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British PMIs accelerate, retail sales nextIt has been a good week for the British pound, which has gained 1% against the dollar and climbed to levels not seen since Feb. 2022. The pound has rallied for three straight days but is almost unchanged on Thursday, trading at 1.3425 in the North American session. The UK economy has been struggling but don't blame consumers for not spending. Retail sales for April will be released on Friday and the markets are expecting a massive gain of 4.5% y/y. This follows a 2.6% gain in March which was a three-month high. Monthly, retail sales is expected to ease to 0.2% from 0.4%. UK PMIs showed improvement in May after downward revisions in April. Services PMI rose to 52.3, up from a revised 50.8 in March and above the market estimate of 50.8. The Manufacturing PMI also improved to 52.3, up from a revised 50.2 and above the market estimate of 49.9. This indicates slight growth in business activity and manufacturing. UK inflation for April was higher than expected, disappointing the Bank of England which wants to deliver additional rate cuts in order to boost the flagging economy. The BoE lowered rates in April by a quarter-point to 4.25% but a June cut is very unlikely after the hot inflation report. GBP/USD is testing resistance at 1.3429. Above, there is resistance at 1.3429 1.3410 and 1.3394 are the next support levels
by OANDA
British PMIs fall, Trump says won't fire PowellThe British pound dropped as much as 0.7% earlier today and is under pressure. In the North American session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.3265, down 0.45% on the day. The pound has taken advantage of broad US dollar weakness recently, rising 3% in the month of April. On Tuesday, the pound climbed as high as 1.3423, its highest level since September 2024. UK PMIs reports softened in April, another reminder that that the UK economy is struggling. The Services PMI fell to 48.9 from 52.5 in March, below the market estimate of 51.3. There are growing fears that the UK will fall into recession and global economic uncertainty has led to decreased business activity. The Manufacturing PMI eased to 44.0, matching the market estimate but lower than the March reading of 44.9. This was the lowest reading since August 2023 as the deteriorating global market outook has reduced demand for UK exports. The increase in employer tax contributions has hurt employment and lowered confidence. The International Monetary Fund has lowered its 2025 global growth forecast to 2.8, down from 3.3% in January. The downgrade was in response to US tariffs and the IMF warned that an escalation of trade tensions between the US and other countries would create further market volatility and lead to even lower growth. US stock markets are sharply higher on Wednesday after President Trump said that he had no intention to fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Trump had intensified his attacks on Powell in recent days, resulting in sharp slides in US equity markets and the US dollar. Trump also said that China tariffs would drop "substantially" and investors hope this signals a de-escalation in the nasty trade war between the US and China.
by OANDA
Australian GDP beats forecast, Aussie edges higherThe Australian dollar has extended its gains on Wednesday.  AUD/USD is trading at 0.6271 in the European session, up 0.20% on the day.  The Australian dollar jumped 0.75% on Tuesday, driven by the hawkish Reserve Bank of Australia minutes and a solid retail sales report. Australia's economy expanded by 1.3% y/y in the fourth quarter of 2024, up from 0.8% in Q3 and above the market estimate of 1.2% and the RBA's forecast of 1.1%.  This marked the fastest pace of growth since Q4 2023. Quarterly, GDP grew by 0.6%, following 0.3% in Q3 and higher than the market estimate of 0.5%. This was the fastest pace of growth since Q4 2022.  The strong gain was driven by strong increases in household spending and exports. The positive GDP report follows last week's rate cut, after the central bank held rates for over a year. The cash rate is currently at 4.10%, its lowest level since Oct. 2023. The RBA has remained hawkish, even with the rate cut. The minutes of the meeting stated that members remained concerned that further cuts could jeopardize maintaining inflation in the target range of 2%-3%. The markets are more dovish and expect the cash rate to fall to 3.6% by the end of the year, which would mean two more cuts of 25 basis points.  The central bank's rate path will largely depend on the inflation levels as well as the strength of the labor market, which has been surprisingly robust despite high interest rates and a weak economy. In China, this week's PMIs are pointing to slightly stronger growth. The Caixin Manufacturing PMI for February improved to 50.8, up from 50.1 in January and above the market estimate of 50.3. The Caixin Services PMI rose to 51.4, up from 51.0 in January and above the market estimate of 50.8. AUD/USD is testing resistance at 0.6228.  Above, there is resistance at 0.6251 0.6200 and 0.6177 are providing support
by OANDA
New Zealand dollar steady as retail sales sparkleThe New Zealand dollar is showing little movement on Monday.  NZD/USD is trading at 0.5745 in the European session, up 0.07% on the day. The week started on a high note in New Zealand, as retail sales jumped 0.9% q/q in the fourth quarter of 2024, after a revised flat reading in the third quarter and above the market estimate of 0.6%.  This was the strongest gain in three years.  Most sub-categories posted gains as the improvement was felt across the economy.  Annually, retail sales posted a small gain of 0.2% in the fourth quarter following a 2.2% decline in Q3.  This was the first gain since Q3 of 2022. The strong impressive rebound in retail sales is a sign that lower interest rates are filtering through the economy and boosting weak growth.  The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has been aggressive, chopping rates by 50 basis points in October, November and February.  The cash rate is down to 3.75%, its lowest level since Oct. 2022.  Consumers are showing improved confidence due to lower borrowing costs and are opening up the purse strings. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand plans to continue cutting rates but in a more gradual fashion. Governor Adrian Orr signaled at last week's meeting that he expects to cut rates by 25 basis points in both April and May, provided that economic conditions evolve as projected. In the US, the Services PMI for February surprised on the downside and contracted to 49.7, down from 52.9 in January and below the market estimate of 53.0.  This marked the lowest level since January 2023.  The services sector, which has been the major driver of the US economy, showed strong growth until the end of 2024 and has weakened for two straight months.  The Manufacturing PMI improved to 51.6, up from 51.2 and above the market estimate of 51.5. 0.5731 is a weak support level.  Below, there is support at 0.5688 0.5783 and 0.5826 are the next resistance lines
