AUD/USD Price Analysis – April 09, 2024
Daily Price Outlook
Despite the downbeat Australian data, the AUD/USD currency pair maintained its upward trend and showed a mild bullish performance. This was largely due to several factors that supported the Australian Dollar (AUD) against the US Dollar (USD). However, this strength can be attributed to improved risk appetite, as indicated by a higher domestic equity market and growing doubts about the need for the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to cut interest rates in 2024. Meanwhile, the ongoing discussion regarding a potential interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve tends to undermine the US dollar and contributes to the AUD/USD currency pair gains.
Australian Dollar Strength Amid Positive Market Sentiment
However, the Australian currency gained positive traction and strengthened against the US Dollar amid a higher domestic equity market, with the ASX 200 Index positioning for gains. Investor attention remained fixed on the RBA's interest rate decisions, and the positive outlook for the Australian economy supported the AUD/USD currency pair. Moreover, the market's upbeat sentiment, driven by the expectation that the RBA might avoid interest rate cuts, further boosted the Australian Dollar's strength.
On the data front, Australia’s Westpac Consumer Confidence declined by 2.4% in April, against the previous fall of 1.8%. Despite this, the AUD/USD currency pair has been on the bullish track as other factors supported the Australian Dollar. The decline in consumer confidence may raise concerns about the strength of the Australian economy, but the overall outlook remained positive.
US Dollar Weakness and Anticipation of Rate Cut Benefit AUD/USD
On the US front, the broad-based US Dollar faced downward pressure due to ongoing discussions about a potential interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve, which tends to weaken the currency. In the meantime, traders seem hesitant to place any strong position ahead of the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) data release. Traders eagerly await the CPI data for guidance, with the anticipation of a possible rate cut by the Fed in June adding to the downward pressure on the USD, benefiting the AUD/USD currency pair.
AUD/USD - Technical Analysis
On April 9, the Australian dollar (AUD/USD) experienced a slight increase, trading at 0.66069, up by 0.04%. The currency pair is hovering around the pivot point of 0.6584, indicating a narrow trading range. Resistance levels are mapped at 0.6635, 0.6665, and 0.6696, suggesting potential hurdles for upward movements. Conversely, the immediate support post the pivot is at 0.6585, with further cushions at 0.6550 and 0.6508, delineating key levels where buying interest might intensify.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands at 62, depicting a relatively strong market but not yet in overbought territory, which might allow for some upward potential. However, the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6546 provides a solid foundation, indicating that the pair has been in a general uptrend recently.
For traders, the technical landscape suggests a cautious approach with a bearish tilt. Considering the current levels, a strategy to sell below 0.66234 might be prudent, aiming for a take-profit at 0.65836, while keeping a stop loss at 0.66443 to mitigate potential losses.
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AUD/USD Price Analysis and Trade Forecast: Daily Trading Signal
Daily Price Outlook
- AUD/USD shows slight gain at 0.66069, with resistance up to 0.6696 and support down to 0.6508.
- RSI at 62 suggests strength, backed by 50-day EMA at 0.6546 indicating a steady uptrend.
- Strategy recommends selling below 0.66234, targeting 0.65836, with a stop loss at 0.66443.
On April 9, the Australian dollar (AUD/USD) experienced a slight increase, trading at 0.66069, up by 0.04%. The currency pair is hovering around the pivot point of 0.6584, indicating a narrow trading range. Resistance levels are mapped at 0.6635, 0.6665, and 0.6696, suggesting potential hurdles for upward movements. Conversely, the immediate support post the pivot is at 0.6585, with further cushions at 0.6550 and 0.6508, delineating key levels where buying interest might intensify.
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) stands at 62, depicting a relatively strong market but not yet in overbought territory, which might allow for some upward potential. However, the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6546 provides a solid foundation, indicating that the pair has been in a general uptrend recently.
For traders, the technical landscape suggests a cautious approach with a bearish tilt. Considering the current levels, a strategy to sell below 0.66234 might be prudent, aiming for a take-profit at 0.65836, while keeping a stop loss at 0.66443 to mitigate potential losses.
