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Inflation Data and Fed’s FOMC Meeting Minutes This Week

by with No Comment AMT MarketsCentral BanksFeatured Highlights

Inflation Data and Fed's FOMC Meeting Minutes This Week

Last week’s economic data ended with rather tantalizing headline jobs numbers as the U.S showed more hiring than expected, but while this grabbed media soundbites in many circles – the Average Hourly Earnings numbers came in below expectations. The broad Forex market proved dynamic with a stronger USD in many cases, but intriguingly equity markets in the States generated upwards momentum on Friday too. U.S Treasuries were mixed regarding their yields, and the 10-year bond while finishing up for the week was below its highs.

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WTI Crude Oil One Month Chart as of 9th of Oct. 2023

The coming week will likely continue to produce nervousness, but outlook will be helped via a couple of U.S inflation reports and the FOMC Meeting Minutes report. Crude Oil prices should be watched as news from the Middle East unfolds. Gold remains under pressure.

Cryptocurrency speculators should keep their eyes on Binance Coin as it battles important lows. Bitcoin has remained relatively stable, but BNB/USD is near crucial support that could signal another wave of pressure is developing within the Binance exchange.

Monday, the 9th of October, International Monetary Fund – week-long meetings get underway and investors who participate in global stock markets and bonds should pay attention to the chatter.

Tuesday, the 10th of October, Central Bank Officials speaking – ECB President Lagarde will be speaking at the IMF conference. Federal Reserve officials will be speaking at meetings in the U.S. While the chatter may cause some nervous reactions briefly in financial institutions, it is unlikely the central bankers will say anything that is surprising.

Wednesday, the 11th of October, U.S Producer Price Index – the broad and core reports should be watched. Last week’s lower Average Hourly Earnings numbers were slightly surprising, but the recent higher energy costs could factor into the PPI results. The broad report is anticipated to show a decline. If the Producer Price Index statistics come in weaker than expected this could help the USD lose some strength.

Wednesday, the 11th of October, U.S FOMC Meeting Minutes – the publication is expected to follow the rhetoric already voiced by the Fed at their last press conference. However, insights regarding dialogue could move the needle in Forex. The U.S central bank is widely expected to raise the Federal Funds Rate in November, but what comes beyond this anticipated move is still in question. Expect the key word in the FOMC report to be ‘inflation’.

Thursday, the 12th of October, U.K Gross Domestic Product – the growth numbers from Great Britain are expected to show a slight rise in GDP. If the gains match expectations or come in better it could help bolster the GBP/USD which has been struggling against the USD for the past three months.

Thursday, the 12th of October, U.S Consumer Price Index – these reports will be crucial and will impact Forex and equities immediately after their release. While the Core CPI number is expected to match last month’s outcome, the broad reports are anticipated to be weaker. If the inflation numbers are stronger than expected the USD could gain strength, if the results are weaker it could help build selling momentum in the USD.

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USD/CNY Six Month Chart as of 9th Oct. 2023

Friday, the 13th of October, China Consumer and Producer Price Index – the two releases will be watched carefully by investors. China’s economic data has been weak and financial institutions have become concerned by deflation. The USD/CNY may be impacted upon the publication of the reports.

Friday, the 13th of October, U.S Consumer Sentiment via the University of Michigan – following the CPI numbers from the U.S on Thursday, these numbers will show the attitude of U.S consumers and their spending habits. Financial institutions will monitor these numbers and correlate them to the U.S inflation reports seen earlier.

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Concerns Ahead and a Potentially Noisy Week for Day Traders

by with No Comment AMT MarketsBehavioral SentimentFeatured Highlights

Concerns Ahead and a Potentially Noisy Week for Day Traders

In the wake of last week’s central banks follies, day traders have what may appear on the surface a rather comfortable week of economic data to consider as they make their wagers. However, there are outside risk events looming which will likely stir the emotions and positions of financial institutions, and cause knock on tremors that speculators feel caused by a noisy storm of experts and media pundits.

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SP 500 Index Three Month Chart as of 25th of Sept. 2023

U.S equity indices have struggled recently and this should be viewed as a barometer of current behavioral sentiment. Concerns regarding higher Crude Oil prices, and talk of a growing U.S political crisis as a government shutdown is threatened (remember next year’s election is shadowing all spectacles in Washington D.C presently) highlight the nervous state of affairs. The USD has been stronger and gold has remained under pressure in recent trading. Risk adverse trading is proving rather flavorful for the moment.

The ongoing strong rhetoric from the U.S Federal Reserve and what appears to be an almost certain interest rate hike in November is causing market sentiment to remain anxious. Financial institutions are not only lining up to buy U.S Treasuries, but money market funds are also being sought too which offer the ability to accumulate returns from higher interest rates. While cash is being parked in ‘sure things’ because financial institutions and large investors are keen on locking in ‘known’ returns (profits), this creates potentially less money supply for buying of U.S and global equities momentarily.

Troubling economic data continues to mire the terrain also for financial institutions, and the heightened fear is causing a reaction which day traders need to deal with as short-term volatility mounts creating dangerous speculative conditions. Consumers face a rather large bag of ‘troubles’ via higher mortgages, debt obligations on credit cards and student loans, and inflation costs. Yet, intriguingly the U.S economy has shown resilience which is almost perplexing.

Current behavioral sentiment appears fragile and ready to crack open into a chaotic storm if too much pressure is exerted. Day traders should be cautious this week because plenty of diatribes and warnings are sure to be heard. Unfortunately the warnings being heard now for this coming week could prove correct.

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EUR/USD Six Month Chart as of 25th Sept. 2023

Monday, 25th September, Germany Business Climate via Ifo – investors will keep their eyes on the sentiment reading from Germany which is expected to be worse than last month’s results. The EUR/USD is trading at six month lows.

