Forex market today

[Polakandil]

EUR/USD hovers near MA 50 as the Fed keeps interest rates unchanged

Yesterday the EURUSD pair drew a bearish candlestick with a slightly long wick at the bottom of the candle. Price formed a high of 1.04437, a low of 1.03823, a close of 1.04208.

The Fed kept interest rates unchanged at 4.50% as widely anticipated. The dollar index (DXY) experienced a slightly moderate increase from a low of 107.749 to a high of 108.295 but closed at 107.945.

Speculation about Trump Tariffs is still in the spotlight in financial markets, Although the delay in enacting Eurozone tariffs provides some short-term relief for the Euro, ongoing uncertainty continues to cloud the currency's outlook.

The Fed appears to be starting to have doubts about the progress of the inflation target towards 2%, instead officials described high inflation pressures as signaling caution to see more evidence of cooling inflation.

On the other hand, the ECB is expected to cut interest rates further at today's meeting while remaining cautious to avoid exceeding the 2% inflation target or worsening the economic slowdown in the Eurozone. Germany's economic problems and broader political uncertainty remain significant headwinds.

Trump's protectionist policies are expected to shift the balance and cast a shadow over the Euro's outlook, if such tariffs push US inflation higher could potentially hawk the Fed's stance on interest rates.

Today investors will focus on the release of economic data in the Euro area Main Refinancing Rate which is expected to fall from 3.15% to 2.90%. Meanwhile, the US will release GDP and Unemployment Claims data.

 

[Polakandil]

USD/CAD extends gains on Trump tariffs spotlight.

Yesterday the USDCAD pair drew a bullish candle with a long shadow on the top candle indicating a strong up accompanied by strong selling pressure. Price formed a high of 1.45947, a low of 1.43925, and a close of 1.44756 on FXOpen. Rising prices have made the Bollinger bands expand, indicating increased high volatility.

President Trump has reiterated his intention to impose 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico. He said the announcement would be made for various reasons, including the fentanyl issue, which caused shares of US automakers to decline. He also stated that the first tariffs for Canada and Mexico would take effect this Saturday. He hinted at a possible decision on oil and touched on the country's wood supply.

Trump's tariffs are considered to have a significant impact on trade between the US, Canada and Mexico.

US GDP yesterday was lower than previously in the fourth quarter, actual data showed 2.3% lower than expectations of 2.90% from the previous revision of 3.1%. Meanwhile, US Unemployment Claims fell 207k lower than expectations of 224k and the previous revision of 223k.

Today Canada will release GDP which is predicted to fall -0.1% from the previous 0.3%. Investors will also focus on US Core PCE Price Index data, which is the Fed's most preferred inflation indicator. It is estimated that PCE will rise 0.2% from the previous 0.1%. The US will also release Employment Cost Index data which is expected to rise 0.9% from the previous 0.8%.

 

[Polakandil]

Trump's tariffs overshadow the market, USD strengthens CNH weakens

The USDCNH pair at weekend trading drew a bullish candle with a long body and shadows on the top and bottom of the candle. Price formed a high of 7.3304 and a low of 7.2750 closing at 7.3204 on the FXOpen platform. The bullish candle extended previous gains after the pair hit a low of 7.2342 on January 24.

It seems that Trump's tariffs are still in the spotlight in financial markets. President Donald Trump's protectionist policies have worried international trade. Canada and Mexico are subject to a 25% tariff, which has caused the CAD and MXN currencies to weaken against the USD. On the other hand, China is subject to tariffs of 10%, although this is much lower than when the Trump campaign threatened to impose tariffs of up to 60%. However, Trump's policies have weakened CNH. Trump's tariffs are expected to take effect on Tuesday, February 4, although economists generally oppose the policy on the grounds that the tariffs could result in higher prices for domestic consumers.

The Fed at its final meeting in January finally kept interest rates unchanged as expected, the Fed maintained interest rates at 4.50%. Meanwhile, China's interest rate is currently 3.10% from the previous 3.35% and has experienced a downward trend in 2024. The dollar index (DXY) has risen since January 27 from a low level of 106.969 to now at 108.921. The dollar index is used to track the US dollar against six major currencies. According to the CME group's Fedwatch tool, the Fed is expected to have unchanged interest rates at its March meeting with a probability of up to 82.5%.

