's measures prove effective in improving the trade balance and supporting the economy, the dollar could strengthen, pushing the EUR/USD pair towards parity. In summary, the future direction of the EUR/USD pair appears uncertain, influenced by central bank policies and U.S. trade strategies, with potential significant movements depending on the effectiveness of these measures.
by Generazione_X
BTC PoV The projection of a potential rise in Bitcoin (BTC) starting from liquidity points at 75K, 65K, and 57K suggests a recovery dynamic from a bearish phase. If BTC were to rise above the 75,000 USD level, it could trigger a significant bullish push, as this is an important resistance level that, once broken, would open the way for new highs. This would mark the end of a correction and the resumption of the bullish trend. On the other hand, if the price were to drop to 65,000 USD, this level could represent an accumulation opportunity, with a potential recovery from this zone, confirmed by an upward movement. In a worse-case scenario, if BTC were to fall to 57,000 USD, it would be a key support level, a zone where the market could attempt a rebound. If the buyers' response were positive, BTC could find the strength to rise again and resume its bullish trend. Essentially, the liquidity points at 75K, 65K, and 57K are critical levels in determining the future direction of BTC, with a potential recovery depending on the market’s reaction to these supports and resistances. In parallel, a potential recession in the United States could directly impact the value of the dollar, with significant implications for Bitcoin. During a recession, the Federal Reserve's monetary policies could become more accommodative, with interest rate cuts to stimulate the economy. This increased liquidity could drive investors toward assets like BTC, as Bitcoin is seen by many as a hedge against inflation and the depreciation of the dollar. If the recession were to weaken the dollar, BTC could benefit from increased demand for cryptocurrencies as an alternative to the traditional monetary system. However, if the Fed were to counter the recession with policies that strengthen the dollar, possibly to attract foreign investments, the price of BTC could suffer, as a stronger dollar might reduce Bitcoin's appeal as a safe-haven asset. In conclusion, BTC's future direction depends not only on its technical levels but also on global economic policies and macroeconomic dynamics, which could favor a BTC rally if the recession weakens the dollar, or slow its growth if the dollar maintains strength.
VANTAGE:BTCUSDLong
by Generazione_X
$CNIRYY - China's CPI DefelationaryECONOMICS:CNIRYY -0.7% (February/2025) source: National Bureau of Statistics of China - China's consumer prices dropped by 0.7% yoy in February 2025, surpassing market estimates of a 0.5% decline and reversing a 0.5% rise in the prior month. This was the first consumer deflation since January 2024, amid fading seasonal demand following the Spring Festival in late January. Food prices fell the most in 13 months (-3.3% vs 0.4% in January), dragged by a steep decrease in cost of fresh vegetables (-12.6% vs 2.4%) and a sharp slowdown in pork prices (4.1% vs 13.8%). Meanwhile, non-food prices edged lower (-0.1% vs 0.5%), as increases in housing (0.1% vs 0.1%) and healthcare (0.2% vs 0.7%) were offset by declines in education (-0.5% vs 1.7%) and transport (-2.5% vs -0.6%). Core inflation, excluding volatile food and fuel prices, fell 0.1% in February, in contrast to a 0.6% rise in January. Monthly, the CPI fell 0.2%, shifting from January's 11-month top of a 0.7% rise and marking the first drop since last November. This fall was also steeper than consensus of a 0.1% decrease.
ECONOMICS:CNIRYY
by Mr_J__fx
Treasury Secretary Bessent: Make Iran broke again Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, speaking at the Economic Club of New York, said the U.S. is enforcing sanctions on Iran for “immediate maximum impact,” warning that Iranians should move their money out of the rial. The goal is to cut Iran’s oil exports from 1.5 million barrels per day to near zero. His comments came as oil prices fell to multiyear lows on Wednesday, driven by concerns that tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China could slow economic growth and weaken crude demand. Following Bessent’s remarks, both U.S. crude and Brent prices turned positive, with JP Morgan analysts noting that a decline in Iranian supply is currently the only bullish factor for oil prices. Bessent also signaled that the administration is prepared to impose full-scale sanctions on Russian energy if it helps lead to a ceasefire in Ukraine. This is a welcome shift from the Trump administration, who so far has only been pressuring the victim of the war rather than the perpetrator.