by OANDA
UK retail sales jump, British pound steadyThe British pound has steadied on Friday against the US Dollar after climbing 0.6% a day earlier.  GBP/USD is trading at 1.2655 in the European session, down 0.1% on the day. Retail sales in the UK sparkled in January, climbing 1.7% m/m.  The reading crushed the market estimate of 0.3% and bounced back from an upwardly revised -0.6% in December.  This was the fastest pace since May 2024 and was largely driven by a sharp increase in food store sales.  Annually, retail sales climbed 1%, down from 2.8% in December but above the market estimate of 0.6%. UK consumer confidence remains low, but there was a slight improvement in February. The GfK consumer confidence index rose to -20 from -22, above the market estimate of -22.  Consumers were less pessimistic about economic conditions, which may have resulted from the Bank of  England's rate cut last month.  Still, consumer confidence is mired in negative territory, as consumers are in a sour mood. The UK economy barely registered any growth in the second half of 2024 and the BoE cut in half its forecast for economic growth in 2025.  Meanwhile, inflation is moving the wrong way.  In January, CPI surprised to the upside and hit 3%, a ten-month high.  Low growth and high inflation has policymakers concerned about stagflation, which could cause significant damage to the economy. UK PMIs for February were a mixed bag. Manufacturing PMI ease to 46.4, down from 48.3 in January and shy of the market estimate of 48.4. It was the lowest level since Dec. 2023 as output and employment levels declined. The services sector is in better shape and the PMI rose to 51.1 from 50.8, indicating weak expansion. GBP/USD is testing support at 1.2637.  Below, there is support at 1.2602 1.2705 and 1.2740 are the next resistance lines
by OANDA
AUD/USD slides on Trump tariff threatsThe Australian dollar is in negative territory on Tuesday. In the North American session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.6252, down 0.62%.  Investors are keeping a closer eye on the third-quarter inflation report, which will be released early on Wednesday. CPI is expected to ease to 2.5% from 2.8%. This is the final tier-1 event prior to the Reserve Bank of Australia's rate meeting on Feb. 18 and could be the determining factor as to whether the RBA finally lowers interest rates. The markets have priced in about an 80% chance of a quarter-point cut at the February meeting. The RBA has maintained the cash rate at 4.35% since Nov. 2023 and has been an outlier among other major central banks, most of which have entered an easing cycle. The US dollar is showing broad strength today, after US President Trump said on Monday that he would impose tariffs on steel, aluminum and copper imported to the U.S. Trump reiterated that he plans to levy a baseline universal tariff on all imports. Trump's tariff plans would likely raise inflation and could destabilize the financial markets, which displayed strong swings during Trump's first week in office. China's services and manufacturing sectors both decelerated in January and missed expectations. The non-manufacturing PMI fell to 50.2, down from 52.2 in December and shy of the forecast of 51.8. With the exception of November, service activity has been stagnant, with readings barely above the 50 level, which separates expansion from contraction. Domestic demand weakened and the uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump's trade policies have dampened foreign sales. The manufacturing sector is struggling and contracted in January, easing to 49.1, compared to 50.1 in December and missing the market estimate of 50.1. This was the first contraction since September 2024 and the sharpest decline in five months. Manufacturing output and foreign orders weakened in January and the weak global economy could mean further headwinds in 2025 for the manufacturing sector. China's government has implemented stimulus measures in order to boost the economy and GDP hit 5% in 2024. Still, deflation has persisted and consumer spending remains weak. The government will have to inject further stimulus in order to boost domestic consumption, a key engine of economic growth. AUD/USD is testing support at 0.6278. Below, there is support at 0.6225 0.6366 and 0.6419 are the next resistance lines
by OANDA
AUD/USD slides on soft Chinese dataThe Australian dollar is in negative territory on Monday. In the North American session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.6276, down 0.59%. The Australian dollar is coming off its best weekly performance since Nov. 2023, gaining 2% against the US dollar. China's services and  manufacturing sectors both decelerated in January and missed expectations. The non-manufacturing PMI fell to 50.2, down from 52.2 in December and shy of the forecast of 51.8. With the exception of November, service activity has been stagnant, with readings barely above the 50 level, which separates expansion from contraction. Domestic demand weakened and the uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump's trade policies have dampened foreign sales. The manufacturing sector is struggling and contracted in January, easing to 49.1. compared to 50.1 in December and missing the market estimate of 50.1. This was the first contraction since September 2024 and the sharpest decline in five months. Manufacturing output and foreign orders