Today's Chinese Bank Holiday in observance of the Spring Festival may slightly influence Asian markets. On the other hand, investors will focus on US economic data which will be released today, the US PMI is predicted not to change much compared to the previous revision.

 

[Polakandil]

The safe-haven asset gold surged amid concerns about Trump's tariffs

Gold fell as low as $2772 due to the strengthening of the USD after Trump imposed import tariffs on Canada and Mexico by 25% and China by 10%. Yesterday the price formed a bullish candle with a long body and shadows on the top and bottom of the candle. Gold price formed a high of $2830 and a low of $2772 closing at $2814.

Trump announced 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada as well as 10% duties on Chinese imports on Saturday while anticipating that he would also target the European Union (EU) and Britain, fueling concerns about a trade war that would disrupt global supply chains. Affected country authorities responded with varying details.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reluctantly announced that Ottawa would retaliate with 25 percent tariffs on $155 billion worth of US imports. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Saturday ordered retaliatory tariffs in response to tariffs on all goods originating from Mexico. The Chinese government has criticized the tariffs and Trump's demand that Beijing stop the flow of fentanyl, a deadly opioid, to the US, while leaving the door open for talks with the US that could avoid a deeper conflict.

Yesterday the US released PMI economic data showing actual data which was higher than forecast and had a good impact on the USD, today traders will pay attention to Job data which is predicted to be lower than the previous revision.

 

[Polakandil]

NZD/USD fluctuates amid US China trade war concerns

Yesterday the NZDUSD currency pair drew a bullish candle with a rather long wick at the bottom of the candle. NZDUSD price movements fluctuate between the upper and lower band lines with moderate volatility. Price formed a high 0.56547 low 0.55817 closing 0.56489 on FXOpen platform crosses middle band from downside.

During the European session on Tuesday trading the NZDUSD pair faced volatility as risk-off sentiment increased by US-China trade tensions. China countered new US tariffs of 10% that went into effect on Tuesday by imposing its own tariffs: a 15% tax on US imports of coal and liquefied natural gas (LNG), along with an additional 10% on crude oil, agricultural equipment and some car.

China's Ministry of Commerce will also control exports of tungsten, tellurium, ruthenium, molybdenum and related products under the pretext of protecting national security interests.

On the other hand, Chinese exporters are trying to avoid US tariffs by moving production by considering relocating to the Middle East and other regions.

Yesterday's US JOLTS Job data was released with figures much lower than expected, weighing on the US dollar somewhat. Actual data shows 7.60M smaller than expected 8.01M from the previous revision of 8.16M.

Meanwhile, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) is expected to reduce interest rates by 50 bp to 3.75% this month and a potential reduction in the benchmark interest rate of 3.0% within a year.

Canada's Employment Change in this quarter showed data of -0.1% from the expected -0.2% and previous revision of -0.6%. Meanwhile, the Unemployment Rate was 5.1% as estimated at 5.1% from the previous revision of 4.8%.

The market is expected to continue fluctuating due to Trump's policies, which have a widespread impact on global markets.

 

[Polakandil]

GBP/USD extends gains amid mixed US data

The GBPUSD currency pair yesterday drew a bullish candle with a rather long shadow at the top candle extending the previous two days' rise. Price formed a high of 1.25499, a low of 1.24633, closing at 1.25051, crossing the MA 50 from the lower side.

US economic data released Wednesday showed mixed data. ADP Non-Farm Employment Change showed actual data of 183k against expected 148k and previous revision of 176k. On the other hand, the ISM Services PMI showed actual data of 52.9 from the expected 54.2 and the previous revision of 54.1.

On Monday, the GBPUSD pair experienced a wide gap down like other USD pairs. However, the price then jumped consecutively in three days by drawing bullish candles. Volatility in financial markets was triggered by Trump's tariff policy which affected global markets. But concerns have eased somewhat as Canada and Mexico reached an agreement with Washington. Investors now trust Trump's tariff policy as a tool for negotiations with allies and enemies.