BLACKBULL:WTI
by BlackBull_Markets
EUR/USD soars as eurozone CPI higher than expectedThe euro has charged out of the gates and posted strong gains on Monday.  In the North American session, EUR/USD is trading at 1.0484, up 1.06%.  With today's sharp gains, the euro has ended a three-day slide. Inflation in the eurozone eased to 2.4% y/y in February, down from 2.5% in January but above the market estimate of 2.3%.  Monthly, inflation jumped 0.5%, the fastest pace since April 2024 and after a January decline of 0.3%.  It was the same story for core CPI, which slowed to 2.6% y/y, down from 2.7% in January but above the market estimate of 2.5%. Investors focused on the fact that CPI was higher than expected and on the hot monthly CPI figure.  As a result, the euro has soared as the European Central Bank could delay rate-cut plans with inflation surprising on the upside.  The ECB is also concerned about sticky services inflation, which fell from 3.9% to 3.7% but remains much higher than the inflation target of 2%. The ECB lowered rates in January and meets next on March 6. There is little doubt that the ECB will trim rates by a quarter-point but after that the rate path is unclear.  The eurozone economy is sluggish and hasn't shown much response to the five rate cuts from the ECB since it started its easing cycle last June.  The economy could use additional rate cuts but the ECB remains concerned about the upward risk of inflation and today's CPI report hasn't put those worries to rest. Europe's manufacturing sector is stuck in the doldrums, with contractions in Germany, Italy, France and even Spain, which has been the eurozone's bright spot.  Still, there is some optimism among manufacturers, as Germany quickly formed a government and there is the possibility of an end to the war in Ukraine. EUR/USD is testing resistance at 1.0483.  Above, there is resistance at 1.0590 1.0421 and 1.0314 are the next support lines
by OANDA
Can Brazil’s Bonds Defy Global Chaos?In an era of escalating trade tensions and economic uncertainty, Brazil’s financial markets offer a compelling enigma for the astute investor. As of March 3, 2025, with the USD/BRL exchange rate at 1 USD = 5.87 BRL, the Brazilian real has shown resilience, appreciating from 6.2 to 5.8 this year. This strength, intriguingly tied to a bond market boasting 10-year yields near 15%, prompts a deeper question: could Brazil emerge as an unexpected sanctuary amid global turmoil? This exploration unveils a landscape where high yields and domestic focus challenge conventional investment wisdom. Brazil’s bond market operates as an idiosyncratic force with yields dwarfing those of peers like Chile (5.94%) and Mexico (9.49%). Driven by local dynamics—fiscal policy, inflation, and a central bank unbound by global rate cycles—it has seen yields ease from 16% to 14.6% year-to-date, signaling stabilization. This shift correlates with the real’s rise, suggesting a potent inverse relationship: as yields moderate, confidence grows, bolstering the currency. For the inquisitive mind, this interplay invites a reevaluation of risk and reward in a world where traditional havens falter. Yet, the global stage adds layers of complexity. U.S.-China trade tensions, while not directly targeting Brazil, ripple through its economy—offering trade diversion benefits like increased soybean exports to China, yet threatening slowdowns that could dim growth. With China as its top trade partner and the U.S. second, Brazil straddles opportunity and vulnerability. Investors must ponder: can its bond market’s allure withstand these crosswinds, or will global forces unravel its promise? The answer lies in decoding this delicate balance, a challenge that inspires curiosity and strategic daring.
Long
by UDIS_View
$USPCEPIMC -U.S Price Index (January/2025)ECONOMICS:USPCEPIMC 0.3% (January/2025) source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis - The US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index increased by 0.3% month-over-month in January 2025, the same pace as in December, and in line with expectations. Prices for goods increased 0.5%, following a 0.1% rise in December and prices for services rose at a slower 0.2%, after a 0.4% gain in the previous month. Meanwhile, the core PCE index, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, rose 0.3%, slightly above the 0.2% gain recorded in the previous month, and also matching forecasts. Food prices went up 0.3%, higher than 0.2% in December while cost of energy eased (1.3% vs 2.4%). On a year-over-year basis, headline PCE inflation eased to 2.5% from 2.6%, marking its first slowdown in four months. Similarly, core PCE inflation declined to 2.6%, its lowest level in seven months, from an upwardly revised 2.9%.