weakened in January and the weak global economy could mean further headwinds in 2025 for the manufacturing sector. China's government has implemented stimulus measures in order to boost the economy and GDP hit 5% in 2024. Still, deflation has persisted and consumer spending remains weak. The government will have to inject further stimulus in order to boost domestic consumption, a key engine of economic growth. Australia releases the National Australia Bank business confidence index early on Tuesday. The index fell sharply to -3 in November, down sharply from 5 in October. The markets are expecting a rebound for December, with a forecast of 3 points. Investors are also keeping an eye on the third-quarter inflation report, which will be released on Wednesday. CPI is expected to ease to 2.5% from 2.8%. This is the final tier-1 event prior to the Reserve Bank of Australia's rate meeting on Feb. 18. AUD/USD is testing support at 0.6284. Below, there is support at 0.6256 0.6308 and 0.6336 are the next resistance line
by OANDA
Euro surges close to 1%, German CPI loomsThe euro has started the week with sharp gains. In the European session, EUR/USD is currently trading at 1.0403, up 0.91% on the day. Germany's economy may not be in great shape. but inflation has been moving higher and the trend is expected to continue when December CPI is released later today. Inflation rose from 2% to 2.2% in November, its highest level in four months, and is expected to hit 2.4% in December. Service inflation is at 4% and core CPI at 3%, which indicates the battle to contain inflation isn't over. Once the locomotive of Europe, Germany's economy  has faltered badly and has slowed the eurozone's recovery. Germany's once mighty auto industry has been hurt by weaker Chinese demand due to the slowdown in the the world's second-largest economy. As well, China has gained a larger share of the global automotive market, at the expense of German auto exports. Unsurprisingly, Germany's manufacturing sector is stuck in contraction territory. Germany's services sector moved back into expansion mode in December, as the Services PMI rose to a revised 51.3, up from 49.3 in November. The eurozone Services PMI improved to a revised 51.6, up from 49.5 in November. Spain continues to impress with its economic data, as the Services PMI climbed to 57.3, up from 53.1 in November. This marked a sixteenth straight month of expansion and was the highest level of growth since April 2023. The US releases Final Services PMI later today. The market estimate for December stands at 58.5, compared to 56.1 in November. This points to strong business activity, which has been the linchpin of the US economy. EUR/USD has pushed above resistance at 1.0331. Above, there is resistance at 1.0436 and 1.0564 There is support at 1.0203 and 1.0098
by OANDA
Pound steady after hot UK wage growth, CPI nextThe Canadian dollar continues to lose ground. In the North American session, USD/CAD is trading at 1.4315, up 0.48% at the time of writing. The Canadian dollar has declined 2.2% in December and is trading at its lowest level since mid-March. Canada's inflation eased to 1.9% in November, down from 2% in October and shy of the market expectations of 2%. However, the trimmed-mean core rate remained unchanged at  2.7%, higher than the market estimate of 2.5%. This is above the Bank of Canada's target of 2% and will complicate plans to continue to lower interest rates. The BoC has been the leader among major central banks in lowering rates, with five rate cuts since June for a total of 175 basis points. The central bank chopped the benchmark rate by 50 basis points to 3.25% last week but indicated in the rate statement that it expected a "more gradual approach to monetary policy", which means we can expect 25-bp increments in rate cuts if there are no surprises in inflation or employment data. US retail sales sparkled, another sign that the US economy remains robust. Retail sales jumped 3.8% y/y in November, following an upwardly revised 2.9% in October. This was the highest annual gain since last December. Monthly, retail sales rose 0.7%, above the upwardly revised 0.5% gain in October and the market estimate of 0.5%. US consumers have opened their wallets for the holiday season and motor vehicles and online sales helped drive the gain. The strong retail sales report didn't change expectations for a rate cut on Wednesday, which stand at 99%, according to the CME's FedWatch. US PMIs on Monday pointed to a mixed bag. The Services PMI rose in December to 58.5 from 56.1 in November and above the forecast of 55.7. This was the highest level in over three years as the services economy is showing impressive expansion. The manufacturing sector is in dreadful shape and weakened to 48.3, down from 49.7 in November and below the market estimate of 49.8. Output and new orders are down as the demand for exports remains weak. USD/CAD is testing resistance at 1.4289. Above, there is resistance at 1.4343 1.4191 and 1.4137 are the next support levels
by OANDA
Pound higher as Services PMI rises, job report nextThe British pound has moved higher on Monday, after declining 1% last week. In the  European session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2747, up 0.30% on the day. The UK Services PMI rose to 51.4 in December, up from 50.8 in November, which was a 13-month low. This beat the market estimate of 51.0, but points to weak business activity as demand for UK exports has been weak and confidence among services providers remains subdued. UK manufacturing is mired in a depression, and the PMI fell to 47.3 in December, down from 48.0 in November and shy of the market estimate of 48.2. This marked the lowest level in eleven months, as production and new orders showed an accelerated decrease. The weak PMI data followed Friday's GDP report, which showed a 0.1% decline for a second straight month in October. This missed the market estimate of 0.1%. GDP rose just 0.1% in the three months to October. The UK releases employment and wage growth numbers on Tuesday. The economy is projected to have lost 12 thousand jobs in the three months to October, after a sparking 200 thousand gain in the previous report. Wages including bonuses is expected to climb to 5% from 4.8%. The Bank of England meets on Thursday and is expected to hold the cash rate at 4.75% after cutting rates by 25 basis points in November. The economy could use another rate cut but inflation remains a risk to upside, with CPI climbing in October to 2.3% from 1.7%. The BoE will be keeping a close eye on wage growth, which has been a driver of inflation. The US releases PMIs later today. Manufacturing remained in contraction territory in November at an upwardly revised 49.7 and there is optimism that the new Trump administration's protectionist stance could benefit US manufacturers. The services sector is in good shape and improved in November to 56.1, up from 55.0 in October. The uncertainty ahead of the US election is over and lower interest rates have contributed to stronger expansion in services. GBP/USD is testing resistance at 1.2638. The next resistance line is 1.2668 1.2592 and 1.2562 are the next support levels