Today's bank holiday in New Zealand may slightly reduce the volume of financial market transactions. New Zealand banks will be closed in observance of Waitangi Day.

The main focus of the GBPUSD pair today is the Bank of England (BoE) monetary policy report and the Official Bank Rate which is expected to fall from the previous 4.75% to 4.50%.

The dollar index (DXY) experienced consecutive losses for three days by drawing a bearish candle from the original high of 109,881 plunge to 107,296 for three days. Today we are waiting for the release of US Unemployment Claims which is predicted to increase by 214k from the previous revision of 207k. Next, investors will also wait for NFP data on Friday of the first week of February, which is also expected to fall from 256k to 169k.

 

[Polakandil]

GBP/JPY plummeted amid UK interest rate cuts

Yesterday GBPJPY price drew a bearish long body candle with almost no shadow, the price extending Wednesday's decline. Price formed a high of 190,814, a low of 166,064, closing at 188,366. GBPJPY also gapped on Monday and had closed on the same day then plunged further.

Yesterday the Bank of England announced a reduction in interest rates from the previous 4.75% to 4.50%, meaning interest rates fell by 25 basis points. In the release of its Monetary Policy Report, the BoE reported that inflation has been approaching its 2% target since the middle of last year, from a peak of above 11% in 2022. However, inflation is on a bumpy path. Inflation is expected to increase this year by 3.7% due to higher energy prices. Inflation is expected to fall back to the 2% target after that.

The Monetary Policy Committee will decide carefully how much and when it can lower interest rates and ensure that inflation remains low and stable in the long term.

On the other hand, Japan has raised interest rates now to 0.50% on January 24 2025 from the previous 0.25%. This may be the reason for the recent strengthening of the JPY currency against other major currencies. The Japanese central bank still seems likely to raise interest rates to 1% as Bank of Japan Governor Naoiki Tamura talked about the central bank's plans to raise interest rates. The yen's strengthening occurred especially after Tamura, who is a member of the BOJ's interest rate-setting council, said that the central bank would likely raise its benchmark interest rate to 1% from 0.5% in the second half of 2025.

Today besides BOE Gov Bailey Speaks, traders will also concerns on US Non-Farm Employment Change (NFP) which is expected to down by 169k from the previous revision of 256k. Meanwhile, the US Unemployment Rate is expected the same as the previous revision of 4.1%.

 

[Polakandil]

Will gold extend the rally?

Gold prices on Friday last week again formed a new all time high at $2886 due to mixed US economic data releases. Gold price formed a high of $2886, a low of $2852, closing at $2859.

Nonfarm Payrolls data was lower than consensus, while unemployment fell. The release of NFP data which was lower than forecast showed 143k smaller than expected 159k from the previous data of 307k. On the other hand Average Hourly Earnings 0.5% greater than forecast 0.3% from the previous 0.3% is theoretically good for the currency. And the Unemployment Rate fell by 4.0% which was expected to 4.1% from the previous release of 4.1% good for the currency.

On the other hand, China, the People's Bank of China (PBOC), has expanded its gold reserves for the third month in a row, which has a positive impact on gold as a safe-haven asset amid concerns about economic uncertainty. Gold reserves held by the People's Bank of China increased by 0.16 million troy ounces last month.

Gold also gets support because of Trump's tariff policy which triggered a trade war with related countries such as Canada, Mexico and China. Even Trump will continue his threat to impose tariffs on other countries, and the possibility of unconventional geopolitical intervention supports Gold's role as a safe haven in times of uncertainty. Even Citigroup predicts gold can reach $3000 in three months according to Bloomberg notes.

Other news is that small-scale miners' gold output increased while larger miners experienced a decline, according to Reuters.

The dollar index (DXY) which tracks the US dollar against six major currencies rose on Friday from a low of 107.516 to a high of 108.318 and a current value of 108.285.

The Fed is not expected to cut interest rates in March. According to the CME group's Fedwatch tool the possibility of the Fed keeping interest rates unchanged is 91.5% and the possibility of a 25 basis point cut is only 8.5%.

