Holiday Trading Update: Christmas Eve Market Overview.As we approach Christmas Eve, it's important to note the shortened trading hours in the US. The stock market will close early at 1 PM, while the US bond market will close at 2 PM.
Currency Market Overview
The USD is showing a mixed performance against major currencies:
EUR: +0.12%
JPY: -0.04%
GBP: -0.15%
CHF: +0.18%
CAD: +0.32%
AUD: +0.27%
NZD: +0.23%
US Stock Market Snapshot
US stocks are mixed following yesterday's rise:
Dow: -25 points
S&P: +6.05 points
Nasdaq: +43 points
US Debt Market
Yields have shown marginal changes:
2-year: 4.353%, up 0.3 bps
5-year: 4.454%, up 0.9 bps
10-year: 4.606%, up 0.8 bps
30-year: 4.796%, up 1.3 bps
Global Economic Updates
Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)
The RBA released its minutes, noting that its policy remains "sufficiently restrictive" to address inflation concerns. Despite gaining confidence that inflation has eased, risks persist. The board highlighted the importance of not prematurely easing policies and acknowledged that if economic growth strengthens, a prolonged delay in rate adjustments might be necessary. Updated forecasts for inflation and growth will be published in February.
Japan's Finance Minister
Finance Minister Kato emphasized the importance of ensuring currency stability to reflect economic fundamentals, particularly in light of recent sharp foreign exchange movements. He stated that the government would maintain close communication with overseas authorities on forex policies and was prepared to take decisive action against excessive volatility.
European Central Bank (ECB)
ECB's Vujčić reiterated that interest rate adjustments would continue as long as data align with projections, emphasizing the central bank's data-dependent approach. He refrained from specifying the exact level at which the ECB might halt rate hikes, underscoring the uncertainty tied to future economic conditions.
US Economic Data
The Richmond Fed index will be released at 10 AM ET, with expectations at -10 versus -14 last month.
The US Treasury will auction 5-year notes at 1 PM. Yesterday, the Treasury auctioned 2-year notes with a 0.1 bp tail and a bid to cover ratio of 2.73X versus the 6-month average of 2.68X. Domestic buyers were very light at 6.7% versus the average of 19.5%, but international buyers showed up, taking 82.1%, well above the average of 68.1%.
Technical Analysis
EUR/USD
The EUR/USD is trading around its 100-hour moving average (MA) at 1.0403, a key short-term barometer for buyers and sellers. A move above this level could signal a more bullish trend, while staying below it would indicate that sellers are in firm control.
USD/JPY
The USD/JPY remains in a narrow trading range, currently at 157.12. The rising 100-hour MA at 156.42 is quickly approaching, which will be an important level to watch. Key levels include the high from November at 156.739 and the low from yesterday at 155.94.
GBP/USD
The GBP/USD is stretching higher, moving closer to the falling 100-hour MA at 1.2563. Breaking above this level would target a swing area between 1.2596 and 1.26147, followed by the 200-hour MA at 1.26201.
Season's Greetings from OakleyJM
As we approach this festive season, I wanted to extend my warmest wishes to all my followers. May your Christmas be filled with joy, and may the New Year bring you prosperity and success in your trading endeavours..
Navigating the markets during the holidays can be challenging due to reduced liquidity, unexpected volatility, and market closures. Here are a few tips to help you prepare:
Plan Ahead: Be aware of trading schedules and adjust your plans accordingly.
Manage Risk: Use tighter stop-loss orders and reduce position sizes.
Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest news and economic data releases.
Use Limit Orders: Ensure you get the price you want despite wider bid-ask spreads.
Focus on Liquidity: Trade assets with higher liquidity, such as major currency pairs or blue-chip stocks.
Review Your Strategy: Analyse your performance and set goals for the upcoming year.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!
Warm regards, OakleyJM.