by OANDA
Euro rally ends, Eurozone GDP expected to accelerateThe euro is steady on Friday after jumping 0.7%  a day earlier. In the European session, EUR/USD is trading at 1.0581, down 0.06% at the time of writing. The eurozone wraps up the week with the GDP and job growth reports and the market is expecting an improvement.  Third-quarter GDP is expected to improve to 0.4% q/q from o.2% in the second quarter. Job growth if forecast to tick upwards to 0.2% q/q, up from 0.1% in Q2. In France, the political chaos continues. A no-confidence vote passed this week and has left the country without a functioning government. Prime Minister Michel Barnier resigned on Thursday after just three months in office. President Emmanuel Macron said he will name a new prime minister shortly but the political crisis could push up French interest rates and the country's large debt. Germany, once the powerful locomotive of the eurozone, has faltered badly and has hampered growth in the eurozone. This week's German manufacturing data was dismal. The Manufacturing PMI remains mired in contraction and was unchanged at 43.0 in November. Factory orders for October declined by 1.5% after a 7.2% gain a month earlier. On Friday, industrial production fell 1% in October, after a 2% decline in September and shy of the market estimate of 1.2%. The German Services PMI slipped into contraction in November and there is political instability, as the coalition German government collapsed in November. A snap election has been scheduled for Feb. 23, 2025. The US wraps up the week with the nonfarm payroll report. With inflation largely contained, the employment growth is once again a key release can move the US dollar. The November report is expected to rise to a respectable 200 thousand, after a weak gain of 12 thousand in October, which was driven downwards by hurricanes and work stoppages at Boeing. EUR/USD faces resistance at 1.0615 and 1.0644 1.0562 and 1.0533 are providing support
by OANDA
British retail sales decline, pound extends lossesThe British pound is lower for a straight third trading day on Friday. In the North American session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2543, down 0.36% on the day. UK retail sales disappointed in October, with a sharp decline of 0.7% m/m. This follows a downwardly revised 0.1% gain in September and missed than the market estimate of 0.3%. Annually, retail sales rose 2.4%, well below the market estimate of 3.2%. The September reading was revised downwards from 3.9% to 3.2%. The sharp drop in retail sales can be attributed to low consumer confidence and the recent Budget. The GfK consumer confidence index showed an improvement, rising from -21 to -18, but this points to a very pessimistic British consumer who is thinking twice before making discretionary purchases. The Reeves Budget on Oct. 31 dampened consumer spending, as the government had warned about “difficult decisions” and proceeded to deliver a Budget with some 40 billion pounds worth of tax increases. Understandably, consumers held back on spending in October and retail sales were down across most categories. The economy has slowed since the July election and services and manufacturing activity have decelerated for three straight months. The UK releases the Services and Manufacturing PMIs later today. The Services PMI is expected to remain unchanged at 52.0, while the Manufacturing PMI if projected to inch up to 50.0, up from 49.9. If the PMIs are weaker than expected, the pound could respond with losses. The US will also publish manufacturing and services PMIs on Friday, with little change expected. The Manufacturing PMI is expected to rise from 45.5 to 45.8, and the Services PMI, which has been showing solid growth, from 55 to 55.2. GBP/USD is testing support at 1.2557, followed by support at 1.2525 There is resistance at 1.2609 and 1.2641
by OANDA
British pound falls to 6-month low, retail sales nextThe British pound has lost ground on Thursday. In the North American session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2506, down 0.44% on the day. Earlier, the pound dropped as low as 1.2593, its lowest level since mid-May. It’s a busy Friday in the UK, highlighted by the retail sales report. We’ll also get a look at consumer confidence and the services and manufacturing PMIs. The UK releases October retail sales on Friday and the markets are bracing for a downswing. The market estimate stands at 3.4% y/y, compared to 3.9% in September, the highest since Feb. 2022. Monthly, retail sales are expected to decline by 0.3%, following a 0.3% gain in September. The UK consumer remains in a sour mood, as the cost of living and high interest rates continue to squeeze households. The GfK consumer confidence index is expected to remain unchanged in November at -21. The UK manufacturing sector has been struggling. The October PMI was revised downwards to 49.9, which indicates stagnation. The PMI has decelerated for three straight months and the weak global demand will likely continue to weigh on manufacturing in the months ahead. The market estimate for November stands at 50.0. The services sector is in better shape and has shown 12 consecutive months of growth. The PMI has also eased for three straight months, raising concerns about the health of the economy. The market estimate for November is 52.0, unchanged from the October figure. The US will also publish manufacturing and services PMIs on Friday, with little change expected. The Manufacturing PMI is expected to rise from 45.5 to 45.8, and the Services PMI, which has been showing solid growth, from 55 to 55.2. There is resistance at 1.2666 and 1.2702 GBP/USD pushed below support at 1.2618 and tested support at 1.2582 earlier
