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AUD/USD: Market Stabilizes Amid Rate Cut Expectations

By RoboForex Analytical Department

The Australian dollar has stabilized against the US dollar, currently trading around 0.6738. This follows a period of decline influenced by ongoing speculations regarding the US Federal Reserve’s impending policy actions. Expectations are set for the Fed to initiate rate cuts starting in September, with an additional reduction anticipated before the year’s end.

Fed Chairman Jerome Powell recently reinforced these expectations by indicating that the regulator might not wait for inflation to hit the 2% target before reducing rates, responding to the current trajectory of the consumer price index.

Conversely, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is perceived to be trailing its international counterparts in easing monetary policy, which has contributed to the subdued performance of the AUD.

Later this week, Australia is slated to release its employment statistics. These figures are crucial as they provide a tangible measure of the labour market’s health and could potentially influence the RBA’s policy decisions moving forward.

AUD/USD technical analysis

The AUD/USD pair is currently developing a downward movement towards the 0.6703 level, which serves as a local target. Upon reaching this level, a corrective movement upwards to 0.6747 is expected, which will test this resistance from below. Following this correction, the market may resume its downward trend towards 0.6696, completing the current correction wave before potentially initiating a new upward trajectory towards 0.6811. The MACD indicator supports this outlook, with its signal line indicating a downward trend despite being above the zero mark.

On the hourly chart, the AUD/USD has established a consolidation range around the 0.6747 level. With a downward exit, the pair continues to develop a downward structure aiming for the 0.6704 level. After this target is achieved, an upward correction to retest 0.6747 is anticipated. Subsequently, a new decline towards 0.6696 may occur. The Stochastic oscillator suggests that the current upward momentum is waning, with its signal line poised to drop from above 80, indicating potential for further declines.

Investors and traders should monitor these levels closely, especially in light of forthcoming economic data from Australia, which could significantly sway market sentiment and currency valuation.

Disclaimer

Any forecasts contained herein are based on the author’s particular opinion. This analysis may not be treated as trading advice. RoboForex bears no responsibility for trading results based on trading recommendations and reviews contained herein.

Financial News Forex and Currency News

15 Jul

Japanese Yen Surges Amidst Potential Interventions

By RoboForex Analytical Department

The Japanese yen showed significant strength against the US dollar late last week, with the USD/JPY pair currently stabilizing around 157.86. This marks the lowest level for the currency pair in nearly a month.

The yen’s recent surge is attributed to widespread market speculation regarding potential interventions by Japanese authorities. Analysts believe that Japan may have conducted two separate interventions to bolster the yen, although these could also involve large-scale position closings on exchanges, known as “stop triggers.”

Reports indicate that the Bank of Japan may have expended between 3.37 and 3.57 trillion yen ($21.18 to $22.00 billion) last Thursday alone, with Friday’s expenditures yet to be confirmed. This marks a short interval since the last currency intervention by the BOJ.

Additionally, the BOJ’s recent inquiries into bank exchange rates could have preemptively influenced market movements, sometimes seen as a precursor to formal interventions.

USD/JPY technical analysis

The USD/JPY pair is currently navigating a consolidation phase around the 158.24 level. We anticipate a potential decline to 157.05, followed by a rebound to 158.76. A subsequent drop to 154.74 is expected, which could prompt a corrective movement back to 158.24. The MACD indicator supports this bearish outlook, with its signal line positioned below zero and indicating a downward trajectory.

On the H1 chart, the USD/JPY is forming a downward wave towards 157.04. Upon reaching this level, a rise to at least 158.24 may occur, followed by another decline to 154.74. This bearish pattern is corroborated by the Stochastic oscillator, with the signal line preparing to ascend from below 20 to around 50, suggesting potential brief recoveries amid overall downward momentum.

Market participants will closely monitor upcoming releases and statements from the Japanese government and the BOJ for confirmation of these interventions and further insights into future monetary policy actions.

Disclaimer

Financial News Forex and Currency News

13 Jul

Currency Speculators boost their British Pound bets to highest since 2007

By InvestMacro

Here are the latest charts and statistics for the Commitment of Traders (COT) data published by the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC).

The latest COT data is updated through Tuesday July 9th and shows a quick view of how large market participants (for-profit speculators and commercial traders) were positioned in the futures markets. All currency positions are in direct relation to the US dollar where, for example, a bet for the euro is a bet that the euro will rise versus the dollar while a bet against the euro will be a bet that the euro will decline versus the dollar.