Tuesday, 26th September, U.S CB Consumer Confidence – the result is anticipated to be slightly negative compared to last month’s outcome. U.S consumers have remained strong and financial institutions will want to see if they remain optimistic regarding their outlooks. The outcome could affect the USD, particularly if the number is weaker than expected.

Wednesday, 27th September, U.S Durable Goods Orders – this report could prove noteworthy via the broad and core reports. Durable Goods Orders are a relatively important barometer on U.S big ticket spending and demand. The numbers are likely to cause a rumble in U.S equity markets.

Thursday, 28th September, Germany CPI – the inflation results will be watched carefully by EUR/USD speculators. Higher prices in Germany are not welcome and a larger number than anticipated would be troubling.

Thursday, 28th September, U.S GDP – the Gross Domestic Product data from the States on Thursday will be closely monitored and likely provide impetus for Forex and major indices. If the growth numbers are stronger than expected this will serve as another nail for the U.S Federal Reserve to hit when it makes its case for another interest rate hike. While it is good the U.S economic growth numbers have been relatively strong, better than expected data could play into U.S Treasury yields remaining high and spark additional complex considerations for investors.

Friday, 29th September, Canada GDP – the data from Canada is expecting a negative ‘growth’ result which would have an affect on the USD/CAD.

Friday, 29th September, U.S University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment – the revised numbers will give insights into American spending habits. The previous two months have been more lower than anticipated, this outcome is expected to produce a reading of 67.7.

Saturday, 30th September, China Manufacturing PMI – while the Purchasing Managers Index reports from China are forecast to show slight improvements, analysts remain worried about economic conditions in the nation. Transparency remains a focal point for investors who want to make sure the results they are being given are accurate.

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Last Week Caught Many by Surprise, as Fed Looms Wednesday

by with No Comment AMT MarketsBehavioral SentimentFeatured Highlights

Last Week Caught Many by Surprise, as Fed Looms Wednesday

The ECB obviously decided to highlight how seriously they want to fight inflation last Thursday, when they increased their Main Refinancing Rate by a quarter of a point. The move was not only a surprise to many financial institutions, but displayed a large ‘miss’ by most analysts. While some point out the European Central Bank is powered by Germany who have a historically bad memory regarding inflation, it would also be correct to acknowledge the ECB is trying to protect their own currency against the potential volatility the Federal Reserve could cause with a rather aggressive monetary policy stance this coming Wednesday.

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WTI Crude Oil One Month Chart as 18th Sept. 2023

Another broad market influence as this week begins remains the high price of Crude Oil which has now surpassed 90.00 USD per barrel. The higher energy price will certainly not calm inflation anxiousness. Higher energy costs equate into costlier logistics, manufacturing, and agricultural production – this is not a problem central banks wished upon their plates as the final quarter of 2023 gets set to start in a couple of weeks.

Monday, 18th of September, Canada Housing Starts – the housing market in Canada is important to its economy and the nation has enjoyed a housing price bubble for a couple of decades. The past two months have produced higher than expected Housing Starts numbers which is intriguing because Canada is suffering from lackluster growth. The USD/CAD could move slightly on this result, but unless there is a profoundly surprising number from this report, the currency pair will remain focused on ‘other’ things to come.

Tuesday, 19th of September, Canada Consumer Price Index – last week’s CPI and PPI numbers from the U.S came in stronger than anticipated, and Canada’s projected estimates for Tuesday’s results nearly match the nation’s total from last month. Leaving the suspicious notion that inflation could possibly come in stronger in Canada like it did in the U.S last week since these two economies often mirror each other.

Wednesday, 20th of September, China One and Five Year Loan Prime Rates – China continues to be watched closely as investors point out potential dark shadows creating headwinds for the nation economically. The results regarding the loans taken by household and businesses are a solid barometer for outlook if the data is transparent.

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GBP/USD 3 Months Chart as of 18th Sept. 2023

Wednesday, 20th of September, U.K Consumer Price Index – the anticipated numbers expects an inflation result of 7.1%, which would be remarkably high and not treated kindly. The results will create havoc in the GBP/USD because not only is the Fed is waiting literally in the wings after this report, but the BoE is going to respond on Thursday.

Wednesday, 20th of September, U.S Federal Reserve Funds Rate – one week ago this day didn’t look like it would cause that much excitement. This all changed last Thursday when the ECB raised its borrowing costs and put financial institutions into a full state of alarm. Yes, the ECB may have acted on its own, but some suspect they know what the Fed is planning on doing already. The Fed is not expected to raise interest rates, but they will certainly sound aggressive and point out inflation remains a danger. Here’s the thing, the ECB sounded quite confident last Thursday, that it will not raise its interest rates again in the mid-term, essentially saying they were done. Did the ECB base this on knowledge that the Fed could do the same thing? What was perceived as a potentially sleepy and quiet Fed meeting and FOMC Statement has now taken on major importance. Forex, U.S Treasuries and global equities will move based on the Federal Reserve’s action and rhetoric. How will the Fed react to higher inflation data?

Thursday, 21st of September, U.K Bank of England Official Bank Rate – the BoE is widely expected to raise the borrowing rate by a quarter of a point. If the Fed did not raise rates the day before and the BoE acts as expected, this could in theory help the GBP/USD gain. However, it should be pointed out following the ECB’s interest rate hike last week, the EUR/USD traded into this past weekend weaker.

Friday, 22nd of September, E.U, U.K and U.S Services and Manufacturers PMI – Europe, Great Britain and the U.S will all release this data on Friday and all expect rather lackluster results. While this data is important, the broad financial markets will likely still be reacting to the actions of the major central banks and the credit crunch problems they are causing globally for consumers and businesses who are facing cash shortfalls and costlier loan expenditures.