by OANDA
Euro jumps to 10-day highThe euro has posted strong gains on Monday. EUR/USD is trading at 1.1126 in the North American session at the time of writing, up 0.49% today. The euro is at its highest level since Sept. 6. It’s a quiet day on the data calendar, with no tier-1 events. In the US, the Empire State Manufacturing index rebounded to 11.5 in September, much higher than the August reading of -4.7 and the market estimate of -3.9. This was a shocker as the manufacturer index had contracted nine straight times before today’s reading. Tuesday will be busier, with German ZEW economic sentiment index and US retail sales. German ZEW economic sentiment plunged to 19.2 in August, down from 41.8 in July. The market estimate for September stands at 17.1. US retail sales are expected to fall to 2.2% y/y in August, down from 2.7% in July. This week’s key event is the Federal Reserve meeting on Wednesday, with a 25 basis-point cut practically guaranteed. Will the Fed opt for an oversize 50-bps cut or play it safe with a 25-bps move? The rate cut odds continue to swing wildly. After last week’s producer price index reading, the odds of a 50-bps point cut soared to 41%, up from just 13% before the release, according to the CME’s FedWatch tool. That has increased to 59% today. The uncertainty over what the Fed will do could last right up to the wire. The Fed is in a quandary as it needs to balance the risk of inflation moving higher against the recent weakness in the labor market. A modest 25-bps cut may not be sufficient to improve the employment picture, while a 50 bps cut might send a message that the Fed believes the economy is in deep trouble. EUR/USD is testing resistance at 1.118. Above, there is resistance at 1.1160 There is support at 1.1060 and 1.1018
by OANDA
ISM Manufacturing & ISM Services PMI Combined show trigger levelISM Manufacturing and ISM Services PMI Combined 🪢 This week the ISM PMI's were released as follows: 🚨ISM Manufacturing PMI = 47.2 (contractionary) ✅ISM Services PMI = 51.5 (expansionary) With both metrics offering mixed signals, I decided to make a chart that combines the ISM Manufacturing and ISM Services PMI into one dataset on the chart. Interestingly it provided a clean chart with many patterns to observe, and useful forward looking trigger levels to keep an eye on. Don't forget you can update on this chart data anytime on my TradingView page with one click. At present you can see that the data is compressed into a something resembling a "Darvas Box". I understand this not price but data, however this economic data is clearly in a compressed channel and appears uncertain in terms of a definitive direction. It has also never been in a pattern like this for this long in the past, which could mean a break out up or down is closer than it is further away. Prior patterns have demonstrated that break throughs of both diagonal and horizontal support lines has resulted in significant downward movements. This is evident on the chart and this is something we can watch out for should we break below the box. Consistent with past recession's the Combined PMI dropped below the 50 level (🔴red circles) way back in Dec 2022. Since then we have oscillated around the 50 level in the compressed box in indecisive fashion. Never has the data behaved specifically this way in the past, specifically for this long. There are no other compressed boxes of data lasting this long. At some stage the ISM Data will push the its way out of this box I have drawn and it could be a good indicator to observe for early signals of the direction of the economy in the U.S. as a whole (both services and manufacturing combined) As always, this chart in on my TradingView page, and you can click on it at any stage to get an updated reading on the chart so you can quickly get a visual update on the direction of the U.S. Economy via combined ISM PMI's. Enjoy PUKA
ECONOMICS:USBCOI
by PukaCharts
1
GBP/USD hits 1-month high, UK PMIs nextThe British pound is showing limited movement on Wednesday, after a four-day rally in which it surged 1.7% against the retreating US dollar. GBP/USD is trading at 1.3047 in the North American session at the time of writing, up 0.1% on the day. The annual meeting at Jackson Hole has added significance this year as the Federal Reserve is expected to deliver a milestone rate cut in September. Fed Chair Powell will address the gathering on Friday and investors will be looking for clues about the anticipated September move. The Fed last cut rates in March 2020, early in the Covid pandemic. The Fed has maintained its benchmark rate at 5.25% -5.5% for over a year and all signals point to an initial rate cut at the September 18 meeting. The most likely scenario is a quarter-point cut but earlier this month the financial markets were routed and expectations for a large half-point cut soared. Now that the markets have recovered, a quarter-point cut is once again the most likely scenario. With inflation under control, the Fed is keeping a close eye on the US labor market, which may be cooling too fast for the Fed. The July employment report showed a sharp drop in nonfarm payrolls and a rise in unemployment and the financial markets went into panic mode. Powell is sure to touch upon employment and inflation in his speech on Friday and his take on the economic outlook could move the US dollar. The UK will release the July PMI report on Thursday. The manufacturing and services sectors are both showing growth, as the UK economic picture has improved. The services PMI is expected to inch upwards to 52.9, up from 52.8 in June. Manufacturing has been accelerated for three straight months but the PMI is projected to remain at 52.1. We’ll hear from Bank of England Governor Bailey on Friday at the Jackson Hole symposium. GBP/USD tested support at 1.3020 earlier. Below, there is support at 1.2989 1.3067 and 1.3098 are the next resistance lines.