AUD/USD - Trade Ideas
Entry Price – Sell Below 0.66234
Take Profit – 0.65836
Stop Loss – 0.66443
Risk to Reward – 1: 1.9
Profit & Loss Per Standard Lot = +$398/ -$209
Profit & Loss Per Mini Lot = +$39/ -$20
AUD/USD Price Analysis and Trade Forecast: Daily Trading Signal
Daily Price Outlook
- Bullish Momentum Intact: AUD/USD's current rise, reinforced by a clear candlestick pattern, indicates sustained upward movement.
- Technical Levels to Watch: The currency faces key resistances at 0.6611 and 0.6634, pivotal for future price actions.
- Strategic Trade Setup: Buying above 0.65856 with specified targets and stop-loss levels offers a balanced risk-reward in the current market scenario.
The Australian Dollar (AUD/USD) shows a robust ascent, registering at 0.65969 with a 0.43% increase, indicative of a solid bullish sentiment. This movement aligns with the three white soldiers candlestick pattern, suggesting a strong uptrend and attracting traders' attention to the pair's potential for further gains. The currency trades above its pivot point of 0.6585, which serves as a critical juncture for short-term direction. Resistance levels at 0.6611, 0.6634, and 0.6654 mark the thresholds where selling pressure could intensify, while immediate support at 0.6562, followed by 0.6545 and 0.6525, provides downside protection.
With the Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 71, the AUD/USD is on the brink of the overbought zone, suggesting that the rally might soon face resistance. However, the 50-day EMA of 0.65 reinforces the upward trend, indicating that the currency has solid ground to sustain its momentum.
In light of this technical outlook, a prudent strategy would involve initiating a long position above 0.65856, aiming for a take profit at 0.66230, and placing a stop loss at 0.65620 to mitigate potential downside risks. This approach capitalizes on the current upward trajectory while remaining vigilant of the inherent market volatility.
AUD/USD - Trade Ideas
Entry Price – Buy Above 0.65856
Take Profit – 0.66230
Stop Loss – 0.65620
Risk to Reward – 1: 1.5
Profit & Loss Per Standard Lot = +$374/ -$236
Profit & Loss Per Mini Lot = +$37/ -$23
AUD/USD Price Analysis – April 04, 2024
Daily Price Outlook
Despite geopolitical tensions and concerns about a slowdown in China, the AUDUSD currency pair has maintained an upward trend and remained well-bid around the 0.6607 level. The bullish bias can be attributed to the upbeat domestic economic data, such as higher Judo Bank Services and Composite PMIs, which typically strengthen the Australian dollar (AUD) and contribute to the AUD/USD pair gains. Meanwhile, the improved Judo Bank PMI data and Building Permits figures suggest a stronger Australian economy, likely bolstering the AUD currency. In addition to this, the bearish US dollar, triggered by the lower US Treasury yields, was seen as another key factor that kept the AUD/USD pair higher.
Impact of RBA's Stance and Economic Data on AUD/USD
On the AUD front, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) didn't discuss raising interest rates in their March meeting. They find it hard to predict future rate changes. They think things are balanced but need more time to be sure inflation will be where they want it. Westpac, summarizing the RBA meeting, thinks the current cash rate is fine for now, but it might change later. Basically, they're being careful and not making any quick decisions about interest rates until they're more certain about the economy.
On the data front, Australia's Judo Bank Services PMI rose to 54.4 in March from 53.5 in February, indicating growth in the services sector. The Judo Bank Composite PMI also improved to 53.3 from 52.4, reflecting overall economic expansion. However, Building Permits fell by 1.9% in February, missing expectations for a 3.3% increase, though they were up 5.2% year-on-year.
Meanwhile, Australian Industry Group (AiG) Industry Index improved to -5.3 in February, signaling a smaller contraction compared to the previous -14.9 reading. The AiG Manufacturing PMI and AiG Construction PMI also showed improvement, coming in at -7 and -12.9, respectively, indicating a slowdown in the pace of decline in these sectors.
