Yen Strengthens Despite Japan’s Q1 ContractionThe Japanese yen strengthened toward 145 per dollar, extending its rally for a fourth straight day, despite Japan’s economy shrinking by 0.2% in the first quarter, worse than forecasts. While the Bank of Japan acknowledged the risks posed by U.S. trade policies, it remains confident that rising wages and prices will support eventual policy normalization. Investors are closely watching U.S.-Japan trade negotiations, with Japan insisting that any deal must include the auto sector and that the 25% U.S. tariff on Japanese cars be removed.
Resistance is noted at 148.60, with further barriers at 149.80 and 151.20. Major support levels lie at 139.70, 137.00, and 135.00.
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Silver Retreats on Semiconductor TensionsSilver pulled back to around $32.50 in Friday’s Asian session, giving up part of its recent gains following reports that the U.S. plans to blacklist several Chinese semiconductor firms. Given silver’s integral role in electronics and chip manufacturing, the news weighed on sentiment.
Demand for precious metals has also weakened with easing trade tensions, as the U.S. and China agreed to reduce tariffs, cutting U.S. duties from 145% to 30% and China’s from 125% to 10%. Despite this, silver found support from a weakening U.S. dollar, which followed soft economic data reinforcing expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts. Powell, however, warned that persistent supply shocks could complicate inflation control moving forward.
Resistance begins at $32.50, with further levels at $33.80 and $34.20. Support is seen at $31.40, followed by $30.20 and $29.80.
Pound Gains on Strong UK GDPThe British pound climbed to $1.3320 on Friday after strong UK GDP data showed the economy grew 0.7% in Q1 and 1.3% year-over-year, easing pressure on the Bank of England to cut rates aggressively. While a cut is still likely, the solid growth figures suggest urgency has diminished. At the same time, a softer U.S. dollar, driven by speculation that the U.S. may be allowing depreciation to support exports, has supported sterling. However, the UK’s broader outlook remains mixed, with rising unemployment and slowing wage growth signaling uneven momentum.
GBP/USD faces resistance at 1.3350, with additional levels at 1.3450 and 1.3550. Support levels are at 1.3160, 1.3000, and 1.2960.
Silver Eases Despite Weaker DollarSilver slipped below $31.90 on Thursday, pressured by easing safe-haven demand after the U.S. and China agreed in Switzerland to cut tariffs to 30% and 10% respectively for 90 days. While the deal briefly lifted sentiment, uncertainty looms over what comes next.
The drop in geopolitical tensions has also dampened expectations for aggressive Fed cuts. However, weak U.S. inflation data from earlier this week supported silver by softening the Dollar and improving its appeal to international buyers.
Silver faces resistance at $32.50, followed by $33.80 and $34.20. Support is found at $31.40, with lower levels at $30.20 and $29.80.
Risk Appetite Weighs on GoldGold hovers near $3,155, attempting to stabilize after falling more than 2% the previous day. The metal trades below $3,200, pressured by improved risk appetite following U.S.-China tariff reductions and upcoming U.S. data releases, including PPI and Retail Sales.
Fed Chair Powell’s speech is also in focus, as markets seek clues on interest rate policy. While the weaker Dollar has lent gold some support, traders remain cautious ahead of potential rate-cut signals.
Key resistance is seen at $3,235, followed by $3,300 and $3,350. On the downside, support begins at $3,120, then $3,030 and $2,956.
Risk Appetite Weighs on GoldGold hovers near $3,155, attempting to stabilize after falling more than 2% the previous day. The metal trades below $3,200, pressured by improved risk appetite following U.S.-China tariff reductions and upcoming U.S. data releases, including PPI and Retail Sales.
Fed Chair Powell’s speech is also in focus, as markets seek clues on interest rate policy. While the weaker Dollar has lent gold some support, traders remain cautious ahead of potential rate-cut signals.
Key resistance is seen at $3,235, followed by $3,300 and $3,350. On the downside, support begins at $3,120, then $3,030 and $2,956.
UK Data in Focus as Pound Tests 1.3300GBP/USD trades near 1.3280 early Thursday, recovering recent losses as the dollar softens with ongoing trade policy discussions. Optimism over reduced U.S. tariffs on British goods like cars and steel helps strengthen the appeal of the Pound.
However, weaker UK employment data and slow wage growth may increase pressure on the BoE to consider further easing. Traders now await UK Q1 GDP and U.S. CPI data. Despite global uncertainties, improving trade conditions have reduced bets on aggressive Fed cuts, with markets now pricing a 74% chance of a 25 bp cut in September instead of July.
The pair faces resistance at 1.3320, with higher levels at 1.3450 and 1.3550. Support sits at 1.3160, then 1.3000 and 1.2960.
Euro Rises Near 1.1200 on Reserve StatusEUR/USD traded around 1.1200 during Thursday’s Asian session, rebounding ahead of the Eurozone’s Q1 2025 GDP report. The Euro remains supported by its rising role in global reserves, with Capital Economics noting its strongest position in years. U.S. policies under President Trump set this shift in motion, which is seen as weakening the dollar’s appeal as a popular asset. Germany’s increased fiscal spending has also lifted euro demand.
