Sun, Dec 22, 2024

China’s Economic Woes Drag Down Australian Dollar
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AUDUSD has broken Ascending channel in downside

Australian Dollar Takes a Hit: What’s Going On?

The Australian Dollar (AUD) has been taking quite a beating lately. For seven straight sessions, the AUD has been weakening, and this trend doesn’t seem to be reversing any time soon. So, what’s behind this significant decline? Let’s dive into the details.

Impact of Dropping Energy and Metal Prices

One of the primary reasons for the AUD’s recent slump is the sharp decline in energy and metal prices. Australia is heavily reliant on commodity exports, and when the prices of these commodities drop, the Australian economy feels the heat. This drop is due to several factors, including global market dynamics and specific issues within major trade partners, particularly China.

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China’s Economic Woes

China’s economic health is crucial for Australia because of their strong trade relationship. Recently, the People’s Bank of China (PBoC) implemented interest rate cuts, but these measures haven’t done much to boost market confidence. According to Joseph Capurso, head of international economics at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia, these changes are too modest to suggest a significant acceleration in China’s economy. With China being a major consumer of Australian commodities, any slowdown in their economy directly impacts Australia.

Potential Silver Lining: RBA Rate Hike?

Despite the gloomy outlook, there might be some light at the end of the tunnel. The Australian Dollar could find some support from a potential interest rate hike by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Robust employment data showing tight labor market conditions could push the RBA to consider raising rates. This move could help stabilize the AUD and limit further losses.

US Dollar’s Challenges

While the AUD faces its own set of challenges, the US Dollar (USD) isn’t having an easy ride either. Rising bets on a Federal Reserve (Fed) rate cut in September are creating uncertainties. Fed Chair Jerome Powell has expressed optimism about recent progress on inflation, hinting at a possible rate cut. Fed Governor Christopher Waller also mentioned that the time to lower the policy rate might be drawing closer. These developments could provide some support for the AUD/USD pair, potentially limiting the downside for the Australian Dollar.

Daily Digest: Market Movers and Shakers

In other news, the Democratic Party’s political landscape has seen significant developments, with Vice President Kamala Harris securing the party’s presidential nomination. While this doesn’t directly impact the AUD, it does add to the overall global economic uncertainty.

AUDUSD is moving in Descending channel and market has fallen from the lower high area of the channel

AUDUSD is moving in Descending channel and market has fallen from the lower high area of the channel

The weak outlook for the Chinese economy continues to drive commodity prices down. Copper prices have hit their lowest in over three months, and iron ore prices are also declining. Steel rebar futures have dropped to their lowest level in over seven years, highlighting the severity of the crisis in China’s real estate sector.

The PBoC has cut one- and five-year loan prime rates by ten basis points, a move that reflects the broader economic challenges China faces. These changes could have ripple effects on the Australian markets due to their close trade ties with China.

Additionally, China’s hedge fund industry is bracing for new regulations that will require funds to meet higher asset thresholds and adhere to stricter investment and marketing rules. This could lead to increased pressure on investment firms, adding another layer of complexity to the economic landscape.

Australian Employment Data: A Bright Spot?

Amidst all the negative news, there is some positive data coming out of Australia. The Australian Bureau of Statistics reported an increase in employment by 50,200 in June, surpassing market forecasts of 20,000. This robust employment growth suggests that the demand in the economy is resilient, which could keep cost pressures high.

Sean Langcake, head of macroeconomic forecasting for Oxford Economics Australia, commented that the current pace of employment growth indicates a resilient demand, and cost pressures are likely to remain. This might influence the RBA’s decision on interest rates in the near future.

Fed’s Inflation Outlook

On the other side of the Pacific, Fed Chair Powell’s recent comments have added some confidence that US inflation is on track to meet the Fed’s target. This optimism suggests that a shift towards interest rate cuts could be imminent, which might impact the USD’s strength.

Final Summary

The Australian Dollar is navigating through rough waters, primarily due to the sharp drop in energy and metal prices and the economic challenges faced by China, its key trading partner. While the RBA’s potential rate hike and robust employment data might offer some support, the broader global economic landscape, including the Fed’s potential rate cut, adds layers of uncertainty. As always, staying informed and adaptable is crucial in such volatile times.

challenges faced by China

Navigating these complex financial waters requires keeping an eye on multiple factors. From commodity prices to global economic policies, every piece plays a role in shaping the outlook for the AUD. So, whether you’re an investor, trader, or just someone keeping an eye on the markets, understanding these dynamics can help you make more informed decisions.


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