Therefore, the RBA's cautious stance on interest rates and the mixed economic data could lead to a neutral impact on the AUD/USD currency pair. While positive PMI figures indicate economic growth, the RBA's reluctance to raise rates and the decline in Building Permits could limit the AUD's strength against the USD.
Impact of USD Performance and Economic Indicators on AUD/USD
On the US front, the broad-based US dollar continued its decline and remained well offered around 103.23, mainly due to lower US Treasury yields and increasing expectations for an imminent interest rate cut later this year. Cleveland Fed President expects rate cuts this year, while San Francisco Fed President thinks three rate cuts in 2024 are reasonable with more evidence. They both have different opinions on the timing and number of rate cuts, but they agree that economic conditions will determine the final decision.
On the data front, US ADP Employment Change increased by 184K in March, surpassing expectations and indicating improved job growth compared to February's 155K rise. However, US ISM Services PMI declined to 51.4 in March, falling short of expectations, signaling a slowdown in the services sector.
Conversely, US ISM Manufacturing PMI unexpectedly expanded in March to 50.3, up from February's 47.8, marking the highest level since September 2022. Therefore, the US dollar's decline, fueled by lower Treasury yields and expectations of a future interest rate cut, helped the AUD/USD pair to stay bid.
AUD/USD - Technical Analysis
The Australian Dollar (AUD/USD) shows a robust ascent, registering at 0.65969 with a 0.43% increase, indicative of a solid bullish sentiment. This movement aligns with the three white soldiers candlestick pattern, suggesting a strong uptrend and attracting traders' attention to the pair's potential for further gains. The currency trades above its pivot point of 0.6585, which serves as a critical juncture for short-term direction. Resistance levels at 0.6611, 0.6634, and 0.6654 mark the thresholds where selling pressure could intensify, while immediate support at 0.6562, followed by 0.6545 and 0.6525, provides downside protection.
With the Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 71, the AUD/USD is on the brink of the overbought zone, suggesting that the rally might soon face resistance. However, the 50-day EMA of 0.65 reinforces the upward trend, indicating that the currency has solid ground to sustain its momentum.
In light of this technical outlook, a prudent strategy would involve initiating a long position above 0.65856, aiming for a take profit at 0.66230, and placing a stop loss at 0.65620 to mitigate potential downside risks. This approach capitalizes on the current upward trajectory while remaining vigilant of the inherent market volatility.
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AUD/USD Price Analysis and Trade Forecast: Daily Trading Signal
Daily Price Outlook
- Gold (XAU/USD) trends upward, trading at $2,251.445 with a pivot point at $2,266.
- Resistance outlined at $2,285, $2,303, and $2,319, with support at $2,249 and below.
- Indicators like RSI (63) and 50 EMA ($2,210) suggest bullish momentum.
The AUD/USD pair on April 2 exhibits slight bearishness, trading at 0.64885, a decrement of 0.01%. The currency pair is currently hovering around a critical pivot point at 0.6498, which may serve as a juncture for potential directional shifts. Resistance levels are established at 0.6515, 0.6539, and 0.6557, marking thresholds where the price may encounter upward pressure. Conversely, support is found at 0.6474, 0.6462, and 0.6443, which could provide a foundation for price stabilization or a rebound.
The technical landscape is shaped by the 50-Day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6515 and the Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 37, both of which signal a bearish inclination, corroborated by the prevailing downward trendline and bearish channel observed in the 2-hour timeframe.
In conclusion, the AUD/USD pair presents a bearish outlook below the pivot of 0.6498. Traders may consider a selling strategy below the 0.64979 mark, targeting a profit at 0.64615 while placing a stop loss at 0.65157, paying close attention to the identified technical levels and indicators for any shifts in market dynamics.
