Date : 21st April 2020.

FX Update – April 21 – USD Remains Bid.

EURUSD, H1

Currencies have once again adopted a risk-off positioning formation as global stock and commodity markets tumble. The Yen, closely followed by the Dollar, have taken the lead in the outperforming pack while the commodity currencies have taken a lead in the underperforming group. Asian stock markets saw their biggest single-day sell-off in a month while the pan-Europe STOXX 600 equity index fell by nearly 2.5% as S&P 500 futures declined by over 1.5% after the cash version of the index closed out yesterday 1.8% for the worse. Yesterday’s oil rout spooked investors, and while some economies are starting to reopen from lockdowns, the road back to normalcy is clearly going to be a long one. Amid this backdrop, the narrow trade-weighted USD index printed a thirteen-day high at 100.37 while EURUSD concurrently ebbed to a four-day low at 1.0819. The Yen outperformed, moderately against the Dollar, but more so against the Euro and even more versus the underperforming commodity currencies. USD-JPY printed a five-day low at 107.29, while EUR-JPY forayed into 19-day low territory. AUD-JPY, a forex market barometer of risk appetite in global markets, and a currency proxy of China, declined by some 0.7% in making a two-week low at 67.40. AUD-USD printed a four-day low at 0.6270. USD-CAD rallied to a 15-day high at 1.4266. While yesterday’s rout in the expiring May WTI contract, and the aberration of negative pricing has come and gone, June futures today have been highly volatile, opening above $21.0, diving to a low at $11.79 before rebounding back above $15.00. One potential support for oil prices is the fast reducing space at crude storage facilities, which is likely to force oil producers into big output cuts. President Trump, also, said that the US is considering halting Saudi oil imports.

EURUSD ebbed to a four-day low at 1.0820, with the pair driven once again by a broader move in the Dollar. EURUSD continues to trade a little to the south of the halfway mark of the volatile range that was seen during the height of the market panic in March. The rapid deployment of monetary stimulus measures by the Fed, and expectations for more, have impacted the Dollar in recent weeks, having satiated what had been a surge in demand for the world’s reserve currency.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

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Stuart Cowell
Head Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 23rd April 2020.

A dismal day!

EURUSD, H1

Eurozone April PMI numbers looked dismal, with lockdowns across Europe really hitting home this month. The manufacturing sector outperformed, but the reading still dropped to 33.6 from 44.5 in March. Similarly to Japanese numbers this morning, the services sector collapsed and the reading dropped to 11.7 from 26.4.

The hospitality and tourism sectors in particular have been hit and for tourism in particular there is no chance of a quick recovery. The declines were the steepest ever recorded and new business inflows collapsed. Markit reported that “expectations of output in the coming 12 months dropped marginally below the previous nadir in March, thanks to a new record degree of pessimism in manufacturing”. Job cuts accelerated and average prices fell at the sharpest rate since June 2009. Clearly the extent of the slump is pretty scary and will add to pressure on EU heads of states, who today will discuss stimulus measures designed to kick start the recovery once restrictions have eased sufficiently.

A large scale investment program financed through the European Investment Bank is expected, while the EU’s multi-annual budget although any real stimulus can also have a lasting effect once things get back to normal and when that will be depends to a large extend on virus developments, rather than a political will.

Additionally, the German GfK consumer confidence dropped to -23.4 in the May reading from 2.3 in April. A dismal number again and indeed a series low that clearly reflects the impact of crisis measures and highlights that government efforts such as subsidised wages are not sufficient. The full breakdown is only available until April, but already signalled a collapse in business expectations and the willingness to buy as income expectations turn negative.

Stock market sentiment was hit by the numbers and GER30 and UK100 are currently down -0.6% and -0.3% respectively. EURUSD has remained heavy, edging out a low at 1.0783. This is a move outside the 5-day range (1.0810-1.0890). Hence with momentum indicators in the medium and long term remaining strongly negative and with the asset price in a descending triangle since February, a sustenance of a decline below 1.0800 could turn the attention March lows again. However we need to see a decisive daily or weekly candle below 1.0770.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

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Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 30th April 2020.