 

[Polakandil]

USD/CHF went more to the upside ahead of Fed Chair Powell's testimony

The USD/CHF currency pair on Monday's trading drew a bullish candle extending the previous three consecutive days of gains. Price formed a high of 0.91222, a low of 0.90936, a closing of 0.91131. USDCHF is above the middle band line with the upper band line slightly deflated.

Today what will be in the market spotlight is President Trump Speaks who is holding a press conference about his latest executive order at the White House. New policies from US President Donald Trump could cause turmoil in financial markets and the global political map.

Furthermore, Fed Chair Powell Testifies will also be in the spotlight of investors, in his speech Powell will provide testimony on the Semi-Annual Monetary Policy Report before the Senate Banking Committee. Traders watch his public engagement as it is often used to provide subtle hints about future monetary policy.

The US Federal Reserve (The Fed) is forecast to keep interest rates on hold this year after January's US employment data, supporting the USD. According to the CME group's Fedwatch Tool the possibility of the Fed keeping interest rates at 93.5% and only a 6.5% probability of a rate cut.

The Dollar Index (DXY) is still extending yesterday's strengthening drawing a bullish candle with a low of 108,091 to a high of 108,440 crossing EMA 20 from the lower side. The US economy created 143k new jobs in January, missing economists' estimates of 170k jobs. However, the Unemployment Rate fell to 4.0% in January from 4.1% in December.

Trump's policy regarding tariffs is also still in the spotlight, analysts say this policy is inflationary which puts pressure on the Fed to maintain high interest rates. Analysts forecast a rate cut of just 36 basis points this year.

Meanwhile the Swiss National Bank (SNB) is unlikely to return to negative interest rates. The SNB will end its rate cut cycle with a policy rate of 0.0%, compared to the current 0.5%. Meanwhile, global economic uncertainty and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East may increase safe-haven flows, benefiting the CHF.

 

[VasilTodorov]

are you a real person who posts analysis every day? if yes i appreciate your work and effort.

 

[Polakandil]

GBP/USD rises after Trump's latest tariff policy

Yesterday the GBPUSD currency pair increased above 1.24000, the price drew a long-body bullish candle with a small wick at the bottom of the candle. Price has formed a high of 1.25547, a low of 1.23325, closing at 1.24452. The price trend has broken the middle band from the downside.

Pound sterling gained positive traction as the USD weakened when President Trump announced new tariff policies on base metals such as aluminum and steel. President Trump reinstated full 25% tariffs on steel imports and raised tariffs on aluminum imports to 25%. Some countries are exempted from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, the European Union, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.

Yesterday's dollar index fell from a high of 108,463 to a low of 107,782 in line with Trump's latest tariff policy.

Today investors will still pay attention to President Trump Speaks at the White House to see Trump's statements that might influence global markets. Apart from that, Fed Chair Powell Testifies also attracts investors' attention to see subtle clues regarding future monetary policy.

Meanwhile, Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack commented that she would prefer to keep interest rates steady for some time so the Fed can assess the economy. He added that the policy was 'a bit restrictive' and stressed that it was still unclear whether inflation would continue to move towards the Fed's target of 2%. Meanwhile, according to the CME group's Fedwatch tool, the possibility of the Fed maintaining interest rates at 96% and the possibility of reducing interest rates by 25 basis points is only 4%.

On the other hand, Bank of England (BoE) member Catherine Mann chose to cut interest rates by 50 basis points.

Today's highlight, apart from President Trump Speaks and Fed Chair Powell Testifies, investors are also paying attention to US CPI economic data which will be released today.

 

[Polakandil]

USD/JPY surges after US inflation data

This week USDJPY experienced a significant increase, three bullish candles showed consecutive increases with the peak of yesterday's increase after US inflation data was released. USDJPY draws a long-body bullish candle with a short wick on the candle top. Price formed a high of 154,796, a low of 152,377, a close of 154,414. Price managed to cross the middle band line and closed near the line.

Yesterday's CPI data release had a good impact on the USD and beat its rivals. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 3% on an annual basis in January, above market expectations and December's rise of 2.9%. Additionally, the core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, rose 0.4% on a monthly basis.