AUD/USD - Trade Ideas
Entry Price – Sell Below 0.64979
Take Profit – 0.64615
Stop Loss – 0.65157
Risk to Reward – 1: 2
Profit & Loss Per Standard Lot = +$364/ -$178
Profit & Loss Per Mini Lot = +$36/ -$17
AUD/USD Price Analysis – April 02, 2024
Daily Price Outlook
Despite the renewed strength of the US dollar, the AUD/USD currency pair has managed to stop its previous losses and regained some traction around the 0.6499 level. However, this mild bullish performance of the AUD/USD pair can be attributed to several factors, including the strength shown by the Australian economy. Despite global economic challenges, Australia has shown a strong recovery, supported by strong domestic demand and ongoing fiscal stimulus measures. Moreover, rising commodity prices, especially for key exports like iron ore, have bolstered Australia's export earnings and contributed to the positive sentiment surrounding the Australian dollar.
On the other hand, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is cautiously optimistic and committed to helping the economy with supportive monetary policies. Despite ongoing inflation worries, the RBA's actions have given stability and confidence to investors, boosting the AUD/USD pair's upward movement.
RBA Minutes and Impact on AUD/USD Currency Pair
It is worth noting that the recent RBA meeting minutes showed that the bank is not thinking about raising interest rates and this was not surprising to markets because the RBA is focused on helping the economy recover and managing inflation using other methods. However, the decision to keep rates unchanged had a mixed impact on the AUD/USD pair. Initially, it caused a small drop in the Australian dollar against the US dollar, but overall, the market stayed positive because of the RBA's supportive policies, which helped the AUD/USD pair to regain its traction.
Chinese Yuan's Performance and Its Impact on AUD/USD Currency Pair
On the other side, the Chinese Yuan recently dropped to its lowest level in four-and-a-half months, leading China to take steps to stabilize its currency and boost economic growth. It should be noted that China's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reported better manufacturing and non-manufacturing PMI figures, suggesting a potential economic recovery. These improvements in China, along with efforts to support the Yuan, have indirectly helped the Australian dollar due to Australia's close trade relationship with China.
If China's economy keeps improving, it could lead to higher demand for Australian exports, which would benefit the AUD/USD pair.
US ISM Manufacturing PMI and Fed's Stance on Interest Rates
On the US front, the rise of the US ISM Manufacturing PMI to its highest level since September 2022, along with other positive economic data, has strengthened the US dollar and increased expectations for a less dovish stance from the Federal Reserve. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's recent comments, expressing contentment with inflation data and suggesting a cautious approach to interest rate adjustments, have contributed to the dollar's strength.
Therefore, the strengthened US dollar, fueled by positive economic data and expectations of a less dovish stance from the Federal Reserve, has put downward pressure on the AUD/USD pair due to the inverse relationship between the two currencies.
AUD/USD - Technical Analysis
The AUD/USD pair on April 2 exhibits slight bearishness, trading at 0.64885, a decrement of 0.01%. The currency pair is currently hovering around a critical pivot point at 0.6498, which may serve as a juncture for potential directional shifts. Resistance levels are established at 0.6515, 0.6539, and 0.6557, marking thresholds where the price may encounter upward pressure. Conversely, support is found at 0.6474, 0.6462, and 0.6443, which could provide a foundation for price stabilization or a rebound.
The technical landscape is shaped by the 50-Day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6515 and the Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 37, both of which signal a bearish inclination, corroborated by the prevailing downward trendline and bearish channel observed in the 2-hour timeframe.
In conclusion, the AUD/USD pair presents a bearish outlook below the pivot of 0.6498. Traders may consider a selling strategy below the 0.64979 mark, targeting a profit at 0.64615 while placing a stop loss at 0.65157, paying close attention to the identified technical levels and indicators for any shifts in market dynamics.
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AUD/USD Price Analysis – March 28, 2024
Daily Price Outlook
During the early European session, the AUD/USD currency pair experienced a downward trend and remained well offered around the 0.6500 level. However, the reason for its downward trend can be attributed to various factors, including downbeat Consumer Inflation Expectations and Retail Sales figures from Australia, which raised concerns about the country's economic outlook and the potential for interest rate cuts by the Reserve Bank of Australia. Furthermore, the cautious sentiments from members of the Federal Reserve regarding the timing of rate cuts contributed to the pressure on the Australian dollar against the US Dollar.
