Forex News Timeline

Friday, March 28, 2025

The AUD/JPY pair extended its decline on Friday, hovering near the 94.30 zone after the European session and slipping closer to the lower end of its intraday range.

AUD/JPY was seen near the 94.30 zone on Friday ahead of the Asian session, retreating toward the lower end of its daily range.Despite mixed signals from oscillators, moving averages tilt the broader technical bias to the downside.Support lies near 94.00 and 93.88, while resistance is seen just above 94.40; indicators remain conflicted with bearish lean.The AUD/JPY pair extended its decline on Friday, hovering near the 94.30 zone after the European session and slipping closer to the lower end of its intraday range. The pair is down notably on the day, reflecting an increase in selling interest. While some momentum indicators remain neutral or even slightly constructive, broader technical signals continue to favor a bearish bias for the near term. Looking at the indicators, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) fell below 50, yet neutral in tone, while the MACD posts a slight buy signal , hinting at possible short-term correction. However, the Bull Bear Power stands at 0.641, reinforcing the underlying selling pressure, and the Williams Percent Range remains neutral, failing to offer a clear reversal signal. Moving averages present a split picture. The short-term 20-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) at 94.02 continues to signal a buy, offering dynamic support. However, the 10-day EMA (94.45) and SMA (94.58), along with the 100-day (96.85) and 200-day (98.70) SMAs, all lean bearish, suggesting that upside potential remains capped unless a structural shift occurs. In terms of levels, immediate support emerges at 94.16, followed by 94.02 and 93.88. On the flip side, resistance is seen around 94.35, 94.42, and 94.45—just ahead of key short-term moving averages that could act as selling zones if bulls attempt to regain control. AUD/JPY daily chart    

Mexico Fiscal Balance, pesos: -95.31B (February) vs previous -19.42B

The Australian Dollar (AUD) remains directionless during Friday’s American session, with AUD/USD hovering around the 0.6300 zone.

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The release of the US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index failed to generate significant market reaction, as the figures aligned with expectations except for the core PCE, which ticked slightly higher than forecasts. The Aussie struggled to gain ground despite weaker demand for the US Dollar, as caution persists over trade tensions and the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) uncertain policy outlook. Daily digest market movers: Australian Dollar steady after uneventful US PCE print AUD/USD continued to range around the 0.6300 zone following the release of the February PCE inflation data, which came broadly in line with market forecasts. San Francisco Fed President Daly reiterated that two rate cuts remain likely in 2025, but emphasized the need for patience as inflation and tariffs evolve. Broader risk sentiment was weighed down by fresh US auto tariffs and the looming April 2 deadline for reciprocal trade measures. The Australian Dollar remained vulnerable, with risk appetite softening and demand for safe-haven assets—like Gold—rising to new all-time highs. Markets continue to anticipate a rate cut from the Fed later this year, but near-term bets remain cautious amid mixed economic signals. Hopes for additional economic stimulus from China helped limit losses in the Aussie, given Australia’s strong export ties to the Chinese market. Despite the Fed’s cautious stance, the US Dollar lacked conviction as traders shifted focus toward macro risks and geopolitical developments. The US Dollar Index remains capped below key resistance at 105.00, with technicals suggesting range-bound movement in the near term. Investor positioning remains net short on AUD, with bearish bets building amid prolonged global trade and inflation uncertainty. Technical analysis The AUD/USD pair struggled to find traction following the PCE data, remaining locked in a narrow range around the 0.6300 zone. While the inflation report failed to surprise, the pair still declined modestly, reflecting lingering bearish sentiment. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) dipped further into the lower neutral band, while the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) histogram printed a fresh red bar, reinforcing downside risks. Bearish signals also emerged from Momentum and Bull Bear Power indicators. The short-term 10-day and 20-day moving averages now act as immediate resistance, while the 100-day and 200-day SMAs remain firmly bearish. Key support levels lie at 0.6295 and 0.6294, while resistance is noted at 0.6297 and 0.6303. Without a decisive break, the pair is likely to remain confined in this consolidation phase into next week.   Australian Dollar FAQs What key factors drive the Australian Dollar? One of the most significant factors for the Australian Dollar (AUD) is the level of interest rates set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Because Australia is a resource-rich country another key driver is the price of its biggest export, Iron Ore. The health of the Chinese economy, its largest trading partner, is a factor, as well as inflation in Australia, its growth rate and Trade Balance. Market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – is also a factor, with risk-on positive for AUD. How do the decisions of the Reserve Bank of Australia impact the Australian Dollar? The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) influences the Australian Dollar (AUD) by setting the level of interest rates that Australian banks can lend to each other. This influences the level of interest rates in the economy as a whole. The main goal of the RBA is to maintain a stable inflation rate of 2-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively high interest rates compared to other major central banks support the AUD, and the opposite for relatively low. The RBA can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former AUD-negative and the latter AUD-positive. How does the health of the Chinese Economy impact the Australian Dollar? China is Australia’s largest trading partner so the health of the Chinese economy is a major influence on the value of the Australian Dollar (AUD). When the Chinese economy is doing well it purchases more raw materials, goods and services from Australia, lifting demand for the AUD, and pushing up its value. The opposite is the case when the Chinese economy is not growing as fast as expected. Positive or negative surprises in Chinese growth data, therefore, often have a direct impact on the Australian Dollar and its pairs. How does the price of Iron Ore impact the Australian Dollar? Iron Ore is Australia’s largest export, accounting for $118 billion a year according to data from 2021, with China as its primary destination. The price of Iron Ore, therefore, can be a driver of the Australian Dollar. Generally, if the price of Iron Ore rises, AUD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Iron Ore falls. Higher Iron Ore prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance for Australia, which is also positive of the AUD. How does the Trade Balance impact the Australian Dollar? The Trade Balance, which is the difference between what a country earns from its exports versus what it pays for its imports, is another factor that can influence the value of the Australian Dollar. If Australia produces highly sought after exports, then its currency will gain in value purely from the surplus demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase its exports versus what it spends to purchase imports. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens the AUD, with the opposite effect if the Trade Balance is negative.  

The Canadian Dollar was dragged in both directions on Friday, rising and then falling as market flows clash with fresh threats of tariffs on Canada from US President Donald Trump.

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Market sentiment is evaporating as the Trump administration barrels toward its self-imposed deadline of April 2 for a wide package of ever-changing tariffs that still remain light on firm details. Friday was heavy on the US side of the economic data docket, with core US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index inflation rising in February, crippling rate cut hopes and also flashing warning signs that inflation may remain above targets for far longer than expected. US consumer sentiment measures also tumbled as consumer turn increasingly negative on the Trump administration’s handling of the economy in general, and more specifically international trade. Daily digest market movers: Canadian Dollar whipsaws as tariff threats weigh on Loonie The Canadian Dollar rose early on Friday after the Greenback declined, before slumping back after President Trump reiterates his intent to go through with tariffs on Canada. US core PCE Price Index inflation ticked higher in February, climbing to 2.8% YoY. University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index fall to a two-year low at 57.0, and UoM Consumer 5-year Inflation Expectations also climbed again to 4.1%. Despite deteriorating consumer sentiment, and inflation figures already beginning to rise in anticipation of tariffs, President Trump took the time to insist that he will be going ahead with sweeping tariffs on Canada. Next week will be a slow burn as investors keep an eye on trade headlines in the runup to the Trump administration’s April 2 tariff deadline. US Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) and Canadian labor figures are also due next Friday. Canadian Dollar price forecast The Canadian Dollar continues to grind through a rough consolidation phase that has stretched on for months. USD/CAD has returned to familiar technical levels just above 1.4300, with bids mired in the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 1.4320. USD/CAD daily chart Canadian Dollar FAQs What key factors drive the Canadian Dollar? The key factors driving the Canadian Dollar (CAD) are the level of interest rates set by the Bank of Canada (BoC), the price of Oil, Canada’s largest export, the health of its economy, inflation and the Trade Balance, which is the difference between the value of Canada’s exports versus its imports. Other factors include market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – with risk-on being CAD-positive. As its largest trading partner, the health of the US economy is also a key factor influencing the Canadian Dollar. How do the decisions of the Bank of Canada impact the Canadian Dollar? The Bank of Canada (BoC) has a significant influence on the Canadian Dollar by setting the level of interest rates that banks can lend to one another. This influences the level of interest rates for everyone. The main goal of the BoC is to maintain inflation at 1-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively higher interest rates tend to be positive for the CAD. The Bank of Canada can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former CAD-negative and the latter CAD-positive. How does the price of Oil impact the Canadian Dollar? The price of Oil is a key factor impacting the value of the Canadian Dollar. Petroleum is Canada’s biggest export, so Oil price tends to have an immediate impact on the CAD value. Generally, if Oil price rises CAD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Oil falls. Higher Oil prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance, which is also supportive of the CAD. How does inflation data impact the value of the Canadian Dollar? While inflation had always traditionally been thought of as a negative factor for a currency since it lowers the value of money, the opposite has actually been the case in modern times with the relaxation of cross-border capital controls. Higher inflation tends to lead central banks to put up interest rates which attracts more capital inflows from global investors seeking a lucrative place to keep their money. This increases demand for the local currency, which in Canada’s case is the Canadian Dollar. How does economic data influence the value of the Canadian Dollar? Macroeconomic data releases gauge the health of the economy and can have an impact on the Canadian Dollar. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the CAD. A strong economy is good for the Canadian Dollar. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the Bank of Canada to put up interest rates, leading to a stronger currency. If economic data is weak, however, the CAD is likely to fall.  

Silver price hits a five-month high but retreats toward the $34 figure late on Friday, as traders brace for the weekend, eyeing a busy economic schedule in the United States (US).

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At the time of writing, the XAG/USD pair trades at $34.03, down by over 1%. XAG/USD Price Forecast: Technical outlook Silver hit $34.58 earlier, before retreating as traders seem to book profits, taking risks off the table. As the grey metal falls, it has cleared the first support seen at $34.23, March 18 peak. If sellers achieve a daily close below the latter, XAG/USD could extend its losses beneath $34.00. In that outcome, the first support would be the March 26 daily low of $33.51. Once surpassed the next stop would be $33.00. On the other hand, if Silver remains above $34.25, bulls could be poised to claim the year-to-date (YTD) high of $34.58, ahead of testing $35.00 XAG/USD Price Chart – Daily Silver FAQs Why do people invest in Silver? Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets. Which factors influence Silver prices? Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold's. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices. How does industrial demand affect Silver prices? Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices. How do Silver prices react to Gold’s moves? Silver prices tend to follow Gold's moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver.  

Gold price rallied sharply on Friday, hitting a new record high of $3,086 amid uncertainty over US trade policy, alongside an uptick in the Federal Reserve's (Fed) preferred inflation gauge.

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After this, traders seem confident that the Fed will cut rates twice in 2025. The XAU/USD trades at 3079, up 0.79%. The market mood is pessimistic as traders brace for April 2, the so-called “Liberation Day” by US President Donald Trump, who signed an executive order applying 25% tariffs on all cars imported to the US. This triggered reactions worldwide, primarily in Canada and the European Union (EU), which has begun preparing to retaliate against this measure. In the meantime, the Greenback remains battered and is set to finish the week with losses of 0.11%, according to the US Dollar Index (DXY), which underpins the prices of precious metals. US yields are also dropping as investors seeking safety piled into Bullion and the Japanese Yen (JPY). The US economic calendar revealed that the Core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index in February was mostly aligned with forecasts, while the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment survey in March deteriorated further. Aside from this, San Francisco Fed Mary Daly stated that she foresees two rate cuts in 2025, adding recently that she is focused 100% on inflation due to progress being flat. Meanwhile, money markets have priced in 73.5 basis points of Fed easing in 2025, jumping ten basis points from the previous day, according to Prime Market Terminal interest rate probabilities. Source: Prime Market Terminal Next week, the US economic docket will feature the April 2 Trump tariff announcement, the ISM Manufacturing PMI for March, JOLTS Job Openings and Nonfarm Payrolls. Daily digest market movers: Gold prices set to challenge $3,100 in the short term The US 10-year T-note yield is plummeting, down ten basis points at 4.259%. US real yields edge down seven and a half bps to 1.887%, according to US 10-year Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) yields. The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index held steady at 2.5% YoY in February, according to the US Bureau of Economic Analysis. Core PCE, which excludes food and energy, rose 2.8% YoY, up slightly from the upwardly revised 2.7% in the previous month. While largely maintaining the status quo, these readings indicate that inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target. The University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index dipped from a preliminary 57.9 to 57.0, as US households grew more pessimistic. One-year inflation expectations climbed to 5%, while five-year expectations rose from 3.9% to 4.1%, reflecting rising consumer concerns over future price pressures. XAU/USD technical outlook: Gold price rallies past $3,050, eyes on $3,100 Gold’s rally continues with the yellow metal poised to hit a record high of $3,086, clearing the path to challenge $3,100. Momentum suggests that Bullion prices seem poised to extend their gains, past the latter, with the psychological $3,150 and $3,200 exposed if cleared. Due to the aggressiveness of the uptrend, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) turned overbought, exceeding 70. Nevertheless, the most extreme reading would be 80 as of the time of writing. Conversely, if the XAU/USD drops below March’s high of $3,057, this could exacerbate a pullback toward $3,000. Gold FAQs Why do people invest in Gold? Gold has played a key role in human’s history as it has been widely used as a store of value and medium of exchange. Currently, apart from its shine and usage for jewelry, the precious metal is widely seen as a safe-haven asset, meaning that it is considered a good investment during turbulent times. Gold is also widely seen as a hedge against inflation and against depreciating currencies as it doesn’t rely on any specific issuer or government. Who buys the most Gold? Central banks are the biggest Gold holders. In their aim to support their currencies in turbulent times, central banks tend to diversify their reserves and buy Gold to improve the perceived strength of the economy and the currency. High Gold reserves can be a source of trust for a country’s solvency. Central banks added 1,136 tonnes of Gold worth around $70 billion to their reserves in 2022, according to data from the World Gold Council. This is the highest yearly purchase since records began. Central banks from emerging economies such as China, India and Turkey are quickly increasing their Gold reserves. How is Gold correlated with other assets? Gold has an inverse correlation with the US Dollar and US Treasuries, which are both major reserve and safe-haven assets. When the Dollar depreciates, Gold tends to rise, enabling investors and central banks to diversify their assets in turbulent times. Gold is also inversely correlated with risk assets. A rally in the stock market tends to weaken Gold price, while sell-offs in riskier markets tend to favor the precious metal. What does the price of Gold depend on? The price can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can quickly make Gold price escalate due to its safe-haven status. As a yield-less asset, Gold tends to rise with lower interest rates, while higher cost of money usually weighs down on the yellow metal. Still, most moves depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAU/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Gold controlled, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to push Gold prices up.  

United States CFTC Gold NC Net Positions declined to $249.8K from previous $257.9K

United Kingdom CFTC GBP NC Net Positions increased to £44.3K from previous £29.4K

United States CFTC Oil NC Net Positions rose from previous 166.8K to 180.6K

Eurozone CFTC EUR NC Net Positions up to €65.5K from previous €59.4K

Japan CFTC JPY NC Net Positions rose from previous ¥123K to ¥125.4K

Australia CFTC AUD NC Net Positions fell from previous $-70.4K to $-77.4K

United States CFTC S&P 500 NC Net Positions dipped from previous $68.3K to $-53.4K

The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the value of the US Dollar (USD) against a basket of currencies, is currently flat near 104.30 on Friday following the release of the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) preferred inflation metric — the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index.

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The reading showed a mild uptick, helping the Greenback hold recent levels. However, the rally appears capped as safe-haven flows favor Gold, and technical signals remain bearish. Daily digest market movers: US Dollar holds gains after PCE release, tariff jitters February’s core PCE rose 0.4%, above the expected 0.3%, reinforcing lingering inflation concerns in the United States. The headline PCE printed at 0.3%, matching expectations and offering no major surprises for traders. Despite stronger data, the US Dollar Index traded sideways as Gold surged beyond $3,080 to hit new record highs. US President Donald Trump’s recent tariff announcements, including a 25% auto levy effective April 2, rattled global trade sentiment. European Union officials warned of a “robust and timely” response if tariffs are implemented as planned next week. European Central Bank (ECB) Vice President Luis de Guindos said the tariffs will have temporary inflationary effects but lasting damage on Eurozone growth. Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz criticized the US strategy, stating that isolationism would ultimately harm all involved economies. The DXY remains in a tight consolidation range as markets await clearer directional catalysts post-PCE. On Thursday, the US GDP was revised to 2.4% for Q4, slightly above the initial estimate, but had minimal impact on the Greenback. Jobless claims data showed improvement, with continuing claims falling to 1.856 million, supporting the labor market narrative. The reciprocal tariff deadline of April 2 is drawing near, raising concerns about a possible trade conflict with the EU. Technical analysis The US Dollar Index (DXY) continues to trade in consolidation near the 104.30 zone after a mild post-PCE reaction. While the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) flashes a buy signal, momentum indicators remain mixed. The Awesome Oscillator holds steady, suggesting subdued trend strength. The bearish backdrop is supported by the 20, 100, and 200-day Simple Moving Averages (SMA), as well as the 10- and 30-day Exponential Moving Averages (EMA), all pointing lower. Resistance is located at 104.118, 104.145, and 104.472, while immediate support rests at 103.951. Fed FAQs What does the Federal Reserve do, how does it impact the US Dollar? Monetary policy in the US is shaped by the Federal Reserve (Fed). The Fed has two mandates: to achieve price stability and foster full employment. Its primary tool to achieve these goals is by adjusting interest rates. When prices are rising too quickly and inflation is above the Fed’s 2% target, it raises interest rates, increasing borrowing costs throughout the economy. This results in a stronger US Dollar (USD) as it makes the US a more attractive place for international investors to park their money. When inflation falls below 2% or the Unemployment Rate is too high, the Fed may lower interest rates to encourage borrowing, which weighs on the Greenback. How often does the Fed hold monetary policy meetings? The Federal Reserve (Fed) holds eight policy meetings a year, where the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) assesses economic conditions and makes monetary policy decisions. The FOMC is attended by twelve Fed officials – the seven members of the Board of Governors, the president of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and four of the remaining eleven regional Reserve Bank presidents, who serve one-year terms on a rotating basis. What is Quantitative Easing (QE) and how does it impact USD? In extreme situations, the Federal Reserve may resort to a policy named Quantitative Easing (QE). QE is the process by which the Fed substantially increases the flow of credit in a stuck financial system. It is a non-standard policy measure used during crises or when inflation is extremely low. It was the Fed’s weapon of choice during the Great Financial Crisis in 2008. It involves the Fed printing more Dollars and using them to buy high grade bonds from financial institutions. QE usually weakens the US Dollar. What is Quantitative Tightening (QT) and how does it impact the US Dollar? Quantitative tightening (QT) is the reverse process of QE, whereby the Federal Reserve stops buying bonds from financial institutions and does not reinvest the principal from the bonds it holds maturing, to purchase new bonds. It is usually positive for the value of the US Dollar.  

The Mexican Peso (MXN) prolongs its agony in the week, depreciating against the US Dollar (USD) after Banco de Mexico (Banxico) reduced interest rates but also paved the way for additional easing.

.fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}}Mexican Peso weakens for third straight day as dovish Banxico tone, sticky US inflation and trade tensions fuels USD/MXN rally.Banxico slashes rates by 50 bps to 9% and signals more easing despite inflation risks skewed to the upside.Peso under pressure amid tariff jitters and light Mexico data ahead; focus turns to NFP and ISM next week.The Mexican Peso (MXN) prolongs its agony in the week, depreciating against the US Dollar (USD) after Banco de Mexico (Banxico) reduced interest rates but also paved the way for additional easing. This, along with an inflation report and trade policies in the United States (US), boosted the Greenback. At the time of writing, USD/MXN exchange rate is 20.43, representing a 0.67% increase. On Thursday, Banxico cut rates by 50 basis points to 9% on a unanimous decision due to the evolution of the disinflation process, even though it foresees that inflation risks are tilted to the upside. The board anticipates that inflation will continue to ease and “might consider adjusting it in similar magnitudes.” Aside from economic data, Mexico’s President, Claudia Sheinbaum, commented that the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) helps North America compete against China, adding that ongoing talks with the US are aimed at protecting jobs in Mexico. Across the border, the US Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) revealed that the Federal Reserve (Fed) preferred inflation gauge, the core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index, ticked a tenth up, drifting away from the Fed’s 2%. Other data showed that Consumer Sentiment deteriorated in March, as announced by the University of Michigan (UoM), which also mentioned that inflation expectations have risen sharply, reflecting a consensus amongst all demographic and political affiliations revealed by the survey. Next week, the Mexican economic schedule will feature Business Confidence, S&P Global Manufacturing PMI and Gross Fixed Investment figures. In the US, traders are focusing on April’s 2 Trump’s tariffs announcement, the ISM Manufacturing PMI for March, JOLTS Job Openings, and Nonfarm Payrolls. Daily digest market movers: Mexican Peso drops following Banxico’s decision Mexico’s Business Confidence in February was 50.4. A reading below that level would indicate that companies are becoming pessimistic about the economy, with the result being its lowest level since May 2021. S&P Global Manufacturing PMI remained in contractionary territory for eight straight months at 47.6 in February.  A March print beneath this would suggest the economic slowdown is deeper than foreseen. The Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index released by the US Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) remained unchanged at 2.5% YoY in February. The core PCE print expanded 2.8% YoY, up from 2.7% for the same period. Although the prints maintained the status quo, inflation continues to drift away from the Fed’s 2% target. The University of Michigan's Consumer Sentiment index deteriorated slightly, falling from 57.9 in the preliminary reading to 57.0. US households turned pessimistic, expecting prices to increase by 5% for one year, while inflation expectations for five years ticked up from 3.9% to 4.1%. On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order adding 25% duties on imported automobiles, effective on April 2. He said that he would announce additional tariffs next week. In 2024, the US imported $474 billion worth of automotive products, including passenger cars valued at $220 billion. Mexico, Japan, South Korea, Canada and Germany were the biggest suppliers. Traders had priced the Fed to ease policy by 64 basis points (bps) throughout the year, according to data from the Chicago Board of Trade. USD/MXN technical outlook: Mexican Peso dives as USD/MXN bulls target 20.50 The Mexican currency remains pressured, as depicted by the USD/MXN pair surging sharply, clearing the confluence of the 100 and 50-day Simple Moving Averages (SMAs) near 20.35/36, opening the door to reach 20.45, a new weekly high. Momentum, as measured by the Relative Strength Index (RSI), is about to cross the latest peak, signaling that bulls are stepping in. That said, the first resistance for USD/MXN would be 20.50. If surpassed, the next ceiling would be the March 4 peak of 20.99, followed by the year-to-date (YTD) high of 21.28. Conversely, a drop below 20.35/36 paves the way to test the 20.00 mark. Mexican Peso FAQs What key factors drive the Mexican Peso? The Mexican Peso (MXN) is the most traded currency among its Latin American peers. Its value is broadly determined by the performance of the Mexican economy, the country’s central bank’s policy, the amount of foreign investment in the country and even the levels of remittances sent by Mexicans who live abroad, particularly in the United States. Geopolitical trends can also move MXN: for example, the process of nearshoring – or the decision by some firms to relocate manufacturing capacity and supply chains closer to their home countries – is also seen as a catalyst for the Mexican currency as the country is considered a key manufacturing hub in the American continent. Another catalyst for MXN is Oil prices as Mexico is a key exporter of the commodity. How do decisions of the Banxico impact the Mexican Peso? The main objective of Mexico’s central bank, also known as Banxico, is to maintain inflation at low and stable levels (at or close to its target of 3%, the midpoint in a tolerance band of between 2% and 4%). To this end, the bank sets an appropriate level of interest rates. When inflation is too high, Banxico will attempt to tame it by raising interest rates, making it more expensive for households and businesses to borrow money, thus cooling demand and the overall economy. Higher interest rates are generally positive for the Mexican Peso (MXN) as they lead to higher yields, making the country a more attractive place for investors. On the contrary, lower interest rates tend to weaken MXN. How does economic data influence the value of the Mexican Peso? Macroeconomic data releases are key to assess the state of the economy and can have an impact on the Mexican Peso (MXN) valuation. A strong Mexican economy, based on high economic growth, low unemployment and high confidence is good for MXN. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the Bank of Mexico (Banxico) to increase interest rates, particularly if this strength comes together with elevated inflation. However, if economic data is weak, MXN is likely to depreciate. How does broader risk sentiment impact the Mexican Peso? As an emerging-market currency, the Mexican Peso (MXN) tends to strive during risk-on periods, or when investors perceive that broader market risks are low and thus are eager to engage with investments that carry a higher risk. Conversely, MXN tends to weaken at times of market turbulence or economic uncertainty as investors tend to sell higher-risk assets and flee to the more-stable safe havens.  

The Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) backslid over 700 points on Friday, falling 1.75% and tumbling to 41,500 after core Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) inflation figures accelerated in February.