The US dollar index (DXY) became more volatile after the release of CPI data and drew a doji candle with an open 108,009 high of 108,523 and low of 107,979 close of 107,985.

Meanwhile, in Japan, BOJ Governor Ueda warned about rising food prices which could stimulate inflation expectations. This has increased BoJ's hawkish speculation. Kazuo Ueda warned that rising food prices, including fresh food, could accelerate consumer inflation expectations.

Today investors will still highlight Trump's talks which might influence financial markets. Apart from that, investors will wait for the release of US PPI and unemployment claims data which is expected to provide support for the USD. On the other hand, Japan's PPI is predicted to increase by 4.% from 3.8% previously.

 

[Polakandil]

PPI data was as expected and US unemployment claims were supportive but USD weakened

In yesterday's trading, the USD/CNH pair drew a bearish long-body candle indicating a weakening of the US dollar against the Chinese Renminbi. Price formed a high of 7.3131, a low of 7.2670, and a close of 7.2676, crossing the middle band line from the upside.

Yesterday's US economic data showed monthly PPI at 0.4% from the expected 0.3% but still lower than the previous revision of 0.5%. Meanwhile, core PPI was 0.3% from the previous 0.4%. On the other hand, unemployment claims showed 213k, smaller than forecast, 217k from the last revision of 220k.

The dollar index (DXY) weakened yesterday by drawing a bearish long-body candle by forming a high of 107,996, a low of 107,033, and closing at 107,066. The dollar index tracks the performance of the US dollar against six other major currencies. The weakening of the US dollar may also be triggered by concerns about inflation caused by Trump's tariff policy which some analysts predict will encourage inflation.

The Fed is not expected to lower interest rates at its March 19 meeting and maintain high interest rates due to the inflation target that is still uncertain despite concerns about inflation due to Trump's tariff policy. According to the CME group's Fedwatch tool, the possibility of the Fed keeping interest rates at 4.50% is 96%, and the probability of a 25 basis point cut is only 4%.

Meanwhile, the PBoC is expected to maintain the current interest rate of 3.10% set from November 2024 until the final release on January 20 2025.

 

[Polakandil]

Gold prices retreated on Friday as the rally was not strong enough

Gold prices on Friday drew a bearish long-body candle reflecting gold prices plummeting drastically after reaching near-new highs. The price of gold formed a high of 2939, a low of 2877, closing 2880. The market began to show fatigue because the gold rally did not look so strong.

Gold prior rose for three consecutive days and traded near record highs after US President Donald Trump's order for reciprocal tariffs against several countries increased uncertainty around trade and the global economy. Trump plans to impose 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports into the US.

Meanwhile Fed chairman Jerome Powell's testimony On the first day of his testimony before the Senate Banking Committee, Powell reiterated that the central bank does not need to rush to adjust monetary policy. "The US economy is strong overall; inflation is closer to the 2% target but still somewhat high," the Fed has signaled not to cut interest rates at this week's meeting. According to the Fedwatch tool, the probability of the Fed maintaining interest rates is 97.5% and the possibility of a 25 basis point rate cut is only 2.5%.

The dollar index (DXY) which tracks the USD currency against six major currencies was lower at 106.793 at press time, extending its previous decline to three consecutive days. US inflation data released Wednesday showed that annual inflation, as measured by the change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) in January, rose to 3% from 2.9% recorded in December. Meanwhile, the core CPI, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, increased by 0.4% on a monthly basis after a 0.2% increase recorded in the previous month. This reading exceeded market expectations by 0.3%.

This week investors will wait for the FOMC minutes to see further market developments. Investors may consider the speeches of FOMC members for subtle clues before the FOMC minutes. Today the US bank holiday may reduce the volume of transactions in financial markets in commemoration of Presidents' Day.

 

[Polakandil]

AUD/USD moves calmly waiting for RBA interest rates

Yesterday the AUDUSD currency pair drew a small bullish candle with a shadow on the top candle. Price formed a high of 0.63739, a low of 0.63457, a close of 0.63554 near the upper band line.