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Anxious Results and Outlooks as Traders Brace for Week Ahead

by with No Comment AMT MarketsAssetsFeatured Highlights

Anxious Results and Outlooks as Traders Brace for Week Ahead

Speculators with visions of taking advantage of day trading perspectives often look for correlations within asset classes to help gain an outlook on another trading vehicle they may be considering. The problem with this like many things for day traders is that sudden gyrations in asset classes technically are often affected by positioning from large players who do not care what the ‘minnows’ are doing. Institutional trading is frequently done with long-term considerations.

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S&P500 Index Future Three Months Chart as of 11th Sept. 2023

The Forex market has seen the USD grow stronger since the middle of July against most major currencies. At the same time charts via U.S Treasuries clearly demonstrate yields increasing. This is not a coincidence. Market behavior remains anxious as financial institutions look to lock in a certain amount of ‘guaranteed’ returns. Recent economic data has been lackluster from the U.S and this week important inflation numbers are certain to influence existing sentiment.

A side note for day traders who like to study economic data, ‘revisions’ via published data is starting to set off concerns among traders. Revisions to previous statistics reported are becoming a talking point among investors who believe the numbers they are looking at from many countries, including the U.S, need to be given a certain degree of skepticism. The Wall Street Journal published an article about this a couple of weeks ago.

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WTI Crude Oil Three Months Chart as 11th Sept. 2023

In the coming days the price of Crude Oil may make headlines as the commodity enters this week near values last seen in November of 2022. The high price of Crude Oil will spark vocal warnings about potential inflation dangers. Speculative elements within the energy sector will be active and hope to take advantage of its trend. A sustained move above 90.00 USD per barrel would be intriguing.

Some analysts might try to correlate higher energy prices to increased demand from global manufacturing sectors, but this could be questionable considering many spheres are suffering from recessionary pressures. But again, the real facts and dynamics behind a potential sustained climb of Crude Oil prices are complex.

Smaller traders need to understand the news they are reading today was known by ‘insiders’ many days before and they have already acted on their knowledge to take advantage of prices.

The cuts in production from Saudi Arabia and other producers has sparked speculative influence, and perhaps the narrative that outlook for more Crude Oil demand could build if the U.S continues to demonstrate a ‘soft landing’. The chatter and explanations for changes to price are almost limitless and day traders need to be aware they will not be privy certain information.

This leaves the door open for day traders to consider trying to understand market behavior within the financial world. The answer for short-term speculators who are wagering on price direction is not a simple interpretation of technical charts, they should also consider fundamental knowledge of the asset mixed with an understanding of current market dynamics as sentiment shifts among institutional players.

In other news to look out for this week, traders who are active in the cryptocurrency space should continue to monitor the support levels that Bitcoin and Binance Coin are traversing. Incremental drops in value continue to be seen and a sustained reversal higher has been difficult to attain.

Monday, 11th of September, China New Loans – the amount of borrowing from businesses and consumers within China will provide insights regarding the strength (or weakness) of the domestic economy.

Tuesday, 12th of September, U.K Claimant Count Change and Average Earnings Index – the jobs numbers from the U.K will provide the GBP/USD with a bit of additional impetus. The U.K economy is in the spotlight and critics have become loud as many point to Brexit problems, which they claim are causing complications. However, within a global economy that is under pressure the fact that conditions in Britain are difficult doesn’t take a lot of time to find other correlations.

Tuesday, 12th of September, Germany Economic Sentiment via ZEW – the reading is expected to show a negative outlook again from the responses of institutional investors based in Germany. A result of minus -15.0 is the forecast. The report could shake the EUR/USD a bit momentarily.

Wednesday, 13th of September, U.K GDP – growth numbers will certainly get plenty of attention for Britain. The anticipated number is minus -0.2%. If the result is worse than the recessionary estimate it could spark more negative sentiment.

Wednesday, 13th of September, U.S Consumer Price Index reports – inflation statistics will be studied carefully and impact Forex immediately if the published results do not meet expectations. The Federal Reserve, institutional investors and the broad financial markets will react to the CPI data.

Thursday, E.U European Central Bank Main Refinancing Rate – the ECB is not expected to make any changes to borrowing rates. The European Central Bank is also anticipated to warn that economic conditions remain challenging and they are monitoring inflation and growth. Anything more than these words via the ECB Monetary Policy Statement and Press Conference could spark some EUR/USD price action.

Thursday, 14th of September, U.S Producer Price Index – like Wednesday’s inflation numbers, the PPI statistics will affect market sentiment regarding outlook and interpretations regarding the potential responses from the Federal Reserve.

Thursday, 14th of September, U.S Retail Sales – this data will give traders insights regarding the spending habits of U.S consumers, which is a key barometer for equity traders regarding consumer driven stocks, and also because an increase would underscore solid economic sentiment from the public.

Friday, 15th of September, China Industrial Production and Retail Sales – these two reports will provide additional insights about the Asian giant. Global investors continue to be concerned about the direction of the Chinese economy. Slight gains are forecast for both publications.

Friday, 15th of September, U.S University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment – the preliminary report is expected to have a reading of 69.2 which would be below the previous reading.

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Dog Days of Summer and a Return of Calm as Storms Threaten

by with No Comment AMT MarketsBehavioral SentimentFeatured Highlights

Dog Days of Summer and a Return of Calm as Storms Threaten

With essentially two full weeks of trading until the end of August and the unofficial end of summer in sight, perhaps this week may be a good time for retail traders to be observers if they do not have the stomach for potentially noisy speeches and markets.

However, speculators who can block out media hyperbole and microphone soundbites from folks standing on podiums may find conditions rather attractive. As always outlook depends on perspective, time frames and managing risk. Behavioral sentiment has been rather chaotic the past month and some traders may suspect we are approaching the end of the loud spectacles of nervous drama in the markets.