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Consumer inflation fears rose in March, and the consumer outlook on economic conditions also deteriorated further as tariff fears continue to take a bite out of general sentiment. Core PCE Price Index inflation ticked up to 2.8% YoY in February as inflation pressures continue to flash warning signs that it will take longer for the Federal (Reserve) to achieve 2% inflation than previously thought. PCE inflation has functionally remained flat for a nine-month stretch, with monthly releases holding steady above 2.6% YoY since June of last year. The University of Michigan (UoM) Consumer Sentiment Index crumpled to its lowest levels in over two years, falling to 57.0 compared to the expected flat hold at 57.9. UoM 1-year Consumer Inflation Expectations rose again, climbing to 5.0%. UoM Consumer 5-year Inflation Expectations also lifted to 4.1% versus the forecast of 3.9%. Median market forecasts widely expected consumer sentiment to remain flat in February as investors horribly misjudge how beleaguered US consumers are getting in the face of the Trump administration’s self-styled trade war. Despite President Donald Trump’s insistence that sweeping tariffs, set to take effect on April 2, will be good for the US, consumers are growing increasingly concerned that economic conditions are going to continue deteriorating and inflation will continue to rise. President Trump reiterated on Friday that he will still enact a wide slew of tariffs on April 2, a day he continues to try and label Liberation Day. The Trump administration is promising to kick off a 25% tariff on all automobiles not produced in the US, as well as “reciprocal” tariffs on every country that has defensive tariffs on US goods. The Trump administration also plans to add further flat import taxes on items ranging from Copper, to microchips, and pharmaceuticals, as well as additional revenge tariffs of 20% on any country that also purchases Venezuelan Crude Oil. Stock news Equity indexes are down across the board on Friday. The Dow Jones fell over 700 points to 41,500, with the Standard & Poor’s 500 index backsliding 115 points to decline 2% on the day. The Nasdaq Composite tech index and shed weight, falling around 500 points to lose 2.7% from Friday’s opening bids. Dow Jones price forecast A fresh bout of selling has dragged the Dow Jones Industrial Average back below the 200-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) near the 42,000 major handle. Price action is paring away recent gains after the Dow Jones’ last downturn, which dragged the index below 40,800.  The DJIA briefly recovered to the 42,800 region this week, but momentum has quickly turned lower once again, with the Dow Jones declining 3% top-to-bottom over a three-day period. Unless bullish momentum returns, the DJIA is poised for a fresh challenge of the 41,000 key level. Dow Jones daily chart Dow Jones FAQs What is the Dow Jones? The Dow Jones Industrial Average, one of the oldest stock market indices in the world, is compiled of the 30 most traded stocks in the US. The index is price-weighted rather than weighted by capitalization. It is calculated by summing the prices of the constituent stocks and dividing them by a factor, currently 0.152. The index was founded by Charles Dow, who also founded the Wall Street Journal. In later years it has been criticized for not being broadly representative enough because it only tracks 30 conglomerates, unlike broader indices such as the S&P 500. What factors impact the Dow Jones Industrial Average? Many different factors drive the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA). The aggregate performance of the component companies revealed in quarterly company earnings reports is the main one. US and global macroeconomic data also contributes as it impacts on investor sentiment. The level of interest rates, set by the Federal Reserve (Fed), also influences the DJIA as it affects the cost of credit, on which many corporations are heavily reliant. Therefore, inflation can be a major driver as well as other metrics which impact the Fed decisions. What is Dow Theory? Dow Theory is a method for identifying the primary trend of the stock market developed by Charles Dow. A key step is to compare the direction of the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) and the Dow Jones Transportation Average (DJTA) and only follow trends where both are moving in the same direction. Volume is a confirmatory criteria. The theory uses elements of peak and trough analysis. Dow’s theory posits three trend phases: accumulation, when smart money starts buying or selling; public participation, when the wider public joins in; and distribution, when the smart money exits. How can I trade the DJIA? There are a number of ways to trade the DJIA. One is to use ETFs which allow investors to trade the DJIA as a single security, rather than having to buy shares in all 30 constituent companies. A leading example is the SPDR Dow Jones Industrial Average ETF (DIA). DJIA futures contracts enable traders to speculate on the future value of the index and Options provide the right, but not the obligation, to buy or sell the index at a predetermined price in the future. Mutual funds enable investors to buy a share of a diversified portfolio of DJIA stocks thus providing exposure to the overall index.  

United States Baker Hughes US Oil Rig Count declined to 484 from previous 486

EUR/USD extended its upward trajectory on Friday, moving near the 1.0830 region after the European session and toward the upper end of the day’s trading range.

EUR/USD was seen trading near the 1.0830 zone on Friday after the European session, moving closer to the top of its daily range.Despite mixed oscillator signals, short- and long-term moving averages support the pair’s ongoing bullish momentum.Support is seen around 1.0790–1.0810, while resistance stands near 1.0845; MACD flashes a sell, but trend bias remains bullish.EUR/USD extended its upward trajectory on Friday, moving near the 1.0830 region after the European session and toward the upper end of the day’s trading range. The pair has gained traction, reflecting investor appetite for the euro despite mixed short-term signals. Technicals reveal an ongoing bullish backdrop, underpinned by supportive moving averages, though caution remains as oscillators flash neutral-to-negative cues. Momentum indicators are mixed. The short-term Relative Strength Index is neutral at 5.91, and when combined with the Stochastic indicator, it confirms a lack of clear directional drive. The Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) flashes a sell signal, while the longer-term RSI (14) sits at around 57. The Bull Bear Power also remains marginally negative, suggesting slight hesitation despite recent gains. However, the moving averages paint a more optimistic picture. The 20-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) at 1.0791, the 100-day at 1.0518, and the 200-day at 1.0729 all signal buy conditions, reinforcing the prevailing bullish structure. Additional support from the 30-day Exponential Moving Average (1.0709) and SMA (1.0682) further strengthens this view. On the downside, support levels are located at 1.0810, 1.0791, and 1.0785. Resistance is found near 1.0845, a key area that, if breached, could open the door for an extended move higher. While bullish conditions persist, traders may need to navigate choppy signals from oscillators as the pair consolidates gains.   EUR/USD daily chart

The Pound Sterling remains firm, hovering around 1.2950 against the US Dollar, virtually unchanged, as traders digest the latest inflation report from the United States (US), amid uncertainty about a potential trade war escalation following Trump's imposition of tariffs on cars.

.fxs-major-currency-prices-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:8px 16px}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table{width:100%;text-align:center;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:1rem}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table th{background-color:#f2f2f2}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td{color:#fff}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.green{background-color:#9cd6cd}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.red{background-color:#faafb5}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.blue-grey{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-legend{font-size:11px;margin:8px;color:#49494f}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.dark-green{background-color:#39ad9a}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-green{background-color:#9cd6cd}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.gray{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-red{background-color:#faafb5}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.strong-red{background-color:#f55e6a}US Core PCE rises to 2.8%, reinforcing Fed's inflation concerns and limiting GBP/USD upside near 1.2967.UK Retail Sales beat forecasts, economy grows 0.1% in Q4 2024, boosts Sterling.Market focus now shifts to key US data: ISM PMI, JOLTs, and next week’s crucial Nonfarm Payrolls report.The Pound Sterling remains firm, hovering around 1.2950 against the US Dollar, virtually unchanged, as traders digest the latest inflation report from the United States (US), amid uncertainty about a potential trade war escalation following Trump's imposition of tariffs on cars. At the time of writing, the GBP/USD exchange rate is 1.2948. GBP/USD holds firm despite hotter Core PCE and mixed sentiment, as UK data outperforms and trade war fears loom The Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index released by the US Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) remained unchanged at 2.5% YoY in February. The Core PCE print, sought by the Fed as its favorite inflation gauge, expanded 2.8% YoY, up from 2.7% for the same period. Although the prints maintained the status quo, inflation continues to drift away from the Fed’s 2% target. Recently, the University of Michigan's Consumer Sentiment index deteriorated slightly, falling from 57.9 in the preliminary reading to 57.0. US households turned pessimistic, expecting prices to increase by 5% for a one-year period, while inflation expectations for five years ticked up from 3.9% to 4.1%. The survey said, “This month’s decline reflects a clear consensus across all demographic and political affiliations.” Across the pond, UK Retail Sales in February dipped compared to January, but exceeded economists' estimates of -0.3%, rising by 1% MoM. Also, the economy grew 0.1% by the end of 2024, as revealed by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), as expected by analysts. The data pushed the GBP/USD towards its daily peak of 1.2967, but it receded after investors digested US figures. Next week, the UK economic docket remains absent. In the US, traders are focusing on April’s 2 Trump’s tariffs announcement, the ISM Manufacturing PMI for March, JOLTS Job Openings, and Nonfarm Payrolls. GBP/USD Price Forecast: Technical outlook GBP/USD trades sideways with no apparent bias on Friday ahead of the weekend, yet a daily close near the 1.3000 figure could pave the way for further upside. This is because buyers kept the bears from pulling the exchange rate below 1.2900, keeping the pair from testing the 200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) of 1.2802. Despite this, bulls are not out of the woods. Although the Relative Strength Index (RSI) is bullish, shows they’re losing some steam, after retreating from overbought territory. British Pound PRICE This week The table below shows the percentage change of British Pound (GBP) against listed major currencies this week. British Pound was the strongest against the Japanese Yen.   USD EUR GBP JPY CAD AUD NZD CHF USD   -0.21% -0.33% 0.51% -0.48% -0.48% 0.02% -0.28% EUR 0.21%   -0.23% 0.20% -0.22% -0.30% 0.29% -0.02% GBP 0.33% 0.23%   0.84% -0.62% -0.09% 0.52% 0.11% JPY -0.51% -0.20% -0.84%   -0.98% -1.01% -0.46% -0.79% CAD 0.48% 0.22% 0.62% 0.98%   0.05% 0.50% 0.21% AUD 0.48% 0.30% 0.09% 1.01% -0.05%   0.58% 0.28% NZD -0.02% -0.29% -0.52% 0.46% -0.50% -0.58%   -0.23% CHF 0.28% 0.02% -0.11% 0.79% -0.21% -0.28% 0.23%   The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the British Pound from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent GBP (base)/USD (quote).  

San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly maintains that two rate cuts this year remain a reasonable projection, but with robust economic indicators, policymakers can hold off on reducing rates until they evaluate how businesses adapt to tariff costs.

San Francisco Fed President Mary Daly maintains that two rate cuts this year remain a reasonable projection, but with robust economic indicators, policymakers can hold off on reducing rates until they evaluate how businesses adapt to tariff costs.Key QuotesTwo rate cuts still a reasonable projection for 2025. Need wait-and-see posture on monetary policy, give industries time to adjust to tariffs. Growth and labor market remain solid. Making sure we are on sustainable path to 2% inflation is top of mind. Policy is in a good place, have to be patient to ensure inflation comes down. She has not changed her rate-path projection since last year, doesn't have enough info to make a change. Hearing 'cautious optimism' from businesses.

Silver price (XAG/USD) posts a fresh five-month high near $34.60 in North American trading hours on Friday.

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The white metal strengthens as investors turn cautious ahead of April 2, when United States (US) President Donald Trump is scheduled to unveil reciprocal tariffs. Market participants expect that Trump's tariffs will result in an economic slowdown and boost inflationary pressures in the near term. Such a scenario increases the appeal of safe-haven assets, such as Silver. However, the US Dollar (USD) slumps as Trump’s tariffs will also weigh on the US economic outlook. Investors expect the impact the tariffs will have on US imports, which would be forced to pass them on to consumers. The US Dollar Index (DXY), which tracks the Greenback’s value against six major currencies, slides to near 104.00. Meanwhile, hotter-than-expected US core PCE Inflation – which excludes volatile food and energy items – fails to provide support to the US Dollar. The underlying inflation data rose at a faster pace of 2.8% year-on-year compared to estimates of 2.7% and the prior release of 2.6%. Month-on-month core PCE inflation grew by 0.4%, faster than expectations and the former reading of 0.3%. Accelerating inflationary pressures force the Federal Reserve (Fed) to maintain a restrictive monetary policy stance for a longer period. Higher interest rates by the Fed bode poorly for non-yielding assets, such as Silver. Silver technical analysis Silver price advances toward the flat border of the Ascending Triangle chart pattern formation on the daily timeframe near the October 22 high of $34.87. The upward-sloping border of the above-mentioned chart pattern is placed from the August 8 low of $26.45. Technically, the Ascending Triangle pattern indicates indecisiveness among market participants. The 20-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) near $33.30 continues to provide support to the Silver price. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) rebounds above 60.00, suggesting a resurgence in bullish momentum. Looking down, the March 6 high of $32.77 will act as key support for the Silver price. While, the October 22 high of $34.87 will be the major barrier. Silver daily chart Silver FAQs Why do people invest in Silver? Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets. Which factors influence Silver prices? Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold's. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices. How does industrial demand affect Silver prices? Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices. How do Silver prices react to Gold’s moves? Silver prices tend to follow Gold's moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver.  

United States UoM 5-year Consumer Inflation Expectation above expectations (3.9%) in March: Actual (4.1%)

United States Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index came in at 57 below forecasts (57.9) in March

EUR/GBP attempted a cross above its 200-DMA earlier this month but has faced strong resistance near 0.8450 and has once again dipped below the MA (0.8380), Société Générale's FX analysts note.

EUR/GBP attempted a cross above its 200-DMA earlier this month but has faced strong resistance near 0.8450 and has once again dipped below the MA (0.8380), Société Générale's FX analysts note.  If a break above 0.8380 fails, there's a risk of continuation in pullback "Interestingly, it has witnessed multiple failed breakouts above this MA since 2023 and the downtrend has gradually persisted after these failures. If the pair struggles to establish above 0.8380, there could be risk of continuation in pullback. Next short-term supports are located at 0.8320, the 61.8% retracement from February and 0.8285."
 

The USD/JPY pair is down more than 0.3% near 150.50 in North American session on Friday.

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The pair remains on the backfoot even though the United States (US) core Personal Consumption Expenditure Price Index (PCE) data for February has come in hotter-than-expected. The US core PCE Inflation – which excludes volatile food and energy – items rose at a faster pace of 2.8% year-on-year compared to estimates of 2.7% and the prior release of 2.6%. The Federal Reserve (Fed) also anticipated its preferred inflation gauge to average at 2.8% by the year-end in the last week’s monetary policy meeting in which it left interest rates in their current range of 4.25%-4.50% and guided that they are not in a hurry to make adjustments due to lack of clarity on US President Donald Trump’s tariff agenda. Hotter-than-projected US core PCE inflation data is expected to boost expectations for the Fed hold borrowing rates at their current levels for an extended period. Meanwhile, investors brace for the announcement of reciprocal tariffs by US President Trump on Wednesday. Trump is poised to unveil a detailed tariff plan for his all trading partners to fix bloated trade deficit. Market participants expect Trump tariffs to result in an economic slowdown and a resurgence in inflationary pressures across the globe. On the Japanese Yen (JPY) front, hot Tokyo Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for March has prompted expectations of more interest rate hikes by the Bank of Japan (BoJ) this year. Hot inflation data has also strengthened the Japanese Yen against its peers. Japanese Yen PRICE Today The table below shows the percentage change of Japanese Yen (JPY) against listed major currencies today. Japanese Yen was the strongest against the New Zealand Dollar.   USD EUR GBP JPY CAD AUD NZD CHF USD   -0.02% -0.04% -0.30% 0.01% -0.06% 0.15% 0.10% EUR 0.02%   -0.03% -0.33% 0.02% -0.05% 0.15% 0.10% GBP 0.04% 0.03%   -0.25% 0.05% -0.02% 0.19% 0.13% JPY 0.30% 0.33% 0.25%   0.32% 0.25% 0.46% 0.41% CAD -0.01% -0.02% -0.05% -0.32%   -0.07% 0.12% 0.08% AUD 0.06% 0.05% 0.02% -0.25% 0.07%   0.21% 0.14% NZD -0.15% -0.15% -0.19% -0.46% -0.12% -0.21%   -0.05% CHF -0.10% -0.10% -0.13% -0.41% -0.08% -0.14% 0.05%   The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the Japanese Yen from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent JPY (base)/USD (quote). Tokyo CPI data rose by 2.9% in 12 months to March, faster than 2.8% growth seen in February. Japan’s capitals CPI data – which excludes Fresh Food – accelerated by 2.4% against estimates and the former release of 2.2%. Related news US Dollar flat after US PCE inflation release Japan's Tokyo CPI inflation rises to 2.9% YoY in March US Dollar flat after US PCE inflation release  

United States Core Personal Consumption Expenditures - Price Index (MoM) registered at 0.4% above expectations (0.3%) in February

United States Core Personal Consumption Expenditures - Price Index (YoY) registered at 2.8% above expectations (2.7%) in February

Canada Gross Domestic Product (MoM) above forecasts (0.3%) in January: Actual (0.4%)

United States Personal Spending came in at 0.4% below forecasts (0.5%) in February

United States Personal Income (MoM) came in at 0.8%, above forecasts (0.4%) in February

United States Personal Consumption Expenditures - Price Index (MoM) meets expectations (0.3%) in February

United States Personal Consumption Expenditures - Price Index (YoY) in line with forecasts (2.5%) in February

India Current Account Balance $ came in at $-11.5B, above forecasts ($-12B) in 4Q

Mexico Jobless Rate s.a increased to 2.7% in February from previous 2.6%

Mexico Jobless Rate came in at 2.5%, below expectations (2.6%) in February

The US Dollar Index (DXY), which tracks the performance of the US Dollar (USD) against six major currencies, is currently flat to slightly higher near 104.50 at the time of writing on Friday.

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Traders are not really looking at the Greenback but rather at an exodus from Equities and Cryptocurrencies into the precious metals’ market, where Gold has hit another all-time high this Friday at $3,086. The reciprocal tariff deadline is approaching fast, April 2, and clearly has struck a nerve amongst traders and market participants.  On the economic data front, all eyes are on the Federal Reserve (Fed) preferred inflation gauge, the US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) data for February. The core and headline monthly PCE readings are both expected to grow steadily by 0.3%.Daily digest market movers: All eyes in PCE for fresh clues on inflationAt 12:30 GMT, the US Personal Consumption Expenditures data for February is due to be released: The monthly headline PCE is set to come in at 0.3%, unchanged from the previous 0.3%. The yearly gauge is expected to remain stable at 2.5%. The monthly core PCE should grow steadily by 0.3%. The yearly core PCE should tick up to 2.7% from 2.6%. At the same time, the US Personal Income month-on-month for February is expected to ease to 0.4% from 0.9% previously. The US Personal Spending for February should tick up to 0.5%, coming from the previous contraction of 0.2%. At 14:00 GMT, the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index reading for March is expected to remain stable at 57.9. The 5-year Consumer Inflation Expectations are set to remain unchanged at 3.9%. At 16:15 GMT, Federal Reserve Bank Vice Chair for Supervision Michael Barr will speak on Banking Policy at the 2025 Banking Institute in Charlotte, N.C. At 19:30 GMT, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta President Raphael Bostic will moderate a policy panel at the third annual Georgia Tech-Atlanta Fed Household Finance Conference at the Atlanta Fed, Atlanta, Georgia. Equities are diving lower with losses between 0.5% to 2% crossing from Asia over Europe and into US futures.  According to the CME Fedwatch Tool, the probability of interest rates remaining at the current range of 4.25%-4.50% in May’s meeting is 87.1%. For June’s meeting, the odds for borrowing costs being lower stand at 65.5%. The US 10-year yield trades around 4.33%, looking for direction with some small safe haven inflow. US Dollar Index Technical Analysis: What about inflation?The US Dollar Index (DXY) has been roughly consolidating since that seismic drop at the start of March. Slowly but surely, some small unwinding of that big move lower is starting to unfold. Look for a synchronized move, with Gold paring back gains and the rate differential between the US and other countries widening again, for a comeback of the DXY to 105.00/106.00. With the weekly close above 104.00 last week, a return to the 105.00 round level could still occur in the coming days, with the 200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) converging at that point and reinforcing this area as a strong resistance at 104.95. Once broken through that zone, a string of pivotal levels, such as 105.53 and 105.89, could limit the upward momentum.  On the downside, the 104.00 round level is the first nearby support after a successful bounce on Tuesday. If that level does not hold, the DXY risks falling back into that March range between 104.00 and 103.00. Once the lower end at 103.00 gives way, watch out for 101.90 on the downside.  US Dollar Index: Daily Chart US-China Trade War FAQs What does “trade war” mean? Generally speaking, a trade war is an economic conflict between two or more countries due to extreme protectionism on one end. It implies the creation of trade barriers, such as tariffs, which result in counter-barriers, escalating import costs, and hence the cost of living. What is the US-China trade war? An economic conflict between the United States (US) and China began early in 2018, when President Donald Trump set trade barriers on China, claiming unfair commercial practices and intellectual property theft from the Asian giant. China took retaliatory action, imposing tariffs on multiple US goods, such as automobiles and soybeans. Tensions escalated until the two countries signed the US-China Phase One trade deal in January 2020. The agreement required structural reforms and other changes to China’s economic and trade regime and pretended to restore stability and trust between the two nations. However, the Coronavirus pandemic took the focus out of the conflict. Yet, it is worth mentioning that President Joe Biden, who took office after Trump, kept tariffs in place and even added some additional levies. Trade war 2.0 The return of Donald Trump to the White House as the 47th US President has sparked a fresh wave of tensions between the two countries. During the 2024 election campaign, Trump pledged to impose 60% tariffs on China once he returned to office, which he did on January 20, 2025. With Trump back, the US-China trade war is meant to resume where it was left, with tit-for-tat policies affecting the global economic landscape amid disruptions in global supply chains, resulting in a reduction in spending, particularly investment, and directly feeding into the Consumer Price Index inflation.  

The postponement of US import tariffs on certain goods from Canada and Mexico granted by US President Trump at the beginning of March will end next Wednesday, Commerzbank's commodity analyst Carsten Fritsch notes.

The postponement of US import tariffs on certain goods from Canada and Mexico granted by US President Trump at the beginning of March will end next Wednesday, Commerzbank's commodity analyst Carsten Fritsch notes.   The postponement of US import tariffs ends next Wednesday "If there is no further postponement, US refineries will have to pay a tariff of 10% on crude oil imports from Canada and 25% on crude oil imports from Mexico. The market apparently expects that this duty will not be introduced after all. This is the only explanation for the fact that the price discount for the Canadian oil grade WCS compared to WTI has shrunk to $12 per barrel."  "At the beginning of March, it was still more than $15, and at the end of January, when US tariffs were first threatened, it was around $18 per barrel. According to the data provider LSEG, the price discount even fell to less than $10 this week."  "The significant decline in the price difference could be linked to the expected loss of oil supplies from Venezuela, as Canadian oil could serve as a substitute for US refineries. However, the current low price difference only makes sense if the threatened import tariffs do not materialise."

EUR/USD holds around 1.08 as Trump imposes auto tariffs and signals lenient reciprocal measures, Danske Bank's FX analyst Jesper Fjärstedt reports.

EUR/USD holds around 1.08 as Trump imposes auto tariffs and signals lenient reciprocal measures, Danske Bank's FX analyst Jesper Fjärstedt reports.  USD reaction to tariffs remains uncertain "Yesterday, we outlined enacted and upcoming tariffs, their direct GDP impact, and potential next steps. The USD reaction remains uncertain, with past tariff impacts so far mixed - lower import demand and inflationary effects offset by growth concerns. Aggressive tariffs could fuel risk-off sentiment, but USD upside is not guaranteed if markets focus on US recession risks."  "Near term, we expect EUR/USD to consolidate around 1.08-1.09 with upside risks. Given the uncertainty, we see a wide outcome space and look to sell into potential USD rallies on aggressive tariff announcements, as implementation delays may allow room for negotiation and potential reversals of initial market reactions." 

US natural gas prices traded under pressure as the US witnessed its second straight week of inventory injection while weather forecasts remained mixed, ING's commodity experts Ewa Manthey and Warren Patterson note.

US natural gas prices traded under pressure as the US witnessed its second straight week of inventory injection while weather forecasts remained mixed, ING's commodity experts Ewa Manthey and Warren Patterson note. Oil prices are trading almost flat "The weekly inventory report from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that US natural gas storage increased by 37bcf over the last week, above the expected 32bcf increase. However, this was contrary to the five-year average decline of 31 bcf. Meanwhile, total gas stockpiles totalled 1.74tcf as of 21 March, down 24.2% year-on-year and 6.5% below the five-year average." "Oil prices are trading almost flat this morning as the market remains cautious about softer demand and rising supply. The OPEC+ group is scheduled to start reviving its idled production with the first monthly increases of 138k b/d next month, following its decision to gradually unwind the output cuts of 2.2m b/d by 2026."  "On the other hand, some of the OPEC countries have agreed to further reduce the output (ranging from 189k b/d to 435k b/d until June 2026) to compensate for higher production earlier. The cuts, if implemented, will help offset the production hikes and balance the market in the immediate term."

US Dollar (USD) is likely to trade sideways vs Chinese Yuan (CNH) between 7.2570 and 7.2820.

US Dollar (USD) is likely to trade sideways vs Chinese Yuan (CNH) between 7.2570 and 7.2820. In the longer run, momentum has improved further; USD could continue to rise to 7.2980, UOB Group's FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Peter Chia note.  USD can continue to rise to 7.2980 24-HOUR VIEW: "After USD rose to 7.2822 two days ago, we highlighted yesterday that 'although there has been no clear increase in upward momentum, there is scope for USD to test 7.2855.' We pointed out, 'support levels are at 7.2720 and 7.2650.' Our expectations did not materialise, as USD traded in a 7.2658/7.2791 range, closing at 7.2671 (-0.16%). The price action appears to be part of a sideways trading range, mostly likely between 7.2570 and 7.2820."  1-3 WEEKS VIEW: "Momentum has improved further; USD could continue to rise to 7.2980. On Wednesday (26 Mar, spot at 7.2655), highlighted that 'there appears to be enough momentum for USD to rise to 7.2820.' After USD rose to 7.2822, we highlighted yesterday (27 Mar, spot at 7.2765) that 'momentum has improved further, and we continue to expect USD to rise, and the next level to monitor is 7.2980.' We will maintain our view as long as the ‘strong support’ at 7.2500 (no change in level from yesterday) is intact."