Gold Analysis – 30 April 2020

XAUUSD, H1

• World Gold Council reports 80% year-on-year rise in first-quarter investment demand (MarketWatch)

• Yamana Gold (NYSE: AUY) declares $0.015625/share quarterly dividend, a 25% increase from the prior dividend of $0.0125. (Seeking alpha)

• The Federal Reserve is committed to using its full range of tools to support the US economy in this challenging time, thereby promoting its maximum employment and price stability goals. (FED Statement)

• To support the flow of credit to households and businesses, the Federal Reserve will continue to purchase Treasury securities and agency residential and commercial mortgage-backed securities in the amounts needed to support smooth market functioning, thereby fostering effective transmission of monetary policy to broader financial conditions. (FED Statement)

Step by step governments and central banks need to think about their plan for after the pandemic is over, or is at least under control enough for economies to begin restarting. Reviewing the policies and monetary policies relating to gold, there is one simple and important signal to focus on; the replacing of cash flow into the market. One of the best ways the FED has been accomplishing this is by purchasing physical Gold to support the Bonds and other kinds of assets which have been sold in the past months. As we saw in the FED statement, the doors are open to purchasing more. Alternatively, we need either strong economic growth, which is not likely in the short term, as the main chains are broken and it will take time to replace and repair them, , or, more simply, to replace them with assets such as Gold, even if the “Gold Standard” lost its reputation years ago. On the other hand, trust needs time and it is going to be hard to bring the investors back into the market quickly, so safe havens are still needed. Therefore, for the long term, Gold could still stay bid, as demand is growing.

Gold Technical Analysis

Technical indicators mostly support the side movement, with bullish interest. RSI is flat at 56, OBV trend line is flat too, while Parabolic SAR dots are under the Candles and supporting the bulls. The yellow metal is in a bullish trend, and has $1719 and $1736 to break to confirm its way towards $1800. On the flip side, $1693 and $1684 are the next support levels.

Pivot point: 1709.07
Resistance levels: 1724.41 / 1732.95
Support levels: 1700.55 / 1685.20
Today, the expected trading range is between 1685.20 support and 1732.95 resistance.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

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Ahura Chalki
Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 4th May 2020.

Events to Look Out for This Week.

Welcome to our weekly agenda, our briefing of all the key financial events globally. The week ahead will include the RBA & BOE rate announcements, Service PMI’s and topped by Non-Farm Payrolls on Friday and what has been the case for many weeks now, underpinned on how deep the mark will be on the global economy from the COVID-19 crisis.

Monday – 04 May 2020

Final Manufacturing PMI (EUR, GMT 07:00) – The initial reading was a dismal record breaking 33.6. Will the final revision offer any hope of a floor for EU manufacturing?

Tuesday – 05 May 2020

Interest Rate Decision & Statement (RBA, GMT 04:30)  – The RBA meet and are unlikely to move rates below historic lows at 0.25%. A poll by Reuters of 23 economists expects the RBA to leave policy unchanged on all fronts i.e. cash rate and bond purchases with 22 also expecting no more rate changes until the end of 2021.

German Constitutional Court Ruling & EU Economic Forecasts (Both Tentative)  The German Federal Constitutional Court is due to announce a ruling regarding the constitutionality of the ECB’s Asset Purchase Programme. The EU will also announce economic forecasts for all 27 EU member states.

ISM Non-Manufacturing PMI  (USD GMT 14:00) – Last month’s reading of this key indicator was another weak, but much better than expected 52.5 (vs 43.5). Today’s reading is likely to plumb new recent lows at 41 versus an all-time low of 37.6 in November of 2008.

Employment Change & Unemployment Rate (NZD GMT 22:45) – Quarterly jobs data from NZ will be the first big data release and impact of the virus. New Zealand has had a relatively low-level virus impact compared to many countries with an extensive test, trace & track regime, a rapid lock-down and a low death rates.

Wednesday – 06  May 2020

Markit Services PMI (EUR, GMT 07:00) – As with manufacturing the services and composite numbers are expected to make woeful reading expectations range between 13 and 11.
ADP Employment Change (USD, GMT 12:15) – Lasts month’s record -27,000 will be dwarfed by a contraction of over 20 million as the weekly new unemployment claims have been capturing over the last few weeks.