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USD/ZAR One Year Chart as of 20th August 2023

The economic data this coming week should prove to be a rather mild schedule, but outside influences will certainly get publicity and get fanfare from talking heads who want 15 minutes of your attention. The BRICS Summit will get underway in Johannesburg, South Africa officially on the 22nd. Another big conference later this week will be the U.S Federal Reserve’s Jackson Hole Symposium. Both events will produce plenty of conversations about inflation, economic stability and a more cohesive global cooperation monetarily. This will also create many raised eyebrows among traders who are skeptical about these type of events.

While leaders of China, Russia, India, Brasil and South Africa get together in Johannesburg, it is likely we will hear talk about potential BRICS expansion and the pursuit of a new unified currency which doesn’t rely upon the USD. However, in the background there is likely to be plenty of distraction because of China’s faltering economic data and Russia’s Ruble which has been impacted severely in the past month. Plenty of large rugs will be needed to hide the dust which threatens to make this BRICS event rather memorable.

Add the ongoing saga of Niger and the absence of a political solution for the world’s fourth largest producer of uranium as a potential flash point standing on the side of the stage waiting to make an appearance regarding Africa news. Perhaps it is too cynical to wonder if coordinated military action within Niger will await the end of the BRICS Summit. This so China and Russia are not given an opportunity on the ‘world stage’ as a united voice to offer their opinions regarding an intervention.

The Jackson Hole get together of global central bankers from the Fed, BoE, ECB, BoJ and others will certainly grab headlines late this week, but the script is mostly known regarding the rhetoric to come from the Federal Reserve’s annual event. Forex may move based on comments from the central bank chiefs as they speak towards the end of this week, but it is unlikely anything surprising is going to be heard. U.S Treasuries will remain a topic because of the ability to lock in a solid return over the mid-term compared to betting on the outcomes of the stock market, but this scenario has been playing out the past month. Investors should prepare for a long line of speeches regarding economic outlooks from central bank officials all week. Day traders should also remember that the chatter starts to be ‘tuned out’ as the speeches grow longer.

Traders looking for other outside influences may want to look at the cryptocurrency market where major assets have shown signs of struggling. Bitcoin and Binance coin could remain in the headlines for all the wrong reasons, if their prices continue to challenge important support levels and become more vulnerable.

Monday, 21st August, China Prime Rates – economic data from the nation has caused concerns that real estate problems are spilling over into the domestic consumer market. The interest rates China lends money to consumers is expected to be lowered to try and spark spending. Recent economic reports from China have been bad, and readers who believe this is merely ‘Western’ bias being reported should be careful to look for other sources to confirm data. Investment within the second biggest economy of the world has become tentative, because there is a fear the ‘official’ China numbers may be worse than those being reported.

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USD/JPY Six Months Chart as of 20th August 2023

Tuesday, 22nd August, Japan Consumer Price Index – the Bank of Japan report is expected to show a slight decline to the inflation numbers. Last month’s outcome of 3.0% is expected to lower and produce a 2.9% result. The USD/JPY could react momentarily to the outcome, the currency pair is near highs it hasn’t touched since November 2022.

Tuesday, 22nd August, U.S Existing Home Sales – the data is expected to show a slight decline of purchases. Mortgage prices continue to climb in the U.S and homeowners are less likely to desire taking on a new higher mortgage, this if they already have a lower mortgage locked in from a few years ago within a dwelling they already live.

Wednesday, 23rd August, Flash European Manufacturing and Services PMI – the reports will come from the E.U and U.K. The German and British outcomes will stir the Forex markets. The manufacturing data from Germany and Britain are forecast to be slightly negative.

Wednesday, 23rd of August, U.S Flash Manufacturing and Services PMI – the U.S reports are expected to show a decline in the manufacturing sector. If a negative result materializes, this could actually spark a selloff of the USD – if the financial markets have returned to calm waters by the middle of this week. Weaker numbers might be interpreted as another reason for the U.S Federal Reserve to remain neutral and why they should consider becoming dovish over the mid-term.

Thursday, 24th of August, U.S Durable Goods Orders – the core and broad numbers are anticipated to show declines. If the Durable Goods Orders numbers are worse than expected this could spark more USD selling, particularly if financial institutions are already calm and feel the data is another step to ‘lowering’ the Fed’s hawkish interest rate rhetoric. However, for the USD to weaken the markets will likely have needed to be tranquil beforehand, without major surprises having happened earlier in the week that may have escalated nervous behavioral sentiment in the broad markets.

Friday, 25th of August, Germany Business Climate and GDP – the ifo Business Climate report comes from a composite of manufacturers, wholesalers, and other enterprises and is expected to be lower than last month’s outcome. The Gross Domestic Product results are anticipated to show no changes, which would mean Germany’s economy remains in the doldrums and is flirting with recessionary pressures.

Friday, 25th of August, U.S University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment – this revised reading is expected to show U.S consumers remain steady without significant changes compared to the previous outcome.

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USD/INR: Higher Move Correlates and Political Shadows Loom

by with No Comment AMT MarketsAssetsFeatured Highlights

USD/INR: Higher Move Correlates and Political Shadows Loom

The USD/INR is near the 82.8150 ratio as of this writing the 9th of August, on the 25th of July the currency pair was near the 81.6500 level momentarily. Upwards movement of the USD/INR did produce price volatility in the last week of July, and on the 1st of August the Forex pair was near the 82.1700 ratio. Another dose of upwards momentum quickly occurred on the first day of August, and by the 2nd the USD/INR was trading around the 82.7650 mark.

From Wednesday of last week the USD/INR has essentially taken on a consolidated framework, speculators who are gambling on the USD/INR and need big movement to occur in order to facilitate profits have likely found the currency pair difficult to manage. Yesterday a high of nearly 82.9500 came within sight briefly, this as global risk adverse conditions arose because of the Moody’s rating agency downgrade of some U.S mid and small size banks regarding their fundamental ‘soundness’ and credit worthiness.