In addition to this, the risk-off market sentiment triggered by ongoing conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war and tensions in the Middle East, particularly between Israel and Palestine, was seen as another key factor that undermined the riskier asset Australian dollar and kept the AUD/USD currency pair down.
Softer Consumer Inflation Expectations and Retail Sales Figures
As mentioned, the AUD/USD currency pair has been declining amid expectations that the Reserve Bank of Australia might lower interest rates in 2024. This view was reinforced by weaker Consumer Inflation Expectations and Retail Sales in Australia. Moreover, the Australian Monthly Consumer Price Index for February fell short of expectations, sparking concerns about Australia's economy. These worries have contributed to pushing the AUD/USD pair lower.
On the data front, Australia's consumer expectations for future inflation dropped slightly to 4.3% in March, down from the previous 4.5% rise. In the meantime, February's Retail Sales increased by 0.3% from the previous month, but it fell short of the expected 0.4% and the earlier 1.1% jump. Plus, Australia's Monthly Consumer Price Index for February showed a 3.4% year-on-year increase, just below the anticipated 3.5%. Meanwhile, Westpac Consumer Confidence decreased to 84.4 in March from February's 86.0, after hitting a 20-month high.
On the positive side, the Westpac Leading Index rose by 0.1% in February. The government aims to raise the minimum wage in line with inflation this year to help low-income families cope with rising living costs. Therefore, the AUD/USD pair faced downward pressure as Australia's softer consumer inflation expectations, lower-than-expected retail sales, and slightly below-anticipated CPI figures heightened concerns about the country's economic outlook.
Federal Reserve's Cautious Stance on Interest Rates
On the US front, Federal Reserve Board Governor Christopher Waller's hawkish stance on interest rates also affected the performance of the AUD/USD currency pair by underpinning the US dollar. Despite sticky inflation data, Waller expressed a no-rush approach to cutting rates. This cautious stance suggested that the Federal Reserve might not be quick to implement monetary policy easing measures, which could support the US Dollar and contributes to the declines in the AUD/USD pair.
Moreover, Some Federal Reserve members, like Bostic and Cook, said cutting rates too soon could make inflation worse. Goolsbee, from Chicago Fed, leaned toward cutting rates but wants to see proof that inflation is getting better first.
Therefore, the AUD/USD pair faced pressure as Federal Reserve officials, including Christopher Waller, signaled a cautious approach to rate cuts despite inflation concerns, bolstering the US Dollar against the Australian Dollar.
AUD/USD - Technical Analysis
The AUD/USD pair has experienced a slight decrease, down by 0.12%, with its price settling at 0.6528. Amidst fluctuating market conditions, the Australian dollar struggles to maintain its foothold against the US dollar, as investors remain cautious ahead of potential shifts in monetary policy and economic indicators. The pivot point at 0.6541 signifies a critical juncture for AUD/USD, where its future trajectory could be decided. Resistance levels at 0.6572, 0.6598, and 0.6630 present hurdles for any bullish momentum, while support levels at 0.6504, 0.6478, and 0.6448 offer a cushion against further declines.
Technical indicators suggest a challenging environment for AUD/USD. The 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6543, just above the current price, acts as a barrier to upward movement. Furthermore, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) standing at 46, below the midpoint of 50, indicates a bearish sentiment within the market. This confluence of technical signals hints at potential weakness, suggesting that the pair might face downward pressure in the short term.
Considering these factors, the outlook for AUD/USD appears tilted towards bearishness below the pivot point of 0.6541. Traders might consider a sell strategy below the specified entry price of 0.65409, targeting a pullback to 0.65044 while setting a stop loss at 0.65611 to mitigate risk.
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AUD/USD Price Analysis and Trade Forecast: Daily Trading Signal
Daily Price Outlook
- AUD/USD's decline to 0.6528 underscores market caution, with pivotal resistance and support levels in focus.
- Technical indicators, including a sub-50 RSI and 50 EMA resistance, signal potential bearish momentum.
- Strategy suggests a bearish outlook, advocating for sells below 0.65409 with specific targets and stop loss parameters.