Thursday – 07 May 2020

Trade Balance (AUD, GMT 01:30) – The Australian Trade balance is seen as taking a hit with a rise to 6.8 million AUD, the export /import mix could be severely disrupted.
Interest Rate Decision & Press Conference (GBP, GMT 11:00 & 11:30)  – The BOE officials have already taken substantial steps in the quest to safeguard markets and liquidity provisions as economies face deep recessions this year. No changes expected in rates or outlook or voting expected. New Governor Bailey has had a tough baptism and with the UK still in the grips of virus lockdown his options remain limited.
Jobless Claims (USD, GMT 12:30)– US initial jobless claims dropped last week but still exceed the 3.5 million expected  at 3.789 million. Today the numbers could be under 2 million and if the drop in initial weekly claims continues, this could suggest that the worst might be over, and that the fiscal policy measures are having some mitigating effects on job losses.

Friday – 08 May 2020

Non-Farm Payrolls (USD, GMT 12:30) –  The April NFP plunge is likely to be in the order of of over -20 million following the record fall in March of -700,00 as the full data is collated. The weekly unemployment reports have documented a huge hits to factories  and service industries from mandatory closures, on top of the demand hit initially associated with the pandemic. A record day is expected .

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

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Stuart Cowell
Head Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 7th May 2020.

Commodities Update

Energy

Oil Action: USOIL has steadied on either side of the $23.00 level, though remains down nearly 6% on the day, after printing 3-week highs over $26 overnight. The weekly EIA inventory report yesterday revealed a much smaller than expected rise in crude stocks, but also a larger than expected build in distillate supplies, which offset the mildly bullish crude number.  The EIA reported that US production slipped to 11.9 mln bpd in the latest reporting week from 12.1 mln bpd the previous week. March production levels were near 13.1 mln bpd.

Meanwhile, earlier today, the unexpectedly good trade report out of China, which reported an 8.2% y/y rise in exports, contrary to the median forecast for a 14.1% contraction, catalysed a risk appetite, which also lifted  the commodities and commodity currencies. Currently the crude prices remain up by over 230% from the low seen near $10 on April 28th, though prices still remain down by over 74% from the highs seen in January, as the oil market is not out of the woods yet, as production cuts have so far been insufficient to offset the huge virus related crash in demand.

Hence, on the products side, EIA data shows that refinery utilisation continues to improve, while from trade side, China’s data shows that economies reopening globally could support the Oil price in the near term .

That said, going forward, focus is on economies that are reopening from virus-containing lockdowns, and how successful, extensive and durable this proves to be. This should rekindle demand for oil and other commodities, which should in turn put in an underpinning for  Canada’s currency.

Metals

Metals meanwhile are trading mixed with gold, copper, silver and platinum trading back from their highs, but at the same time holding  well above the year’s plunge, suggesting that there are some signs of a stabilisation in sentiment. Palladium is the exception to this, since it has been trading in a negative territory since the end of March. Chinese data helped in the short term timeframe to partially dispel worries of a negative impact on metals demand via exports, although the detailed data are still unavailable. Nevertheless, the mining disruptions remain and should remain in the near future largely responsible for the tight market in metals since for the time being there is demand only from smelters.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

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Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 11th May 2020.

Events to Look Out for This Week.

Welcome to our weekly agenda, our briefing of all the key financial events globally. The week ahead is expected to be dominated by the reopening of states and the easing of lockdown restrictions globally. Safety remains a draw even as the panic that gripped markets in March subsided in April — the path out of lockdown remains subject to myriad risks and uncertainties, most prominently that a lockdown/restart has never been tried on this scale before. The degree of success will be a main driver of stocks, bonds and commodities in May. However for the week ahead more precisely, the key event will be the UK GDP numbers, which will show the damage to the UK economy from the virus, given lockdowns began very late in the quarter.

Tuesday – 12 May 2020

Consumer Price Index (CNY, GMT 01:30) – The April Chinese CPI is expected to have improved on a monthly and yearly basis.