The US has limited room to further hike tariffs on China under the Reciprocal Tariff Act.

The US has limited room to further hike tariffs on China under the Reciprocal Tariff Act. But tariff uncertainty remains high; result of the US-China 2020 Phase 1 trade deal review is crucial. The proposed US port fee, if implemented, could disrupt global shipping, Standard Chartered's economists note.  The eye of the storm "The US has limited room to further hike tariffs on China under reciprocal terms, in our view, as it nears the conclusion of its trade investigations under the Reciprocal Trade Act. Reciprocal tariffs are due to be announced on 2 April – termed ‘Liberation Day’ by Trump. We estimate that the average US tariff on China is currently 15ppt higher than China’s average tariff on the US. Even if the US treats VAT as a trade barrier, China’s highest VAT rate is 13%, still lower than the current US-China tariff differential. But uncertainty regarding trade restrictions is still high, and the result of the 2020 Phase 1 trade deal review could be crucial. " "Trump has already announced a 25% tariff on all foreign-made cars (including parts), effective soon. Pharmaceutical products, chips and lumber could also be targeted, but their tariff timing is uncertain. However, we expect the sectoral tariffs to  have a limited impact on China, as the average US tariff on China has already reached c.32%, which is higher than the recently announced sectoral tariffs. The planned ‘secondary tariff’ on Venezuela (effective 2 April) would also have a marginal impact on China; China’s oil imports from Venezuela were only 0.3% of its total oil purchases in 2024."  "Beside tariffs, the US has also hardened restrictions on China’s investment, shipping, and AI industry. The Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) has proposed port entrance fees for any shipping operator using China-made vessels. If the proposal becomes legislation, it will cause significant disruptions to global logistics and create an extra barrier to China’s exports, in our view."

India FX Reserves, USD: $658.8B (March 17) vs $654.27B

Meanwhile, Copper has continued to retreat from its nine-month high as expectations for the ex-US tightness are retreating following reports earlier this week that US tariffs on Copper imports could be imposed within weeks, not months, ING's commodity experts Ewa Manthey and Warren Patterson note.

Meanwhile, Copper has continued to retreat from its nine-month high as expectations for the ex-US tightness are retreating following reports earlier this week that US tariffs on Copper imports could be imposed within weeks, not months, ING's commodity experts Ewa Manthey and Warren Patterson note. Growth US likely to slow on the back of tariffs "Tariffs are bearish for Copper and other industrial metals in the context of slowing growth and keeping inflation higher for longer. If US inflation remains persistent or rebounds, it could prompt the Federal Reserve to delay or increase interest rate cuts." 
"With growth in the US likely to slow on the back of tariffs and China already struggling to revive its economy, demand for Copper and other industrial metals is likely to weaken looking ahead."

US Dollar (USD) could test 151.30 vs Japanese Yen (JPY); it is uncertain if it can break clearly above this level.

US Dollar (USD) could test 151.30 vs Japanese Yen (JPY); it is uncertain if it can break clearly above this level. In the longer run, if USD breaks and holds above 151.30, it could trigger additional gains to 152.30, UOB Group's FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Peter Chia note.  Above 151.30, USD/JPY to face additional gains to 152.30 24-HOUR VIEW: "When USD was at 150.50 yesterday, we expected it to 'edge higher.' However, we pointed out that it 'does not appear to have enough momentum to break clearly above 151.00.' The anticipated advance exceeded our expectations, as USD rose above 151.00, reaching a high of 151.15. Today, while USD could test 151.30, upward momentum remains unconvincing, and it is incertain if it can break clearly above this level. The next major resistance at 152.30 is unlikely to come into view. On the downside, support is at 150.70, followed by 150.30."  1-3 WEEKS VIEW: "Two days ago (26 Mar, spot at 149.90), we highlighted that 'while there is scope for USD to rise further, it may find the 151.00/151.30 resistance zone difficult to break.' Yesterday, USD rose to a high of 151.15. From here, if USD breaks and holds above 151.30, it could trigger additional gains toward 152.30. We will continue to view USD is a positive manner, as long as the ‘strong support’ at 149.50 (level was at 149.00 yesterday) is not breached."

The USD/CHF pair ticks higher to near 0.8830 but trades inside Thursday’s trading range in Friday’s North American session ahead of the United States (US) Personal Consumption Expenditure Price Index (PCE) data for February, which will be published at 12:30 GMT.

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The US Dollar Index (DXY), which tracks the Greenback’s value against six major currencies, rebounds slightly to near 104.45 after a corrective move on Thursday. Investors await the US PCE inflation data as it will influence market expectations for the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) monetary policy outlook. The US core PCE Inflation, which is closely tracked by Fed officials, is estimated to have grown by 2.7% year-on-year, faster than January’s reading of 2.6%. Meanwhile, the major trigger for the Swiss pair ahead is the release of the detailed reciprocal tariff plan by US President Donald Trump on April 2. The Swiss National Bank (SNB) has also warned that the major risk for the Swiss economy is global uncertainty. USD/CHF seems to revisit the four-month low of 0.8736 plotted from the December 6 low. The outlook of the pair is broadly bearish as it trades below the 200-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), which is around 0.8875. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) rises above 40.00, suggesting that bearish momentum is over. However, the bearish trend is intact. The asset could face more downside towards the November 8 low of 0.8700 and the November 6 low of 0.8620 if it falls below the December 6 low of 0.8736. On the flip side, a recovery move above the psychological support of 0.9000 would drive the asset towards the February 28 high of 0.9036, followed by the round-level resistance of 0.9100. USD/CHF daily chart US Dollar FAQs What is the US Dollar? The US Dollar (USD) is the official currency of the United States of America, and the ‘de facto’ currency of a significant number of other countries where it is found in circulation alongside local notes. It is the most heavily traded currency in the world, accounting for over 88% of all global foreign exchange turnover, or an average of $6.6 trillion in transactions per day, according to data from 2022. Following the second world war, the USD took over from the British Pound as the world’s reserve currency. For most of its history, the US Dollar was backed by Gold, until the Bretton Woods Agreement in 1971 when the Gold Standard went away. How do the decisions of the Federal Reserve impact the US Dollar? The most important single factor impacting on the value of the US Dollar is monetary policy, which is shaped by the Federal Reserve (Fed). The Fed has two mandates: to achieve price stability (control inflation) and foster full employment. Its primary tool to achieve these two goals is by adjusting interest rates. When prices are rising too quickly and inflation is above the Fed’s 2% target, the Fed will raise rates, which helps the USD value. When inflation falls below 2% or the Unemployment Rate is too high, the Fed may lower interest rates, which weighs on the Greenback. What is Quantitative Easing and how does it influence the US Dollar? In extreme situations, the Federal Reserve can also print more Dollars and enact quantitative easing (QE). QE is the process by which the Fed substantially increases the flow of credit in a stuck financial system. It is a non-standard policy measure used when credit has dried up because banks will not lend to each other (out of the fear of counterparty default). It is a last resort when simply lowering interest rates is unlikely to achieve the necessary result. It was the Fed’s weapon of choice to combat the credit crunch that occurred during the Great Financial Crisis in 2008. It involves the Fed printing more Dollars and using them to buy US government bonds predominantly from financial institutions. QE usually leads to a weaker US Dollar. What is Quantitative Tightening and how does it influence the US Dollar? Quantitative tightening (QT) is the reverse process whereby the Federal Reserve stops buying bonds from financial institutions and does not reinvest the principal from the bonds it holds maturing in new purchases. It is usually positive for the US Dollar.  

Italy Producer Price Index (MoM): 0.7% (February) vs previous 1.6%

Italy Producer Price Index (YoY) up to 6.2% in February from previous 4.4%

Gold surged to a fresh record high this morning, surpassing the previous record hit just yesterday, after US President Donald Trump announced 'permanent' 25% tariffs on auto imports, intensifying trade tensions, ING's commodity experts Ewa Manthey and Warren Patterson note.

Gold surged to a fresh record high this morning, surpassing the previous record hit just yesterday, after US President Donald Trump announced 'permanent' 25% tariffs on auto imports, intensifying trade tensions, ING's commodity experts Ewa Manthey and Warren Patterson note.  Trump’s unpredictable trade policy is the key driver for Gold "Trump’s unpredictable trade policy has been the key driver for Gold so far in 2025, with prices up by more than 16% year-to-date, extending its momentum from 2024. We see uncertainty over trade and tariffs, along with central bank buying and inflows into ETF holdings continuing to buoy Gold prices."

Ireland Retail Sales (YoY) climbed from previous -0.3% to 1.8% in February

Ireland Retail Sales (MoM): 0.7% (February) vs -0.5%

This morning saw the release of March inflation figures for the Tokyo area, which are traditionally a good leading indicator for inflation in Japan as a whole.

This morning saw the release of March inflation figures for the Tokyo area, which are traditionally a good leading indicator for inflation in Japan as a whole. And for a change, the figures surprised on the upside. And not because of rising food and energy prices. No, this time it was the core rate, Commerzbank's commodity analyst Volkmar Baur notes.  Inflation figures surprise on the upside "At 2.9%, the inflation rate was slightly higher than in the previous month (revised down from 2.9% to 2.8%) and also exceeded most analysts' expectations (2.7%). As mentioned above, this month's increase was mainly driven by the core rate, which rose from 0.8% to 1.1%. However, this also shows that we are not talking about worrying levels and that the lion's share of the current headline rate still comes from food. The annual rate for fresh food remains at 12.9% and for all other food at 5.6%." "The core rate is likely to rise sharply again next month, as a low base will be removed from the April data. This special effect from April last year had distorted the core rate downwards in recent months. Even so, the core rate is likely to remain below 2% and will not signal a problematic development. Moreover, the nationwide inflation rate is not affected by this special effect, so it will have no impact on the Bank of Japan's monetary policy." "This morning, the JPY benefited slightly from the slightly higher core rate and remained stable against the US Dollar. However, next week's movements will be more influenced by the US reciprocal tariffs, which will be published on the 2nd of April."

Despite some ongoing reassessment of the dollar, AUD/USD has lagged, ING's FX analyst Chris Turner notes.

Despite some ongoing reassessment of the dollar, AUD/USD has lagged, ING's FX analyst Chris Turner notes. A move back to 0.6200 is possible next week "We think it could be vulnerable into next week's US reciprocal tariffs, where more tariffs on China look likely as Washington seeks to restructure global trade. A move back to 0.6200 is possible next week, while a cross rate like GBP/AUD could push up to the 2.08/2.09 area – levels last seen at the start of 2020."

New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is expected to continue to trade in a range, likely between 0.5710 and 0.5755.

New Zealand Dollar (NZD) is expected to continue to trade in a range, likely between 0.5710 and 0.5755. In the longer run, NZD is likely to edge lower toward the major support zone of 0.5650/0.5670, UOB Group's FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Peter Chia note.   Chance for NZD to edge lower toward the 0.5650/0.5670 area 24-HOUR VIEW: "While we expected 'further range trading' yesterday, we indicated that 'the softened underlying tone suggests NZD is likely to trade in a lower range of 0.5700/0.5750.' NZD then traded between 0.5715 and 0.5755, closing at 0.5739 (+0.17%). The price action provides no fresh clues, and we continue to expect NZD to trade in a range, likely between 0.5710 and 0.5755."  1-3 WEEKS VIEW: "We continue to hold the same view as Wednesday (26 Mar, spot at 0.5730). As highlighted, NZD 'is likely to edge lower toward the major support zone between 0.5650 and 0.5670.' While the likelihood of NZD breaking this support zone is not high, the downward bias will remain intact provided that NZD remains below 0.5770 (no change in ‘strong resistance’ level)."

UK retail sales surprise on the upside, ING's FX analyst Chris Turner notes.

UK retail sales surprise on the upside, ING's FX analyst Chris Turner notes. US tariffs are a EUR/GBP negative "Our UK economist, James Smith, writes: 'Another decent month for UK retail saw sales up 1%, having risen 1.4% last month (these are volume figures, so inflation adjusted)."  "It's unusual to have two such strong months in a row, given this is a volatile data set – though it was equally strange to see four consecutive falls through the final months of 2024, given real-wage growth is so strong in the UK (6% wage growth, 2-3% inflation). So I think what we're seeing is a catch-up in the data to the probable underlying trend." "Sterling has strengthened a little further on today's retail sales figures. 0.8320 is clear support, below which it looks biased towards 0.8250. Next week will be dominated by the tariff story, and tariffs are EUR/GBP negative."

Italy 5-y Bond Auction climbed from previous 2.93% to 3.05%

Italy 10-y Bond Auction up to 3.83% from previous 3.55%

Belgium Consumer Price Index (MoM) declined to -0.07% in March from previous 0.2%

Belgium Consumer Price Index (YoY) down to 2.91% in March from previous 3.55%

The USD/CAD pair rises to near 1.4330 during European trading hours on Friday.

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The Loonie pair trades higher ahead of the United States (US) Personal Consumption Expenditure Price Index (PCE) data for February and Canadian monthly Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data for January, which will be published at 12:30 GMT. The US PCE inflation data will influence market expectations for the Federal Reserve (Fed) monetary policy outlook. Economists expect the US core PCE inflation, which is the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, to have grown at a faster pace of 2.7% year-on-year, compared to the 2.6% increase seen in January. Meanwhile, the Canadian economy is expected to have expanded at a faster pace of 0.3% against 0.2% growth seen in December. The impact of the US and Canadian data is expected to be limited on the pair as its fate is tied to impending tariffs to be announced by US President Donald Trump on April 2. Trump is poised to unveil his reciprocal tariff plan on Wednesday, which is expected to force market experts to revise their global economic forecasts. On Wednesday, Trump imposed 25% tariffs on foreign cars, which has impacted the Canadian Dollar (CAD), being one of the leading auto exporters to the US. USD/CAD holds above the 100-period Exponential Moving Average (EMA), which is around 1.4233, suggesting that the overall trend is bullish. The 14-period Relative Strength Index (RSI) oscillates in the 40.00-60.00 range, indicating a sideways trend. Going forward, an upside move would emerge above the March 10 high of 1.4470, which will open the door toward the psychological resistance of 1.4500 and the January 30 high of 1.4595. On the contrary, a breakdown below the February 14 low of 1.4151 by the pair would expose it to the December 9 low of 1.4094, followed by the December 6 low of 1.4020. USD/CAD daily chart Tariffs FAQs What are tariffs? Tariffs are customs duties levied on certain merchandise imports or a category of products. Tariffs are designed to help local producers and manufacturers be more competitive in the market by providing a price advantage over similar goods that can be imported. Tariffs are widely used as tools of protectionism, along with trade barriers and import quotas. What is the difference between taxes and tariffs? Although tariffs and taxes both generate government revenue to fund public goods and services, they have several distinctions. Tariffs are prepaid at the port of entry, while taxes are paid at the time of purchase. Taxes are imposed on individual taxpayers and businesses, while tariffs are paid by importers. Are tariffs good or bad? There are two schools of thought among economists regarding the usage of tariffs. While some argue that tariffs are necessary to protect domestic industries and address trade imbalances, others see them as a harmful tool that could potentially drive prices higher over the long term and lead to a damaging trade war by encouraging tit-for-tat tariffs. What is US President Donald Trump’s tariff plan? During the run-up to the presidential election in November 2024, Donald Trump made it clear that he intends to use tariffs to support the US economy and American producers. In 2024, Mexico, China and Canada accounted for 42% of total US imports. In this period, Mexico stood out as the top exporter with $466.6 billion, according to the US Census Bureau. Hence, Trump wants to focus on these three nations when imposing tariffs. He also plans to use the revenue generated through tariffs to lower personal income taxes.  

Gold price (XAU/USD) is penciling another record performance this Friday, hitting $3,086 as the new all-time high for now and trading around $3,075 at the time of writing.

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Bullion sees another wave of safe-haven inflow, this time from investors that are exiting Equity and Crypto positions. From here, the next big psychological target and level to beat will be $3,100.  Later this Friday, the US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) data for February is due. The overall consensus is for rather steady numbers, with the monthly core PCE expected to remain unchanged at 0.3%, while the headline figure should remain cemented at 0.3% as well.  These past few days, inflation concerns in the United States (US) have been picking up as the impact of the United States (US) President Donald Trump’s tariff implementations on inflation is hard to measure. The risks of the US economy heading into recession or stagflation are major concerns for investors and could bring moves in Equity and Bond markets, and see Gold extending further. Daily digest market movers: Lost track of it all, good for GoldInflation in France and Spain undershot expectations this Friday, supporting calls for more interest rate cuts by the European Central Bank (ECB). The French headline Consumer Price Index year-on-year grew steadily by 0.9% this month, defying analyst predictions for an uptick. In Spain, it slowed by 2.2%, a much deeper deceleration than expected, and is the first country that approaches the ECB’s target of 2%, Bloomberg reports.  Some fair-value modeling reveals that Gold is 13% overvalued, suggesting that further policy uncertainty regarding US tariff execution is already factored in.  A peace deal for Ukraine could see the precious metal give up some gains as geopolitical risk perceptions ease, Reuters reports.  On Thursday, US President Donald Trump signed a proclamation to implement a 25% tariff on auto imports and pledged harsher punishment on the EU and Canada if they join forces “to do economic harm” against the US, while April 2nd approaches fast for the so-called reciprocal tariff implementation, Bloomberg reports.Gold Price Technical Analysis: Analyst calls remain bullishTraders are starting to throw in the towel on Equities and Crypto, with Gold being the hottest place in town. More and more analysts are revising their calls for Gold to higher levels, which means that a crucial point of being ‘overbought’ is starting to grow. Taking part in the rally still makes sense, but at least paying attention to specific levels will make the trade more manageable on where to get in, where to take profit, or when to stop it out.  On the upside, the daily R1 resistance for XAU/USD comes in at $3,072 and has already been tested earlier this Friday. Further up, the R2 resistance at $3,086 coincides with the fresh all-time high. Once from there the $3,100 mark looks far off, but still, it could see the rally at least move in that direction.  On the downside, the first support to be considered is the daily Pivot Point at $3,044, followed by the intraday S1 support at $3,030. Further down, the S2 support comes in at $3,002, which roughly coincides with the $3,000 mark psychological level. XAU/USD: Daily Chart Gold FAQs Why do people invest in Gold? Gold has played a key role in human’s history as it has been widely used as a store of value and medium of exchange. Currently, apart from its shine and usage for jewelry, the precious metal is widely seen as a safe-haven asset, meaning that it is considered a good investment during turbulent times. Gold is also widely seen as a hedge against inflation and against depreciating currencies as it doesn’t rely on any specific issuer or government. Who buys the most Gold? Central banks are the biggest Gold holders. In their aim to support their currencies in turbulent times, central banks tend to diversify their reserves and buy Gold to improve the perceived strength of the economy and the currency. High Gold reserves can be a source of trust for a country’s solvency. Central banks added 1,136 tonnes of Gold worth around $70 billion to their reserves in 2022, according to data from the World Gold Council. This is the highest yearly purchase since records began. Central banks from emerging economies such as China, India and Turkey are quickly increasing their Gold reserves. How is Gold correlated with other assets? Gold has an inverse correlation with the US Dollar and US Treasuries, which are both major reserve and safe-haven assets. When the Dollar depreciates, Gold tends to rise, enabling investors and central banks to diversify their assets in turbulent times. Gold is also inversely correlated with risk assets. A rally in the stock market tends to weaken Gold price, while sell-offs in riskier markets tend to favor the precious metal. What does the price of Gold depend on? The price can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can quickly make Gold price escalate due to its safe-haven status. As a yield-less asset, Gold tends to rise with lower interest rates, while higher cost of money usually weighs down on the yellow metal. Still, most moves depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAU/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Gold controlled, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to push Gold prices up.  

Australian Dollar (AUD) is likely to continue to trade in a range vs US Dollar (USD), expected to be between 0.6275/0.6320.

Australian Dollar (AUD) is likely to continue to trade in a range vs US Dollar (USD), expected to be between 0.6275/0.6320. In the longer run, AUD appears range-bound for now, likely between 0.6240 and 0.6355, UOB Group's FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Peter Chia note. AUD appears range-bound for now 24-HOUR VIEW: "Yesterday, we detected 'a slight increase in downward momentum.' We held the view that AUD 'is likely to trade in a lower range of 0.6270/0.6320.' AUD subsequently in a narrower range than expected, between 0.6280 and 0.6318, closing slightly higher at 0.6305 (+0.11%). The price action continues to appear like part of a range-trading phase. Today, we expect AUD to trade in a 0.6275/0.6320 range." 
1-3 WEEKS VIEW: "Our most recent narrative was from two days ago, (26 Mar, spot at 0.6305), where AUD 'appears range-bound for now, likely between 0.6240 and 0.6355.' There is no in our view."

Eurozone Services Sentiment below forecasts (6.8) in March: Actual (2.4)

Eurozone Industrial Confidence registered at -10.6, below expectations (-10.5) in March

Eurozone Consumer Confidence meets forecasts (-14.5) in March

Eurozone Economic Sentiment Indicator below forecasts (97) in March: Actual (95.2)

EUR/USD declines to near 1.0775 during European trading hours on Friday.

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The major currency pair faces pressure as United States (US) President Donald Trump is set to announce impending reciprocal tariffs on April 2.  The imposition of reciprocal tariffs by US President Trump is expected to weigh on economic growth and boost inflationary pressures across the globe, including the US. Trump also announced 25% tariffs on autos entering the US on Wednesday, which will become effective from April 2. Trump’s auto levy has resulted in global mayhem in automobile and auto-ancillary manufacturing companies' stocks. Federal Reserve (Fed) officials have expressed concerns over a resurgence in price pressures in the near term due to Trump’s tariff agenda. "It looks inevitable that tariffs are going to increase inflation in the near term," Boston Fed Bank President Susan Collins said at an event on Thursday. Collins added that it seems more likely than not right now the increase in inflation will be “short-lived,” but warned of “potential risks” that higher price pressures could be persistent in nature. On the interest rate outlook, Collins said that holding them at their current levels for longer “is likely to be appropriate”. However, the Fed should show "active patience" and stand ready to be “flexible”. In Friday’s session, investors will focus on the US Personal Consumption Expenditures Price (PCE) Index for February, which will be published at 12:30 GMT. Economists expect the US core PCE inflation, which is the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, to have grown at a faster pace of 2.7% year-on-year, compared to the 2.6% increase seen in January. The impact of the underlying inflation data is expected to be limited over the market speculation for the Fed’s monetary policy outlook as the central bank’s fate relies largely upon the consequences of Donald Trump’s economic policies. Daily digest market movers: EUR/USD declines on potential US-EU trade war EUR/USD weakens amid deepening uncertainty over the Euro (EUR) due to potential risks of a trade war between the Eurozone and the US. The European Commission (EC) plans to announce retaliatory tariffs on the US for imposing a 25% blanket levy on autos. German carmakers dispatch 13% of their total auto exports to the US, and a 25% tariff on autos could make their cars less competitive in the global market. “We regret 25% auto tariffs and a new suite of measures coming on April 2, but we are preparing for all of these,” EC spokesman Olof Gill said on Thursday. When asked about the degree and timing of retaliatory measures, Gill refrained from guiding exact timings but assured that it will be “timely, robust, well calibrated and will achieve the intended impact". Financial market participants and German leaders warned that auto tariffs would be a lose-lose situation for both countries. “Trump’s decision is wrong," German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said on Thursday and added that the US has chosen a path at whose end “lie only losers” since tariffs and isolation hurt prosperity “for everyone”. Meanwhile, European Central Bank (ECB) officials expect Trump’s tariff agenda will hurt the Eurozone economic growth and boost inflationary pressures in the near term. ECB Vice President Luis de Guindos said that the impact of tariffs on inflation will be temporary, but it will be persistent on growth. "For growth, trade is extremely detrimental," de Guindos said and added, the "worst outcome is a vicious circle of tariffs/retaliation." On the monetary policy guidance, de Guindos said, "it is very difficult to say what ECB will do in April." On the economic front, France and Spain's March preliminary inflation data has shown that price pressures rose at a slower-than-expected pace. In 12 months to March, France’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) (EU Norm) rose steadily by 0.9%, slower than estimates of 1.1%. In the same period, Spain’s Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) grew at a slower pace of 2.2%, compared to the prior release of 2.9%. Technical Analysis: EUR/USD holds key 20-day EMA EUR/USD drops to near 1.0775 on Friday but continues to hold the 20-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), which trades around 1.0760. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) cools down below 60.00, suggesting that the bullish momentum is over, but the upside bias is intact. Looking down, the December 6 high of 1.0630 will act as the major support zone for the pair. Conversely, the psychological level of 1.1000 will be the key barrier for the Euro bulls. Euro FAQs What is the Euro? The Euro is the currency for the 19 European Union countries that belong to the Eurozone. It is the second most heavily traded currency in the world behind the US Dollar. In 2022, it accounted for 31% of all foreign exchange transactions, with an average daily turnover of over $2.2 trillion a day. EUR/USD is the most heavily traded currency pair in the world, accounting for an estimated 30% off all transactions, followed by EUR/JPY (4%), EUR/GBP (3%) and EUR/AUD (2%). What is the ECB and how does it impact the Euro? The European Central Bank (ECB) in Frankfurt, Germany, is the reserve bank for the Eurozone. The ECB sets interest rates and manages monetary policy. The ECB’s primary mandate is to maintain price stability, which means either controlling inflation or stimulating growth. Its primary tool is the raising or lowering of interest rates. Relatively high interest rates – or the expectation of higher rates – will usually benefit the Euro and vice versa. The ECB Governing Council makes monetary policy decisions at meetings held eight times a year. Decisions are made by heads of the Eurozone national banks and six permanent members, including the President of the ECB, Christine Lagarde. How does inflation data impact the value of the Euro? Eurozone inflation data, measured by the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), is an important econometric for the Euro. If inflation rises more than expected, especially if above the ECB’s 2% target, it obliges the ECB to raise interest rates to bring it back under control. Relatively high interest rates compared to its counterparts will usually benefit the Euro, as it makes the region more attractive as a place for global investors to park their money. How does economic data influence the value of the Euro? Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact on the Euro. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the single currency. A strong economy is good for the Euro. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the ECB to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen the Euro. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Euro is likely to fall. Economic data for the four largest economies in the euro area (Germany, France, Italy and Spain) are especially significant, as they account for 75% of the Eurozone’s economy. How does the Trade Balance impact the Euro? Another significant data release for the Euro is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought after exports then its currency will gain in value purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.  