Despite ECB officials signaling more rate cuts, the Euro holds steady against a softer U.S. Dollar, which remains pressured by lingering trade uncertainty. Markets are now focused on U.S. retail sales and PPI data, while speculation grows that the U.S. might allow a weaker Dollar to aid exports.
EUR/USD faces resistance at 1.1260, with further upside near 1.1460 and 1.1580. Support begins at 1.1040, followed by 1.1000 and 1.0960.
Japan Pushes Back on Auto TariffsThe Japanese Yen strengthened to around 146 per dollar, marking its third straight gain as global trade concerns weighed on the U.S. Dollar. Asian currencies broadly rose with speculation that the U.S. may be favoring a weaker Dollar to aid trade talks. Trump’s administration argues that undervalued Asian currencies create unfair competition for American exporters.
Meanwhile, Japan continues U.S. trade negotiations, with PM Shigeru Ishiba pushing for a deal that includes the auto sector and the removal of the 25% car tariff.
USD/JPY faces resistance at 148.60, with further levels at 149.80 and 151.20. Major support is seen at 139.70, then 137.00, and 135.00.
Silver Softens Near $32.50 as Risk Appetite ImprovesSilver hovered around $32.50 Friday, easing from earlier highs as optimism around U.S.-UK trade progress and upcoming talks with China reduced precious metals demand. The Fed’s hold on interest rates and cautious tone also weighed on precious metals. Still, silver remains on track for a weekly gain.
Technically, resistance is seen at $33.80, followed by $34.20 and $34.85, while support levels are noted at $32.00, $31.40, and $30.20.
Gold Slips Toward $3,290 on Trade OptimismGold extended losses for a third day, dropping toward $3,290 as market appetite for risk improved ahead of U.S.-China trade talks. The announcement of a U.S.-UK trade deal also contributed to reduced safe-haven demand. The Fed held rates steady as expected, warning of risks to inflation and jobs but avoiding any hint of preemptive cuts. Still, gold is poised for a weekly gain.
Resistance is seen at $3,360, $3,430, and $3,500, while support holds at $3,270, $3,200, and $3,165.
Pound Steadies with Trade Deal ReliefThe GBP/USD pair opened Thursday with gains following the Bank of England’s expected 25 basis point rate cut, but the pound’s momentum faded as attention turned to U.S. trade developments. By Friday morning, the pair was trading around 1.3240.
Sentiment shifted toward the U.S. dollar after the Trump administration announced an upcoming trade deal with the UK, helping Britain avoid steep reciprocal tariffs originally set to resume on July 9. While some relief came from Trump’s earlier ‘Liberation Day’ delay, a broad 10% tariff on all UK imports to the U.S. remains on track, potentially weighing on sentiment. Refined ethanol has been fully exempted, though U.S. import data shows none has been sourced from the UK in over 15 years.
If GBP/USD breaks above 1.3280, resistance levels come in at 1.3450 and 1.3550. Support lies at 1.3160, followed by 1.3000 and 1.2960.
Euro Nears 1.1230 on Cautious ECBEUR/USD edged up to 1.1230 in Friday’s Asian session, paring earlier losses caused by stronger U.S. data and easing trade tensions that supported the dollar. The euro remains under pressure as markets price in possible ECB rate cuts by June, though officials maintain confidence in inflation reaching the 2% target by year-end.
The pair faces resistance at 1.1260, with further upside capped near 1.1460 and 1.1580. On the downside, support is seen at 1.1150, followed by 1.1100 and 1.1050.
Yen Falls Past 145 as Dollar StrengthensThe Japanese yen weakened past 145 per dollar, hovering near a one-month low as the U.S. dollar strengthened with improving global trade sentiment and diminishing expectations of near-term U.S. rate cuts. The greenback gained momentum after President Trump announced a preliminary trade deal with the UK, the first since broad U.S. tariffs were introduced last month. He also signaled that tariffs on China could be eased, depending on the outcome of high-level trade talks set for this weekend in Switzerland.
Adding pressure on the yen, Fed Chair Powell dismissed the idea of a preemptive rate cut, citing persistent inflation risks and labor market concerns. In Japan, personal spending rose more than expected in March, suggesting resilience in consumption, though a third straight monthly drop in real wages highlighted broader economic challenges.
Resistance stands at 145.90, with further levels at 146.75 and 149.80. Support is found at 139.70, then 137.00 and 135.00.
Silver Slips as Fed Holds RatesSilver rose more than 1% to approach the $33 mark on Thursday, supported by renewed interest on precious metals with ongoing trade and economic uncertainty. The Federal Reserve left interest rates unchanged, with Chair Powell citing heightened risks while dismissing the need for early rate cuts. Sentiment was also influenced by President Trump’s announcement of an imminent trade deal, reportedly with the UK, and his firm stance on maintaining tariffs against China ahead of upcoming negotiations.