Consumer Price Index and Core (USD, GMT 12:30) – The headline CPI has been estimated at a -0.6% drop in April with a 0.1% core price increase, following respective March readings of -0.4% and -0.1%. The headline will be restrained by an estimated -21% April drop for CPI gasoline prices. As-expected April figures would result in a headline y/y increase of 0.6%, down from 1.5% in March. Core prices should set a 2.0% y/y rise, a down-tick from 2.1% y/y last month.

Wednesday – 13 May 2020

Interest Rate Decision, Monetary Policy Statement and Press Conference (NZD, GMT 02:00) – On March 16, the Bank cut 75 bps to 0.25% and pledged that the rate will remain at that level for at least the next 12 months. In the next meeting, the RBNZ is expected to move to zero or even negative rates, after Governor Adrian Orr said last month that negative rates were not off the table, after New Zealand enforced a strict one-month lockdown to limit the spread of the coronavirus that brought economic activity to a standstill.

Gross Domestic Product (GBP, GMT 06:00) – The preliminary Q1 GDP is expected to have dipped to -2% q/q following the flat reading of Q4. In a yearly basis, we should see a plunge to -1.6% y/y from 1.1%y/y.

Industrial and Manufacturing Production (GBP, GMT 06:00) – The two indices are expected to have declined to -5.8% m/m and -5.6% respectively in March. Such dismal data will suggest that lock downs had a clear devastating impact on the UK economy similar to other economies.

Thursday – 14 May 2020

Labour Market Data (AUD, GMT 01:30) – As the world has changed since March as the pandemic prompted widespread shutdowns of economies across the globe, employment change for 2020 is expected to show a significant increase to the unemployment rates globally. For Australia, the April employment change is expected to have significantly decreased to -40K from 5.9K in March, while the unemployment rate is expected to have increased to 5.5% in April, compared to 5.2% in the previous month.

Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (EUR, GMT 06:00) – The final German HICP for April is anticipated to remain unchanged at 0.8% y/y.

Jobless Claims (USD, GMT 12:30) – The latest US reports revealed a disappointing round of claims data that prompted downward revisions in April and Q2 growth forecasts. For claims, a 3,169k figure in the first week of May exceeded estimates. But more importantly, continuing claims soared by 4,636k to a much higher than expected 22,647k.

Friday – 15 May 2020

Gross Domestic Product (EUR, GMT 06:00) – German preliminary Q1 GDP growth is seen to have dropped at -2.0%q/q and a deduction of 0.2% from 0.3% in a yearly basis. These estimates follow the first estimate for Eurozone Q1 GDP (April 30) which slumped -3.8% q/q in the first estimate, bringing the annual rate down to -3.3% y/y. A pretty bleak picture in Germany and in the Eurozone that is unlikely to change substantially in the coming months.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HotForex Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 13th May 2020.

FX Update – May 13 – Sterling Struggling.

GBPUSD & EURGBP, H4

The Pound has been unaffected by dismal UK data, with markets long since desensitized to bad economic figures, which, as the UK finance minister Sunak put it, “are not a surprise,” given the domestic and global lockdowns. UK preliminary Q1 GDP contracted 2.0% q/q while March industrial production contracted 4.2%. Sterling had been trading heavily into the data release, and has remained heavy since. Cable edged out a three-week low at 1.2251, with the UK currency concurrently printing a three-week low against the Euro. The uncertain tone in global equity markets has translated to weakness in the Pound, which has developed a quite strong positive correlation with stock market direction during the pandemic era so far. At prevailing levels Cable is in the lower reaches of the range that’s been prevailing since early April, which in turn marks a consolidation of the gains seen out of the 35-year low at 1.1409 that was seen in mid-March. The key 61.8 Fibonacci retracement level at 1.2450 marks the top of the consolidation whilst the 50.0 level at 1.2250 provides a floor.

Despite the high infection rate and death total in the UK, this week the country has initiated a baby step toward reopening its economy this week, with non-essential manufacturing reopening. However, the government continues to struggle to clarify and simplify its “stay alert” message as many workers try to return today.