NYSE:BOE
by OANDA
USD/JPY dips after US services data stumblesThe Japanese yen has rebounded on Thursday and is trading at 161.01, down 0.43% on the day. The yen has been on a slide over the past four weeks and has declined by 3.9% during that time. On Wednesday, the yen fell as low as 161.95, its lowest level since 1986. US markets are closed today for the Fourth of July holiday. The US ISM Services PMI disappointed on Wednesday, dropping to 48.8 in June. This was well below the May reading of 53.8 and the market estimate of 52.6 and marked the weakest reading since May 2020. The 50.0 level separates contraction from expansion. The Federal Reserve won’t mind the weak services data as its looks for signs of a slowdown before it lowers interest rates. The employment component of the Services PMI eased to 46.1 from 47.1 and the US market will be in the spotlight on Friday with the release of nonfarm payrolls for June. The markets are bracing for a gain of 190 thousand, compared to the surprisingly strong gain of 272 thousand in May. If nonfarm payrolls fall below the 200 thousand level, it will lend strong support for a rate cut in September, which currently has a 66% probability, according to the CME’s FedWatch. Japan’s Household Spending reeled off 13 straight declines before ending the streak with a gain of 0.5% m/m for April. The May report will be released early Friday and a weak gain of 0.1% is expected. Japanese consumers have been squeezed by high prices and weak consumer consumption is hampering sustained economic growth, which the Bank of Japan wants to see before it tightens monetary policy. USD/JPY Technical USD/JPY has pushed below the support at 1.6148 and is testing support at 161.00 There is resistance at 162.18 and 162.66
by OANDA
1
GBP/USD steady despite plunge in retail salesThe British pound continues to have a quiet week in which it has stayed close to the 1.27 line. GBP/USD is trading at 1.2715, up 0.13% at the time of writing in the European session. UK retail spending slumped in April with a 2.3% m/m decline. This followed a revised 0.2% decline in March and was much weaker than the market estimate of -0.4%. It was the largest decrease in four months, driven by a sharp fall gasoline and non-food items. Most sectors reported a drop in sales volume as unusually rainy weather put a damper consumer spending. On an annualized basis, retail sales fell 2.7%, after a revised 0.4% gain in March and missing the market estimate of -0.2%. Is the UK economy fading? The economy performed well in the first quarter, with Q1 GDP rising 0.6% q/q, its strongest quarter in over two years. The weak retail sales could be indicative of a weaker second quarter, which would support the BoE lowering the current cash rate of 5.25% which is throttling economic activity. With inflation falling to 2.3% in April, the 2% target is within striking distance and speculation has risen that the BoE will start to lower rates as early as August. In the US, the services and manufacturing sectors showed improvement in May. Services PMI jumped to 54.8 in May, up from 51.3 in April and above the market estimate of 51.3. This was the highest level in a year and pointed to improving business activity despite high interest rates. Manufacturing remains weak but the PMI rose from 50.0 to 50.9, which shows very modest growth. The 50 level separates contraction from expansion. GBP/USD is testing resistance at 1.2710. Above, there is resistance at 1.2736 1.2674 and 1.2648 are the next support levels
by OANDA
USD/JPY steady as Japanese PMIs mixedThe Japanese yen is slightly lower on Thursday. USD/JPY is trading at 156.70, down 0.08% on the day at the time of writing. Japan’s PMIs for April were a mixed bag and the yen didn’t show much reaction. Services PMI dipped to 53.6, down from 54.3 in March and just shy of the forecast of 53.8. This was the smallest growth in services since February. Manufacturing PMI showed improvement and rose to 50.5, up from 49.6 in March and above the market estimate of 49.7. This was the first growth since May 2023 as manufacturing has been in a prolonged slump. The 50 level separates contraction from growth. The Japanese economy is showing signs of improving after first-quarter GDP declined. Inflation has been easing, which could hamper the ability of the Bank of Japan to increase rates without reigniting deflation. With inflation falling around the globe, major central banks have been under pressure to lower interest rates. The central banks remain cautious, however, and the Fed minutes indicated that there was a discussion to raise rates at the May 1st meeting. Other central banks are also unclear about their rate path – the Reserve Banks of Australia and New Zealand held rates at their most recent meetings but also considered hiking rates. The FOMC minutes noted that policy makers are not confident about lowering rates at this stage and want to see more evidence that inflation will continue to drop and remain sustainable around the 2% target. This message is consistent with what we have been hearing from a host of Fed members, although the markets have priced in a September rate cut. USD/JPY tested support at 156.02 earlier. Below, there is support at 156.33 157.07 and 157.32 are the next resistance lines