Weekly Speculator Changes led by British Pound & Australian Dollar

The COT currency market speculator bets were higher this week as six out of the eleven currency markets we cover had higher positioning while the other five markets had lower speculator contracts.

Leading the gains for the currency markets was the British Pound (22,649 contracts) with the Australian Dollar (18,249 contracts), the EuroFX (13,142 contracts), the Canadian Dollar (9,140 contracts), the Japanese Yen (2,190 contracts) and Bitcoin (794 contracts) also showing positive weeks.

The currencies seeing declines in speculator bets on the week were the New Zealand Dollar (-4,831 contracts), the Swiss Franc (-2,645 contracts), the Brazilian Real (-1,624 contracts), the US Dollar Index (-374 contracts) and with the Mexican Peso (-304 contracts) also seeing lower bets on the week.

Currency Speculators boost their British Pound bets to highest since 2007

Highlighting this week’s COT currency data is the strong gains in the speculator positioning for the British Pound Sterling (GBP). The Pound Sterling speculative positioning increased this week for a second straight week – jumping by a total of +22,649 contracts following last week’s +17,993 contract gain.

The GBP speculator position has risen for the eighth time out of the past ten weeks for a ten-week gain of +113,680 contracts that has taken the net standing from a total of -28,990 contracts on April 30th to a total of +84,690 contracts this week.

The GBP speculator position is now at the most bullish level in the past 886 weeks, dating back all the way to July 17th of 2007 when the GBP net position hit a record high of +98,366 contracts.

The British Pound’s exchange rate with the US Dollar has been in an uptrend since hitting a recent low in April. The GBP has climbed strongly over the past two weeks and closed out this week at just a touch under the 1.3000 psychological resistance level. This is the highest weekly close for the GBPUSD currency pair since July of 2023 and the first close above the 200-week moving average since that time as well.

Currencies Net Speculators Leaderboard

Legend: Weekly Speculators Change | Speculators Current Net Position | Speculators Strength Score compared to last 3-Years (0-100 range)

Strength Scores led by British Pound & Australian Dollar

COT Strength Scores (a normalized measure of Speculator positions over a 3-Year range, from 0 to 100 where above 80 is Extreme-Bullish and below 20 is Extreme-Bearish) showed that the British Pound (100 percent) and the Australian Dollar (100 percent) lead the currency markets this week. The New Zealand Dollar (91 percent), Bitcoin (65 percent) and the Mexican Peso (63 percent) come in as the next highest in the weekly strength scores.

On the downside, the Brazilian Real (0 percent), the Swiss Franc (0 percent) and the Japanese Yen (1 percent) come in at the lowest strength levels currently and are in Extreme-Bearish territory (below 20 percent).

Strength Statistics:
US Dollar Index (38.6 percent) vs US Dollar Index previous week (39.4 percent)
EuroFX (21.9 percent) vs EuroFX previous week (16.3 percent)
British Pound Sterling (100.0 percent) vs British Pound Sterling previous week (86.3 percent)
Japanese Yen (1.3 percent) vs Japanese Yen previous week (0.0 percent)
Swiss Franc (0.0 percent) vs Swiss Franc previous week (4.7 percent)
Canadian Dollar (21.0 percent) vs Canadian Dollar previous week (15.8 percent)
Australian Dollar (100.0 percent) vs Australian Dollar previous week (83.4 percent)
New Zealand Dollar (90.7 percent) vs New Zealand Dollar previous week (100.0 percent)
Mexican Peso (62.5 percent) vs Mexican Peso previous week (62.7 percent)
Brazilian Real (0.0 percent) vs Brazilian Real previous week (1.7 percent)
Bitcoin (64.6 percent) vs Bitcoin previous week (52.7 percent)

Australian Dollar & New Zealand Dollar top the 6-Week Strength Trends

COT Strength Score Trends (or move index, calculates the 6-week changes in strength scores) showed that the Australian Dollar (48 percent) and the New Zealand Dollar (46 percent) lead the past six weeks trends for the currencies. The British Pound (36 percent), the US Dollar Index (26 percent) and Bitcoin (10 percent) are the next highest positive movers in the latest trends data.

The Mexican Peso (-28 percent) leads the downside trend scores currently with the EuroFX (-23 percent), Japanese Yen (-16 percent) and the Canadian Dollar (-14 percent) following next with lower trend scores.