The UK and EU are, meanwhile, amid the next round of trade talks. The British government has continued to insist that there will be no delay in the UK’s end-of-year departure from its Brexit transition membership of the EU’s customs union and single market. The UK has until July 1st to commit to this, so the pressure is on negotiators. Markets will continue to factor in the risk that the UK will leave the EU at the end of the year without a new trade deal, as many analysts see there is insufficient time to negotiate a new deal, even though the two sides are starting from perfect equivalence.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

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Stuart Cowell
Head Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 15th May 2020.

Mixed outlook for Metals – Base VS Precious.

The Commodity market is mixed, with precious metals finding a near-term lift following the announcement of a double QE program from RBNZ, the comments from Fed Chair Powell on Wednesday and the US Jobless claim release this week. Gold spiked today to its April 23 high at the $1,738 level on  safe haven demand, but interestingly according to RBC the poor jobs data yesterday has translated to a boost for Gold. According to RBC comments to Bloomberg, the jobless claims, from the human perspective,  translated to more stimulus in the near future and to continued lower interest rates , and things that are ‘very friendly for gold’.

The concerns for more stimulus measures to cushion the fall out of the coronavirus outbreak were also raised after the mixed Chinese data, with production rebounding while retail sales remain under pressure. Chinese production figures are normally considered a bellwether data release, both for the Asia-Pacific region and the globe, though the scope for an enduring recovery in activity looks to be limited, with many world economies remaining in a state of semi-lockdown. Hence the uneven recovery picture from China signalled a still bumpy road ahead, especially as new virus hotspots seem to be emerging.

Copper

Other than Gold, Copper prices advanced today on data showing a solid recovery in top consumer China and hopes of more stimulus measures in the global economy. Copper retested the week’s high at 2.3731 (above 50% retracement level on downleg from 2.4270). However from the technical and fundamental perspective , Copper in contrast with Gold faces a limited boost. The 50% retracement level could provide a reversal level for the asset, while from the fundamental perspective, the large copper inventory inflows into LME warehouses and reports of the restarting of mining operations in Peru are adding to the overall bearish sentiment for the asset. As ING stated, LME warehouses yesterday saw copper inflows of around 55.7kt. These large inflows made up for the withdrawals that the market had been seeing since mid-April, and pushed inventories to YTD highs of 282.7kt.

However, for all commodities and energy assets, demand hits and supply hits are what matters the most .Hence for as long as the economy doesn’t get back to pre-virus levels and as long as smelters and refiners do not resume full operations  in China, raw materials are expected to remain in tight supply.

Other precious metals including platinum and palladium are also suffering from weak industrial demand amid lockdowns around the world. Price movements for all three have been negative year to date. Palladium prices have fallen around 35% from the recent highs seen in February, given the pressure that the global auto industry is under at the moment – a key source of demand for palladium.

Therefore, beyond this near-term lift, we assume that the demand-hit from the coronavirus will remain bigger than the supply hit into mid-year, leaving a downward impact on net for global commodity prices. A firm Dollar provides an additional headwind.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HotForex Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 21st May 2020.

Market Update | 21 May.

Wall Street had closed higher yesterday, but risk appetite started to wane in quiet trade during the course of the Asian session. The US Senate passed a bill that could bar some Chinese companies from listing on US exchanges and fresh criticism from U.S. President Trump of China’s leadership added to concerns that we are heading for a new trade war. The minutes of the last Fed meeting also highlighted the risk to not just economic growth, but also financial stability.

More precisely, the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act requires that Chinese companies show that they are not controlled by a foreign government, reports MarketWatch. Moreover, the firms would have to produce an audit that conforms to the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board.