Rising interest rates from the U.S Federal Reserve have made it harder for many U.S banks to conduct their business, and loans have become more expensive for their clients struggling to keep up with the rising payments. Particularly if borrowers have the unfortunate position of holding ‘variable’ loans which cost more when interest rates are going up. This has also affected the housing sector in the U.S and in the U.K, as mortgages have become highly priced due to the Federal Reserve and Bank of England having aggressive interest rate policies which are affecting the cost of new home purchases.

The question USD/INR traders may be asking is what does this have to do with them?

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USD/INR One Month Chart as of 9th of August

The USD/INR Doesn’t Trade in a Vacuum

The USD/INR has risen in value the past two and half weeks as many other major currency pairs have suffered a similar fate. Nervous sentiment abounds in the global markets because financial institutions are wary of what the major central banks will do next. U.S economic data has been mixed recently, but this perspective depends on time frames regarding outlooks.

Short and mid-term viewpoints continue to point to complications regarding growth and inflation expectations and interpretations of U.S data. The ratings downgrade of some U.S banks from Moody’s yesterday, and early last week Fitch’s downgrade of U.S Treasuries all is related. Rating agencies are getting nervous, perhaps because they do not want to be blamed and held liable if the proverbial ‘fluff’ hits the fan over the mid-term. Rating agencies largely ‘missed’ the financial crisis of 2007 in a famously bizarre manner. The sudden emergence of rating agencies warning investors has made the USD stronger as global investors have become risk adverse temporarily. Yes, this might feel illogical, but the USD remains the world’s safe haven.

The USD/INR also certainly trades because of economic conditions affecting its value from within India. The Reserve Bank of India has a large hand in managing values and is known to be rather active regarding interventions. Yet the USD/INR is being ‘allowed’ to continue to trade near all-time highs. This as India’s status as a growing economic power has taken shape in the global financial markets the past year. The India government has not been aggressive regarding its interest rate policy, and has allowed inflation to seep into the domestic economy via a weaker Indian Rupee for a number of complex reasons. Purchasing goods from India abroad and the ability to invest in India by global financial institutions may be more attractive to those holding USD and needing to convert into INR only when the time is necessary.

Politics and the USD/INR Price Level as 2024 Elections Start to Lurk

From a political perspective too, let’s acknowledge a general election will take place in India in April and May of 2024. Economic decisions being made today and for the mid-term are certainly being affected by the ruling Indian government’s outlook and desire to remain in power. Having come off of yesterday’s highs in the USD/INR the currency pair does remain within sight of highs.

The 83.0000 level likely remains a key barometer for the USD/INR and the Reserve Bank of India is likely watching this value carefully. While it seems unlikely the India government wants the USD/INR to trace much higher because of the psychological implications, global risk adverse sentiment are making the higher values of the currency pair sticky. Tomorrow’s inflation data from the U.S will affect Forex and the USD/INR via the Consumer Price Index. Friday the U.S Producer Price Index will be published. A slight rise in the broad CPI results tomorrow is expected, while Friday’s PPI outcome is expected to match last month’s numbers.

If risk adverse trading remains evident today and the USD/INR holds its ground over the next 20 hours, the currency pair could find that its consolidated price movement from the past week suddenly changes. A higher tick in U.S inflation could be enough to cause the USD/INR to challenge the 83.0000 ratio. Speculators who are wagering on the USD/INR are cautioned to be pro-active regarding their risk management the remainder of this week.

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Anxiety and Surprising U.S Data for Day Traders to Consider

by with No Comment AMT MarketsBehavioral SentimentFeatured Highlights

Anxiety and Surprising U.S Data for Day Traders to Consider

Global central banks stayed in their anticipated lanes last week as the Fed and ECB raised their key lending rates. The BoJ has admitted it is allowing its yield curve to increase, meaning the Japan government is cutting back on purchases of Japanese bonds. Forex produced anxiety and choppy results for day traders.

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Gold 6 Months Chart as of 30 July 2023

Economic data from the U.S last week provided a strong Gross Domestic Product result on Thursday, and followed with weaker than expected Personal Consumption Expenditures and Personal Income statistics before going into the weekend. Meaning the U.S economy appears to be surprisingly solid, while inflation pressures do indicate they are in decline. The Forex market turned volatile on Thursday and Friday, gold which traded at nearly 1980.00 USD on Thursday went into the weekend near 1959.00.

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VIX Index 1 Year Chart as of 30 July 2023

Stock markets in the U.S via the major indices continue to incrementally rise and folks waiting for a big sustained selloff are having their patience tested. Perceived volatility in U.S markets is very low and the VIX (Volatility Index) indicates many investors are not taking the time to hedge with options because their confidence is remarkably high. A cautious reminder for traders, one bad day could change all of the optimistic sentiment.

In the cryptocurrency world, folks should continue to keep their eyes on the Binance exchange and its Binance coin. Many digital assets seem to be suspiciously close to important support levels as this week begins and appear vulnerable.

Monday, 31st of July, China Manufacturing PMI – while U.S data surprisingly improves, China has not begun to show signs of a positive turnaround quite yet, and this reading is expected to be below last month’s outcome. China data is a solid barometer of global economic health and traders should give these results proper attention.

Monday, 31st of July, E.U Consumer Price Index Flash Estimates – the European CPI numbers are expected to come in slightly below the previous month’s reading. If for some reason these inflation numbers are higher than expected, this could cause some chaos briefly for the EUR/USD. A weaker number however offers no sound wagering basis for short-term day traders either. Behavioral sentiment appears to be ruling the EUR/USD landscape for the time being, and technical levels should be watched.