Even though it rose, the market was sluggish due to the US Bank holiday commemorating President's Day. The AUDUSD currency pair as the Australian dollar performed positively in the upbeat market sentiment. Market sentiment supports risk assets as investors expect United States President Donald Trump's tariff agenda will not have as big an impact as initially feared, as well as a weaker US Dollar.

Meanwhile in Australia, with inflation pressure tending to decline, market players anticipate a reduction in the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) interest rate from 4.35% to 4.10%. Nevertheless, the RBA could deliver a hawkish surprise by highlighting the tight labor market and inflation risks.

Markets will also be watching the RBA Monetary Policy Statement and RBA Rate Statement which may hint at the subtle tone of being the last G10 central bank to cut interest rates.

The dollar index (DXY) is currently at the level of 106,742 and yesterday drew a small bearish candle with short wicks on the top and bottom of the candle indicating a sluggish market. The US dollar has weakened more since mid-January. DXY tracks the USD currency against six major currencies.

The Fed is not expected to lower interest rates at this week's meeting. According to the CME Group's Fedwatch tool the possibility of the fed keeping interest rates at 97.5%.

 

[Polakandil]

NZD/USD falls more ahead of RBNZ Official Cash Rate

Yesterday the price of the NZD/USD currency pair drew a bearish candle with almost no shadow on the top and bottom of the candle. Price formed a high of 0.57347, a low of 0.56938, a closing of 0.57024. The price previously tried to break the upper band line and failed, finally returning to the range bands.

Today the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) will release the official cash rate. The RBNZ Governor decides on interest rate settings after consulting with the bank's senior staff and external advisors. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) is widely expected to reduce the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by 50 basis points (bp) from 4.25% to 3.75%.

Previously, RBNZ Governor Adrian Orr explicitly predicted a 50 bp cut this month, if economic conditions continue to develop as projected, the committee hopes to reduce the OCR further early year. This decision was driven by concerns over a slowing economy and inflation returning to the central bank's target range of between 1% and 3%. New Zealand's annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 2.2% in the third quarter (Q3) of 2024, in line with market projections and marking a sharp deceleration from 3.3% growth in the previous quarter.

In the third quarter New Zealand entered a recession with GDP contracting 1% and contracting 1.1% the previous quarter. However, New Zealand's economy remains sluggish despite easing policy in November.

Ahead of the RBNZ meeting the NZDUSD currency pair reached the level of 0.57494 driven by the easing of tensions around United States (US) President Donald Trump's tariffs and the downward trend of the US Dollar.

The dollar index (DXY), which tracks the USD currency against six major currencies, began to come under pressure in mid-January, although it rose at the beginning of February at 109,861 but fell more afterward, now at 107,009.

 

[Polakandil]

Ahead of the FOMC minutes, Silver prices hovered near the upper band line

The XAGUSD pair yesterday drew a bearish higher high candle with wicks on both sides of the top and bottom candles. Price formed a high of 33,074, a low of 32,443, and a close of 32,689 near the upper band line.

Silver prices increased further because they were driven by safe-haven buying amid concerns about economic uncertainty amid Trump's tariff policy which analysts considered could encourage inflation. Gold has reached an all-time high while Silver remains in focus, mainly due to industrial and monetary demand.

Next, the market will also focus on the FOMC minutes which may influence short-term movements. With the Fed's interest rate currently at 4.25%-4.50% investors will be looking for clues as to how long the Fed will maintain interest rates. Any hawkish hint could push Treasury yields higher and strengthen the US dollar, potentially limiting Silver's upside. On the other hand, if the Fed declares an economic slowdown, this could benefit Silver, a pause in interest rates or a reduction in interest rates in the future could support precious metals such as Gold and Silver, because lower interest rates reduce the opportunity cost of owning non-yielding assets.

Trump's tariff policy is weighing on financial markets, but if inflation concerns persist, demand for safe-haven assets could continue.

Today, apart from focusing on the FOMC minutes and President Trump's speech, investors will also look at US economic data related to Unemployment Claims which are expected to rise to 215k from the previous 213k.

 

[Polakandil]

The Japanese Yen strengthened across all currency pairs on expectations of a BOJ rate hike

The USDJPY pair yesterday drew a bearish candle extending the previous day's decline. Price formed a bearish long-body candle with a high of 151,445, a low of 149,397, a closing of 149,632. USDJPY landed on the lower band almost crossing the line.