ECONOMICS:USPCEPIMC
by Mr_J__fx
Bitcoin(BTC/USD) Daily Chart Analysis For Week of Feb 28, 2025Technical Analysis and Outlook: At the beginning of the week, Bitcoin was observed trading at a lower level, close to the Mean Support level of 95700. It could not reach our predetermined Mean Resistance level marked at 98300, which can be attributed to a substantial decline that occurred, resulting in the completion of our Outer Coin Dip between 89000 and 78700. Following this decline, Bitcoin experienced a robust rebound to the Mean Resistance level of 86200. This upward trend indicates the potential for higher prices as it will target Mean Resistance levels at 89200 and 92600, respectively. However, a retest of the Key Support level at 79000 must occur before further upward movement may take place.
BITSTAMP:BTCUSD
by TradeSelecter
1
LONG ON GOLDGold has fell almost $100 or 1000 pips since Monday from its high. Its currently at a major demand level that was created 2/7/25 that caused it to rise $100 points to 2/24//25. History from 2/7/25 looks like it will be repeating itself. Dollar (DXY) looks bearish and PCE news comes out at 8:30 for Inflation which I believe will come out bad causing the dollar to tank and gold as well as the indices to rise. I will be buying gold looking to catch that $100 move or 1000pips. See you at the Top! OANDA:XAUUSD
OANDA:XAUUSDLong
by BBIDF
2
Japanese yen declines as Tokyo Core CPI easesThe Japanese yen has extended its losses on Friday.  In the European session, USD/JPY is trading at 150.39, up 0.40% on the day. After a string of releases that pointed to an upswing in inflation, Tokyo core CPI for February reversed the trend on Friday.  Japan's CPI, PPI and the Bank of Japan Core CPI all accelerated in the most recent releases but Tokyo Core CPI surprised to the downside, with a gain of 2.2% y/y.  This was down from 2.5% in January and below the market estimate of 2.3%. The soft Tokyo Core CPI reading is unlikely to raise many eyebrows at the Bank of Japan. The index remained above the BoJ's 2% target for a fourth consecutive month and Bank policymakers are expected to remain hawkish about monetary policy.  The BoJ raised rates in January and also revised its inflation forecasts upwards, a signal that further rate hikes are on the table. The markets are expecting the BoJ to continue tightening and this has been resulted in higher yields for Japanese government bonds, which hit a 15-year high earlier this month. Governor Kazuo Ueda responded to the sharp rise in bond yields with a warning that the central bank stood ready to intervene in the bond markets. Ueda's threat appears to have worked as bond yields have retreated slightly. The US wraps up the week with core PCE inflation, the Fed's peferred inflation gauge. The market estimates for January stand at 2.6% y/y (vs. 2.8% in December) and 0.2% m/m (vs. 0.3% in December). This would still be above the Federal Reserve's target of 2%. The Fed is not expected to lower rates before May, barring an unexpected surprise from inflation or employment data. USD/JPY tested resistance at 150.39 earlier.  Above, there is resistance at 150.98 There is support at 149.57 and 148.98
by OANDA
What Lies Beneath Chevron's Venezuelan Exit?In a striking geopolitical maneuver, the Trump administration has revoked Chevron's license to operate in Venezuela, effective March 1. This decision marks a sharp departure from the Biden-era policy, which had conditionally allowed Chevron’s operations to encourage free elections in the beleaguered nation. Beyond punishing Venezuela for unmet democratic benchmarks, the move reflects a broader U.S. strategy to bolster domestic oil production and lessen dependence on foreign energy sources. Chevron, a titan with over a century of history in Venezuela, now faces the unraveling of a vital revenue stream, prompting us to ponder the delicate dance between corporate ambition and national agendas. The ripple effects for Venezuela are profound and perilous. Chevron accounted for nearly a quarter of the country’s oil production, and its exit is forecast to slash Venezuela’s revenue by $4 billion by 2026. This economic blow threatens to rekindle inflation and destabilize a nation already teetering on the edge of recovery, exposing the intricate ties between U.S. corporate presence and sanctioned states. For Chevron, the revocation transforms a once-lucrative asset into a geopolitical liability, thrusting the company into a high-stakes test of resilience. This clash of interests challenges us to consider the true cost of operating in the shadow of political volatility. On the global stage, this decision reverberates through energy markets and diplomatic corridors. Oil prices have already twitched in response, hinting at tighter supplies. At the same time, the fate of other foreign firms in Venezuela hangs in the balance, shadowed by the looming threat of secondary sanctions. As the U.S. sharpens its confrontational edge, the energy landscape braces for transformation, with consequences for geopolitical alliances and energy security worldwide. Is Chevron’s departure merely a pawn in a broader strategic game, or does it herald a seismic shift in global power dynamics? The answer may redefine the boundaries of energy and influence in the years ahead.