Tuesday, 1st of August, Australia Reserve Bank Cash Rate – the RBA is expected to follow in the footsteps of the Fed and ECB and raise its lending rate by 0.25%.

Tuesday, 1st of August, E.U Manufacturing PMI – Germany and France are anticipated to produce similar results to last month’s outcomes. Recessionary pressures are a concern in the E.U and better than expected numbers would be welcomed, but this may prove difficult to demonstrate as economic conditions remain challenging.

Tuesday, 1st of August, U.S ISM Manufacturing PMI – the results from the manufacturing sector in the States should be watched. A slight improvement is expected, but the reading is not expected to produce a wildly optimistic result. An outcome which slightly beats expectations, but is not too strong might make the USD slightly weaker. Global investment institutions are likely hoping for any signs that the Federal Reserve will have to become less aggressive. A lackluster to ‘fair’ ISM Manufacturing PMI result could be evidence larger Forex traders want to see if they are aiming for bearish momentum in the USD.

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NZD/USD 3 Months Chart as of 30 July 2023

Wednesday, 2nd of August, New Zealand Employment Change – the jobs statistics are expected to show slightly weaker results from the nation. The NZD/USD remains within the lower elements of its long-term price range. There are many NZD/USD bullish traders waiting for a sustained reversal higher, but it is unlikely to be produced from these New Zealand jobs numbers.

Thursday, 3rd of August, U.K BoE Monetary Policy Summary and Official Bank Rate – the Bank of England remains in a difficult spot and it will likely raise interest rates by another 0.25%. Criticism of the Bank of England has been loud in Britain, but the BoE likely feels it has to remain in line with the Fed and ECB. Recessionary pressures continue in the U.K and inflation remains problematic. Concerns will be heard regarding property mortgages for home owners if the BoE hikes. The GBP/USD will certainly move depending on the rhetoric from the Monetary Policy Summary and talking points delivered by BoE Governor Andrew Bailey.

Friday, 4th of August, U.S Non-Farm Employment Change and Average Hourly Earnings – the jobs data parade will climax at the end of the week, this after starting on Wednesday via the ADP jobs numbers. Investors will watch the Non-Farm Employment Change data carefully and correlate them to the better than expected GDP results from the 27th of July. The wages data from the Average Hourly Earnings is expected to come in with a slight decrease. A weaker inflation result from the wages statistics could cause additional softness in the USD. However, recent data from the U.S has been hard to predict correctly, and day traders may want to sit on the sidelines until all the jobs numbers are digested.

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Week Ahead: Inflation will be the Crucial Word for Investors

by with No Comment AMT MarketsBehavioral SentimentFeatured Highlights

Week Ahead: Inflation will be the Crucial Word for Investors

Last week finished with another reminder that inflation cannot be easily scoffed at by investors who continue to believe higher prices will eventually slowdown. Average Hourly Earnings last Friday came in above the expectation and this was enough to rattle Wall Street again, which saw the major equity indices decline and bond yields incrementally rise. Inflation ‘talk’ will remain important this week because of coming U.S data.

Real Estate including REITS becoming a Topic of Discussion as Mortgages Rise

Market watchers should also pay attention to news regarding mortgages on residential homes, and listen for troubles from the commercial real estate market, as these sectors deal with rising interest rates in the U.S and U.K. Increased nervousness within these markets could have an affect on behavioral sentiment. Let’s remember the catalyst for the financial crisis of 2007 was the real estate sector.

Which brings us back to inflation and the growing acceptance among investors the U.S Federal Reserve may be ‘forced’ to hike the Federal Funds Rate on the 26th of July, if price data continues to come in ‘hot’. Some investors will likely be heard saying an increase of 0.25% has already been factored into marketplace, but the prospect of another hike in late 2023 could be problematic. Forex, gold and bonds dynamics will tell us a lot when this week concludes regarding outlooks.

BNB/USD Price Should be Monitored as Binance Trembles

An outside source of financial and speculative news is likely to come from cryptocurrency. If you are gambling on this asset class (or should we say commodity based on hot air) and like the adventure of wagering, please continue to pay attention to Binance which is showing signs of duress. If the Binance cryptocurrency exchange shows additional signs of pressure on its BNB (Binance Coin), trading waters within the world of crypto could trigger additional drowning victims. If you thought the Sam Bankman-Fried story made interesting news last year regarding fraud and other criminal activity, the FTX saga could prove to be only the tip of the iceberg.

Data Events Ahead to Watch

Monday, 10th of July, China CPI and PPI – the inflation data could prove important for investors who correlate economic statistics from China into their global forecasts. Traders within India should pay attention to these Chinese price reports, because global investors are starting to shift their assets into the Nifty 50 and other NSE equities because of risk and reward equations.

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GBP/USD One Month Chart as of 9th July 2023

Tuesday, 11th of July, U.K Claimant Count Change and Average Earnings Index – the numbers need to be watched by GBP/USD speculators. The results from the U.K will be intriguing because of employment results, but more importantly for inflation concerns and the knock-on effects. Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey is speaking a few times this week, and this includes Wednesday the 12th of July, when he will talk about the Financial Stability Report. The GBP/USD has moved towards monthly highs recently.

Wednesday, 12th of July, New Zealand RBNZ Official Bank Rate – NZD/USD day traders will want to pay attention to the central bank’s Rate Statement. While no increase of interest rates is predicted, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand at a minimum will likely have to admit inflation remains a concern.

Wednesday, 12th of July, U.S Consumer Price Index – the inflation reports from the States will have all eyes on the outcomes of the monthly and annual comparisons, including the Core numbers. The results from these inflation statistics will certainly cause momentary volatility within Forex with the USD as the focal point.

Wednesday, 12th of July, Canada BoC Overnight Rate – the Bank of Canada is expected to hike its interest rate by 0.25% to the 5.00% mark. USD/CAD will react to the BoC Rate Statement based on its outlook.