Eurozone Business Climate up to -0.73 in March from previous -0.74

Italy Industrial Sales n.s.a. (YoY) increased to 1.7% in January from previous -7.2%

Italy Industrial Sales s.a. (MoM) climbed from previous -2.7% to 3.8% in January

Greece Producer Price Index (YoY) up to 0.6% in February from previous 0.3%

US crude oil inventories declined by 3.3 million barrels last week, as reported by the US Department of Energy in the middle of the week, Commerzbank's commodity analyst Carsten Fritsch notes.

US crude oil inventories declined by 3.3 million barrels last week, as reported by the US Department of Energy in the middle of the week, Commerzbank's commodity analyst Carsten Fritsch notes.  Crude oil stocks are currently around 5% below the 5-year average "This was the biggest drop in inventories so far this year. According to a Bloomberg survey, an increase in inventories had been expected. However, as the American Petroleum Institute had reported an even sharper decline in crude oil inventories the previous evening, the surprise was limited, meaning that oil prices did not benefit any further."  "The higher net crude oil imports with only a slight increase in crude oil processing would have suggested a build-up in inventories. In addition, US petrol demand and US demand for distillates also recorded weekly declines. Nevertheless, there was also a decline in stocks of petrol and distillates."  "One reason for this could have been the continued high net exports of oil products. Crude oil stocks are currently around 5% below the 5-year average, while distillate stocks are even 7% lower. In contrast, there is a corresponding upward deviation of 2.4% in petrol stocks."

Pound Sterling (GBP) is likely to trade in a 1.2900/1.3000 range today vs US Dollar (USD).

Pound Sterling (GBP) is likely to trade in a 1.2900/1.3000 range today vs US Dollar (USD). In the longer run, current price movements are likely part of a range trading phase, expected to be between 1.2850 and 1.3050, UOB Group's FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Peter Chia note.  Current price movements are likely part of a range trading phase 24-HOUR VIEW: "We pointed out yesterday that 'the risk is for GBP to test the major support at 1.2850.' We also pointed out that, 'Currently, it is too early to determine if GBP can break clearly below this level.' However, GBP did not test 1.2850. Instead, it rebounded from 1.2872 to 1.2992, closing higher by 0.49% at 1.2949. The sharp rebound appears to be running ahead of itself, and instead of continuing to rise, GBP is more likely to trade in a 1.2900/1.3000 range today."  1-3 WEEKS VIEW: "Yesterday (27 Mar, spot at 1.2880), we noted, 'there has been a tentative buildup in momentum.' We indicated that 'if GBP breaks and holds below 1.2850, it could lead to a move lower to 1.2790.' We also highlighted that 'the likelihood of GBP breaking clearly below 1.2850 will remain intact as long as it remains below 1.2960 (‘strong resistance’ level).' GBP then rebounded above 1.2960, reaching a high of 1.2992. The buildup in momentum has faded. The current price movements are likely part of a range trading phase, expected to be between 1.2850 and 1.3050."

The value of currencies in FX markets is typically driven by interest rate differentials, with FX effectively being seen as an extension of monetary policy.

The value of currencies in FX markets is typically driven by interest rate differentials, with FX effectively being seen as an extension of monetary policy. That is why the US Dollar did so well from 2021 onwards on the back of relatively tight Federal Reserve policy and then the US exceptionalism story over the last couple of years, ING's FX analyst Chris Turner notes.  USD price action remains on the softish side "With so much uncertainty about the current US administration's policy, we in the market are on the lookout for new narratives. For example, could FX reserve managers who hold close to $13tr in reserves be considering reducing their dollar composition? But in the meantime, could the ongoing rally in gold be telling us something about investor preferences away from the dollar? It will also be interesting to keep track of the weekly releases from the Fed in terms of the marketable holdings of US Treasuries that the central bank keeps in custody for foreign accounts." "USD price action remains on the softish side. The announcement of auto tariffs on Wednesday has not given the dollar a material lift, and we want to see how the dollar trades today, when we should get some mildly positive dollar data. Here, the expectation is that today's US core PCE deflator remains at a sticky 0.3% or even 0.4% month-on-month, suggesting the Fed's pause in easing could extend further. Currently, the market prices 17bp of rate cuts in June – something which could be priced out should inflation remain sticky."  "In theory, that would help short-dated rates and the dollar – but as above, larger forces may be at play. DXY risks an intra-day run-up to 104.70, and an outside risk to 104.90 on today's inflation data. But the mood music in the market is that unless reciprocal US tariffs really shock next Wednesday, investors look minded to sell the dollar".

Data published this week by the Hong Kong Statistics Authority on Gold trade with China confirmed the picture of very weak demand for Gold in China, Commerzbank's commodity analyst Carsten Fritsch notes Gold exports to China and Hong Kong come to a standstill in February "According to the data, 26.4 tons more Gold were delivered from China to Hong Kong in February than vice versa.

Data published this week by the Hong Kong Statistics Authority on Gold trade with China confirmed the picture of very weak demand for Gold in China, Commerzbank's commodity analyst Carsten Fritsch notes Gold exports to China and Hong Kong come to a standstill in February "According to the data, 26.4 tons more Gold were delivered from China to Hong Kong in February than vice versa. This was mainly due to a sharp rise in China's Gold exports to Hong Kong, which more than doubled month-on-month to 41 tons, the highest level in 10 years. In contrast, China's Gold imports from Hong Kong rose only slightly after falling to their lowest level in almost three years in January."  "Net Gold exports from China to Hong Kong had therefore already occurred in January. Previously, this was only the case at the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic in April and May 2020, as supply chains were interrupted at the time due to the lockdowns. However, China's net Gold exports to Hong Kong almost five years ago were nowhere near the level seen last month."  "Apparently, Gold demand in China was so weak in February that Gold traders exported the surplus Gold to Hong Kong and Switzerland in order to benefit from higher world market prices. Trade data from the Swiss customs authority had already painted a similar picture the previous week. Gold exports to China and Hong Kong came to a standstill in February, while Gold imports from China rose to 7 tons and from Hong Kong to 14 tons."

Gold has reacted positively to the latest US tariffs, Commerzbank's commodity analyst Barbara Lambrecht notes.

Gold has reacted positively to the latest US tariffs, Commerzbank's commodity analyst Barbara Lambrecht notes.  US economic indicators can strengthen hopes of more interest rate cuts "The price reached a new record high. In addition, the price difference between Gold on the Comex and the spot price in London has widened again, which can be explained by concerns about the US tariffs that will come into force next week as these could also affect Gold imports from Canada."  "However, this also shows that the Gold rally is not quite over yet. We consider Gold to be well supported for the time being, especially as next week's potentially disappointing US economic indicators could strengthen hopes of more interest rate cuts by the Fed."

Room for Euro (EUR) to rebound further vs US Dollar (USD) and test 1.0825; the next resistance at 1.0870 is unlikely to come under threat.

Room for Euro (EUR) to rebound further vs US Dollar (USD) and test 1.0825; the next resistance at 1.0870 is unlikely to come under threat. In the longer run, if EUR breaks 1.0825, it would mean that it is likely to trade in a range instead of declining, UOB Group's FX analysts Quek Ser Leang and Peter Chia note.  Above 1.0825, EUR/USD is likely to trade in a range 24-HOUR VIEW: "The following are the excerpts from our update yesterday: 'Downward momentum has increased, albeit not much. Provided that EUR holds below 1.0795, it could test 1.0725.' Our view was incorrect, as after dipping to 1.0731, EUR rebounded strongly to 1.0821 before closing higher by 0.46% at 1.0801. Despite the rapid rise, there has been no significant increase in upward momentum. However, there is room for EUR to rebound further and test the strong resistance at 1.0825. The next resistance at 1.0870 is unlikely to come under threat. On the downside, support levels are at 1.0780 and 1.0755."  1-3 WEEKS VIEW: "On Wednesday (26 Mar, spot at 1.0790), we highlighted that 'as long as EUR remains below 1.0860, EUR could pull back further toward 1.0725.' After EUR dropped to 1.0743, we highlighted yesterday (27 Mar, spot at 1.0750) that 'downward momentum has increased, and if EUR breaks below 1.0725, it could lead to a deeper decline to the next support at 1.0660.' We did not anticipate the strong rebound that reached 1.0821. From here, if EUR breaks above 1.0825 (no change in ‘strong resistance’ level), it would mean that it is likely to trade in a range instead of declining."

Silver prices (XAG/USD) broadly unchanged on Friday, according to FXStreet data.

.fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}} Silver prices (XAG/USD) broadly unchanged on Friday, according to FXStreet data. Silver trades at $34.42 per troy ounce, broadly unchanged 0.03% from the $34.41 it cost on Thursday. Silver prices have increased by 19.11% since the beginning of the year. Unit measure Silver Price Today in USD Troy Ounce 34.42 1 Gram 1.11
The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, stood at 89.26 on Friday, up from 88.83 on Thursday. Silver FAQs Why do people invest in Silver? Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets. Which factors influence Silver prices? Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold's. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices. How does industrial demand affect Silver prices? Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices. How do Silver prices react to Gold’s moves? Silver prices tend to follow Gold's moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver. (An automation tool was used in creating this post.)

Portugal Consumer Confidence: -16 (March) vs previous -15.3

Portugal Business Confidence dipped from previous 2.7 to 2.4 in March

EUR/USD held in surprisingly well yesterday – as did European automakers.

EUR/USD held in surprisingly well yesterday – as did European automakers. The Eurostoxx autos and parts index only fell 1% on the day, either because tariffs were priced in or the view that they would be negotiated away. Price action yesterday could be a precursor to next Wednesday, when the euro could take a hit once 20% across-the-board US tariffs are potentially levied on the EU, ING's FX analyst Chris Turner notes. The 1.0730 area to hold the pressure "Notably, we are seeing some longer-term EUR/USD bullishness in the FX options market. Despite the EUR/USD spot having come steadily lower over the last week, the FX options market has seen increasing demand for longer-term euro call options."  "For example, the one-year risk reversal skew – the price for a euro put option over a euro call option – has decreased to 0.34% from 0.66% over the last week. This one-year skew shifting in favour of euro calls was last seen in 2020 and would be a big talking point." "EUR/USD in theory should look vulnerable to a sticky US inflation print today. But we suspect the 1.0730 area holds, and ending the day at 1.0830/50 would tell us something about declining appetite for dollars."

Silver (XAG/USD) climbs its highest level since late October 2024 during the first half of the European session on Friday and currently trades around mid-$34.00s, up nearly 0.30% for the day.

.fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}}Silver holds steady near a multi-month high touched earlier this Friday.The bullish technical setup supports prospects for further appreciation.Any pullback could be seen as a buying opportunity and remain limited.Silver (XAG/USD) climbs its highest level since late October 2024 during the first half of the European session on Friday and currently trades around mid-$34.00s, up nearly 0.30% for the day. Bulls, however, opt to wait for the US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index for cues about the Federal Reserve's (Fed) rate-cut path and before placing fresh bets.  From a technical perspective, the strong positive move witnessed since the beginning of 2025 has been along an upward-sloping channel. Moreover, oscillators on the daily chart are holding comfortably in positive territory and are still away from being in the overbought zone. This, in turn, favors bulls and suggests that the path of least resistance for the XAG/USD is to the upside.  That said, it will be prudent to wait for a sustained move beyond the trend-channel resistance before positioning for additional gains towards retesting a multi-year peak, around the $34.85 zone touched in October. Some follow-through buying will be seen as a fresh trigger for bulls and set the stage for an extension of a well-established multi-month-old uptrend.  On the flip side, any corrective pullback might now be seen as a buying opportunity and is more likely to remain cushioned near the $34.00 round figure. A convincing break below, however, might prompt some technical selling and drag the XAG/USD to the next relevant support near the $33.50 region en route to the $33.00 mark and last week's swing low, around the $32.65 area.  Silver daily chart   Silver FAQs Why do people invest in Silver? Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets. Which factors influence Silver prices? Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold's. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices. How does industrial demand affect Silver prices? Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices. How do Silver prices react to Gold’s moves? Silver prices tend to follow Gold's moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver.    

 European Central Bank (ECB) Vice President Luis de Guindos said on Friday, “trade war would mostly impact economic growth.”

.fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}}  European Central Bank (ECB) Vice President Luis de Guindos said on Friday, “trade war would mostly impact economic growth.”Additional quotes"Disinflation process is continuing, goal to be reached in the coming months.""Trade war impact on inflation would be offset over the medium-term amid lower growth.""Caution is even more important during times of uncertainty."Market reactionEUR/USD was last seen trading 0.25% lower on the day near 1.0775. ECB FAQs What is the ECB and how does it influence the Euro? The European Central Bank (ECB) in Frankfurt, Germany, is the reserve bank for the Eurozone. The ECB sets interest rates and manages monetary policy for the region. The ECB primary mandate is to maintain price stability, which means keeping inflation at around 2%. Its primary tool for achieving this is by raising or lowering interest rates. Relatively high interest rates will usually result in a stronger Euro and vice versa. The ECB Governing Council makes monetary policy decisions at meetings held eight times a year. Decisions are made by heads of the Eurozone national banks and six permanent members, including the President of the ECB, Christine Lagarde. What is Quantitative Easing (QE) and how does it affect the Euro? In extreme situations, the European Central Bank can enact a policy tool called Quantitative Easing. QE is the process by which the ECB prints Euros and uses them to buy assets – usually government or corporate bonds – from banks and other financial institutions. QE usually results in a weaker Euro. QE is a last resort when simply lowering interest rates is unlikely to achieve the objective of price stability. The ECB used it during the Great Financial Crisis in 2009-11, in 2015 when inflation remained stubbornly low, as well as during the covid pandemic. What is Quantitative tightening (QT) and how does it affect the Euro? Quantitative tightening (QT) is the reverse of QE. It is undertaken after QE when an economic recovery is underway and inflation starts rising. Whilst in QE the European Central Bank (ECB) purchases government and corporate bonds from financial institutions to provide them with liquidity, in QT the ECB stops buying more bonds, and stops reinvesting the principal maturing on the bonds it already holds. It is usually positive (or bullish) for the Euro.

Italy Business Confidence below expectations (87.5) in March: Actual (86)

Italy Consumer Confidence down to 95 in March from previous 98.8

Germany Unemployment Change came in at 26K, above forecasts (10K) in February

Germany Unemployment Rate s.a. came in at 6.3%, above forecasts (6.2%) in February

The AUD/USD pair extends its sideways consolidative price move for the fourth straight day on Friday and remains confined in a range around the 0.6300 mark through the first half of the European session.

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Adding to this, Trump's impending reciprocal tariff announcement next week and their impact on the global economy further weigh on investors' sentiment. This, in turn, is seen acting as a headwind for the risk-sensitive Australian Dollar (AUD), which, along with a modest US Dollar (USD) uptick, exerts some pressure on the AUD/USD pair.  The intraday USD uptick, however, lacks bullish conviction in the wake of the growing acceptance that the Federal Reserve (Fed) will resume its rate-cutting cycle soon. In fact, the markets are now pricing in over a 65% chance that the US central bank would lower borrowing costs by at least 25 basis points in June amid worries about the potential economic fallout from Trump's aggressive trade policies. This might hold back the USD bulls from placing aggressive bets and support the AUD/USD pair.  Apart from this, hopes for more stimulus from China help limit losses for the Aussie. Traders also seem reluctant to place aggressive directional bets and opt to wait for the release of the US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index, due later during the North American session. The crucial US inflation data would influence expectations about the Fed's future policy path, which, in turn, will play a key role in driving the USD demand and provide a fresh impetus to the AUD/USD pair.  Australian Dollar FAQs What key factors drive the Australian Dollar? One of the most significant factors for the Australian Dollar (AUD) is the level of interest rates set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Because Australia is a resource-rich country another key driver is the price of its biggest export, Iron Ore. The health of the Chinese economy, its largest trading partner, is a factor, as well as inflation in Australia, its growth rate and Trade Balance. Market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – is also a factor, with risk-on positive for AUD. How do the decisions of the Reserve Bank of Australia impact the Australian Dollar? The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) influences the Australian Dollar (AUD) by setting the level of interest rates that Australian banks can lend to each other. This influences the level of interest rates in the economy as a whole. The main goal of the RBA is to maintain a stable inflation rate of 2-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively high interest rates compared to other major central banks support the AUD, and the opposite for relatively low. The RBA can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former AUD-negative and the latter AUD-positive. How does the health of the Chinese Economy impact the Australian Dollar? China is Australia’s largest trading partner so the health of the Chinese economy is a major influence on the value of the Australian Dollar (AUD). When the Chinese economy is doing well it purchases more raw materials, goods and services from Australia, lifting demand for the AUD, and pushing up its value. The opposite is the case when the Chinese economy is not growing as fast as expected. Positive or negative surprises in Chinese growth data, therefore, often have a direct impact on the Australian Dollar and its pairs. How does the price of Iron Ore impact the Australian Dollar? Iron Ore is Australia’s largest export, accounting for $118 billion a year according to data from 2021, with China as its primary destination. The price of Iron Ore, therefore, can be a driver of the Australian Dollar. Generally, if the price of Iron Ore rises, AUD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Iron Ore falls. Higher Iron Ore prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance for Australia, which is also positive of the AUD. How does the Trade Balance impact the Australian Dollar? The Trade Balance, which is the difference between what a country earns from its exports versus what it pays for its imports, is another factor that can influence the value of the Australian Dollar. If Australia produces highly sought after exports, then its currency will gain in value purely from the surplus demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase its exports versus what it spends to purchase imports. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens the AUD, with the opposite effect if the Trade Balance is negative.  

The Pound Sterling (GBP) advances against its major peers on Friday, except the Japanese Yen (JPY), after the release of the United Kingdom (UK) Retail Sales data for February and revised Q4 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures.

.fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}}The Pound Sterling rises against its peers on Friday after surprisingly upbeat UK Retail Sales data for February.The UK economy expanded at a robust pace of 1.5% in the last quarter of 2024.Investors brace for US PCE inflation and impending tariffs from US President Trump.The Pound Sterling (GBP) advances against its major peers on Friday, except the Japanese Yen (JPY), after the release of the United Kingdom (UK) Retail Sales data for February and revised Q4 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) figures. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that Retail Sales, a key measure of consumer spending, surprisingly rose by 1% month-on-month. Economists expected the data to have declined by 0.3%. In January, retail sales grew at a robust pace of 1.4%, revised lower from 1.7%. In the 12 months to February, the consumer spending measure grew strongly by 2.2% compared to estimates of 0.5% and the former release of 0.6%, revised lower from 1%. Upbeat Retail Sales data is expected to support Bank of England (BoE) officials, who guided a "gradual and cautious" monetary easing outlook in last week's policy meeting after leaving interest rates unchanged at 4.5%. Meanwhile, revised GDP figures show that the economy expanded at a faster pace of 1.5% against the preliminary estimate of 1.4%. This week, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves delivered a budget update in which she announced a significant cut in welfare benefits and halved its GDP forecasts for the current year to 1%. Reeves added that amendments in welfare spending would save £4.8 billion, and she would rebuild a nearly £10 billion fiscal buffer. Daily digest market movers: Pound Sterling ticks higher against US Dollar The Pound Sterling edges higher to near 1.2960 against the US Dollar (USD) in Friday’s European session. The GBP/USD pair gains slightly ahead of the United States (US) Personal Consumption Expenditures Price (PCE) Index for February, which will be published at 12:30 GMT. The US core PCE inflation, which is the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) preferred inflation gauge, is estimated to have grown at a faster pace of 2.7% year-over-year, compared to the 2.6% increase seen in January. Month-on-month core PCE inflation is expected to have grown steadily by 0.3%. In this month's policy meeting, the Fed revised their forecast for the core PCE Index for this year to 2.8%, up from the 2.5% projected in the December meeting. Historically, the underlying inflation significantly influences market expectations for the Fed’s monetary policy outlook. This time, the impact is expected to be limited as investors brace for impending reciprocal tariffs by US President Donald Trump, which are expected to force market experts to revise their consumer inflation expectations. However, Fed officials and financial market participants had already anticipated that tariffs would be inflationary for the economy in the near term. Still, they need clarity on tariff rates to know the degree of acceleration in price pressures. US President Trump is set to announce reciprocal tariffs on April 2, the same day his recently announced 25% levy on autos will be implemented. Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer seeks to secure a deal with the US before Trump unveils reciprocal tariffs. “Trade wars are no good for anyone," Chancellor Rachel Reeves said in an interview with Bloomberg Television on Thursday and added that they are working intensely these next few days to try and secure “a good deal for Britain”.  Market participants also expect that the impact of Trump’s tariffs will be very limited on the UK. In late February, Trump commented that he is not sure about imposing tariffs on the UK and sounded confident that a deal could be made as Keir Starmer was "very nice". Technical Analysis: Pound Sterling aims to hold 1.2930 On Friday, the Pound Sterling strives to hold the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement, plotted from late-September high to mid-January low, near 1.2930 against the US Dollar. The 20-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) continues to provide support to the pair around 1.2885. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) cools down to near 60.00 after turning overbought above 70.00. Should a fresh bullish momentum come into action if the RSI resumes the upside journey after holding above the 60.00 level Looking down, the 50% Fibonacci retracement at 1.2770 and the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement at 1.2615 will act as key support zones for the pair. On the upside, the October 15 high of 1.3100 will act as a key resistance zone. Pound Sterling FAQs What is the Pound Sterling? The Pound Sterling (GBP) is the oldest currency in the world (886 AD) and the official currency of the United Kingdom. It is the fourth most traded unit for foreign exchange (FX) in the world, accounting for 12% of all transactions, averaging $630 billion a day, according to 2022 data. Its key trading pairs are GBP/USD, also known as ‘Cable’, which accounts for 11% of FX, GBP/JPY, or the ‘Dragon’ as it is known by traders (3%), and EUR/GBP (2%). The Pound Sterling is issued by the Bank of England (BoE). How do the decisions of the Bank of England impact on the Pound Sterling? The single most important factor influencing the value of the Pound Sterling is monetary policy decided by the Bank of England. The BoE bases its decisions on whether it has achieved its primary goal of “price stability” – a steady inflation rate of around 2%. Its primary tool for achieving this is the adjustment of interest rates. When inflation is too high, the BoE will try to rein it in by raising interest rates, making it more expensive for people and businesses to access credit. This is generally positive for GBP, as higher interest rates make the UK a more attractive place for global investors to park their money. When inflation falls too low it is a sign economic growth is slowing. In this scenario, the BoE will consider lowering interest rates to cheapen credit so businesses will borrow more to invest in growth-generating projects. How does economic data influence the value of the Pound? Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact the value of the Pound Sterling. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, and employment can all influence the direction of the GBP. A strong economy is good for Sterling. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the BoE to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen GBP. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Pound Sterling is likely to fall. How does the Trade Balance impact the Pound? Another significant data release for the Pound Sterling is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought-after exports, its currency will benefit purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.  

Indian Rupee (INR) crosses trade with a negative bias at the start of Friday, according to FXStreet data.

.fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}} Indian Rupee (INR) crosses trade with a negative bias at the start of Friday, according to FXStreet data. The Euro (EUR) to the Indian Rupee changes hands at 92.33, with the EUR/INR pair declining from its previous close at 92.52 Meanwhile, the Pound Sterling (GBP) trades at 110.80 against the INR in the early European trading hours, also losing ground after the GBP/INR pair settled at 110.94 at the previous close. Indian economy FAQs How does the Indian economy impact the Indian Rupee? The Indian economy has averaged a growth rate of 6.13% between 2006 and 2023, which makes it one of the fastest growing in the world. India’s high growth has attracted a lot of foreign investment. This includes Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into physical projects and Foreign Indirect Investment (FII) by foreign funds into Indian financial markets. The greater the level of investment, the higher the demand for the Rupee (INR). Fluctuations in Dollar-demand from Indian importers also impact INR. What is the impact of Oil prices on the Rupee? India has to import a great deal of its Oil and gasoline so the price of Oil can have a direct impact on the Rupee. Oil is mostly traded in US Dollars (USD) on international markets so if the price of Oil rises, aggregate demand for USD increases and Indian importers have to sell more Rupees to meet that demand, which is depreciative for the Rupee. How does inflation in India impact the Rupee? Inflation has a complex effect on the Rupee. Ultimately it indicates an increase in money supply which reduces the Rupee’s overall value. Yet if it rises above the Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) 4% target, the RBI will raise interest rates to bring it down by reducing credit. Higher interest rates, especially real rates (the difference between interest rates and inflation) strengthen the Rupee. They make India a more profitable place for international investors to park their money. A fall in inflation can be supportive of the Rupee. At the same time lower interest rates can have a depreciatory effect on the Rupee. How does seasonal US Dollar demand from importers and banks impact the Rupee? India has run a trade deficit for most of its recent history, indicating its imports outweigh its exports. Since the majority of international trade takes place in US Dollars, there are times – due to seasonal demand or order glut – where the high volume of imports leads to significant US Dollar- demand. During these periods the Rupee can weaken as it is heavily sold to meet the demand for Dollars. When markets experience increased volatility, the demand for US Dollars can also shoot up with a similarly negative effect on the Rupee. Rates for Indian Rupee crosses mentioned above are based on the FXStreet data feed for Contracts for Differences (CFDs). (An automation tool was used in creating this post.)

