Sun, Dec 22, 2024

USD/CAD Ascends Beyond 1.3750 with Focus on BoC Decision
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USDCAD is moving in box pattern and market has reached resistance area of the pattern

USD/CAD Climbs Higher as BoC Rate Cut Looms: What You Need to Know

The USD/CAD pair has been on a remarkable run, climbing for the sixth consecutive day. Currently, it’s trading near 1.3785 in the early Asian session on Wednesday. This movement comes amid widespread anticipation of a rate cut by the Bank of Canada (BoC) and various economic factors impacting both the US and Canadian economies. Let’s dive into the details to understand the dynamics at play.

BoC’s Anticipated Rate Cut and Its Impact

The Expected Rate Cut

The BoC is widely expected to reduce its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points (bps) to 4.50% at its July meeting. This anticipated move follows signs of easing inflationary pressures in June. Financial markets have almost fully priced in this rate cut, suggesting high confidence in this decision.

negatively impact

Taylor Schleich, a rates strategist at the National Bank of Canada, remarked, “A rate cut is likely to be delivered,” indicating that the BoC might emphasize that future cuts will depend on incoming data. This cautious approach underscores the BoC’s commitment to navigating the economic landscape carefully.

Economic Factors in Play

Several economic factors are influencing this anticipated rate cut. One major aspect is the recent easing of price pressures, which has given the BoC room to maneuver its monetary policy. Additionally, demand concerns from China and easing geopolitical tensions have led to a decrease in crude oil prices, hitting six-week lows.

Given that Canada is a major exporter of crude oil to the United States, lower oil prices can negatively impact the Canadian Dollar (CAD). This combination of factors – the expected rate cut and lower crude oil prices – is likely to support the USD/CAD pair in the near term.

US Economic Indicators and Fed’s Rate Cut Prospects

The Fed’s Rate Cut Expectations

On the other side of the border, the US Federal Reserve (Fed) is also in focus. Traders are now expecting the first rate cut by the Fed in September, with a probability of nearly 96%. A majority of economists in a Reuters poll predict that the Fed will cut interest rates twice this year. This expectation is driven by cooler inflation over the past few months and recent signs of labor market weakness.

Economic Data Insights

Recent US economic data have painted a mixed picture. Data released on Tuesday showed that US Existing Home Sales dropped by 5.4% month-on-month in June, from 4.11 million to 3.89 million, which was worse than expected. Meanwhile, the Richmond Fed Manufacturing Index came in at -17 in July, down from -10 previously, highlighting manufacturing weakness in the region.

USDCAD is moving in Ascending channel and market has reached higher high area of the channel

USDCAD is moving in Ascending channel and market has reached higher high area of the channel

Investors will closely monitor further economic indicators later on Wednesday, including the advanced US Goods Trade Balance, New Home Sales, and the preliminary S&P Global Manufacturing and Services PMIs for June. These data points will provide more insights into the US economy’s health and influence the Fed’s policy decisions.

Risk-Off Mood and Market Reactions

Broad Impact on the Greenback

Amid the risk-off mood, the USD has gained broad strength. Investors are seeking safety in the Greenback, boosting its value against other currencies, including the CAD. This sentiment has contributed to the USD/CAD pair’s rally, pushing it higher.

Market Sentiment and Future Outlook

The market sentiment is currently dominated by the anticipation of rate cuts from both the BoC and the Fed. This dual expectation is driving the USD/CAD pair’s movements. As investors react to the central banks’ decisions and economic data, the pair’s trajectory will likely reflect these developments.

Reuters poll predict

Final Summary

The USD/CAD pair’s recent performance reflects a complex interplay of economic factors and central bank policies. With the BoC expected to cut its rate and the Fed likely to follow suit later this year, the currency pair is navigating a landscape of easing inflation, weaker economic data, and shifting market sentiment. Investors should keep a close eye on upcoming economic indicators and central bank announcements to understand the potential direction of the USD/CAD pair in the near term. As always, staying informed and adaptable is key in the dynamic world of forex trading.


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