Thursday, 13th of July, U.K Gross Domestic Product – the ‘growth’ numbers are not expected to be positive. A drop of minus -0.3% is the expectation. Talk of recessionary pressures in Great Britain will be heard. Unfortunately, the discussion about a struggling economy, mixed with stubborn higher prices for consumers and mortgage rates that are rising will not make for calm stomachs. U.K equity results via the FTSE 100 Index should be monitored.

Thursday, 13th of July, U.S PPI – the Producer Price Index figures will be the last cog within the important inflation data for the week. Stubborn prices for wholesale goods are a concern, because the costs to consumers becomes more expensive when there are higher price pressures.

Friday, 14th of July, U.S Consumer Sentiment via the University of Michigan – if the Consumer Sentiment readings from the UofM report improves, and the U.S inflation data which was released earlier this week has proven stubborn, this could become a source of pain for investors who may be forced to consider the Fed will not only raise the Federal Funds Rate late July, but later in 2023 also. Short-term traders should monitor this report accordingly.

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Week Ahead: Summer Begins with Questions Lurking for Traders

by with No Comment AMT MarketsAssetsFeatured Highlights

Week Ahead: Summer Begins with Questions Lurking for Traders

Monday, the 19th of June, China Foreign Direct Investment – data from China has been lackluster and last week’s announcement of a stimulus program from the government underscores economic concerns regarding growth.

Monday, the 19th of June, U.S banking holiday – for commemoration of Juneteenth.

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AUD/USD Three Month Chart as of 18th June 2023

Tuesday, the 20th of June, Australia Monetary Policy Meeting Minutes – report from the Reserve Bank of Australia will interest AUD traders and those with an interest in Asian Pacific economics.

Tuesday, the 20th of June, U.S FOMC member John Willliams – as the President of the New York Federal Reserve, Williams, is a key member regarding policy. Taking into consideration last week’s pause, traders may want to pay attention to the New York Fed Presidents’s remarks to see if the pause in Federal Funds Rates seen last week is looked upon as a halt or a ‘skip’ by Williams. The difference between a pause and a skip may appear to be semantics, but a skip would mean an interest rate hike is coming in July. Williams is not going to say what is going to happen at the next Federal Reserve meeting, but he may give a hint regarding his opinion on what should be done.

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GBP/USD Three Month Chart as of 18th June 2023

Wednesday, the 21st of June, U.K Consumer Price Index – the data will be important regarding inflation insights for Britain. The Bank of England is expected to raise their Official Bank Rate on Thursday by 0.25%. Another report showing stubborn inflation could set the table for a rather hawkish Monetary Policy Statement from the BoE.

Wednesday, the 21st of June, U.S Federal Reserve Chairman Powell testimony – the Fed Chairman will begin two days of speaking and taking questions. The first day will be before the House of Representatives and the second day in front of the Senate. Because a major election is coming in the U.S in 2024, this will be an opportunity for politicians from both sides of the aisle to get airtime and take a ‘stance’ while bludgeoning Jerome Powell. The Fed Chairman’s remarks could stir the markets slightly, but Powell will be as careful as possible not to put a scare into the financial sector.

Thursday, the 22nd of June, U.K Bank of England – the Official Bank Rate, Monetary Policy Summary and vote count from the Monetary Policy Committee will be released. A hike has been widely expected by GBP traders and has been factored into the British Pound already.

Thursday, the 22nd of June, U.S Existing Home Sales – the housing report will cause a few murmurs in the marketplace because it is seen as an extension of consumer health and interest rate policy in the U.S regarding behavioral sentiment. Existing home sales numbers have been dropping as people with homes have decided to stay put in their current residences. ‘Locked in’ interest rates are more attractive, instead of taking on a higher rate via a new purchase due to costlier mortgages because of more expensive borrowing fees.

Friday, the 23rd of June, E.U Manufacturing and Services PMI – the flash reports from the likes of Germany, France and the U.K should be watched. Manufacturing readings have been producing recessionary readings while Services data is expected to show incremental decreases too.

Friday, the 23rd of June, U.S Manufacturing and Services PMI – the flash reports via the Purchasing Managers Index data need to be monitored too from the States. The readings give a rather good insight regarding outlook of U.S business sentiment.

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Week Ahead: Inflation Followed by the U.S Federal Reserve

by with No Comment AMT MarketsBehavioral SentimentFeatured Highlights

Week Ahead: Inflation Followed by the U.S Federal Reserve

Monday, 12th of June, U.S Federal Budget Balance – hold down the laughter and snickers please as you wonder why you should care, this as the report shows monthly income versus spending from the month before. Yes, the U.S ‘Debt Ceiling’ bill was passed recently. Very few people are going to pay attention to Budget Balance report, except economists and traders who have ‘skin in the game’ via hedge funds as an example – that make long-term bets, and U.S politicians who want to hoot and holler…….while nothing really gets done to limit wasteful spending in Washington D.C.

Tuesday, 13th of June, U.S Consumer Price Index reports – yes, this inflation data will be important per the monthly numbers showing what consumers are spending. A slight uptick is expected with an outcome of plus 0.2% via the broad statistics – last month’s number showed a gain of 0.4%. The outcome of the broad and core CPI statistics will give the Federal Reserve a sounding board for what will take place on Wednesday via the Federal Funds Rate announcement. Stronger than expected inflation numbers could cause a rupture and nervousness. A weaker result would calm Forex and perhaps make the USD slightly weaker.

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EUR/USD One Month Chart as of 11th June 2023

Wednesday, 14th of June, U.S Producer Price Index – these numbers will be released early in the day and will be followed by the Federal Reserve five and half hours later. The inflation outcome via the PPI if stronger than anticipated would cause some caution before the Federal Reserve takes the stage.