FOMC minutes had a few points of interest, but none that suggested any changes to the policy stance any time in the foreseeable futures. The minutes of course headlined the economic and human hardships, and worried about potential risks to financial stability. There was the usual run-down on what’s been done in terms of the rate cut and QE. There were a few interesting points of discussion, though the ideas mostly came from the minority on the Committee. The minutes reiterated that while the current stance was seen as “appropriate,” the Committee could “clarify” its forward guidance (which it didn’t really give because of the unprecedented uncertainties). Some participants though they could make guidance more explicit by either adopting an “outcome-based” approach that specified macro outcomes including a certain level of unemployment or and inflation rate. A “date-based” approach could also be used considered and would specify that the target range could be raised after a certain time had elapsed. Several also thought the Fed might also have to further clarify its asset purchase plans, as without which there could be increased uncertainty over time. An ongoing program of Treasury purchases could also be used to “keep long term rates low” — that boarders on yield curve control. And a few suggested the balance sheet could be used to to cap shorter and medium term yields. And of interest, the Open Market Desk surveys showed respondents “attached almost no probability to the FOMC implementing negative policy rates.” Some survey respondents indicated that they expected modifications to the Committee’s forward guidance, but not at the current meeting.

Against that background Wall Street had come off its best levels after FOMC and White house reports, though the major indexes are holding gains of better than 1%. Topix and Nikkei are down -0.07% and up 0.06% respectively, the Hang Seng is down -0.05% and the CSI 300 unchanged on the day, while the ASX is down -0.03%.

In FX markets , the Dollar has picked up safe haven demand as stock markets flagged in the Asia-Pacific region, and with S&P 500 futures correcting most of the gains seen during Wednesday’s regular session on Wall Street. The narrow trade-weighted USD index rebounded to a high at 99.43, up from the 17-day low seen yesterday at 99.01.

The biggest mover out of the main currencies has been AUDUSD, which dropped by nearly 0.5% in printing a low at 0.6549, correcting from yesterday’s 10-week high at 0.6618. Another ratchet higher in the U.S. attacks on China catalysed a risk-off mood in markets, with the White House publishing a 20-page dossier of complaint on China, accusing Beijing of predatory economic policies, military build-up, disinformation, human rights violations. A senior administration official was reported a saying that this does not signal a shift in US policy, and while some may downplay it as part of President Trump’s election strategy, it is clear that the US, and other Western nations, have been growing uneasy about China’s power on the world stage, and are feeling a need to reassert themselves.

Given the potential and realized impact on trade, this is fostering a re-emergence of nervousness in markets. In other news, RBA Governor Lowe warned that without a Covid-19 medical breakthrough the economic recovery will be slow. The New Zealand government said it will allow bars to reopen, and that it is considering a four-day work week. On the data front, preliminary PMIs reported from Australia and Japan showed predictably sharp contractions for manufacturing along with and a deeply contracted but slightly improved reading for services. Export data from South Korea and Japan were also weak. New Zealand credit card spending for April fell 41.3% m/m.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HotForex Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 01st June 2020.

Events to Look Out for This Week.

Geopolitics are back in the picture giving the markets pause and adding another layer of uncertainty to a shaky global outlook. However other than US-China tension, next week the global data dockets are heavy and results are likely to underscore the cratering in global economies this quarter. The calendar includes the US Jobs Report and Monetary policy meeting from RBA, BOC and ECB.

Monday – 01 June 2020

Caixin Manufacturing PMI (CNY, GMT 01:45) – The Caixin manufacturing PMI is expected to slightly improve to 49.6 from 49.4 in May.

ISM Manufacturing PMI (USD, GMT 14:00) – The ISM index is expected to slip to 40.0 in May from 41.5 in April, compared to a recession-low of 34.5 in December of 2008.

Tuesday – 02 June 2020

Interest Rate Decision & Statement (RBA, GMT 04:30)  – The RBA meet and are unlikely to move rates below historic lows at 0.25%, as RBA Gov. Lowe is his recent statement repeated that negative interest rates extraordinarily unlikely. RBA will maintain its expansionary monetary policies until progress is made towards full employment and we are confident on inflation .

Wednesday – 03 June 2020

Gross Domestic Product (AUD, GMT 01:30) – GDP is the economy’s most important figure. Q1’s GDP is expected to slow down at 0.3% q/q and 1.9% y/y.
Unemployment data (EUR, GMT 07:55-09:00) – The German unemployment rate in May is expected to have increased to 6.2% from 5.8%, while unemployment change is expected to have declined to 194K from April’s 373K. Meanwhile, Eurozone’s April unemployment rate should rise to 7.7% from 7.4% last month.