The AUD/USD pair has experienced a slight decrease, down by 0.12%, with its price settling at 0.6528. Amidst fluctuating market conditions, the Australian dollar struggles to maintain its foothold against the US dollar, as investors remain cautious ahead of potential shifts in monetary policy and economic indicators. The pivot point at 0.6541 signifies a critical juncture for AUD/USD, where its future trajectory could be decided. Resistance levels at 0.6572, 0.6598, and 0.6630 present hurdles for any bullish momentum, while support levels at 0.6504, 0.6478, and 0.6448 offer a cushion against further declines.
Technical indicators suggest a challenging environment for AUD/USD. The 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6543, just above the current price, acts as a barrier to upward movement. Furthermore, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) standing at 46, below the midpoint of 50, indicates a bearish sentiment within the market. This confluence of technical signals hints at potential weakness, suggesting that the pair might face downward pressure in the short term.
Considering these factors, the outlook for AUD/USD appears tilted towards bearishness below the pivot point of 0.6541. Traders might consider a sell strategy below the specified entry price of 0.65409, targeting a pullback to 0.65044 while setting a stop loss at 0.65611 to mitigate risk.
AUD/USD - Trade Ideas
Entry Price – Sell Below 0.65409
Take Profit – 0.65044
Stop Loss – 0.65611
Risk to Reward – 1: 1.8
Profit & Loss Per Standard Lot = +$365/ -$202
Profit & Loss Per Mini Lot = +$36/ -$20
AUD/USD Price Analysis and Trade Forecast: Daily Trading Signal
Daily Price Outlook
- AUD/USD Marginally Down: Trading slightly lower at 0.65367, signaling subtle market shifts.
- Key Technical Levels Identified: Resistance at 0.6593, 0.6626, 0.6667; support at 0.6512, 0.6478, 0.6448.
- Strategic Trading Plan: Sell limit set at 0.65552, targeting profits at 0.65102, with a stop loss at 0.65927.
The Australian Dollar (AUD/USD) holds steady in today's trading, showing a negligible decline to a rate of 0.65367. In the broader context, this movement reflects the nuanced interplay of economic indicators, market sentiment, and global financial dynamics influencing the currency pair.
A detailed technical analysis reveals that AUD/USD is operating just below the pivot point of 0.6555, indicating a potential inflection in market direction. Resistance levels are poised at 0.6593, 0.6626, and 0.6667, delineating clear barriers to upward momentum. Conversely, immediate support lies at 0.6512, with further floors at 0.6478 and 0.6448, which could offer rebound opportunities. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) standing at 46 suggests a slightly bearish sentiment, yet not deeply entrenched in oversold territory. The 50-Day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) closely mirrors the pivot point at 0.6554, suggesting a near equilibrium between buying and selling forces.
Given these observations, the recommended strategy involves placing a sell limit at 0.65552, with a target for taking profit at 0.65102, and a stop loss set at 0.65927. This tactical approach capitalizes on the AUD/USD's current stability, leveraging minor fluctuations for potential gains, whilst mindful of the currency pair's sensitivity to shifts in economic reports and geopolitical events.
AUD/USD - Trade Ideas
Entry Price – Sell Limit 0.65552
Take Profit – 0.65102
Stop Loss – 0.65927
Risk to Reward – 1: 1.2
Profit & Loss Per Standard Lot = +$450/ -$375
Profit & Loss Per Mini Lot = +$45/ -$37
AUD/USD Price Analysis – March 26, 2024
Daily Price Outlook
The AUD/USD currency pair has maintained its upward trend and still showing bullish performance around 0.6550 level. However, the reason for its upward trend can be attributed to the decline in the US dollar, as evidenced by the struggles of the US Dollar Index (DXY) over consecutive days. This weakening of the Greenback has provided support to the AUD/USD pair, contributing to its upward momentum.
Furthermore, the Australian equity market's positive performance has also played a role in bolstering the Australian Dollar. Despite modest weakness in Wall Street, the ASX 200 Index has extended its winning streak, indicating investor confidence in the Australian economy. This optimism in the equity market has spilled over into the currency markets, providing strength to the Aussie Dollar.