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) Oil price falls on Friday, early in the European session.

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Platinum Group Metals (PGMs) trade mixed at the beginning of Friday, according to FXStreet data.

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Austria Producer Price Index (YoY) climbed from previous -0.4% to -0.1% in February

Austria Producer Price Index (MoM) up to 0% in February from previous -0.3%

Spain Consumer Price Index (YoY) below expectations (2.7%) in March: Actual (2.3%)

Spain Consumer Price Index (MoM) down to 0.1% in March from previous 0.4%

Spain Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (MoM) increased to 0.7% in March from previous 0.4%

Spain Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (YoY) down to 2.2% in March from previous 2.9%

France Consumer Price Index (EU norm) (MoM) below expectations (0.3%) in March: Actual (0.2%)

France Consumer Price Index (EU norm) (YoY) came in at 0.9% below forecasts (1.1%) in March

France Producer Prices (MoM): -0.8% (February) vs previous 0.7%

France Consumer Spending (MoM) below expectations (0.3%) in February: Actual (-0.1%)

The NZD/USD pair has retraced its recent gains from the previous session, hovering around 0.5710 during early European trading on Friday.

.fxs-major-currency-prices-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:8px 16px}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table{width:100%;text-align:center;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:1rem}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table th{background-color:#f2f2f2}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td{color:#fff}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.green{background-color:#9cd6cd}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.red{background-color:#faafb5}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.blue-grey{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-legend{font-size:11px;margin:8px;color:#49494f}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.dark-green{background-color:#39ad9a}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-green{background-color:#9cd6cd}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.gray{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-red{background-color:#faafb5}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.strong-red{background-color:#f55e6a}NZD/USD may face immediate resistance at the nine-day EMA of 0.5737.The 14-day RSI has fallen below the 50 mark, indicating weakening bullish momentum.A drop below the 50-day EMA at 0.5718 could further erode medium-term strength.The NZD/USD pair has retraced its recent gains from the previous session, hovering around 0.5710 during early European trading on Friday. The technical analysis of the daily chart suggests a bullish bias as the pair remains within an ascending channel pattern. However, the 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) has dipped below the 50 level, signaling a weakening bullish momentum. Additionally, the NZD/USD pair remains below the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), suggesting weakening short-term price momentum. However, with the nine-day EMA still positioned above the 50-day EMA, the broader bullish trend remains intact, indicating the potential for continued recovery. On the upside, a decisive break above the nine-day EMA at 0.5737 could bolster short-term momentum, potentially pushing the NZD/USD pair toward its three-month high of 0.5832, last reached on March 18. Beyond this level, the next key resistance lies near the upper boundary of the ascending channel, around 0.5900. A break below the 50-day EMA at 0.5718 could weaken medium-term momentum, intensifying downside pressure on the NZD/USD pair. This could lead to a test of the psychological support at 0.5700, with the lower boundary of the ascending channel near 0.5670 as the next key level. A breakdown below this channel would reinforce the bearish bias, potentially driving the pair toward the monthly low of 0.5593, recorded on March 3. NZD/USD: Daily Chart New Zealand Dollar PRICE Today The table below shows the percentage change of New Zealand Dollar (NZD) against listed major currencies today. New Zealand Dollar was the weakest against the Japanese Yen.   USD EUR GBP JPY CAD AUD NZD CHF USD   0.13% 0.04% -0.26% 0.14% 0.30% 0.47% 0.06% EUR -0.13%   -0.12% -0.44% -0.01% 0.14% 0.32% -0.09% GBP -0.04% 0.12%   -0.31% 0.11% 0.26% 0.44% 0.02% JPY 0.26% 0.44% 0.31%   0.40% 0.56% 0.74% 0.33% CAD -0.14% 0.01% -0.11% -0.40%   0.15% 0.32% -0.08% AUD -0.30% -0.14% -0.26% -0.56% -0.15%   0.17% -0.24% NZD -0.47% -0.32% -0.44% -0.74% -0.32% -0.17%   -0.41% CHF -0.06% 0.09% -0.02% -0.33% 0.08% 0.24% 0.41%   The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the New Zealand Dollar from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent NZD (base)/USD (quote).  
.fxs-major-currency-prices-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:8px 16px}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table{width:100%;text-align:center;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:1rem}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table th{background-color:#f2f2f2}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td{color:#fff}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.green{background-color:#9cd6cd}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.red{background-color:#faafb5}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.blue-grey{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-legend{font-size:11px;margin:8px;color:#49494f}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.dark-green{background-color:#39ad9a}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-green{background-color:#9cd6cd}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.gray{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-red{background-color:#faafb5}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.strong-red{background-color:#f55e6a} .fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}} Here is what you need to know on Friday, March 28:Markets cling to a cautious stance to start the last trading day of the week. The European economic docket will feature consumer and business sentiment data on Friday. Later in the day, February Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index data from the US, the Federal Reserve's preferred gauge of inflation, will be scrutinized by market participants. US Dollar PRICE This week The table below shows the percentage change of US Dollar (USD) against listed major currencies this week. US Dollar was the strongest against the Japanese Yen. USD EUR GBP JPY CAD AUD NZD CHF USD 0.20% -0.36% 0.75% -0.22% -0.35% 0.21% -0.18% EUR -0.20% -0.67% 0.03% -0.38% -0.56% 0.05% -0.34% GBP 0.36% 0.67% 1.13% -0.34% 0.08% 0.73% 0.23% JPY -0.75% -0.03% -1.13% -0.98% -1.12% -0.53% -0.95% CAD 0.22% 0.38% 0.34% 0.98% -0.07% 0.43% 0.04% AUD 0.35% 0.56% -0.08% 1.12% 0.07% 0.63% 0.24% NZD -0.21% -0.05% -0.73% 0.53% -0.43% -0.63% -0.33% CHF 0.18% 0.34% -0.23% 0.95% -0.04% -0.24% 0.33% The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the US Dollar from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the Japanese Yen, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent USD (base)/JPY (quote). The US Dollar (USD) weakened against its major rivals on Thursday as US President Donald Trump's tariff announcements revived concerns over an economic downturn in the US. During the American trading hours, the currency benefited from the risk-averse market atmosphere and limited its losses. Early Friday, the USD Index fluctuates in a narrow range below 104.50. The annual PCE inflation is forecast to hold steady at 2.5% in February.The Bank of Japan's Summary of Opinions showed early Friday that one policymaker noted that inflation was "somewhat overshooting" expectation. In the meantime, the Tokyo Consumer Price Index rose by 2.9% on a yearly basis in March, following the 2.8% increase recorded in February. After posting gains for two consecutive days, USD/JPY edges lower and trades near 105.50 in the European morning on Friday.The UK's Office for National Statistics reported on Friday that Retail Sales rose by 1% on a monthly basis in February. This reading followed the 1.4% increase recorded in January and came in better than the market expectation for a decrease of 0.3%. GBP/USD holds its ground following the upbeat UK data and trades marginally higher on the day above 1.2950.EUR/USD gained nearly 0.5% on Thursday and snapped a six-day losing streak. The pair stays in a consolidation phase at around 1.0800 in the European morning on Friday.Gold gathered bullish momentum after moving sideways in the first half of the week and climbed to a new record-high. XAU/USD extends its rally early Friday and trades at a fresh all-time peak above $3,080. Gold FAQs Why do people invest in Gold? Gold has played a key role in human’s history as it has been widely used as a store of value and medium of exchange. Currently, apart from its shine and usage for jewelry, the precious metal is widely seen as a safe-haven asset, meaning that it is considered a good investment during turbulent times. Gold is also widely seen as a hedge against inflation and against depreciating currencies as it doesn’t rely on any specific issuer or government. Who buys the most Gold? Central banks are the biggest Gold holders. In their aim to support their currencies in turbulent times, central banks tend to diversify their reserves and buy Gold to improve the perceived strength of the economy and the currency. High Gold reserves can be a source of trust for a country’s solvency. Central banks added 1,136 tonnes of Gold worth around $70 billion to their reserves in 2022, according to data from the World Gold Council. This is the highest yearly purchase since records began. Central banks from emerging economies such as China, India and Turkey are quickly increasing their Gold reserves. How is Gold correlated with other assets? Gold has an inverse correlation with the US Dollar and US Treasuries, which are both major reserve and safe-haven assets. When the Dollar depreciates, Gold tends to rise, enabling investors and central banks to diversify their assets in turbulent times. Gold is also inversely correlated with risk assets. A rally in the stock market tends to weaken Gold price, while sell-offs in riskier markets tend to favor the precious metal. What does the price of Gold depend on? The price can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can quickly make Gold price escalate due to its safe-haven status. As a yield-less asset, Gold tends to rise with lower interest rates, while higher cost of money usually weighs down on the yellow metal. Still, most moves depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAU/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Gold controlled, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to push Gold prices up.

EUR/GBP continues its downward trajectory for the second straight day, trading near 0.8330 in early European hours.

.fxs-event-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left}.fxs-event-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-event-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-event-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:12px}.fxs-event-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-event-module-header{color:#1b1c23;font-weight:700;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;line-height:20px;margin:0;padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;padding-right:32px}.fxs-event-module-header label{cursor:pointer;display:block}.fxs-event-module-header label:after,.fxs-event-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-event-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-event-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-event-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-event-module-container input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-event-module-section .fxs-event-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-event-module-container input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-event-module-section .fxs-event-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-event-module-content{color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0;margin-top:8px}.fxs-event-module-content.why-matters{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out}.fxs-event-module-container input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-event-module-section .fxs-event-module-content.why-matters{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}.fxs-event-module-calendar-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:17.6px;font-family:Roboto;font-style:normal;font-weight:700;line-height:20.8px;margin:4px 0 0 0}.fxs-event-module-calendar-title-description-wrapper{display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;padding-bottom:16px;margin-bottom:16px}.fxs-event-module-inner-calendar{padding:16px}.fxs-event-module-inner-calendar .fxs-event-module-section{padding:0}.fxs-event-module-inner-calendar .fxs-event-module-header{font-size:12.8px;line-height:17px}.fxs-event-module-read-more{display:flex;align-items:center;align-content:center;gap:4px;color:#e4871b;font-size:12.8px;font-family:Roboto;font-style:normal;font-weight:700;line-height:17px;text-decoration:none}.fxs-event-module-read-more svg{width:16px;height:16px}.fxs-event-module-read-more:hover span{text-decoration:underline}.fxs-event-module-release{margin:0;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:2px}.fxs-event-module-release>p{font-size:12.8px;font-family:Roboto;font-style:normal;line-height:17px;margin:0}.fxs-event-module-release>p>strong{color:#8c8d91;font-weight:700}.fxs-event-module-release>p>span{color:#8c8d91;font-weight:400}.fxs-event-module-release>p>a{color:#e4871b;font-weight:700;text-decoration:none}.fxs-event-module-release>p>a:hover>span{text-decoration:underline}.fxs-event-module-inner-calendar .fxs-event-module-container{margin:16px 0 0 0;border-top:1px solid #ececf1;padding:12px 0 0 0}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-event-module-inner-calendar .fxs-event-module-header{font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px}.fxs-event-module-release p{font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px}.fxs-event-module-read-more{font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px}.fxs-event-module-calendar-title{font-size:22.4px;line-height:25.6px}.fxs-event-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-event-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-event-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}}EUR/GBP remains under pressure as the Pound Sterling gains strength following the release of key UK economic data on Friday.The UK's Q4 GDP expanded by 0.1% quarter-over-quarter, matching market expectations.Germany's GfK Consumer Confidence Survey for April registered -24.5, lower than the anticipated -23.0.EUR/GBP continues its downward trajectory for the second straight day, trading near 0.8330 in early European hours. The currency pair faces pressure as the Pound Sterling (GBP) strengthens following the release of the United Kingdom’s (UK) Q4 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Retail Sales data on Friday. The UK GDP grew by 0.1% quarter-over-quarter in Q4, in line with expectations. On an annual basis, GDP expanded by 1.5%, surpassing the projected 1.4% increase. Moreover, UK Retail Sales surged 1.0% month-over-month in February, defying forecasts of a 0.3% decline, though slowing from January’s downwardly revised 1.4% gain. Year-over-year, retail sales climbed 2.2%, exceeding expectations of a 0.5% rise and accelerating from a revised 0.6% increase. Core Retail Sales, excluding auto fuel sales, also rose 1% MoM, outperforming the forecasted -0.5% decline but lower than the previous 1.6% growth. On an annual basis, core Retail Sales advanced 2.2%, up from a revised 0.8%, both figures beating market projections. On Thursday, UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves stated in an interview with Bloomberg TV that the UK would not impose retaliatory tariffs, emphasizing the need to avoid escalating trade tensions. She expressed a preference for reducing tariffs, arguing that trade frictions could hinder economic growth. Meanwhile, the EUR/GBP cross faces an additional downside as the Euro (EUR) weakens amid escalating trade tensions between the US and the Eurozone. Concerns over a potential trade war have intensified as the European Union (EU) prepares retaliatory tariffs in response to the 25% auto tariffs imposed by former US President Donald Trump, set to take effect on April 2. Germany, which exports 13% of its total auto shipments to the US, is expected to be particularly affected, weighing on the Euro’s outlook. Trump recently signed a proclamation enforcing the tariffs and warned of stricter measures against the EU and Canada should they retaliate. In economic data, Germany’s GfK Consumer Confidence Survey for April came in at -24.5, worse than expectations of -23.0 but marginally improving from the previous -24.6. Investors will be watching Eurozone Business Climate and Consumer Confidence data for March, due later in the day, for further market direction. Economic Indicator Gross Domestic Product (QoQ) The Gross Domestic Product (GDP), released by the Office for National Statistics on a monthly and quarterly basis, is a measure of the total value of all goods and services produced in the UK during a given period. The GDP is considered as the main measure of UK economic activity. The QoQ reading compares economic activity in the reference quarter to the previous quarter. Generally, a rise in this indicator is bullish for the Pound Sterling (GBP), while a low reading is seen as bearish. Read more. Last release: Fri Mar 28, 2025 07:00 Frequency: QuarterlyActual: 0.1%Consensus: 0.1%Previous: 0.1%Source: Office for National Statistics  

Ireland Consumer Confidence declined to 67.5 in March from previous 74.8

The GBP/JPY cross weakens to near 195.00 during the early European session on Friday.

.fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}}GBP/JPY softens to around 195.00 in Friday’s early European session. UK Retail Sales climbed 1.0% MoM in February, stronger than expected. Tokyo CPI inflation exceeded forecasts, keeping the BoJ on the rate hike path. The GBP/JPY cross weakens to near 195.00 during the early European session on Friday. The stronger UK economic data fails to boost the Pound Sterling (GBP) against the Japanese Yen (JPY). 

Data released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed on Friday that the UK Retail Sales increased 1.0% MoM in February versus a rise of 1.7% in January. This figure came in above the market consensus of a decline of 0.3%. 

On an annual basis, Retail Sales jumped 2.2% in February compared to a rise of 0.6% (revised from 1.0%) prior, better than the estimation of 0.5%. The GBP remains weak in an immediate reaction to the upbeat UK Retail Sales data. 

On the JPY’s front, the cost of living in Tokyo rose more than expected from the previous month, keeping the Bank of Japan (BoJ) on track for further interest rate hikes. This, in turn, could underpin the Japanese Yen against the GBP. Data released earlier this Friday showed that the headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Tokyo climbed 2.9% in March from 2.8% in February. Additionally, Tokyo Core CPI, which excludes volatile fresh food prices, rose to 2.4% during the reported month from 2.2% in February.  Japanese Yen FAQs What key factors drive the Japanese Yen? The Japanese Yen (JPY) is one of the world’s most traded currencies. Its value is broadly determined by the performance of the Japanese economy, but more specifically by the Bank of Japan’s policy, the differential between Japanese and US bond yields, or risk sentiment among traders, among other factors. How do the decisions of the Bank of Japan impact the Japanese Yen? One of the Bank of Japan’s mandates is currency control, so its moves are key for the Yen. The BoJ has directly intervened in currency markets sometimes, generally to lower the value of the Yen, although it refrains from doing it often due to political concerns of its main trading partners. The BoJ ultra-loose monetary policy between 2013 and 2024 caused the Yen to depreciate against its main currency peers due to an increasing policy divergence between the Bank of Japan and other main central banks. More recently, the gradually unwinding of this ultra-loose policy has given some support to the Yen. How does the differential between Japanese and US bond yields impact the Japanese Yen? Over the last decade, the BoJ’s stance of sticking to ultra-loose monetary policy has led to a widening policy divergence with other central banks, particularly with the US Federal Reserve. This supported a widening of the differential between the 10-year US and Japanese bonds, which favored the US Dollar against the Japanese Yen. The BoJ decision in 2024 to gradually abandon the ultra-loose policy, coupled with interest-rate cuts in other major central banks, is narrowing this differential. How does broader risk sentiment impact the Japanese Yen? The Japanese Yen is often seen as a safe-haven investment. This means that in times of market stress, investors are more likely to put their money in the Japanese currency due to its supposed reliability and stability. Turbulent times are likely to strengthen the Yen’s value against other currencies seen as more risky to invest in.  

United Kingdom Total Trade Balance: £-0.59B (January) vs £-2.82B

United Kingdom Total Trade Balance: £-2.64B (January) vs £-2.82B

The United Kingdom (UK) Retail Sales jumped 1% month-over-month (MoM) in February after jumping 1.7% in January, the latest data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed Friday. Markets expected a 0.3% drop in the reported month.

The UK Retail Sales jumped 1% MoM in February, a positive surprise.Monthly core Retail Sales for the UK rose 1% in February.GBP/USD keeps range near 1.2950 after strong UK consumer data.The United Kingdom (UK) Retail Sales jumped 1% month-over-month (MoM) in February after jumping 1.7% in January, the latest data published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) showed Friday. Markets expected a 0.3% drop in the reported month.developing story ....

United Kingdom Goods Trade Balance below expectations (£-16.8B) in January: Actual (£-17.849B)

United Kingdom Retail Sales ex-Fuel (MoM) came in at 1%, above expectations (-0.5%) in February

United Kingdom Gross Domestic Product (YoY) came in at 1.5%, above expectations (1.4%) in 4Q

United Kingdom Current Account came in at £-21.028B, above expectations (£-24.5B) in 4Q

Turkey Economic Confidence Index climbed from previous 99.2 to 100.8 in February

United Kingdom Total Business Investment (YoY) above forecasts (-0.7%) in 4Q: Actual (1.8%)

United Kingdom Retail Sales (YoY) came in at 2.2%, above expectations (0.5%) in February

United Kingdom Goods Trade Balance below expectations (£-16.8B) in January: Actual (£-17.85B)

Germany GfK Consumer Confidence Survey registered at -24.5, below expectations (-23) in April

United Kingdom Current Account above forecasts (£-24.5B) in 4Q: Actual (£-21B)

United Kingdom Retail Sales (MoM) came in at 1%, above forecasts (-0.3%) in February

United Kingdom Gross Domestic Product (QoQ) in line with forecasts (0.1%) in 4Q

United Kingdom Total Business Investment (QoQ) above expectations (-3.2%) in 4Q: Actual (-1.9%)

United Kingdom Retail Sales ex-Fuel (YoY) above expectations (0.4%) in February: Actual (2.2%)

The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the value of the US Dollar (USD) against six major currencies, hovers around 104.30.

.fxs-major-currency-prices-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:8px 16px}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table{width:100%;text-align:center;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:1rem}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table th{background-color:#f2f2f2}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td{color:#fff}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.green{background-color:#9cd6cd}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.red{background-color:#faafb5}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.blue-grey{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-legend{font-size:11px;margin:8px;color:#49494f}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.dark-green{background-color:#39ad9a}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-green{background-color:#9cd6cd}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.gray{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-red{background-color:#faafb5}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.strong-red{background-color:#f55e6a}The US Dollar Index holds gains as risk aversion increases due to concerns over potential US auto tariffs.US bond yields dropped to 3.98% for the 2-year and 4.34% for the 10-year bond.Traders await Friday’s US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index for further insights into the Fed policy outlook.The US Dollar Index (DXY), which measures the value of the US Dollar (USD) against six major currencies, hovers around 104.30. The Greenback faced downward pressure as US bond yields decline—3.98% for the 2-year bond and 4.34% for the 10-year bond at the time of writing. However, Moody’s has cautioned that rising tariffs and tax cuts could significantly widen government deficits, potentially leading to a US debt rating downgrade and higher Treasury yields. US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanded at an annualized rate of 2.4% in Q4 2024, surpassing the 2.3% forecast, according to Thursday’s data release. Investors now await Friday’s US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index for further insights into the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) monetary policy outlook. While the Fed kept interest rates unchanged last week, it reaffirmed expectations for two rate cuts by year-end. US President Donald Trump signed an order on Wednesday imposing a 25% tariff on auto imports and warned of further measures against the EU and Canada if they retaliate. This escalation in trade tensions is likely to strain relations with key trading partners, particularly ahead of the reciprocal tariffs set to take effect on April 2. S&P Global warned that US policy uncertainty could hinder global economic growth, while Fitch Ratings emphasized that current tariffs may disproportionately affect smaller economies like Brazil, India, and Vietnam, making it harder for them to afford US goods. Boston Fed President Susan Collins noted on Thursday that the central bank faces a tough choice between maintaining a restrictive stance or preemptively easing policy in response to potential economic weakness. Meanwhile, Richmond Fed President Thomas Barkin cautioned that uncertainty surrounding the Trump administration’s trade policies could push the Fed toward a more cautious, wait-and-see approach than markets anticipate. US Dollar PRICE Today The table below shows the percentage change of US Dollar (USD) against listed major currencies today. US Dollar was the strongest against the New Zealand Dollar.   USD EUR GBP JPY CAD AUD NZD CHF USD   0.08% 0.07% -0.17% 0.05% 0.27% 0.41% 0.06% EUR -0.08%   -0.04% -0.29% -0.05% 0.17% 0.31% -0.04% GBP -0.07% 0.04%   -0.23% -0.01% 0.20% 0.33% 0.00% JPY 0.17% 0.29% 0.23%   0.24% 0.45% 0.60% 0.26% CAD -0.05% 0.05% 0.01% -0.24%   0.22% 0.35% 0.02% AUD -0.27% -0.17% -0.20% -0.45% -0.22%   0.14% -0.20% NZD -0.41% -0.31% -0.33% -0.60% -0.35% -0.14%   -0.34% CHF -0.06% 0.04% -0.00% -0.26% -0.02% 0.20% 0.34%   The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the US Dollar from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the Japanese Yen, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent USD (base)/JPY (quote).  

The United States (US) Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) is set to release the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index data for February on Friday at 12:30 GMT.