ADP Employment Change (USD, GMT 12:15) – Lasts month, ADP report revealed a -20,236k April drop that undershot the -19,520k private payroll decline by -716k. For May a -9,000k drop is seen, since nearly all measures of activity rose in May from a trough.
ISM Non-Manufacturing PMI (USD, GMT 14:00) – The ISM-NMI index is expected to rise to 46.0 from 41.8 in April. Most producer sentiment reports should show May rebounds after huge April declines due to mandatory closures, on top of the demand hit initially associated with the pandemic, and the oil price plunge with the OPEC price war, as re-openings are underway in most states. The April drop in the ISM survey was much smaller than the declines seen in other measures, however, and this is why we expect a further drop in May for that measure.

Interest Rate Decision and Monetary Policy Statement (CAD, GMT 14:00) – On April 15, the Bank held rates steady at 0.25%, matching widespread expectations. In the next policy statement, the BoC is expected to leave rates unchanged, the Bank of Canada Governor Poloz said is his last interview that negative rates are needed only in extreme conditions.

Thursday – 04 June 2020

Interest Rate Decision, Monetary Policy Statement and Press Conference (EUR, GMT 11:45 & 12:30) – Given that Lagarde buried any hope of a “mild” recession, the stage seems set for an extension of the PEPP program in size and duration at next week’s council meeting with an end date next year giving the economy more time to recover and EU aid programs to come into effect. Given that the ECB is no longer putting much hope in a quick recovery it is already clear that with the current time frame until the end of December that would risk a sharp widening of spreads in the second half of the year, when there is also the risk of a second wave of Covid-19 infections.

Jobless Claims (USD, GMT 12:30)– US initial jobless claims contracted last week by -323k to 2,123k in the week ended May 23 after tumbling -241k to 2,446k previously. Claims have been declining since surging to 6,867k in the March 27 week.

Friday – 05 June 2020

Event of the Week – Non-Farm Payrolls (USD, GMT 12:30) – A -2,200k May nonfarm payroll drop is anticipated, following a -20,527 April collapse, and a -701k drop in March. The jobless rate should rise to 17.5% from 14.7% from April, versus 4.4% in March. Nearly all measures of activity rose in May from a trough just after the April BLS survey week, but the initial and continuing claims data suggest a weaker labor market in mid-May than mid-April. Average hourly earnings are assumed to fall -1.0% with a partial unwind of the April distortion from layoffs being concentrated in low-wage categories. This would translate to a drop in the y/y gain to 6.6% from 7.9%.
Labour Market Data (CAD, GMT 12:30) – Canada employment plunged -1993.8k in April, nearly doubling the -1010.7k tumble in March to leave a massive and rapid reversal in the labour market as firms cut jobs as most of the economy ceased to function amid the stay at home orders the began around the middle of March. For May employment should revealed a 4,000k drop in jobs, doubling again last months number.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HotForex Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 08th June 2020.

Events to Look Out for This Week.

The focus will remain on the monetary and fiscal stimulus measures, as FED rate decision and meeting will be the highlight of the week, even though no major changes are expected, as negative rates are off the table for now. Chinese trade figures, the US and Chinese inflation, and GDP out of UK and Europe are over the course of next week’s agenda.

Monday – 08 June 2020

Industrial Production (EUR, GMT 08:00) – German Industrial Production is expected to decline further at 15.5% in April compared to the -9.2% decline seen in March.

Tuesday – 09 June 2020

Gross Domestic Product (EUR, GMT 09:00) – GDP is the economy’s most important figure. Q1’s GDP is expected to confirm a contraction to -3.8% q/q and -3.2% y/y.

Wednesday – 10 June 2020

Consumer Price Index (CNY, GMT 01:30) – Chinese inflation is expected to grow in May at 3.7% y/y, despite the -0.5% drop in the monthly basis.