NYSE:CVXShort
by UDIS_View
Swiss franc dips as Swiss GDP declinesThe Swiss franc is down for a second straight trading day.  In the European session, USD/CHF is trading at 0.8980, up 0.38% on the day. The Swiss economy slowed to 0.2% q/q in the fourth quarter of 2024, down from 0.4% in Q3 and in line with expectations.  This was the weakest expansion since Q2 2023.  Construction weakened in the fourth quarter but manufacturing and exports rebounded from the previous quarter.  Annualized, GDP rose 1.5%, down from 1.9% in Q3, the softest expansion in three quarters. The weak GDP data supports the case for the Swiss National Bank to lower interest rates.  The central bank is in the midst of an easing cycle and showed its aggressive side in December when it chopped rates by 50 basis points, bringing the cash rate to 0.50%. The SNB only meets on a quarterly basis, magnifying the importance of each meeting.  The next meeting is on March 20 and the markets have priced in a 25-bps cut at close to 100%.  There are two key factors that Bank policymakers will be looking ahead of a rate decision - inflation levels and the exchange rate. Inflation has fallen by 0.1% for four consecutive months and is putting pressure on the SNB to continue lowering rates.  The next inflation report is on March 5 and another soft report would cement a rate cut at next month's meeting.  The SNB also uses monetary policy to ensure that the Swiss franc is not too strong, which would hurt the export sector. The US releases second-estimate GDP for the fourth quarter of 2024 later today. The initial estimate came in at 2.3%, down from 3.2% in the third quarter. The US economy remains strong and inflation has been largely contained. The Federal Reserve is expected to cut rates this year only once or twice, unless the economic data does not evolve as expected. USD/CHF is testing resistance at 0.8992.  Above, there is resistance at 0.9018 0.8969 and 0.8943 are providing support
by OANDA
USDJPY - Longterm viewHere is our in-depth view and update on USDJPY . Potential opportunities and what to look out for. This is a long-term overview on the pair sharing possible entries and important Key Levels . Alright first, let’s take a step back and take a look at USDJPY from a bigger perspective. For this we will be looking at the H4 time-frame . USDJPY is currently trading at around 149.000s . We are still extremely bearish on FX:USDJPY since our last longterm analysis was completed: Scenario 1: SELLS from 148.200 -We broke below the downtrend channel. With the break of the downtrend channel we can expect more sells to come and we should continue the bearish trend on USDJPY slowly digging into lower levels potentially reaching our target of 145.000. Scenario 2: SELLS from 151.250 -We above the downtrend channel - 149.900. If we above our downtrend channel we can expect some short-term buys up to our main Key Level or PBA (Pullback Area) from where we can look to enter into the long-term sells. IMPORTANT KEY LEVELS: - 151.250; possible pullback area - 148.200; breaks below confirming lower levels - 145.000; longterm target (prices from Aug-Sep 2024) Personal opinion: We are currently trading in a downtrend channel and we are expecting more sells to come throughout the next weeks. We do have to be careful as TVC:DXY and TVC:JXY might experience some volatility tomorrow due to the following news: JXY: Tokyo Core CPI y/y DXY: Core PCE Price Index m/m KEY NOTES - USDJPY breaking above 149.900 would result in higher pullbacks. - USDJPY breaking below 148.200 (below the downtrend channel) would confirm sells. - USDJPY is overall extremely bearish. Happy trading! FxPocket
Short
by FxPocket
1