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50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}}The core Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index is expected to rise 0.3% MoM and 2.7% YoY in February.Markets expect the Federal Reserve to hold the policy setting unchanged in May.Annual PCE inflation is forecast to hold steady at 2.5%.The United States (US) Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) is set to release the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index data for February on Friday at 12:30 GMT. This index is the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) preferred measure of inflation. PCE inflation data is usually seen as a big market mover because it is taken into account by Fed officials when deciding on the next policy move. While speaking in the press conference after the March meeting, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell noted that it would not be the right thing to tighten policy if the inflationary impulse would go away on its own. “We will know in a couple of months if higher goods inflation in the first two months of the year was from tariffs,” he added.  Anticipating the PCE: Insights into the Fed's key inflation metric The core PCE Price Index, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, is projected to rise 0.3% on a monthly basis in February, matching January’s increase. Over the last twelve months, the core PCE inflation is forecast to edge higher to 2.7% from 2.6%. Meanwhile, the headline annual PCE inflation is seen holding steady at 2.5% in this period.  The Fed decided to leave the interest rate unchanged at 4.25%-4.50% in March. The revised Summary of Economic Projections (SEP), published alongside the policy statement, highlighted that policymakers are projecting a total of 50 bps reduction in the policy rate in 2025. Additionally, the publication showed that the end-2025 PCE inflation and core PCE inflation forecasts are revised higher to 2.7% and 2.8%, respectively, from 2.5% seen in December’s SEP. Previewing the PCE inflation report, TD Securities said: “We look for core PCE prices to remain sticky, rising 0.3% m/m for a second month straight in February. Note that the core CPI rose a softer 0.23% m/m. Headline PCE inflation should come in slightly softer at 0.28%. On a y/y basis, core PCE inflation is likely to rise by a tenth to 2.7%. Personal spending likely partly recovered after contracting for the first time since March 2023.” Economic Indicator Personal Consumption Expenditures - Price Index (YoY) The Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE), released by the US Bureau of Economic Analysis on a monthly basis, measures the changes in the prices of goods and services purchased by consumers in the United States (US). The YoY reading compares prices in the reference month to a year earlier. Price changes may cause consumers to switch from buying one good to another and the PCE Deflator can account for such substitutions. This makes it the preferred measure of inflation for the Federal Reserve. Generally, a high reading is bullish for the US Dollar (USD), while a low reading is bearish. Read more. Next release: Fri Mar 28, 2025 12:30 Frequency: MonthlyConsensus: 2.5%Previous: 2.5%Source: US Bureau of Economic Analysis How will the Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index affect EUR/USD? Market participants will likely react to an unexpected reading in the monthly core PCE Price Index, which is not distorted by base effects. A print of 0.4% or higher in this data could support the US Dollar (USD) with an immediate reaction. On the other hand, a reading below 0.2% could have the opposite effect on the USD’s performance against its major rivals. According to the CME FedWatch Tool, markets currently see about a 10% chance of a 25 basis points (bps) interest rate cut in May. The market positioning suggests that the USD doesn’t have a lot of room left on the upside, even if PCE inflation data reaffirms the policy held at the next Fed meeting. Hence, a negative print is likely to trigger a bigger market reaction.  Eren Sengezer, European Session Lead Analyst at FXStreet, shares a brief technical outlook for EUR/USD: “The Relative Strength Index (RSI) indicator on the daily chart holds slightly above 50, reflecting a lack of buyer interest. On the downside, 1.0720-1.0700 (200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA), Fibonacci 50% retracement of the October 2024–January 2025 downtrend) aligns as a key support area. In case EUR/USD drops below this region and starts using it as resistance, 1.0600 (Fibonacci 38.2% retracement) and 1.0510 (100-day SMA) could be set as the next bearish targets. Looking north, resistance levels could be spotted at 1.0820 (Fibonacci 61.8% retracement), 1.0900 (static level, round level) and 1.1000 (Fibonacci 78.6% retracement).” Inflation FAQs What is inflation? Inflation measures the rise in the price of a representative basket of goods and services. Headline inflation is usually expressed as a percentage change on a month-on-month (MoM) and year-on-year (YoY) basis. Core inflation excludes more volatile elements such as food and fuel which can fluctuate because of geopolitical and seasonal factors. Core inflation is the figure economists focus on and is the level targeted by central banks, which are mandated to keep inflation at a manageable level, usually around 2%. What is the Consumer Price Index (CPI)? The Consumer Price Index (CPI) measures the change in prices of a basket of goods and services over a period of time. It is usually expressed as a percentage change on a month-on-month (MoM) and year-on-year (YoY) basis. Core CPI is the figure targeted by central banks as it excludes volatile food and fuel inputs. When Core CPI rises above 2% it usually results in higher interest rates and vice versa when it falls below 2%. Since higher interest rates are positive for a currency, higher inflation usually results in a stronger currency. The opposite is true when inflation falls. What is the impact of inflation on foreign exchange? Although it may seem counter-intuitive, high inflation in a country pushes up the value of its currency and vice versa for lower inflation. This is because the central bank will normally raise interest rates to combat the higher inflation, which attract more global capital inflows from investors looking for a lucrative place to park their money. How does inflation influence the price of Gold? Formerly, Gold was the asset investors turned to in times of high inflation because it preserved its value, and whilst investors will often still buy Gold for its safe-haven properties in times of extreme market turmoil, this is not the case most of the time. This is because when inflation is high, central banks will put up interest rates to combat it. Higher interest rates are negative for Gold because they increase the opportunity-cost of holding Gold vis-a-vis an interest-bearing asset or placing the money in a cash deposit account. On the flipside, lower inflation tends to be positive for Gold as it brings interest rates down, making the bright metal a more viable investment alternative.  

The USD/CHF pair trades in positive territory near 0.8825 during the early European session on Friday.

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The third release of the figures from the Bureau of Economic Analysis on Thursday showed that the US economy grew at an annual 2.4% pace in the final three months of 2024. This figure came in slightly better than the previous estimate of fourth-quarter growth. 

Traders will take more cues from the US PCE inflation data due on Friday. Cooler inflation would allow the Federal Reserve (Fed) to cut interest rates. The US central bank cut rates late last year but held its benchmark interest rate steady in the March meeting due to concerns that Trump's policy of raising tariffs could reignite high inflation. Swiss Franc FAQs What key factors drive the Swiss Franc? The Swiss Franc (CHF) is Switzerland’s official currency. It is among the top ten most traded currencies globally, reaching volumes that well exceed the size of the Swiss economy. Its value is determined by the broad market sentiment, the country’s economic health or action taken by the Swiss National Bank (SNB), among other factors. Between 2011 and 2015, the Swiss Franc was pegged to the Euro (EUR). The peg was abruptly removed, resulting in a more than 20% increase in the Franc’s value, causing a turmoil in markets. Even though the peg isn’t in force anymore, CHF fortunes tend to be highly correlated with the Euro ones due to the high dependency of the Swiss economy on the neighboring Eurozone. Why is the Swiss Franc considered a safe-haven currency? The Swiss Franc (CHF) is considered a safe-haven asset, or a currency that investors tend to buy in times of market stress. This is due to the perceived status of Switzerland in the world: a stable economy, a strong export sector, big central bank reserves or a longstanding political stance towards neutrality in global conflicts make the country’s currency a good choice for investors fleeing from risks. Turbulent times are likely to strengthen CHF value against other currencies that are seen as more risky to invest in. How do decisions of the Swiss National Bank impact the Swiss Franc? The Swiss National Bank (SNB) meets four times a year – once every quarter, less than other major central banks – to decide on monetary policy. The bank aims for an annual inflation rate of less than 2%. When inflation is above target or forecasted to be above target in the foreseeable future, the bank will attempt to tame price growth by raising its policy rate. Higher interest rates are generally positive for the Swiss Franc (CHF) as they lead to higher yields, making the country a more attractive place for investors. On the contrary, lower interest rates tend to weaken CHF. How does economic data influence the value of the Swiss Franc? Macroeconomic data releases in Switzerland are key to assessing the state of the economy and can impact the Swiss Franc’s (CHF) valuation. The Swiss economy is broadly stable, but any sudden change in economic growth, inflation, current account or the central bank’s currency reserves have the potential to trigger moves in CHF. Generally, high economic growth, low unemployment and high confidence are good for CHF. Conversely, if economic data points to weakening momentum, CHF is likely to depreciate. How does the Eurozone monetary policy affect the Swiss Franc? As a small and open economy, Switzerland is heavily dependent on the health of the neighboring Eurozone economies. The broader European Union is Switzerland’s main economic partner and a key political ally, so macroeconomic and monetary policy stability in the Eurozone is essential for Switzerland and, thus, for the Swiss Franc (CHF). With such dependency, some models suggest that the correlation between the fortunes of the Euro (EUR) and the CHF is more than 90%, or close to perfect.  

USD/CAD continues its upward momentum for the second consecutive day, trading around 1.4310 during Asian hours on Friday.

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The pair benefits from increased risk aversion driven by growing concerns over impending US auto tariffs. On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump signed an order imposing a 25% tariff on auto imports and warned of further measures against the EU and Canada if they retaliate. This escalation in trade tensions is likely to strain relations with key trading partners, particularly ahead of the reciprocal tariffs set to take effect on April 2. The Canadian Dollar (CAD) faces headwinds, as approximately 75% of Canada’s exports— including Oil and autos—are destined for the United States (US). However, the upside for the USD/CAD pair may be limited as the US Dollar (USD) remains under pressure due to declining Treasury yields. At the time of writing, the 2-year bond yield stands at 3.99%, while the 10-year yield is at 4.35%. However, Moody’s has cautioned that rising tariffs and tax cuts could significantly widen the US government deficit, potentially leading to a debt rating downgrade and higher Treasury yields. On the economic front, US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) expanded at an annualized rate of 2.4% in Q4 2024, surpassing the 2.3% forecast, according to data released on Thursday. Investors are now focused on Friday’s US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index for further clarity on the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) monetary policy outlook. Meanwhile, Canada’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data will also be eyed later in the North American session. Canadian Dollar FAQs What key factors drive the Canadian Dollar? The key factors driving the Canadian Dollar (CAD) are the level of interest rates set by the Bank of Canada (BoC), the price of Oil, Canada’s largest export, the health of its economy, inflation and the Trade Balance, which is the difference between the value of Canada’s exports versus its imports. Other factors include market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – with risk-on being CAD-positive. As its largest trading partner, the health of the US economy is also a key factor influencing the Canadian Dollar. How do the decisions of the Bank of Canada impact the Canadian Dollar? The Bank of Canada (BoC) has a significant influence on the Canadian Dollar by setting the level of interest rates that banks can lend to one another. This influences the level of interest rates for everyone. The main goal of the BoC is to maintain inflation at 1-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively higher interest rates tend to be positive for the CAD. The Bank of Canada can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former CAD-negative and the latter CAD-positive. How does the price of Oil impact the Canadian Dollar? The price of Oil is a key factor impacting the value of the Canadian Dollar. Petroleum is Canada’s biggest export, so Oil price tends to have an immediate impact on the CAD value. Generally, if Oil price rises CAD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Oil falls. Higher Oil prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance, which is also supportive of the CAD. How does inflation data impact the value of the Canadian Dollar? While inflation had always traditionally been thought of as a negative factor for a currency since it lowers the value of money, the opposite has actually been the case in modern times with the relaxation of cross-border capital controls. Higher inflation tends to lead central banks to put up interest rates which attracts more capital inflows from global investors seeking a lucrative place to keep their money. This increases demand for the local currency, which in Canada’s case is the Canadian Dollar. How does economic data influence the value of the Canadian Dollar? Macroeconomic data releases gauge the health of the economy and can have an impact on the Canadian Dollar. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the CAD. A strong economy is good for the Canadian Dollar. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the Bank of Canada to put up interest rates, leading to a stronger currency. If economic data is weak, however, the CAD is likely to fall.  

The EUR/USD pair struggles to capitalize on the previous day's goodish bounce from over a three-week low, around the 1.0730 area, and edges lower during the Asian session on Friday.

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Spot prices currently trade with mild negative bias below the 1.0800 mark, though the downtick lacks bearish conviction as investors await the release of the US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index.  The crucial inflation data will be looked for cues about the Federal Reserve's (Fed) future rate-cut path, which, in turn, will play a key role in influencing the near-term US Dollar (USD) price dynamics and provide a fresh impetus to the EUR/USD pair. In the meantime, some repositioning trade assists the USD to stall the previous day's retracement slide from a multi-week high and acts as a headwind for spot prices. Adding to this worries about the potential economic fallout from US President Donald Trump's tariffs and the risk-off mood lend some support to the safe-haven Greenback.  The shared currency, on the other hand, is weighed down by the risk of a further escalation of trade tensions between the US and the European Union (EU). Trump on Wednesday unveiled a 25% tariff on imported cars and light trucks starting next week. This comes on top of the recent 25% flat import tax on all steel and aluminum, and the uncertainty over Trump's reciprocal tariffs set to take effect from April 2. Meanwhile, the EU has said it will retaliate by imposing tariffs on imports from the US. This raises the risk of an EU-US trade war and further exerts pressure on the EUR/USD pair.  Any meaningful USD appreciation, however, seems elusive in the wake of worries that US President Donald Trump's aggressive trade policies will dent US growth and force the Fed to resume its rate-cutting cycle soon. In fact, the markets are now pricing in the possibility that the US central bank would lower borrowing costs at the June, July, and October policy meetings. This should keep the USD bulls on the defensive and help limit the downside for the EUR/USD pair. Nevertheless, spot prices remain on track to end in the red for the second successive week.  Euro FAQs What is the Euro? The Euro is the currency for the 19 European Union countries that belong to the Eurozone. It is the second most heavily traded currency in the world behind the US Dollar. In 2022, it accounted for 31% of all foreign exchange transactions, with an average daily turnover of over $2.2 trillion a day. EUR/USD is the most heavily traded currency pair in the world, accounting for an estimated 30% off all transactions, followed by EUR/JPY (4%), EUR/GBP (3%) and EUR/AUD (2%). What is the ECB and how does it impact the Euro? The European Central Bank (ECB) in Frankfurt, Germany, is the reserve bank for the Eurozone. The ECB sets interest rates and manages monetary policy. The ECB’s primary mandate is to maintain price stability, which means either controlling inflation or stimulating growth. Its primary tool is the raising or lowering of interest rates. Relatively high interest rates – or the expectation of higher rates – will usually benefit the Euro and vice versa. The ECB Governing Council makes monetary policy decisions at meetings held eight times a year. Decisions are made by heads of the Eurozone national banks and six permanent members, including the President of the ECB, Christine Lagarde. How does inflation data impact the value of the Euro? Eurozone inflation data, measured by the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), is an important econometric for the Euro. If inflation rises more than expected, especially if above the ECB’s 2% target, it obliges the ECB to raise interest rates to bring it back under control. Relatively high interest rates compared to its counterparts will usually benefit the Euro, as it makes the region more attractive as a place for global investors to park their money. How does economic data influence the value of the Euro? Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact on the Euro. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the single currency. A strong economy is good for the Euro. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the ECB to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen the Euro. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Euro is likely to fall. Economic data for the four largest economies in the euro area (Germany, France, Italy and Spain) are especially significant, as they account for 75% of the Eurozone’s economy. How does the Trade Balance impact the Euro? Another significant data release for the Euro is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought after exports then its currency will gain in value purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.  

FX option expiries for Mar 28 NY cut at 10:00 Eastern Time via DTCC can be found below.

FX option expiries for Mar 28 NY cut at 10:00 Eastern Time via DTCC can be found below.EUR/USD: EUR amounts1.0500 1.2b1.0700 1.6b1.0800 3.6b1.0950 733mUSD/JPY: USD amounts                                 150.40 920m151.00 1.7b153.00 984mUSD/CAD: USD amounts       1.4145 980m1.4400 686mEUR/GBP: EUR amounts        0.8300 575m0.8450 805m

Silver price (XAG/USD) retreated after gaining over 2% in the previous session, trading near $34.30 per troy ounce during Asian hours on Friday.

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Despite the retreat, safe-haven demand for Silver remains strong amid heightened risk aversion, driven by escalating trade tensions ahead of new US tariffs next week. US President Donald Trump recently imposed a 25% tariff on foreign-made cars and auto parts, triggering retaliation threats from the European Union and Canada. This has fueled concerns of a broader trade dispute and potential global economic fallout. Silver, a non-yielding asset, could regain its footing as US Treasury yields decline. At the time of writing, the 2-year and 10-year yields stand at 3.99% and 4.34%, respectively. However, Moody’s has warned that increased tariffs and tax cuts could significantly widen government deficits, potentially leading to a US debt rating downgrade and higher Treasury yields. Meanwhile, US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew at an annualized rate of 2.4% in Q4 2024, exceeding the 2.3% forecast, according to data released on Thursday. Investors now turn their attention to Friday’s US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index for further insight into the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) monetary policy stance. The Fed held rates steady last week but reaffirmed expectations for two rate cuts by year-end. Boston Fed President Susan Collins noted on Thursday that the central bank faces a tough choice between maintaining a restrictive policy stance or acting preemptively to address potential economic deterioration. Meanwhile, Richmond Fed President Thomas Barkin cautioned that uncertainty surrounding the Trump administration’s trade policies could push the Fed toward a more cautious, wait-and-see approach than markets anticipate. Silver FAQs Why do people invest in Silver? Silver is a precious metal highly traded among investors. It has been historically used as a store of value and a medium of exchange. Although less popular than Gold, traders may turn to Silver to diversify their investment portfolio, for its intrinsic value or as a potential hedge during high-inflation periods. Investors can buy physical Silver, in coins or in bars, or trade it through vehicles such as Exchange Traded Funds, which track its price on international markets. Which factors influence Silver prices? Silver prices can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can make Silver price escalate due to its safe-haven status, although to a lesser extent than Gold's. As a yieldless asset, Silver tends to rise with lower interest rates. Its moves also depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAG/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Silver at bay, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to propel prices up. Other factors such as investment demand, mining supply – Silver is much more abundant than Gold – and recycling rates can also affect prices. How does industrial demand affect Silver prices? Silver is widely used in industry, particularly in sectors such as electronics or solar energy, as it has one of the highest electric conductivity of all metals – more than Copper and Gold. A surge in demand can increase prices, while a decline tends to lower them. Dynamics in the US, Chinese and Indian economies can also contribute to price swings: for the US and particularly China, their big industrial sectors use Silver in various processes; in India, consumers’ demand for the precious metal for jewellery also plays a key role in setting prices. How do Silver prices react to Gold’s moves? Silver prices tend to follow Gold's moves. When Gold prices rise, Silver typically follows suit, as their status as safe-haven assets is similar. The Gold/Silver ratio, which shows the number of ounces of Silver needed to equal the value of one ounce of Gold, may help to determine the relative valuation between both metals. Some investors may consider a high ratio as an indicator that Silver is undervalued, or Gold is overvalued. On the contrary, a low ratio might suggest that Gold is undervalued relative to Silver.  

Gold prices rose in India on Friday, according to data compiled by FXStreet.

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The price for Gold stood at 8,457.70 Indian Rupees (INR) per gram, up compared with the INR 8,409.01 it cost on Thursday. The price for Gold increased to INR 98,648.94 per tola from INR 98,081.01 per tola a day earlier. Unit measure Gold Price in INR 1 Gram 8,457.70 10 Grams 84,576.99 Tola 98,648.94 Troy Ounce 263,064.00   2025 Gold Forecast Guide [PDF] Download your free copy of the 2025 Gold Forecast Daily Digest Market Movers: Gold price remains well supported by worries about Trump’s tariffs US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a 25% tariff on imported cars and light trucks set to take effect on April 3, widening the global trade war and tempering investors' appetite for riskier assets.  This comes on top of a flat 25% tariff on steel and aluminum, and Trump's impending reciprocal tariff announcement next week, which fuels uncertainty and lifts the safe-haven Gold price to a fresh record high.  Meanwhile, the markets are now pricing in the possibility that the Federal Reserve (Fed) would lower borrowing costs again at its June policy meeting amid worries about the tariffs-driven US economic slowdown.  The US Dollar bulls seem rather unaffected by better-than-expected US macro data released on Thursday and mostly hawkish comments from Fed officials, lending additional support to the XAU/USD pair.  The US Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) reported that the US ' Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 2.4% annualized pace in the fourth quarter, above the previous estimate and expected reading of 2.3%  Adding to this, the US Department of Labor said that the number of US citizens filing new applications for unemployment insurance ticked lower to 224K compared to the previous week's revised tally of 225K.  Richmond Fed President Tom Barkin said that the current moderately restrictive monetary policy is right for an environment with an abnormal amount of uncertainty and fast changes in US government policy. Adding to this, Boston Fed President Susan Collins warned that the Trump administration's aggressive trade policies will drive up US inflation, but it is unclear how persistent that upward pressure will be. Hence, the focus remains glued to the release of the US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index, or the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, due later during the early North American session. Investors will scrutinize the crucial data to gauge the trajectory for further rate cuts, which will influence the USD price dynamics and provide a fresh impetus to the non-yielding yellow metal.  FXStreet calculates Gold prices in India by adapting international prices (USD/INR) to the local currency and measurement units. Prices are updated daily based on the market rates taken at the time of publication. Prices are just for reference and local rates could diverge slightly.   Gold FAQs Why do people invest in Gold? Gold has played a key role in human’s history as it has been widely used as a store of value and medium of exchange. Currently, apart from its shine and usage for jewelry, the precious metal is widely seen as a safe-haven asset, meaning that it is considered a good investment during turbulent times. Gold is also widely seen as a hedge against inflation and against depreciating currencies as it doesn’t rely on any specific issuer or government. Who buys the most Gold? Central banks are the biggest Gold holders. In their aim to support their currencies in turbulent times, central banks tend to diversify their reserves and buy Gold to improve the perceived strength of the economy and the currency. High Gold reserves can be a source of trust for a country’s solvency. Central banks added 1,136 tonnes of Gold worth around $70 billion to their reserves in 2022, according to data from the World Gold Council. This is the highest yearly purchase since records began. Central banks from emerging economies such as China, India and Turkey are quickly increasing their Gold reserves. How is Gold correlated with other assets? Gold has an inverse correlation with the US Dollar and US Treasuries, which are both major reserve and safe-haven assets. When the Dollar depreciates, Gold tends to rise, enabling investors and central banks to diversify their assets in turbulent times. Gold is also inversely correlated with risk assets. A rally in the stock market tends to weaken Gold price, while sell-offs in riskier markets tend to favor the precious metal. What does the price of Gold depend on? The price can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can quickly make Gold price escalate due to its safe-haven status. As a yield-less asset, Gold tends to rise with lower interest rates, while higher cost of money usually weighs down on the yellow metal. Still, most moves depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAU/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Gold controlled, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to push Gold prices up. (An automation tool was used in creating this post.)

In a meeting with the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of foreign companies on Friday, China’s President Xi Jinping reaffirmed that “maintaining the stable and healthy development of US-China relations is fundamental.”

.fxs-related-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left}.fxs-related-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-related-module-related-link a{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-related-module-related-link a{text-decoration:none;color:#1b1c23;font-weight:700;font-size:16px;font-style:normal;line-height:20px}.fxs-related-module-related-link a:hover,.fxs-related-module-related-link:hover,.fxs-related-module-related-link:hover a{color:#e4871b}.fxs-related-module-related-link a:hover{text-decoration:none}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-related-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-related-module-related-link a{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}} In a meeting with the Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of foreign companies on Friday, China’s President Xi Jinping reaffirmed that “maintaining the stable and healthy development of US-China relations is fundamental.”He further noted that they “Will handle US-China relations based on the principles of mutual respect and win-win cooperation.” Related news Australian Dollar maintains position following recent losses, US PCE inflation data eyed PBOC Adviser: Reform measures are needed for boosting consumption Through the tariff looking glass: Inflation, stagflation, and identity crisis

Gold price (XAU/USD) attracts follow-through buyers for the second consecutive day and climbs to a fresh record high, around the $3,077-3,078 area during the Asian session on Friday.

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The global risk sentiment takes a hit in reaction to US President Donald Trump's auto tariffs announced on Wednesday. Moreover, the uncertainty over Trump's impending reciprocal tariffs next week and their effect on the global economy weighs on investors' sentiment. This, in turn, is seen as a key factor that continues to drive safe-haven flows toward the precious metal.  Meanwhile, the latest escalation in the trade war fuels worries that Trump's impending reciprocal tariffs will dent US growth and force the Federal Reserve (Fed) to resume its rate-cutting cycle soon. This keeps the US Dollar (USD) bulls on the defensive and turns out to be another factor underpinning the non-yielding Gold price. The XAU/USD bulls, however, could pause for a breather amid slightly overbought conditions and ahead of the US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index, which should offer cues about the Fed's rate cut path.  Daily Digest Market Movers: Gold price remains well supported by worries about Trump’s tariffs US President Donald Trump on Wednesday announced a 25% tariff on imported cars and light trucks set to take effect on April 3, widening the global trade war and tempering investors' appetite for riskier assets.  This comes on top of a flat 25% tariff on steel and aluminum, and Trump's impending reciprocal tariff announcement next week, which fuels uncertainty and lifts the safe-haven Gold price to a fresh record high.  Meanwhile, the markets are now pricing in the possibility that the Federal Reserve (Fed) would lower borrowing costs again at its June policy meeting amid worries about the tariffs-driven US economic slowdown.  The US Dollar bulls seem rather unaffected by better-than-expected US macro data released on Thursday and mostly hawkish comments from Fed officials, lending additional support to the XAU/USD pair.  The US Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) reported that the US ' Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew by 2.4% annualized pace in the fourth quarter, above the previous estimate and expected reading of 2.3%  Adding to this, the US Department of Labor said that the number of US citizens filing new applications for unemployment insurance ticked lower to 224K compared to the previous week's revised tally of 225K.  Richmond Fed President Tom Barkin said that the current moderately restrictive monetary policy is right for an environment with an abnormal amount of uncertainty and fast changes in US government policy. Adding to this, Boston Fed President Susan Collins warned that the Trump administration's aggressive trade policies will drive up US inflation, but it is unclear how persistent that upward pressure will be. Hence, the focus remains glued to the release of the US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index, or the Fed's preferred inflation gauge, due later during the early North American session. Investors will scrutinize the crucial data to gauge the trajectory for further rate cuts, which will influence the USD price dynamics and provide a fresh impetus to the non-yielding yellow metal.  Gold price needs to consolidate before the next leg up amid slightly overbought daily RSI From a technical perspective, this week's bullish resilience near the $3,000 psychological mark and the subsequent move up suggest that the path of least resistance for the Gold price remains to the upside. That said, the Relative Strength Index (RSI) on the daily chart is already flashing overbought conditions and warrants some caution. Hence, it will be prudent to wait for some near-term consolidation or a modest pullback before positioning for an extension of a well-established uptrend witnessed over the past three months or so. Meanwhile, any corrective slide now seems to attract some dip-buyers near the $3,050-3,048 horizontal zone. This should help limit the downside for the Gold price near the $3,036-3,035 region. A sustained break below the latter, however, might prompt some technical selling and drag the XAU/USD below the $3,020-3,019 intermediate support, back toward the $3,000 mark. The said handle should act as a key pivotal point for short-term traders, which if broken decisively should pave the way for some meaningful fall in the near term.  Gold FAQs Why do people invest in Gold? Gold has played a key role in human’s history as it has been widely used as a store of value and medium of exchange. Currently, apart from its shine and usage for jewelry, the precious metal is widely seen as a safe-haven asset, meaning that it is considered a good investment during turbulent times. Gold is also widely seen as a hedge against inflation and against depreciating currencies as it doesn’t rely on any specific issuer or government. Who buys the most Gold? Central banks are the biggest Gold holders. In their aim to support their currencies in turbulent times, central banks tend to diversify their reserves and buy Gold to improve the perceived strength of the economy and the currency. High Gold reserves can be a source of trust for a country’s solvency. Central banks added 1,136 tonnes of Gold worth around $70 billion to their reserves in 2022, according to data from the World Gold Council. This is the highest yearly purchase since records began. Central banks from emerging economies such as China, India and Turkey are quickly increasing their Gold reserves. How is Gold correlated with other assets? Gold has an inverse correlation with the US Dollar and US Treasuries, which are both major reserve and safe-haven assets. When the Dollar depreciates, Gold tends to rise, enabling investors and central banks to diversify their assets in turbulent times. Gold is also inversely correlated with risk assets. A rally in the stock market tends to weaken Gold price, while sell-offs in riskier markets tend to favor the precious metal. What does the price of Gold depend on? The price can move due to a wide range of factors. Geopolitical instability or fears of a deep recession can quickly make Gold price escalate due to its safe-haven status. As a yield-less asset, Gold tends to rise with lower interest rates, while higher cost of money usually weighs down on the yellow metal. Still, most moves depend on how the US Dollar (USD) behaves as the asset is priced in dollars (XAU/USD). A strong Dollar tends to keep the price of Gold controlled, whereas a weaker Dollar is likely to push Gold prices up.  