Consumer Price Index (USD, 12:30) – The US May headline CPI is seen to drop with a flat core price rate, following respective April readings of -0.8% and -0.4%. The headline will be restrained by an estimated -2.2% May drop for CPI gasoline prices. As-expected May figures would result in a headline y/y increase of 0.3%, steady from 0.3% in April. Core prices should set a 1.3% y/y rise, a down-tick from 1.4% y/y last month.

Interest Rate Decision and Press Conference (USD, GMT 18:00-18:30) – In the last FOMC minutes of April 28-29 policy meeting, the committee made it clear that they are not considering implementing negative policy rates anytime soon. The minutes reiterated that while the current stance was seen as “appropriate,” the Committee could “clarify” its forward guidance (which it didn’t really give because of the unprecedented uncertainties). A “date-based” approach could also be considered that would specify a time period for current policy accommodation. As Chair Powell has indicated, the Fed is fighting to make sure that lasting damage isn’t done to the economy, so that liquidity problems don’t turn into solvency problems.

Thursday – 11 June 2020

Producer Price Index (USD, GMT 12:30) – The PPI, the headline inflation figures will be depressed by oil prices, while the core figures face divergent pressures that have thus far been downward on net, via diminished demand, though with risk of price boosts from supply disruptions for some components. The Fed will have plenty of elbow room for an easy money policy over the coming quarters.

Jobless Claims (USD, GMT 12:30)– US initial jobless claims fell -249k to 1,877k in the week ended May 30 after declining -320k to 2,126k (was 2,123k) in the prior week. This is the 9th straight week of declines.

Friday – 12 June 2020

EcoFin Meeting (EUR, Full Post) – European Finance Ministers are to convene on a variety of topics.

Michigan Sentiment (USD, GMT 15:00) – US consumer sentiment slipped to 72.3 in the final May print from the University of Michigan Survey, weaker than expected and down from 73.7 in the preliminary May report. However, it’s still a little better than the 8-year low of 71.8 from April. June’s preliminary release is expected to show an increase to 75.0.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HotForex Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date : 10th June 2020.

US Equity futures and “Fear-Index”.

The pop in the USA100 to the 10k mark for the first time ever was a focal point. However, it was an uneven close on Wall Street yesterday as tech continued to outperform and news that Apple Inc is preparing to announce a shift from its own main processors in Mac computers helped the USA100 future to move higher overnight. Advanced Micro and Nvidia were also posting strong gains.

That gain helped the USA30 and USA500 pare initial losses, though the decline in the broader index knocked it back into the red for the year. Nevertheless, the 3200 level for USA500 was sustained so far. The slide for USA30 and USA500 came as profit taking after the long rally appears to be in play — for now. Technical indicators are suggesting a pull-back is due on Wall Street following the surprising, record breaking rally from March lows.

The slight erosion in risk appetite supported a recovery in Treasuries and reversed the bearish curve steepener. The recent bear steepening trades were reversed too, with a bull flattener knocking the long bond yield down 6 bps to 1.590%. The 10-year Treasury’s reopening went very poorly by every metric. The curve flattened to 61 bps after widening to 72 bps intraday late last week.

In the stock market, close attention should be given to the correlation between VIX Index and the US Futures. As the Dow and S&P sustain their 2-month rally with the NASDAQ fractionally firmer after setting a fresh record high yesterday, the VIX Index (Volatility Index) or otherwise,  ‘fear index’ , has also turned higher. VIX represents the expected price fluctuations in the S&P 500 Index options over the next 30 days, and hence a  negative correlation has developed between the two indices. Dating back the beginning of the VIX in 1990, the correlation between daily changes in the S&P 500 and VIX was more than -70%, while in the past 10 years the correlation has strengthened further.

Hence the recent reverse of the VIX Index higher as S&P500 is in a rally , has spread doubts over whether the asset will continue advancing. The turn of Volatility higher as per the Reuters picture below, suggest a potential risk appetite erosion that could limit the S&P500 incline and could potential imply to a pullback.

Today, markets remain cautious ahead of the FOMC announcement, although with no change to the rate band expected that also may not provide the catalyst investors seem to need to push stretched valuations further out.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HotForex Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HotForex

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.