by OANDA
China Caixin PMI SummaryChina Caixin PMI Summary Surveys completed by 650 SME's in China have indicated that China's smaller manufacturing and service providers remain in expansionary mode in April 2024 with all three data releases coming in as expected or higher than expected with readings >50 = Expansionary. Manufacturing - 51.4 Increased from 51.1 in Mar 2024 to 51.4 in Apr 2024 ✅Above expectations of 51 Services - 52.5 Decreased from 52.7 in Mar 2024 to 52.5 in Apr 2024 ✅In line with expectations of 52.5 Composite - 52.8 Increased from 52.7 in Mar 2024 to 52.8 in Apr 2024 ✅Above expectations of 52.5
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by PukaCharts
Macro Monday 45~The China Caixin PMI (Manu, Serv & Composite)Macro Monday 45 The China Caixin PMI (Services and Composite released Today Monday) Last week week we looked at the China Caixin Manufacturing PMI which will revise today with its updated readings that were released last Tuesday. We will also look at the China Caixin Services PMI and the Caixin Composite PMI (a combination of the Services and Manufacturing PMI's) as these will both be released later today. 1.Manufacturing PMI – Already released 2. Services PMI – Released Today 6th May 2024 3. Composite PMI Released Today 6th May 2024 (both 1 + 2 combined) What is the Caixin PMI? ▫️ The is an S&P Global report released monthly. ▫️ The Caixin PMI focuses on small & medium sized enterprises (SME’s) in China. ▫️ Surveys a small sample size of 650 private and state owned manufacturers and service providers. Why Focus on China PMI's? China, the 2nd largest economy in the world at approx. $18 trillion is often referred to as the world’s manufacturing superpower. In 2019, the Chinese manufacturing sector contributed nearly $4 trillion towards the country’s total economic output. Manufacturing accounted for almost 30% of China’s GDP during 2019 demonstrating the importance of manufacturing and the surveys completed by the manufacturers through the Purchaser Managers Index (PMI) surveys. Incredibly, in 2023 China’s manufacturing continued to increase and contributed 31.7% to China GDP, furthermore China’s exports reached record highs of $3.36 trillion. For a country that gets a lot of bad economic press, the economic data from manufacturing and exports suggests China is adaptable and is currently in expansionary territory. This will be further evident from the PMI charts we are about to review also. Like most PMI’s the data will generally be derived from the following sub indicies; New Orders, Output, Employment, Supplier Deliveries and Inventories. Reading both PMI’s: >50 indicates expansion in the manufacturing sector compared to the previous month. < 50 represents contraction A reading of 50 indicates no change. The Charts China Caixin Manufacturing PMI - APR 2024 ✅51.4 = Expansionary (>50 is expansionary) ▫️ Increased from 50.9 in Feb 2024 to 51.1 in Mar 2024 ▫️ Increased from 51.1 in Mar 2024 to 51.4 in Apr 2024 – Figures for April were released on the 30th April 2024 (last week). ✅The Caixin Manufacturing PMI has remained expansionary for 6 consecutive (Nov 2023 – Apr 2024). It has been on a long term recovery since the Feb 2020 lows of 40.3, since then making a series of higher lows and recently sustaining 6 months of expansionary readings. China Caixin Services PMI - Mar 2024 ✅52.7 = Expansionary (>50 is expansionary) ⏳ April Figures released today (pending) ▫️ Increased from 50.2 in Sept 2023 to 52.7 in Mar 2024 ▫️ Increase/decrease from 52.7 in Mar 2024 to ??? in Apr 2024 – Figures for April are released on today Monday 6th April 2024. ✅The Caixin Services PMI has remained expansionary for 15 consecutive months (Jan 2023 – Mar 2024). It has been on a long term recovery since the Feb 2020 lows of 26.5 when services took a huge hit during COVID-19 lockdowns, since then making a series of higher lows and recently sustaining 15 months of expansionary readings. China Caixin COMPOSITE PMI - Mar 2024 ✅52.7 = Expansionary (>50 is expansionary) ⏳ April Figures released today (pending) THIS IS THE SUBJECT CHART AT OUTSET ▫️ Increased from 50 in Oct 2023 to 52.7 in Mar 2024 ▫️ Increase/decrease from 52.7 in Mar 2024 to ??? in Apr 2024 – Figures for April are released on today Monday 6th April 2024. ✅The Caixin Composite PMI has remained expansionary for 5 consecutive months (Nov 2023 – Mar 2024). It has been on a long term recovery since the Feb 2020 similar to Manufacturing and Services PMI charts above. Looking at the composite chart, one can see that we moving sideways since Dec 2023 (Dec 52.6, Jan 52.5, Feb 