The GBP/USD pair holds steady after gains in the previous session, hovering around 1.2950 during Friday's Asian trading hours.

.fxs-major-currency-prices-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:8px 16px}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table{width:100%;text-align:center;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:1rem}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table th{background-color:#f2f2f2}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td{color:#fff}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.green{background-color:#9cd6cd}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.red{background-color:#faafb5}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.blue-grey{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-legend{font-size:11px;margin:8px;color:#49494f}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.dark-green{background-color:#39ad9a}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-green{background-color:#9cd6cd}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.gray{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-red{background-color:#faafb5}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.strong-red{background-color:#f55e6a}GBP/USD challenges the immediate resistance near the four-month high of 1.3014.The pair climbs above the nine-day EMA, strengthening the bullish outlook for short-term price action.The nine-day EMA at 1.2936 acts as the nearest support level.The GBP/USD pair holds steady after gains in the previous session, hovering around 1.2950 during Friday's Asian trading hours. The technical analysis of the daily chart suggests a sustained bullish outlook, with the pair consolidating within an ascending channel pattern. The 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) stays above 50, signaling strong bullish momentum. Furthermore, the GBP/USD pair rebounds above the nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA), reinforcing a bullish outlook for short-term price movement. The GBP/USD pair may encounter initial resistance near the four-month high of 1.3014, recorded on March 20. A continued advance could strengthen the bullish bias, potentially driving the pair toward the ascending channel’s upper boundary around 1.3210. On the downside, the nine-day EMA at 1.2936 serves as the immediate support, followed by the ascending channel’s lower boundary near 1.2880. A break below this critical zone could weaken short-term price momentum, with the 50-day EMA at 1.2752 acting as the next key support. A further decline below this level may erode the medium-term bullish outlook, potentially pushing the pair toward the two-month low of 1.2249, recorded on February 3. GBP/USD: Daily Chart British Pound PRICE Today The table below shows the percentage change of British Pound (GBP) against listed major currencies today. British Pound was the strongest against the New Zealand Dollar.   USD EUR GBP JPY CAD AUD NZD CHF USD   0.05% 0.01% -0.15% 0.05% 0.34% 0.43% 0.07% EUR -0.05%   -0.06% -0.23% -0.02% 0.27% 0.36% -0.00% GBP -0.01% 0.06%   -0.16% 0.04% 0.32% 0.42% 0.05% JPY 0.15% 0.23% 0.16%   0.20% 0.49% 0.59% 0.23% CAD -0.05% 0.02% -0.04% -0.20%   0.28% 0.35% 0.02% AUD -0.34% -0.27% -0.32% -0.49% -0.28%   0.09% -0.27% NZD -0.43% -0.36% -0.42% -0.59% -0.35% -0.09%   -0.36% CHF -0.07% 0.00% -0.05% -0.23% -0.02% 0.27% 0.36%   The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the British Pound from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent GBP (base)/USD (quote).  

The Indian Rupee (INR) remains weak on Friday, pressured by month-end US Dollar (USD) demand from importers.

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However, positive domestic markets and foreign fund inflows might help limit the local currency’s losses. Investors will keep an eye on the US February Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) data, which is due later on Friday. This report could offer some hints about the trajectory for further rate cuts after the Federal Reserve's (Fed) decision last week to hold its benchmark interest rate steady. Indian Rupee weakens amid month-end US Dollar demand  The Indian economy is estimated to achieve a growth of 6.5% in FY25 despite considerable external headwinds, according to the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA), Ministry of Finance. Trump's threat to impose 25% tariffs on all goods entering the US from countries importing Venezuelan gas or oil, brandished on Monday, could have disastrous consequences for the Indian economy, per Le Monde.  Trump said that tariffs will likely be more “lenient than reciprocal,” as next week's tariff deadline looms for a number of levies to go into effect. The US economy expanded at an annual 2.4% pace in the final three months of 2024, the third release of the figures from the Bureau of Economic Analysis showed Thursday.  This figure came in slightly better than the previous estimate of fourth-quarter growth.  USD/INR paints a negative picture under the 100-day EMA The Indian Rupee trades in negative territory on the day. The negative view of the USD/INR pair remains in play, with the price being capped below the key 100-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) on the daily timeframe. The downward momentum is reinforced by the 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI), which stands below the midline near 31.0, suggesting that further downside looks favorable. 

The first downside target for USD/INR is located at 85.56, the low of March 26. If bearish momentum builds below this level, it could trigger more selling and drag the pair down toward 84.84, the low of December 19, followed by 84.22, the low of November 25, 2024. 

On the other hand, the crucial upside barrier to watch is in the 85.90-86.00 zone, representing the 100-day EMA and the psychological level. A strong move above the mentioned level might even pave the way for a run at 86.48, the low of February 21, en route to 87.00, the round figure.  Indian Rupee FAQs What are the key factors driving the Indian Rupee? The Indian Rupee (INR) is one of the most sensitive currencies to external factors. The price of Crude Oil (the country is highly dependent on imported Oil), the value of the US Dollar – most trade is conducted in USD – and the level of foreign investment, are all influential. Direct intervention by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in FX markets to keep the exchange rate stable, as well as the level of interest rates set by the RBI, are further major influencing factors on the Rupee. How do the decisions of the Reserve Bank of India impact the Indian Rupee? The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) actively intervenes in forex markets to maintain a stable exchange rate, to help facilitate trade. In addition, the RBI tries to maintain the inflation rate at its 4% target by adjusting interest rates. Higher interest rates usually strengthen the Rupee. This is due to the role of the ‘carry trade’ in which investors borrow in countries with lower interest rates so as to place their money in countries’ offering relatively higher interest rates and profit from the difference. What macroeconomic factors influence the value of the Indian Rupee? Macroeconomic factors that influence the value of the Rupee include inflation, interest rates, the economic growth rate (GDP), the balance of trade, and inflows from foreign investment. A higher growth rate can lead to more overseas investment, pushing up demand for the Rupee. A less negative balance of trade will eventually lead to a stronger Rupee. Higher interest rates, especially real rates (interest rates less inflation) are also positive for the Rupee. A risk-on environment can lead to greater inflows of Foreign Direct and Indirect Investment (FDI and FII), which also benefit the Rupee. How does inflation impact the Indian Rupee? Higher inflation, particularly, if it is comparatively higher than India’s peers, is generally negative for the currency as it reflects devaluation through oversupply. Inflation also increases the cost of exports, leading to more Rupees being sold to purchase foreign imports, which is Rupee-negative. At the same time, higher inflation usually leads to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) raising interest rates and this can be positive for the Rupee, due to increased demand from international investors. The opposite effect is true of lower inflation.

 

EUR/JPY retraces its recent gains from the previous session, trading around 162.70 during the Asian hours.

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The currency cross depreciates as the Japanese Yen (JPY) strengthens following the release of Tokyo’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) data on Friday. Tokyo’s core CPI rose 2.4% year-on-year in March, up from 2.2% in February, aligning with market expectations. This marks the fifth consecutive month that core inflation has remained above the Bank of Japan’s (BoJ) 2% target, reinforcing speculation that the central bank will continue normalizing its monetary policy. The headline Tokyo CPI for March increased 2.9% YoY, unchanged from the previous month, according to Japan’s Statistics Bureau. Meanwhile, Tokyo CPI, excluding fresh food and energy, rose to 1.1% in March from 0.8% in February (revised from 2.2%). The BoJ, in its March meeting summary, reaffirmed its commitment to raising policy interest rates and adjusting monetary accommodation if economic and price conditions warrant. The central bank emphasized a flexible, data-driven approach, taking into account evolving economic trends, inflationary pressures, and associated risks. The EUR/JPY cross also faces pressure as the Euro (EUR) weakens against its peers amid escalating trade tensions between the United States (US) and the Eurozone. Concerns over a potential trade war have intensified as the European Union (EU) prepares retaliatory tariffs in response to the 25% auto tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, set to take effect on April 2. Germany is expected to be significantly impacted, as 13% of its total auto exports are sent to the US. This development could weigh on the Euro’s outlook. On Wednesday, Trump signed a proclamation enforcing the tariffs and warned of stricter measures against the EU and Canada if they retaliate. Economic Indicator Tokyo CPI ex Fresh Food (YoY) The Tokyo Consumer Price Index (CPI), released by the Statistics Bureau of Japan on a monthly basis, measures the price fluctuation of goods and services purchased by households in the Tokyo region excluding fresh food, whose prices often fluctuate depending on the weather. The index is widely considered as a leading indicator of Japan’s overall CPI as it is published weeks before the nationwide reading. The YoY reading compares prices in the reference month to the same month a year earlier. Generally, a high reading is seen as bullish for the Japanese Yen (JPY), while a low reading is seen as bearish. Read more. Last release: Thu Mar 27, 2025 23:30 Frequency: MonthlyActual: 2.4%Consensus: 2.2%Previous: 2.2%Source: Statistics Bureau of Japan  

The Japanese Yen (JPY) drops to a nearly four-week trough against its American counterpart during the Asian session on Friday amid concerns that US President Donald Trump's trade tariffs could impact key domestic exports.

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The JPY bulls, however, got some respite following the release of strong consumer inflation data from Tokyo (Japan's capital city), which keeps the door open for more interest rate hikes by the Bank of Japan (BoJ). Moreover, the BoJ Summary of Opinions indicated that a rate hike is still on the table if the economy and prices move in line with the forecast. Apart from this, the prevalent risk-off environment, fueled by Trump's auto tariffs late Wednesday, turns out to be another factor that underpins the safe-haven JPY and drags the USD/JPY pair below the 151.00 mark in the last hour. That said, the emergence of some US Dollar (USD) dip-buying could lend support to the currency pair and help limit further losses. Furthermore, traders might refrain from placing directional bets and opt to wait for the US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index for cues about the Federal Reserve's (Fed) rate-cut path.  Japanese Yen bulls look to regain control as strong Tokyo CPI reaffirms BoJ rate hike bets US President Donald Trump on Wednesday unveiled a 25% tariff on imported cars and light trucks to take effect on April 3. This fuels concerns that the levies would have a far-reaching impact on Japan's auto industry, which accounts for roughly 3% of gross domestic product. Data released earlier this Friday showed that the headline Consumer Price Index (CPI) in Tokyo rose 2.9% in March from 2.8% previous. Moreover, Tokyo Core CPI, which excludes volatile fresh food prices, climbed to 2.4% during the reported month from 2.2% in February.  Adding to this, a core reading that excludes both volatile fresh food and energy prices grew from 1.9% in the prior month to 2.2% in March. This is now above the Bank of Japan's annual 2% target and backs the case for further interest rate hikes by the Japanese central bank.  BoJ Summary of Opinions from the March meeting revealed a consensus to continue raising rates if the economy and prices move in line with the forecast. The board, however, viewed that the policy must be kept steady for the time being as the downside risks to the economy have heightened due to the US tariff policy. The global risk sentiment took a hit in reaction to Trump's auto tariffs and worries that reciprocal tariffs next week will dent US growth. This overshadowed an upward revision of the US Q4 GDP, which showed that the economy grew at a 2.4% annualized pace vs 2.3% in the previous estimate. Richmond President Thomas Barkin warned on Thursday that the economic uncertainty driven by the Trump administration's trade policy could dampen consumer and business spending, and will force the central bank into a wait-and-see approach rather than the proactive stance most investors are hoping for.  Boston Fed President Susan Collins noted that the US central bank's challenge at this point is to choose between maintaining a tight policy stance or trying to run ahead of data that might be souring in the future. Given the outlook, Collins expects the Fed to hold rates steady for longer. Investors now look forward to the release of the US Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index, which could offer fresh cues about the Fed's future interest rate-cut path. This, in turn, will drive the US Dollar and provide some meaningful impetus to the USD/JPY pair.  USD/JPY technical setup backs prospects for the emergence of dip-buying at lower levels From a technical perspective, the intraday pullback from the vicinity of the monthly peak warrants caution before placing fresh bullish bets around the USD/JPY pair and positioning for further gains. Meanwhile, oscillators on the daily chart have just started gaining positive traction and support prospects for the emergence of some dip-buying near the 150.00 psychological mark. Some follow-through selling below the 149.85-149.80 region, however, would negate the positive bias and drag spot prices to the 149.25 support zone en route to the 149.00 round figure and the next relevant support near the 148.65 region. On the flip side, a move beyond the monthly peak, around the 151.30 area, might confront some resistance near a technically significant 200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA), currently pegged near the 151.65 region. A sustained strength beyond the latter will be seen as a fresh trigger for bulls and allow the USD/JPY pair to reclaim the 152.00 mark. The positive momentum could extend further to the 152.45-152.50 region before spot prices aim to challenge the 100-day SMA, around the 153.00 round figure. Economic Indicator Tokyo Consumer Price Index (YoY) The Tokyo Consumer Price Index (CPI), released by the Statistics Bureau of Japan on a monthly basis, measures the price fluctuation of goods and services purchased by households in the Tokyo region. The index is widely considered as a leading indicator of Japan’s overall CPI as it is published weeks before the nationwide reading. The YoY reading compares prices in the reference month to the same month a year earlier. Generally, a high reading is seen as bullish for the Japanese Yen (JPY), while a low reading is seen as bearish. Read more. Last release: Thu Mar 27, 2025 23:30 Frequency: MonthlyActual: 2.9%Consensus: -Previous: 2.9%Source: Statistics Bureau of Japan  

The NZD/USD pair remains under selling pressure near 0.5720 during the early Asian session on Friday.

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Traders remain nervous ahead of Trump’s reciprocal tariffs announcement on April 2. Trump said that tariffs will likely be more “lenient than reciprocal,” as next week's tariff deadline looms for a number of levies to go into effect. However, the uncertainty surrounding his trade policy might drag the New Zealand Dollar (NZD) against the US Dollar (USD). 

Investors brace for the US PCE inflation data due on Friday for some hints about the trajectory for further rate cuts, after the Federal Reserve's (Fed) decision last week to hold its benchmark interest rate steady. Any signs of cooler inflation could weigh on the Greenback and help limit the pair’s losses. 

Furthermore, the positive developments surrounding China’s stimulus measures could boost the NZD, as China is a major trading partner of New Zealand. China’s Vice Premier Ding stated that the official will implement more proactive macroeconomic policies this year while fostering the private sector and encouraging foreign investment.  New Zealand Dollar FAQs What key factors drive the New Zealand Dollar? The New Zealand Dollar (NZD), also known as the Kiwi, is a well-known traded currency among investors. Its value is broadly determined by the health of the New Zealand economy and the country’s central bank policy. Still, there are some unique particularities that also can make NZD move. The performance of the Chinese economy tends to move the Kiwi because China is New Zealand’s biggest trading partner. Bad news for the Chinese economy likely means less New Zealand exports to the country, hitting the economy and thus its currency. Another factor moving NZD is dairy prices as the dairy industry is New Zealand’s main export. High dairy prices boost export income, contributing positively to the economy and thus to the NZD. How do decisions of the RBNZ impact the New Zealand Dollar? The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) aims to achieve and maintain an inflation rate between 1% and 3% over the medium term, with a focus to keep it near the 2% mid-point. To this end, the bank sets an appropriate level of interest rates. When inflation is too high, the RBNZ will increase interest rates to cool the economy, but the move will also make bond yields higher, increasing investors’ appeal to invest in the country and thus boosting NZD. On the contrary, lower interest rates tend to weaken NZD. The so-called rate differential, or how rates in New Zealand are or are expected to be compared to the ones set by the US Federal Reserve, can also play a key role in moving the NZD/USD pair. How does economic data influence the value of the New Zealand Dollar? Macroeconomic data releases in New Zealand are key to assess the state of the economy and can impact the New Zealand Dollar’s (NZD) valuation. A strong economy, based on high economic growth, low unemployment and high confidence is good for NZD. High economic growth attracts foreign investment and may encourage the Reserve Bank of New Zealand to increase interest rates, if this economic strength comes together with elevated inflation. Conversely, if economic data is weak, NZD is likely to depreciate. How does broader risk sentiment impact the New Zealand Dollar? The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) tends to strengthen during risk-on periods, or when investors perceive that broader market risks are low and are optimistic about growth. This tends to lead to a more favorable outlook for commodities and so-called ‘commodity currencies’ such as the Kiwi. Conversely, NZD tends to weaken at times of market turbulence or economic uncertainty as investors tend to sell higher-risk assets and flee to the more-stable safe havens.  

The Australian Dollar (AUD) weakens against the US Dollar (USD) on Friday, erasing gains from the previous session.

.fxs-major-currency-prices-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:8px 16px}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table{width:100%;text-align:center;border-collapse:collapse;font-size:1rem}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table th{background-color:#f2f2f2}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td{color:#fff}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.green{background-color:#9cd6cd}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.red{background-color:#faafb5}table.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-table td.blue-grey{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-prices-legend{font-size:11px;margin:8px;color:#49494f}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-major-currency-prices-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}.fxs-major-currency-prices-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.dark-green{background-color:#39ad9a}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-green{background-color:#9cd6cd}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.gray{background-color:#888a93}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.light-red{background-color:#faafb5}.fxs-major-currency-prices-currency-price td.strong-red{background-color:#f55e6a} .fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}}The Australian Dollar depreciates as global trade concerns intensify ahead of potential US tariffs.A Reuters poll suggests the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will keep rates steady in April.The US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Annualized grew by 2.4% in Q4 2024, exceeding the 2.3% forecast.The Australian Dollar (AUD) weakens against the US Dollar (USD) on Friday, erasing gains from the previous session. The AUD/USD pair declines amid heightened risk aversion, driven by concerns over impending US auto tariffs. US President Donald Trump signed an order on Wednesday imposing a 25% tariff on auto imports, further escalating global trade tensions. These aggressive trade measures are likely to strain relations with key trading partners, even ahead of his planned reciprocal tariffs set for April 2. A Reuters poll on the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) indicates that the central bank will hold rates steady in April. All 39 economists surveyed expect the RBA to maintain the cash rate at 4.10% on April 1. However, the median forecast predicts two rate cuts in 2025, with 25 basis point reductions in May and September, bringing the rate down to 3.60% by Q3. The RBA is expected to ease rates gradually due to persistently high core inflation at 3.2%, low unemployment, and recovering economic growth. The potential May rate cut hinges on Q1 inflation data, with approximately 75% of economists anticipating a reduction. Westpac economists believe the RBA will keep the cash rate unchanged at its April 1 policy meeting, describing it as a “dead rubber” in the broader monetary policy context. However, they maintain their forecast for a rate cut in May. Australian Dollar struggles as US Dollar steadies amid increased risk aversion The US Dollar Index (DXY), which tracks the USD against six major currencies, hovers around 104.30, facing pressure due to lower US yields, standing at 3.99% for the 2-year bond and 4.35% for the 10-year bond at the time of writing. US Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Annualized expanded at a rate of 2.4% in Q4 2024, surpassing the 2.3% forecast, according to data released on Thursday. Investors now await the US Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index, set for release later on Friday. Moody’s has warned that increased tariffs and tax cuts could significantly widen government deficits, potentially leading to a US debt rating downgrade and rising Treasury yields. S&P Global cautioned that policy uncertainty in the US could dampen global economic growth, while Fitch Ratings highlighted that current tariffs may severely impact smaller economies such as Brazil, India, and Vietnam, making it more challenging for them to afford US goods. Federal Reserve (Fed) Bank of Boston President Susan Collins stated on Thursday that the Fed faces a difficult decision between maintaining a restrictive policy stance or acting pre-emptively in anticipation of deteriorating economic conditions. Meanwhile, Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond President Thomas Barkin warned that economic uncertainty stemming from the Trump administration’s trade policies could force the Fed into a more cautious, wait-and-see approach than markets are expecting. St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem made strong remarks on Wednesday, joining a growing number of Fed policymakers warning about the Trump administration’s tariff policies. Musalem cautioned that these measures are disrupting the stable US economy, increasing uncertainty, and driving inflation higher. President Trump announced plans on Wednesday to reduce tariffs on China to facilitate ByteDance's sale of TikTok's US operations. While he emphasized that the tariffs hold greater value than TikTok itself, he suggested that a minor tariff reduction could aid in finalizing the deal. Trump also hinted at the possibility of extending the deadline for the TikTok sale once again. On Wednesday, Trump suggested plans to impose tariffs on copper imports within weeks, although the Commerce Department initially had until November 2025 to decide on the matter. This development, however, provided some support for the AUD, as Australia is a key copper exporter. Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers presented the 2025/26 budget on Tuesday, outlining key economic forecasts and tax cuts totaling approximately A$17.1 billion across two rounds. The budget deficit is projected at A$27.6 billion for 2024-25 and A$42.1 billion for 2025-26. GDP growth is expected to reach 2.25% in the fiscal year 2026 and 2.5% in 2027. The tax cuts appear to be aimed at strengthening political support. Australian Dollar hovers around 0.6300, nine-day EMA, descending channel’s upper boundary AUD/USD hovers near 0.6290 on Friday, with technical indicators suggesting a potential bullish shift as the pair challenges its descending channel pattern. However, the 14-day Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains just below 50, signaling persistent bearish pressure. The nine-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 0.6304 acts as immediate resistance. A breakout above this level could strengthen short-term momentum, opening the door for a test of the monthly high at 0.6391, last reached on March 18, followed by a three-month high at 0.6408. On the downside, failure to hold gains may push the AUD/USD pair back into its descending channel, reinforcing the bearish outlook. In this scenario, the pair could drop toward the seven-week low of 0.6187, recorded on March 5, followed by the channel’s lower boundary at 0.6170. AUD/USD: Daily Chart Australian Dollar PRICE Today The table below shows the percentage change of Australian Dollar (AUD) against listed major currencies today. Australian Dollar was the weakest against the Japanese Yen.   USD EUR GBP JPY CAD AUD NZD CHF USD   0.00% -0.02% -0.18% 0.05% 0.13% 0.26% 0.03% EUR -0.01%   -0.05% -0.23% 0.02% 0.11% 0.22% 0.00% GBP 0.02% 0.05%   -0.18% 0.07% 0.15% 0.27% 0.06% JPY 0.18% 0.23% 0.18%   0.24% 0.32% 0.44% 0.23% CAD -0.05% -0.02% -0.07% -0.24%   0.08% 0.19% -0.01% AUD -0.13% -0.11% -0.15% -0.32% -0.08%   0.11% -0.10% NZD -0.26% -0.22% -0.27% -0.44% -0.19% -0.11%   -0.21% CHF -0.03% -0.01% -0.06% -0.23% 0.01% 0.10% 0.21%   The heat map shows percentage changes of major currencies against each other. The base currency is picked from the left column, while the quote currency is picked from the top row. For example, if you pick the Australian Dollar from the left column and move along the horizontal line to the US Dollar, the percentage change displayed in the box will represent AUD (base)/USD (quote). Australian Dollar FAQs What key factors drive the Australian Dollar? One of the most significant factors for the Australian Dollar (AUD) is the level of interest rates set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Because Australia is a resource-rich country another key driver is the price of its biggest export, Iron Ore. The health of the Chinese economy, its largest trading partner, is a factor, as well as inflation in Australia, its growth rate and Trade Balance. Market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – is also a factor, with risk-on positive for AUD. How do the decisions of the Reserve Bank of Australia impact the Australian Dollar? The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) influences the Australian Dollar (AUD) by setting the level of interest rates that Australian banks can lend to each other. This influences the level of interest rates in the economy as a whole. The main goal of the RBA is to maintain a stable inflation rate of 2-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively high interest rates compared to other major central banks support the AUD, and the opposite for relatively low. The RBA can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former AUD-negative and the latter AUD-positive. How does the health of the Chinese Economy impact the Australian Dollar? China is Australia’s largest trading partner so the health of the Chinese economy is a major influence on the value of the Australian Dollar (AUD). When the Chinese economy is doing well it purchases more raw materials, goods and services from Australia, lifting demand for the AUD, and pushing up its value. The opposite is the case when the Chinese economy is not growing as fast as expected. Positive or negative surprises in Chinese growth data, therefore, often have a direct impact on the Australian Dollar and its pairs. How does the price of Iron Ore impact the Australian Dollar? Iron Ore is Australia’s largest export, accounting for $118 billion a year according to data from 2021, with China as its primary destination. The price of Iron Ore, therefore, can be a driver of the Australian Dollar. Generally, if the price of Iron Ore rises, AUD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Iron Ore falls. Higher Iron Ore prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance for Australia, which is also positive of the AUD. How does the Trade Balance impact the Australian Dollar? The Trade Balance, which is the difference between what a country earns from its exports versus what it pays for its imports, is another factor that can influence the value of the Australian Dollar. If Australia produces highly sought after exports, then its currency will gain in value purely from the surplus demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase its exports versus what it spends to purchase imports. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens the AUD, with the opposite effect if the Trade Balance is negative.  