The strengthening of the Japanese Yen seems to be triggered by several factors such as Trump's tariff threat, reviving concerns about the trade war, and also benefiting the JPY as a safe-haven currency. The hope of an increase in interest rates is also an attraction for the Japanese Yen.

BOJ Governor Kazuo Ueda and Deputy Governor Himino recently hinted at the possibility of another interest rate hike if the economy and prices match projections. One BoJ board member said that Japan's real interest rates remain highly negative and the central bank will have to adjust the level of monetary support further if the economy moves in line with forecasts. Japan's strong Gross Domestic Product (GDP) report released earlier this week and signs of widespread inflationary pressures suggest that the BoJ will raise borrowing costs sooner.

Meanwhile, the results of a Reuters poll published on Thursday showed that the majority of economists expect the BoJ to raise interest rates during the third quarter, to 0.75%. Meanwhile, Trump's threat of tariffs sparked concerns about a global trade war which in turn increased safe-haven assets, including the Japanese Yen.

On the other hand, the Fed will take careful action in considering cutting interest rates because Fed officials note a high level of uncertainty. Today several high-impact news will be released regarding several major currencies and this may increase market volatility.

 

[Polakandil]

Gold prices are still floating near the all-time high entering a consolidation phase and failed to make a firm move in any direction until the end of the week.

Last week, XAUUSD mostly floated near the all-time high with an indecision candle pattern. On Friday, the price formed a high of 2949, a low of 2916, a close of 2932, and an open of 2935. The price drew a closer as a doji candle.

The precious metal gold has recorded increases for eight consecutive weeks. Concerns over Trump's tariffs appear to be affecting gold demand and triggering arbitrage trading. Some geopolitical and political headlines are likely to continue to influence Gold's valuation in the near term.

President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on all steel and aluminum imports in the previous week and plans to impose tariffs of around 25% on foreign cars and added that imports of semiconductor chips and pharmaceuticals would be the next to face higher tariffs.

Meanwhile, in the minutes of the Federal Reserve's January policy meeting, several noted that potential changes to Trump's policies on trade and immigration could hamper the disinflation process. This indicates that inflation is predicted to remain high.

On the other side of gold, news related to several of the largest financial institutions in the world such as JPMorgan and HSBC trying to take advantage of the price difference between the Gold futures market in New York and the cash market in London to take advantage of arbitrage opportunities from the difference in gold spot prices and COMEX futures prices

Meanwhile, Goldman Sachs revised its gold price forecast from $2,890 to $3,100 as structurally higher central bank demand will add 9% to gold prices by the end of the year, which, combined with a gradual increase in ETF holdings.

Today, no high-impact news is predicted to affect gold. Even the Japanese bank holiday in observance of the Emperor's Birthday may slightly reduce volume in Asian markets. However, this week, several investors are focused on waiting for US GDP and PCE data.

 

[Polakandil]

The EUR/JPY pair corrected slightly near the lower band.

Yesterday, the EURJPY currency pair drew a bullish small-body candle with a short shadow wick on the top candle. The price formed a high of 157,252, a low of 156,002, and a close of 156,690. EURJPY has fallen more since February 13 after failing to cross the middle band line. Bollinger bands drawing a descending channel reflect the market more to the downside.

The Japanese yen weakened slightly due to a small correction in the 10-year JGB yield. The asset strengthened as the Japanese Yen (JPY) weakened overall amid a small correction in the 10-year Japanese bond yield. Investors rushed to buy Japanese bonds after Bank of Japan (BOJ) Governor Kazuo Ueda said he could increase the government's bond purchase program if long-term interest rates rise sharply. The 10-year JGB yield fell to nearly 1.41% from 1.45%, the highest level seen in nearly 15 years.

The hope that the BoJ will raise interest rates may be able to maintain the Yen. This hope is increasingly convincing because the Japanese National Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for January were higher than expected.

Today investors will focus on important data releases such as European GDP data which is predicted to be the same as the previous revision of -0.2%.