Yen Climbs on Trade Talks, Record SurplusThe Japanese yen climbed toward 147 per dollar on Tuesday, reversing losses as trade uncertainty lifted safe-haven demand. Trump agreed to begin trade talks with Japan after speaking with PM Shigeru Ishiba and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to lead talks covering tariffs, currency, and subsidies. Trump denied delaying tariffs, saying they may stay indefinitely. Domestically, Japan’s current account surplus hit a record high in February, backed by strong exports and lower imports, further supporting the yen.
Key resistance is at 148.70, with further levels at 152.70 and 157.70. Support stands at 145.60, followed by 143.00 and 141.80.
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Pound Slips to $1.29 on Soft InflationThe British pound dipped to around $1.29 as traders reacted to softer inflation data and looked ahead to the Spring Statement. UK annual inflation eased to 2.8% in February, below the 2.9% forecast but in line with the BoE's outlook. Services inflation remained at 5%.
The BoE expects inflation to rise toward 4% later this year. Markets see a 92% chance of a 25bps rate cut in August and about a 60% chance of another by year-end. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to outline the economic outlook and announce major government spending cuts.
If GBP/USD breaks above 1.3050, the next resistance levels are 1.3100 and 1.3150. On the downside, support stands at 1.2860, with further levels at 1.2800 and 1.2715 if selling pressure increases.
Dollar Weakens Post-Fed, Lifting Yen Beyond 148.5The yen strengthened past 148.5 per dollar, rising for a second session as the dollar weakened after the Fed reaffirmed two rate cuts this year. Fed Chair Powell downplayed Trump’s tariffs as short-lived. The BoJ kept rates at 0.5% on Wednesday, adopting a cautious stance amid global risks, especially US tariffs. It also emphasized monitoring forex markets and their impact on the economy.
Key resistance is at 150.30, with further levels at 152.00 and 154.90. Support stands at 147.00, followed by 145.80 and 143.00.