On Friday, the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) set the USD/CNY central rate for the trading session ahead at 7.1752 as compared to the previous day's fix of 7.1763 and 7.2591 Reuters estimate.

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West Texas Intermediate (WTI), the US crude oil benchmark, is trading around $69.70 during the early Asian session on Friday.

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WTI price has edged higher since US President Donald Trump slapped a 25% secondary tariff on nations that buy Venezuelan oil or gas, effective April 2. The United States (US) bought $5.6 billion worth of oil and gas from Venezuela in 2024, making it one of the top foreign suppliers of oil to the US last year, according to Commerce Department trade data.

The decline in crude oil inventories provides some support to the crude oil prices. The US Energy Information Administration (EIA) weekly report showed crude oil stockpiles in the US for the week ending March 21 fell by 3.341 million barrels, compared to an increase of 1.745 million barrels in the previous week. The market consensus estimated that stocks would decrease by 1.6 million barrels. 

However, the concerns that Trump auto tariffs will slow oil demand could drag the WTI price lower. On Wednesday, US President Donald Trump unveiled his plan to implement 25% tariffs on imported cars and light trucks effective on April 2, while those on auto parts begin on May 3. "The biggest headwind for oil right now are the concern about tariffs, and tariffs might slow demand," said Phil Flynn, senior analyst with Price Futures Group. WTI Oil FAQs What is WTI Oil? WTI Oil is a type of Crude Oil sold on international markets. The WTI stands for West Texas Intermediate, one of three major types including Brent and Dubai Crude. WTI is also referred to as “light” and “sweet” because of its relatively low gravity and sulfur content respectively. It is considered a high quality Oil that is easily refined. It is sourced in the United States and distributed via the Cushing hub, which is considered “The Pipeline Crossroads of the World”. It is a benchmark for the Oil market and WTI price is frequently quoted in the media. What factors drive the price of WTI Oil? Like all assets, supply and demand are the key drivers of WTI Oil price. As such, global growth can be a driver of increased demand and vice versa for weak global growth. Political instability, wars, and sanctions can disrupt supply and impact prices. The decisions of OPEC, a group of major Oil-producing countries, is another key driver of price. The value of the US Dollar influences the price of WTI Crude Oil, since Oil is predominantly traded in US Dollars, thus a weaker US Dollar can make Oil more affordable and vice versa. How does inventory data impact the price of WTI Oil The weekly Oil inventory reports published by the American Petroleum Institute (API) and the Energy Information Agency (EIA) impact the price of WTI Oil. Changes in inventories reflect fluctuating supply and demand. If the data shows a drop in inventories it can indicate increased demand, pushing up Oil price. Higher inventories can reflect increased supply, pushing down prices. API’s report is published every Tuesday and EIA’s the day after. Their results are usually similar, falling within 1% of each other 75% of the time. The EIA data is considered more reliable, since it is a government agency. How does OPEC influence the price of WTI Oil? OPEC (Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries) is a group of 12 Oil-producing nations who collectively decide production quotas for member countries at twice-yearly meetings. Their decisions often impact WTI Oil prices. When OPEC decides to lower quotas, it can tighten supply, pushing up Oil prices. When OPEC increases production, it has the opposite effect. OPEC+ refers to an expanded group that includes ten extra non-OPEC members, the most notable of which is Russia.  

The Bank of Japan (BoJ) published the Summary of Opinions from its March monetary policy meeting, with the key findings noted below.

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One member said wage hikes in spring wage talks are somewhat exceeding last year's figures, with nominal wages rising at a pace in line with the achievement of the BOJ's price goal. One member said rising wages are likely to underpin consumption. One member said there are questions about whether wage gains would be sustainable. One member said global economic uncertainty is heightening. One member said heightened uncertainty over the global economy could be one new risk factor since our previous meeting in January. One member said U.S. inflationary risk and economic worsening risk are both heightening. One member said underlying inflation is highly likely to steadily accelerate toward 2%, given steady price rises and the outcome of wage talks. One member said the new U.S. administration's policies could affect Japan's price moves via fluctuations in markets and FX rates.  Market reaction   Following the BoJ’s Summary of Opinions, the USD/JPY pair is up 0.14% on the day to trade at 155.30 as of writing.  Bank of Japan FAQs What is the Bank of Japan? The Bank of Japan (BoJ) is the Japanese central bank, which sets monetary policy in the country. Its mandate is to issue banknotes and carry out currency and monetary control to ensure price stability, which means an inflation target of around 2%. What has been the Bank of Japan’s policy? The Bank of Japan embarked in an ultra-loose monetary policy in 2013 in order to stimulate the economy and fuel inflation amid a low-inflationary environment. The bank’s policy is based on Quantitative and Qualitative Easing (QQE), or printing notes to buy assets such as government or corporate bonds to provide liquidity. In 2016, the bank doubled down on its strategy and further loosened policy by first introducing negative interest rates and then directly controlling the yield of its 10-year government bonds. In March 2024, the BoJ lifted interest rates, effectively retreating from the ultra-loose monetary policy stance. How do Bank of Japan’s decisions influence the Japanese Yen? The Bank’s massive stimulus caused the Yen to depreciate against its main currency peers. This process exacerbated in 2022 and 2023 due to an increasing policy divergence between the Bank of Japan and other main central banks, which opted to increase interest rates sharply to fight decades-high levels of inflation. The BoJ’s policy led to a widening differential with other currencies, dragging down the value of the Yen. This trend partly reversed in 2024, when the BoJ decided to abandon its ultra-loose policy stance. Why did the Bank of Japan decide to start unwinding its ultra-loose policy? A weaker Yen and the spike in global energy prices led to an increase in Japanese inflation, which exceeded the BoJ’s 2% target. The prospect of rising salaries in the country – a key element fuelling inflation – also contributed to the move.  

Japan Tokyo CPI ex Food, Energy (YoY) dipped from previous 2.2% to 1.1% in March

The headline Tokyo Consumer Price Index (CPI) for March rose 2.9% YoY as compared to 2.9% in the previous month, the Statistics Bureau of Japan showed on Friday.

The headline Tokyo Consumer Price Index (CPI) for March rose 2.9% YoY as compared to 2.9% in the previous month, the Statistics Bureau of Japan showed on Friday. Meanwhile, the Tokyo CPI ex Fresh Food, Energy came in at 2.4% in March vs. 2.2% in February.

Japan Tokyo Consumer Price Index (YoY) remains unchanged at 2.9% in March

Japan Tokyo CPI ex Food, Energy (YoY) up to 2.4% in March from previous 2.2%

Japan Tokyo CPI ex Fresh Food (YoY) came in at 2.4%, above expectations (2.2%) in March

EUR/USD caught a breather on Thursday, rising by four-tenths of one percent and snapping a six-day losing streak that saw Fiber shed 2% peak-to-trough.

.fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}}EUR/USD rose 0.4% on Thursday, snapping a six-day losing streak.Fiber has drawn dangerously close to the 200-day EMA, signaling a potential reversal.Key US inflation data looms ahead, just before tariffs are due to kick in.EUR/USD caught a breather on Thursday, rising by four-tenths of one percent and snapping a six-day losing streak that saw Fiber shed 2% peak-to-trough. Tariff concerns continue to bubble away close to the center of investors’ attention spans, but Thursday saw some brief relief after US President Donald Trump focused elsewhere for the day, rather than ramping up a fresh batch of tariff proclamations via social media. US GDP for Q4 2024 grew by 2.4%, surpassing expectations of 2.3%. However, Moody’s warned that higher tariffs and tax cuts may significantly increase government deficits and potentially downgrade US debt ratings, leading to higher Treasury yields. S&P Global cautioned that US policy uncertainty could hinder global growth, while Fitch Ratings indicated that current tariffs might severely impact smaller economies like Brazil, India, and Vietnam, complicating their ability to purchase US goods. The CBO reduced its 2025 GDP forecast to 1.9%, predicting that this growth rate will persist through 2035, with inflation slowing to a near halt by 2025. They also foresee the budget deficit rising to 7.3% of GDP in 2025 without policy adjustments and that interest payments could consume 5.4% of GDP by 2055. This week’s key US data release will be Core Personal Consumption Expenditure Price Index (PCE) inflation due on Friday. Investors will be hoping that a recent upturn in inflation figures will prove to be temporary, but median forecasts are expecting annualized PCE inflation to rise to 2.7% YoY in February. EUR/USD price forecast With Fiber’s near-term losing streak broken, EUR/USD bidders will be looking to push prices back above the current target at the 1.0900 handle. Fiber lost its foothold on the key technical level, but buyers managed to stop the bleed, at least for now. Price action is still churning chart paper just north of the 200-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) near 1.0700. If technical support breaks and selling pressure begins to dominate, it’s a long fall to the last swing low near 1.0350. EUR/USD daily chart Euro FAQs What is the Euro? The Euro is the currency for the 19 European Union countries that belong to the Eurozone. It is the second most heavily traded currency in the world behind the US Dollar. In 2022, it accounted for 31% of all foreign exchange transactions, with an average daily turnover of over $2.2 trillion a day. EUR/USD is the most heavily traded currency pair in the world, accounting for an estimated 30% off all transactions, followed by EUR/JPY (4%), EUR/GBP (3%) and EUR/AUD (2%). What is the ECB and how does it impact the Euro? The European Central Bank (ECB) in Frankfurt, Germany, is the reserve bank for the Eurozone. The ECB sets interest rates and manages monetary policy. The ECB’s primary mandate is to maintain price stability, which means either controlling inflation or stimulating growth. Its primary tool is the raising or lowering of interest rates. Relatively high interest rates – or the expectation of higher rates – will usually benefit the Euro and vice versa. The ECB Governing Council makes monetary policy decisions at meetings held eight times a year. Decisions are made by heads of the Eurozone national banks and six permanent members, including the President of the ECB, Christine Lagarde. How does inflation data impact the value of the Euro? Eurozone inflation data, measured by the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP), is an important econometric for the Euro. If inflation rises more than expected, especially if above the ECB’s 2% target, it obliges the ECB to raise interest rates to bring it back under control. Relatively high interest rates compared to its counterparts will usually benefit the Euro, as it makes the region more attractive as a place for global investors to park their money. How does economic data influence the value of the Euro? Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact on the Euro. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the single currency. A strong economy is good for the Euro. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the ECB to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen the Euro. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Euro is likely to fall. Economic data for the four largest economies in the euro area (Germany, France, Italy and Spain) are especially significant, as they account for 75% of the Eurozone’s economy. How does the Trade Balance impact the Euro? Another significant data release for the Euro is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought after exports then its currency will gain in value purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.  

The USD/CAD pair posts modest gains near 1.4310 during the late American session on Thursday.

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Trump on Wednesday signed a proclamation to implement a 25% tariff on auto imports and pledged harsher punishment on the EU and Canada if they join forces against the US. This development undermines the Loonie and acts as a tailwind for the pair as Canada sends about 75% of its exports to the United States, including oil and autos. Trump's aggressive trade measures look certain to worsen relations with major trading partners, even before his planned so-called reciprocal tariffs on April 2.

The US economy expanded at an annual 2.4% pace in the final three months of 2024, supported by a year-end surge in consumer spending, the third release of the figures from the Bureau of Economic Analysis showed Thursday. This figure came in slightly better than the previous estimate of fourth-quarter growth. However, the outlook is cloudier as Trump’s trade policies could push up inflation and hurt growth. This, in turn, might exert some selling pressure on the Greenback against the CAD.  Canadian Dollar FAQs What key factors drive the Canadian Dollar? The key factors driving the Canadian Dollar (CAD) are the level of interest rates set by the Bank of Canada (BoC), the price of Oil, Canada’s largest export, the health of its economy, inflation and the Trade Balance, which is the difference between the value of Canada’s exports versus its imports. Other factors include market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – with risk-on being CAD-positive. As its largest trading partner, the health of the US economy is also a key factor influencing the Canadian Dollar. How do the decisions of the Bank of Canada impact the Canadian Dollar? The Bank of Canada (BoC) has a significant influence on the Canadian Dollar by setting the level of interest rates that banks can lend to one another. This influences the level of interest rates for everyone. The main goal of the BoC is to maintain inflation at 1-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively higher interest rates tend to be positive for the CAD. The Bank of Canada can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former CAD-negative and the latter CAD-positive. How does the price of Oil impact the Canadian Dollar? The price of Oil is a key factor impacting the value of the Canadian Dollar. Petroleum is Canada’s biggest export, so Oil price tends to have an immediate impact on the CAD value. Generally, if Oil price rises CAD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Oil falls. Higher Oil prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance, which is also supportive of the CAD. How does inflation data impact the value of the Canadian Dollar? While inflation had always traditionally been thought of as a negative factor for a currency since it lowers the value of money, the opposite has actually been the case in modern times with the relaxation of cross-border capital controls. Higher inflation tends to lead central banks to put up interest rates which attracts more capital inflows from global investors seeking a lucrative place to keep their money. This increases demand for the local currency, which in Canada’s case is the Canadian Dollar. How does economic data influence the value of the Canadian Dollar? Macroeconomic data releases gauge the health of the economy and can have an impact on the Canadian Dollar. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the CAD. A strong economy is good for the Canadian Dollar. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the Bank of Canada to put up interest rates, leading to a stronger currency. If economic data is weak, however, the CAD is likely to fall.  

GBP/USD found the gas pedal on Thursday, rallying one-half of one percent and climbing back over 1.2900.

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The 1.3000 major price handle remains out of reach for Pound bidders, but the fight against a downside pullback resumes. UK Prime Minister Kier Starmer warned on Thursday that while US tariffs will be “crippling” to the UK economy, policymakers remain committed to fighting back against US President Donald Trump’s lopsided approach to global trade policy. PM Starmer’s comments matched similar intonations from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney as most of the US’s former trading partners turn increasingly hostile on trade talks with the Trump administration. The next batch of key UK data will be Friday’s final Q4 Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Retail Sales updates. UK GDP growth is expected to match the previous figures during the fourth quarter of 2024, but Retail Sales figures are expected to contract slightly in February. US GDP growth figures are also due on Thursday, but the non-preliminary print is unlikely to drive much momentum in either direction. This week’s key US data release will be Core Personal Consumption Expenditure Price Index (PCE) inflation due on Friday. Investors will be hoping that a recent upturn in inflation figures will prove to be temporary, but median forecasts are expecting annualized PCE inflation to rise to 2.7% YoY in February. Related news Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney: We will fight the US tariffs with actions of our own Fed's Barkin: Fed waiting for uncertainty to clear before acting Fed's Collins: It's inevitable tariffs will increase inflation in the near term GBP/USD price forecast Despite a near-term uptick in bidding pressure, GBP/USD remains capped below the 1.3000 major price handle. Downside momentum remains limited, and buyers remain on the books, keeping Cable bolstered above the 200-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) near 1.2720. GBP/USD daily chart Pound Sterling FAQs What is the Pound Sterling? The Pound Sterling (GBP) is the oldest currency in the world (886 AD) and the official currency of the United Kingdom. It is the fourth most traded unit for foreign exchange (FX) in the world, accounting for 12% of all transactions, averaging $630 billion a day, according to 2022 data. Its key trading pairs are GBP/USD, also known as ‘Cable’, which accounts for 11% of FX, GBP/JPY, or the ‘Dragon’ as it is known by traders (3%), and EUR/GBP (2%). The Pound Sterling is issued by the Bank of England (BoE). How do the decisions of the Bank of England impact on the Pound Sterling? The single most important factor influencing the value of the Pound Sterling is monetary policy decided by the Bank of England. The BoE bases its decisions on whether it has achieved its primary goal of “price stability” – a steady inflation rate of around 2%. Its primary tool for achieving this is the adjustment of interest rates. When inflation is too high, the BoE will try to rein it in by raising interest rates, making it more expensive for people and businesses to access credit. This is generally positive for GBP, as higher interest rates make the UK a more attractive place for global investors to park their money. When inflation falls too low it is a sign economic growth is slowing. In this scenario, the BoE will consider lowering interest rates to cheapen credit so businesses will borrow more to invest in growth-generating projects. How does economic data influence the value of the Pound? Data releases gauge the health of the economy and can impact the value of the Pound Sterling. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, and employment can all influence the direction of the GBP. A strong economy is good for Sterling. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the BoE to put up interest rates, which will directly strengthen GBP. Otherwise, if economic data is weak, the Pound Sterling is likely to fall. How does the Trade Balance impact the Pound? Another significant data release for the Pound Sterling is the Trade Balance. This indicator measures the difference between what a country earns from its exports and what it spends on imports over a given period. If a country produces highly sought-after exports, its currency will benefit purely from the extra demand created from foreign buyers seeking to purchase these goods. Therefore, a positive net Trade Balance strengthens a currency and vice versa for a negative balance.  

The Canadian Dollar (CAD) shed weight on Thursday, paring away recent gains against the US Dollar (USD) as trade war rhetoric between the US and Canada ramps up.

.fxs-faq-module-wrapper{border:1px solid #dddedf;background:#fff;margin-bottom:32px;width:100%;float:left;font-family:Roboto,sans-serif}.fxs-faq-module-title{color:#1b1c23;font-size:16px;font-style:italic;font-weight:700;line-height:22.4px;text-transform:uppercase;background:#f3f3f8;padding:8px 16px;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-container{padding:16px;width:100%;box-sizing:border-box;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:12px}.fxs-faq-module-section{padding-bottom:16px;border-bottom:1px solid #ececf1;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-section:last-child{border:none;margin-bottom:0}.fxs-faq-module-container input[type=checkbox]{display:none}.fxs-faq-module-header{padding:4px 0;background-color:#fff;border:none;position:relative;cursor:pointer;margin:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label{display:block;cursor:pointer}.fxs-faq-module-header label span{display:block;width:calc(100% - 50px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{content:"";position:absolute;top:50%;right:16px;width:8px;height:2px;background-color:#49494f;transition:all .2s ease-in-out;transition-delay:0}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(4px)}.fxs-faq-module-header label:after,.fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transition:transform .3s ease-in-out}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:after{transform:rotate(45deg) translateX(4px)}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-header label:before{transform:rotate(-45deg) translateX(-4px)}.fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:0;overflow:hidden;transition:all .3s ease-in-out;color:#49494f;font-weight:300;padding:0;font-size:14.72px;line-height:20px;margin:0}input[type=checkbox]:checked+.fxs-faq-module-section .fxs-faq-module-content{max-height:1000px;margin-top:8px}@media (min-width:680px){.fxs-faq-module-title{font-size:19.2px;line-height:27.2px}.fxs-faq-module-header{font-size:19.2px;line-height:25.92px}.fxs-faq-module-content{font-size:16px;line-height:21.6px}}The Canadian Dollar fell 0.32% against the Greenback on Thursday.Loonie markets are recoiling as Canada and the US gear up for a messy trade war.USD/CAD returns to familiar technical territory near 1.4300.The Canadian Dollar (CAD) shed weight on Thursday, paring away recent gains against the US Dollar (USD) as trade war rhetoric between the US and Canada ramps up. World leaders are quickly growing tired of US President Donald Trump’s constant waffling on tariffs he is, then isn’t, imposing across the board. Market nerves have completely frayed from reacting to President Trump’s ham-handed trade policy approach, and investors are pulling into a wait-and-see period ahead of Donald Trump’s self-imposed April 2 deadline to impose a sweeping package of tariffs. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney struck back against recent tariff headlines, cautioning that Canada is prepared to take retaliatory measures against the US. President Trump’s self-imposed deadline of April 2 to impose a sweeping tariff policy handbook that includes “reciprocal” tariffs, additional tariffs on Copper, even more additional tariffs on Canadian lumber specifically, and yet even more tariffs on countries that buy Crude Oil from Venezuela. Daily digest market movers: Canadian Dollar eases as Canada hearse up for tariff fight The Canadian Dollar gave up recently gained ground on Thursday, falling roughly one-third of one percent against the Greenback.Canadian PM Mark Carney: We will fight the US tariffs with actions of our own.Headway on possible tariff concessions which US President Trump may or may be willing to grant on a per-case basis remains difficult. As noted by Canadain PM Carney, nobody is really clear on what tariffs the US plans to actually enact, nor has the Trump administration been clear on what they want in exchange for tariff relief. Key US inflation figures are due on Friday. Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) Price Index inflation comes just ahead of the Trump administration’s self-imposed tariff deadline of April 2. Canadian Dollar price forecast The Canadian Dollar’s Thursday walkback saw the Loonie shed some 45 pips against the US Dollar. Market flows continue to favor the Greenback on a near-term basis as risk-off flows begin to ramp up. USD/CAD remains pinned to the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) near 1.4320 as near-term momentum continues to grind sideways. The pair has remained trapped in a choppy sideways channel as the congestion grind that started four months ago continues unabated. USD/CAD daily chart Canadian Dollar FAQs What key factors drive the Canadian Dollar? The key factors driving the Canadian Dollar (CAD) are the level of interest rates set by the Bank of Canada (BoC), the price of Oil, Canada’s largest export, the health of its economy, inflation and the Trade Balance, which is the difference between the value of Canada’s exports versus its imports. Other factors include market sentiment – whether investors are taking on more risky assets (risk-on) or seeking safe-havens (risk-off) – with risk-on being CAD-positive. As its largest trading partner, the health of the US economy is also a key factor influencing the Canadian Dollar. How do the decisions of the Bank of Canada impact the Canadian Dollar? The Bank of Canada (BoC) has a significant influence on the Canadian Dollar by setting the level of interest rates that banks can lend to one another. This influences the level of interest rates for everyone. The main goal of the BoC is to maintain inflation at 1-3% by adjusting interest rates up or down. Relatively higher interest rates tend to be positive for the CAD. The Bank of Canada can also use quantitative easing and tightening to influence credit conditions, with the former CAD-negative and the latter CAD-positive. How does the price of Oil impact the Canadian Dollar? The price of Oil is a key factor impacting the value of the Canadian Dollar. Petroleum is Canada’s biggest export, so Oil price tends to have an immediate impact on the CAD value. Generally, if Oil price rises CAD also goes up, as aggregate demand for the currency increases. The opposite is the case if the price of Oil falls. Higher Oil prices also tend to result in a greater likelihood of a positive Trade Balance, which is also supportive of the CAD. How does inflation data impact the value of the Canadian Dollar? While inflation had always traditionally been thought of as a negative factor for a currency since it lowers the value of money, the opposite has actually been the case in modern times with the relaxation of cross-border capital controls. Higher inflation tends to lead central banks to put up interest rates which attracts more capital inflows from global investors seeking a lucrative place to keep their money. This increases demand for the local currency, which in Canada’s case is the Canadian Dollar. How does economic data influence the value of the Canadian Dollar? Macroeconomic data releases gauge the health of the economy and can have an impact on the Canadian Dollar. Indicators such as GDP, Manufacturing and Services PMIs, employment, and consumer sentiment surveys can all influence the direction of the CAD. A strong economy is good for the Canadian Dollar. Not only does it attract more foreign investment but it may encourage the Bank of Canada to put up interest rates, leading to a stronger currency. If economic data is weak, however, the CAD is likely to fall.  

The AUD/JPY pair extended its winning streak on Thursday, advancing toward the 95.30 region after a strong daily performance.

AUD/JPY was seen around the 95.20 zone on Thursday, building on bullish momentum ahead of the Asian session.Key support is seen near 95.20 and 94.90, while resistance stands at 95.34 and 96.43.The AUD/JPY pair extended its winning streak on Thursday, advancing toward the 95.30 region after a strong daily performance. The pair is trading with a bullish tone after gaining traction during the European session, now sitting comfortably near the midpoint of its daily range between 94.42 and 95.40. This movement comes during Thursday’s session ahead of the Asian open, where momentum remains in the bulls’ favor despite signs of exhaustion. From a technical standpoint, the short-term picture favors buyers. The 10-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 94.50, 10-day Simple Moving Average (SMA) at 94.56, and 20-day SMA at 93.98 all point to continued upside pressure. Meanwhile, the Moving Average Convergence Divergence (MACD) signals a fresh buy, reinforcing the bullish structure.The Awesome Oscillator and Ultimate Oscillator (56.2) also remain neutral, hinting at the possibility of a pause or minor correction in the short term. On the downside, immediate support aligns at 95.23, followed by 94.90 and 94.65. To the upside, resistance emerges at 95.34, with further barriers at 96.43 and 96.92. Although longer-term SMAslike the 100-day at 96.92 and 200-day at 98.75 suggest lingering bearish pressure, the current short-term outlook remains tilted in favor of continued gains, barring a reversal triggered by overbought conditions. AUD/JPY daily chart
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