Thu, Jul 04, 2024

USD/JPY Eases from Historic Highs, Downside Risk Contained
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USDJPY is moving in Ascending channel and market has fallen from the higher high area of the channel

USD/JPY Bulls Take a Breather Amid Intervention Concerns

The USD/JPY pair has been a hot topic lately, especially after reaching levels not seen since 1986. But on Thursday, during the Asian trading session, the pair started to drift lower. This article dives into the various factors influencing the USD/JPY movements and what traders should keep an eye on.

bullish

Japanese Retail Sales and Intervention Fears

The recent performance of the USD/JPY pair has been quite remarkable. However, as with any significant movement in the financial markets, there are always factors that can cause shifts. One such factor is the upbeat Japanese Retail Sales data. The latest figures show a 3% year-over-year increase in May, which has bolstered the Japanese Yen (JPY) and added pressure on the USD/JPY pair.

USDJPY is moving in Ascending channel and market has rebounded from the higher low area of the channel

USDJPY is moving in Ascending channel and market has rebounded from the higher low area of the channel

Another key element at play here is the speculation around potential market intervention by Japanese authorities. Japan’s Vice Finance Minister Masato Kanda has stated that the government is ready to take appropriate action if excessive currency fluctuations negatively impact the national economy. This kind of talk can make traders cautious, leading to profit-taking and a temporary retreat in the USD/JPY pair.

Divergent Policies: BoJ vs. Fed

One of the main reasons for the USD/JPY’s strength has been the significant interest rate differential between the US and Japan. The Bank of Japan (BoJ) has been hesitant to detail any plans for reducing bond purchases, maintaining a dovish stance. On the other hand, the Federal Reserve (Fed) has been quite hawkish recently. Fed officials have suggested that there is no rush to cut rates despite the resilient US economy. This divergence in policies has kept the USD/JPY pair buoyant.

The bullish tone in global equity markets has also played a role in undermining the safe-haven appeal of the JPY. This is a factor that traders should always keep in mind, as it can influence market sentiment and, consequently, the USD/JPY pair.

Using durable goods orders

What’s Next? Key US Economic Data to Watch

As we move forward, traders will be closely watching the US economic docket for cues on the USD/JPY pair’s direction. Some of the key data releases include:

  • Final Q1 GDP Print: This will give us an updated look at the US economy’s performance in the first quarter of the year.
  • Durable Goods Orders: This data is crucial as it reflects the health of the manufacturing sector.
  • Initial Weekly Jobless Claims: Always a significant indicator of the labor market’s health.
  • Pending Home Sales: This data can provide insights into the housing market, a vital component of the US economy.

Additionally, US Treasury bond yields will continue to be a critical factor. Higher yields generally support the USD, which could influence the USD/JPY pair.

Tokyo Core CPI and the Fed’s Preferred Inflation Gauge

Looking beyond Thursday, the Tokyo Core Consumer Price Index (CPI) will be an essential piece of data to watch on Friday. It will provide insights into inflation trends in Japan, which could impact the BoJ’s policy decisions and, consequently, the JPY.

Moreover, the focus will remain on the US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index, which is considered the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge. This data will be pivotal in shaping market expectations regarding the Fed’s future monetary policy moves.

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

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

Final Thoughts

Navigating the forex market can be challenging, but staying informed about key economic indicators and policy decisions can help traders make better decisions. The USD/JPY pair’s recent movements underscore the importance of keeping an eye on various factors, from retail sales data and potential government interventions to divergent central bank policies and crucial economic data releases.

Remember, the forex market is dynamic, and what holds true today might change tomorrow. Always stay updated and adjust your strategies accordingly. Happy trading!


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