Moreover, Australia's government has pledged to support a minimum wage increase aligned with inflation, addressing the concerns of low-income families amidst rising living costs. This commitment to supporting the economy has further boosted confidence in the Australian Dollar, contributing to its bullish performance against the US Dollar.
In contrast to this, Australian Dollar faced slight downward pressure following the release of Australia's Westpac Consumer Confidence data, which dipped 1.8% to 84.4 in March 2024 from February's 86.0, easing from 20-month highs. However, the overall bullish sentiment surrounding the AUD/USD pair persisted, supported by factors such as improved market sentiment and a positive outlook for the Australian equity market.
Australian Equity Market Gains and its Impact on AUD/USD Currency Pair
As mentioned earlier, the Australian equity market experienced gains, contributing to the strength of the Australian Dollar and impacting the AUD/USD currency pair. However, the expectations of a rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), driven by a decline in Aussie consumer confidence, bolstered investor sentiment. Despite modest weakness on Wall Street overnight, the ASX 200 Index extended its winning streak, providing a favorable environment for the Australian Dollar.
Investors monitored the release of Australia's monthly Consumer Price Index (CPI) data, scheduled for Wednesday, for further insights into the economic landscape and potential monetary policy adjustments by the RBA. The government's commitment to supporting a minimum wage increase aligned with inflation also underscored efforts to address challenges faced by low-income families amid rising living costs, fostering positive sentiment towards the Australian economy and its currency.
Federal Reserve Rate Cut Expectations and Impact on AUD/USD Currency Pair
On the US front, the Federal Reserve's expectation of rate cut cycle, coupled with previously released downbeat US economic data, influenced the AUD/USD currency pair. On the data front, US New Home Sales Change declined by 0.3% month-over-month, falling short of expectations, while S&P Global Services PMI showed a slight decrease in March. These figures indicated challenges in the US economic recovery, adding pressure on the dollar and boosting the AUD/USD currency pair.
Atlanta Fed President Raphael Bostic expressed a conservative outlook, expecting just one rate cut this year to avoid premature disruptions. In contrast, Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee aligned with the majority of the board, anticipating three cuts but emphasizing the need for additional evidence of decreasing inflation. Hence, the divergence in views within the Fed contributed to market uncertainty but provided support for the AUD/USD pair amid expectations of accommodative monetary policy.
Bloomberg Survey on PBoC's RRR Cuts and Impact on AUD/USD Currency Pair
According to economists surveyed by Bloomberg, they predict that the People's Bank of China (PBoC) will make two more cuts to the Reserve Requirement Ratio (RRR) in 2024, totaling a 50 basis point reduction. This means the PBoC will require banks to hold less money in reserve, aiming to boost economic growth and increase available funds in China. This move could indirectly help Australia's economy because of its strong trade relationship with China, possibly leading to a stronger AUD/USD currency pair.
AUD/USD - Technical Analysis
The Australian Dollar (AUD/USD) holds steady in today's trading, showing a negligible decline to a rate of 0.65367. In the broader context, this movement reflects the nuanced interplay of economic indicators, market sentiment, and global financial dynamics influencing the currency pair.
A detailed technical analysis reveals that AUD/USD is operating just below the pivot point of 0.6555, indicating a potential inflection in market direction. Resistance levels are poised at 0.6593, 0.6626, and 0.6667, delineating clear barriers to upward momentum. Conversely, immediate support lies at 0.6512, with further floors at 0.6478 and 0.6448, which could offer rebound opportunities. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) standing at 46 suggests a slightly bearish sentiment, yet not deeply entrenched in oversold territory. The 50-Day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) closely mirrors the pivot point at 0.6554, suggesting a near equilibrium between buying and selling forces.
Given these observations, the recommended strategy involves placing a sell limit at 0.65552, with a target for taking profit at 0.65102, and a stop loss set at 0.65927. This tactical approach capitalizes on the AUD/USD's current stability, leveraging minor fluctuations for potential gains, whilst mindful of the currency pair's sensitivity to shifts in economic reports and geopolitical events.
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