Technically, resistance is seen at $33.80, followed by $34.20 and $34.85, while support levels are noted at $32.00, $31.40, and $30.20.
Gold Dips Toward $3,360 as Fed HoldsGold slipped to around $3,360 per ounce on Thursday, pressured by the Fed’s cautious tone after keeping rates unchanged. Chair Powell dismissed preemptive cuts and highlighted inflation and labor market risks, dampening demand for non-yielding assets. However, gold's downside was limited by trade uncertainties as Trump reaffirmed tariffs before U.S.-China talks in Switzerland.
Resistance is expected at $3,460, followed by $3,500 and $3,550. Support sits at $3,320, with further levels at $3,300 and $3,265.
GBP Steady Near $1.33, BoE Rate Cut ExpectedThe British pound hovered near $1.33 as traders awaited the BoE’s decision, with a 25 bps cut to 4.25% widely expected. Markets are also eyeing new economic forecasts for signals of further easing. While Trump’s tariff plans have stoked global slowdown fears, the UK is less exposed due to a U.S. goods surplus. A fresh trade deal with India, expected to generate £4.8 billion annually by 2040, may also cushion the economy.
If GBP/USD breaks above 1.3430, resistance levels come in at 1.3500 and 1.3550. Support lies at 1.3200, followed by 1.3050 and 1.2960.
Euro Strengthens on Political ShiftsEUR/USD traded just above 1.1300 on Thursday, staying in a tight range as reduced political uncertainty in Europe and a softer U.S. dollar offered mixed cues. The euro was supported by news of Friedrich Merz becoming Germany’s chancellor, while the dollar struggled despite a hawkish Fed pause, as Powell flagged tariff-related risks. Traders are focused on Trump’s press conference at 14:00 GMT and U.S. jobless claims for near-term direction.
Resistance is seen at 1.1460, with higher levels at 1.1580 and 1.1680. Support lies at 1.1260, followed by 1.1200 and 1.1150.
Yen Firms with BoJ CautionThe Japanese yen strengthened to around 143.6 per dollar on Thursday, recovering as rising global trade uncertainty stimulated demand for gold. The move followed President Trump’s announcement of a deal with a “big” country, reportedly the UK, and his refusal to cut tariffs on China ahead of U.S.-China talks in Switzerland. U.S.-Japan negotiations continue, with Tokyo aiming to finalize a bilateral deal by June. Meanwhile, BoJ minutes showed policymakers remain open to rate hikes if inflation targets are met, though they flagged external risks from U.S. trade policy.
Resistance stands at 145.90, with further levels at 146.75 and 149.80. Support is found at 139.70, then 137.00 and 135.00.
Taiwan Dollar Weakens Past 30 per USD Amid Trade Rumors and CentThe Taiwanese dollar weakened past 30 per USD on Tuesday, reversing a two-day rally and retreating from its strongest level in nearly three years.
📉 Recent gains in Asian currencies like the TWD and MYR were fueled by speculation over regional support for U.S. trade talks. However, Taiwan’s central bank denied any such coordination, stating the U.S. made no formal request. President Lai Ching-te also warned against spreading misinformation.
🔧 As a key player in global chip production, Taiwan remains highly exposed to shifts in trade dynamics and geopolitical risks.
XAG/USD Stable Ahead of Fed DecisionSilver (XAG/USD) held steady on Tuesday, underpinned by safe-haven demand as U.S. tariff tensions and global growth concerns persisted. Although the U.S. dollar saw a slight recovery, silver maintained its ground with markets focused on the upcoming Federal Reserve policy decision. Expectations for unchanged rates and possible future easing could continue to lend support to silver in the near term.
The first resistance is seen at $33.80, with higher levels at $34.20 and $34.85 if momentum builds. Support begins at $32.00, followed by $31.40 and $30.20.
Gold Climbs on Safe-Haven DemandGold climbed to nearly $3,360 per ounce on Tuesday, marking its highest level in over a week, as renewed tariff threats from President Trump increased safe-haven demand. Trump announced a 100% tariff on foreign films and signaled upcoming measures targeting pharmaceuticals. Investors are now focused on the Federal Reserve’s policy decision, with rates expected to stay unchanged despite Trump’s push for cuts.
Resistance is expected at $3,385, then $3,450 and $3,500. Support stands at $3,300, followed by $3,265 and $3,200.
GBP Falls Ahead of Fed and BOE MeetingsSterling fell 0.24% to $1.3265 on Tuesday as the U.S. dollar firmed ahead of the Federal Reserve’s policy decision, with rates expected to remain unchanged. While the dollar recovered slightly, doubts over its safe-haven appeal and Trump’s tariff stance persist. Markets also await the Bank of England’s meeting, where a 25 bps rate cut is expected. Dovish signals or dollar softness may support GBP/USD.
If GBP/USD breaks above 1.3430, the next resistance levels are 1.3500 and 1.3550. Support levels are at 1.3200, followed by 1.3050 and 1.2960.