Wednesday, 14th of June, U.S Federal Funds Rate, FOMC Statement and FOMC Press Conference – while many analysts seem convinced the Fed will not hike the interest rate this week, there are obviously no guarantees. The FOMC Statement will indicate the U.S central bank’s outlook. Traders who are intent on trading before the official interest rate announcement and statement are playing with fire. Speculators should keep in mind that other central banks have surprised folks with increases recently including Canada and Australia. A hike from the U.S Federal Reserve would surprise a lot of people and financial institutions, but stranger things have happened.

Thursday, 15th of June, New Zealand Gross Domestic Product – the growth numbers which will come out a handful of hours after the U.S Fed leaves the stage will be intriguing and provide NZD/USD traders more impetus into what will likely already be a volatile trading session taking place.

Thursday, 15th of June, China Industrial Production and Retail Sales – these two reports from the economic giant will be watched closely. China’s economy is struggling a bit, and weakness in the housing sector via values are starting to cause a reaction in domestic spending. Industrial Production numbers will give some insights regarding global demand. Economic problems in Europe and North America are certainly not helping matters in China because demand for goods are restrained and hurting the manufacturing sector.

Thursday, 15th of June, U.S Retail Sales – consumers in the U.S have been expected to start producing negative numbers via these statistics, will they begin to do it? A stronger number would be of interest to some, but after Wednesdays’ FOMC Statement and news that will be generated, it is questionable who will give full attention to this report and what affect it could have.

Thursday, 15th of June, E.U ECB Press Conference – this question and answer session could prove to be interesting depending on what the U.S Fed does the day before. Certainly the European Central Bank will give their opinions on monetary policy and economic circumstances in the European Union and abroad. The EUR/USD could be affected.

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USD/JPY One Month Chart as of 11th June 2023

Friday, 16th of June, Japan BoJ Policy Rate and Monetary Policy Statement – no major changes are expected from the Bank of Japan. This is the one central bank unwilling to change its attitude regarding monetary policy because of the whims of others. Perhaps if the U.S Federal Reserve surprised everyone on Wednesday with a hike, this could change the quiet rhetoric from the BoJ – but even that is doubtful. USD/JPY traders should pay attention to the BoJ Press Conference just in case.

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Calendar this Week includes Debt Ceiling, Earnings and Jobs

by with No Comment AMT MarketsBehavioral SentimentFeatured Highlights

Calendar this Week includes Debt Ceiling, Earnings and Jobs

Monday the 29th of May, Many banking holidays including in the U.S and U.K – traders choosing to participate in the markets should be aware that low transaction volumes can cause volatility due to imbalances. Be careful if you choose to trade on Monday.

Tuesday the 30th of May, U.S Debt Ceiling – talks and vote will be in focus. It appears an agreement may be in place, but financial institutions will certainly monitor the shenanigans from Washington, D.C. this week to see if a compromise can avert a crisis. Equity and Forex markets will respond to all developing news.

Tuesday the 30th of May, U.S CB Consumer Confidence – this survey of households in the States should be monitored. Spending remains strong in the U.S while manufacturing outlook appears nervous. The results may imply forward looking sentiment for U.S economy regarding consumption and could stir the markets slightly.

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EUR/USD Three Month Chart as of 28 May 2023

Wednesday the 31st of May, Germany Preliminary CPI – inflation remains troubling in Europe and the German economy is seen as the linchpin. The result from the Consumer Price Index could rattle the EUR/USD a bit.

Thursday the 1st of June, China Caixin Manufacturing PMI – this Purchasing Managers Index from China will give some insight regarding the nation’s economic sentiment and its results will offer some clues regarding global demand for goods. Last month’s number was viewed as slightly negative.

Thursday the 1st of June, U.S ISM Manufacturing PMI – last week’s manufacturing and Core Durable Goods Orders numbers from the U.S were negative. While growth via the Prelim GDP came in slightly better this past Thursday, economic outlook remains skittish. Last month’s ISM data result was negative and this month’s forecast is not optimistic either.

Friday the 2nd of June, U.S Average Hourly Earnings and Non-Farm Employment Change – the results will shake the broad marketplace. Inflation via wages in the U.S remains a concern for the U.S Federal Reserve and the job market has appeared on the surface to remain rather strong statistically. A strong number from the Average Hourly Earnings could keep the Fed nervous and another hike on the 14th of June within their mindset.

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Economic Data that needs Attention this Week

by with No Comment Central BanksDataFeatured Highlights

Economic Data that needs Attention this Week

Tuesday 8th of May, U.S FOMC Member Speaks – N.Y Federal Reserve President John Williams will talk at the New York Economic Club. N.Y Fed is important regarding monetary policy particularly for financial institutions. Williams words should be given merit. Williams will also be likely listened to for any comments regarding U.S corporate banking health regarding mid-size and smaller institutions.

Wednesday 9th of May, U.S Consumer Price Index reports – three key inflation consumer price statistics will be published including monthly, annual and core monthly changes. The results will be important taking into consideration the manner the U.S Federal Reserve conducted its ‘sitting on the fence’ rhetoric last week, as if looking for an accuse to continue to raise interest rates if inflation remains stubborn or worse continues to climb.

Thursday 10th of May, U.K BoE Monetary Policy Summary and Official Bank Rate – which is expected to produce another increase of 0.25%.

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GBP/USD One Month Chart as of 7th of May 2023

Friday 11th of May, U.K Gross Domestic Product – growth numbers from the U.K are expected to demonstrate economic conditions remain challenging.

Friday 11th of May, U.S Preliminary University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment – a rise in consumer sentiment from this report could add to the confusion and ‘concern’ that financial institutions have regarding the U.S Federal Reserve’s short term monetary policy regarding the prospects for a June increase to the Federal Funds Rate. If the number is weaker than expected this could help ‘pause’ outlooks.