52.5 & Mar 52.7). We are comfortably in the expansionary green zone on the composite. In Summary (subject to tomorrow’s readings for the Services and Composite PMI but we assume expansionary) China Caixin Manufacturing PM I ↗️ Expansionary The Caixin Manufacturing PMI for April 2024 rose to 51.4, marking the sixth straight month of expansion and the fastest growth since February 2023 China Caixin Services PMI ↗️ Expansionary As of March 2024, the Caixin Services PMI increased slightly to 52.7, indicating growth in the services sector for the 15th consecutive month (April 2024 Figures Release Today) China Caixin COMPOSITE PMI ↗️ Expansionary The Composite PMI reached 52.7 in March 2023, the highest since May 2023, showing the fifth consecutive month of growth in overall private sector activity. (April 2024 Figures Release Today) All the above readings suggest a continued expansion across China’s services and manufacturing sectors, reflecting improvements in demand and business activity across the SME cohort. All these charts are available on my Tradingview Page and you can go to them at any stage over the next 5 - 10 years press play and you'll get the chart updated with the easy visual guide I provided. I hope its helpful Lets get after it again this week 💪🏻 PUKA
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by PukaCharts
Pound edges higher as UK Services PMI beats estimateThe British is in positive territory on Friday. GBP/USD is trading at 1.2555, up 0.16% at the time of writing. The service sector accelerated in April, as the Services PMI rose to 55.0, up from 53.1 in April. This was the strongest level since May 2023 and services has shown growth for six straight months, with readings above the 50 level. The PMI survey noted that business and consumer spending were higher in April and reflective of an improving UK economy. The positive report has given the British pound a slight boost on Friday. The US labour market has remained surprisingly strong and has weathered the Federal Reserve’s steep rate hikes. The March nonfarm payrolls report sizzled at 303,000, well above expectations. The April data is unlikely to be as strong, but the market forecast of 243,000 would indicate that the labour market remains tight. The markets will be keeping a close eye on wage growth, which contributes to inflation. Wages rose 0.3% m/m in April and are expected to remain unchanged in the April release. The unemployment rate is also expected to remain unchanged at 3.8%. The Federal Reserve reiterated at this week’s meeting that inflation remained too high to lower rates. Still, the markets were relieved that Fed Chair Powell appeared to rule out the next rate move being a rate hike and that sent the US dollar lower against the major currencies. Just one month ago, the markets had fully priced in a rate cut in September but the probability has fallen to 61%, with a 73% probability of a cut in November. GBP/USD tested resistance at 1.2563 earlier. Above, there is resistance at 1.2590 1.2517 and 1.2490 and providing support
by OANDA
AUD/USD stabilizes after taking a tumble, Fed nextThe Australian dollar has steadied on Wednesday after sliding 1.4% a day earlier. AUD/USD is up 0.19%, trading at 0.6489 at the time of writing in the North American session. Australian dollar slides after soft retail sales Retail sales in Australia fell 0.4% m/m in March, following a downwardly revised 0.2% gain in February and shy of the market estimate of 0.2%. The decrease in sales was felt across all industries, as consumers held tight to the purse strings. On an annualized basis, retail sales grew by just 0.8% in March, the lowest level since August 2021. The Australian dollar responded with sharp losses to the disappointing retail sales release. China posted soft PMIs which also weighed on the Aussie. The manufacturing PMI eased to 50.4 in April, down from 50.8 and just above the market estimate of 50.3. The services PMI fell to 51.2, compared to 53.0 in March and below the market estimate of 52.2. The data indicates that manufacturing and services are showing little growth, another sign of the slowdown in China, which is Australia’s largest export market. Weaker economic activity in China means less demand for Australian exports, which is weighing on the Australian dollar. Will Powell make a hawkish pivot? The Federal Reserve meets later today, with little doubt that it will maintain interest rates for a sixth straight time. The target range for the benchmark rate of 5.25% to 5.5% hasn’t changed since July and the Fed has shown that it is willing to prolong its “higher for longer” stance as long as is needed. Fed Chair Powell is expected to have a hawkish message for the market, which would likely provide the US dollar with a boost. AUD/USD Technical AUD/USD is putting pressure on resistance at 0.6504. Above, there is resistance at 0.6537 0.6439 and 0.6406 are the next support levels
by OANDA