Strength Trend Statistics:
US Dollar Index (25.7 percent) vs US Dollar Index previous week (27.9 percent)
EuroFX (-23.0 percent) vs EuroFX previous week (-21.7 percent)
British Pound Sterling (35.9 percent) vs British Pound Sterling previous week (36.9 percent)
Japanese Yen (-15.8 percent) vs Japanese Yen previous week (-24.3 percent)
Swiss Franc (-3.1 percent) vs Swiss Franc previous week (-5.0 percent)
Canadian Dollar (-14.1 percent) vs Canadian Dollar previous week (-16.9 percent)
Australian Dollar (47.6 percent) vs Australian Dollar previous week (36.7 percent)
New Zealand Dollar (45.9 percent) vs New Zealand Dollar previous week (61.7 percent)
Mexican Peso (-28.3 percent) vs Mexican Peso previous week (-26.6 percent)
Brazilian Real (-6.5 percent) vs Brazilian Real previous week (-3.7 percent)
Bitcoin (9.6 percent) vs Bitcoin previous week (-0.3 percent)

Individual COT Forex Markets:

US Dollar Index Futures:

The US Dollar Index large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 16,208 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -374 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 16,582 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 38.6 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 63.9 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 25.3 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

US DOLLAR INDEX Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	70.7	18.0	7.4
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	33.2	58.2	4.6
– Net Position:	16,208	-17,419	1,211
– Gross Longs:	30,587	7,769	3,200
– Gross Shorts:	14,379	25,188	1,989
– Long to Short Ratio:	2.1 to 1	0.3 to 1	1.6 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	38.6	63.9	25.3
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	25.7	-25.3	-0.6

Euro Currency Futures:

The Euro Currency large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 3,623 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lift of 13,142 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -9,519 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 21.9 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 79.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 23.8 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

EURO Currency Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	26.0	58.9	11.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	25.5	63.2	8.1
– Net Position:	3,623	-27,239	23,616
– Gross Longs:	165,829	375,248	75,272
– Gross Shorts:	162,206	402,487	51,656
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.0 to 1	0.9 to 1	1.5 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	21.9	79.0	23.8
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-23.0	21.5	-7.9

British Pound Sterling Futures:

The British Pound Sterling large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 84,690 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly gain of 22,649 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 62,041 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish-Extreme with a score of 100.0 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 0.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 83.0 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

BRITISH POUND Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	60.4	20.6	15.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	22.6	62.8	11.1
– Net Position:	84,690	-94,586	9,896
– Gross Longs:	135,316	46,249	34,670
– Gross Shorts:	50,626	140,835	24,774
– Long to Short Ratio:	2.7 to 1	0.3 to 1	1.4 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	100.0	0.0	83.0
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	35.9	-32.6	6.6

Japanese Yen Futures:

The Japanese Yen large speculator standing this week reached a net position of -182,033 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly rise of 2,190 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -184,223 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish-Extreme with a score of 1.3 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 97.4 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 58.0 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

JAPANESE YEN Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	11.9	73.8	11.9
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	64.1	19.4	14.1
– Net Position:	-182,033	189,867	-7,834
– Gross Longs:	41,521	257,455	41,519
– Gross Shorts:	223,554	67,588	49,353
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.2 to 1	3.8 to 1	0.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	1.3	97.4	58.0
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-15.8	13.4	7.1

Swiss Franc Futures:

The Swiss Franc large speculator standing this week reached a net position of -46,088 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly fall of -2,645 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -43,443 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish-Extreme with a score of 0.0 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 100.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 17.2 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

SWISS FRANC Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	5.7	83.3	10.4
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	55.0	19.9	24.6
– Net Position:	-46,088	59,298	-13,210
– Gross Longs:	5,338	77,860	9,743
– Gross Shorts:	51,426	18,562	22,953
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.1 to 1	4.2 to 1	0.4 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	0.0	100.0	17.2
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-3.1	2.3	1.6

Canadian Dollar Futures:

The Canadian Dollar large speculator standing this week reached a net position of -111,212 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly advance of 9,140 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -120,352 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 21.0 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 77.2 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 24.6 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

CANADIAN DOLLAR Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	7.9	77.0	12.3
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	51.1	33.0	13.1
– Net Position:	-111,212	113,308	-2,096
– Gross Longs:	20,263	198,168	31,676
– Gross Shorts:	131,475	84,860	33,772
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.2 to 1	2.3 to 1	0.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	21.0	77.2	24.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish	Bullish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-14.1	11.6	4.9

Australian Dollar Futures:

The Australian Dollar large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 2,413 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly advance of 18,249 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -15,836 net contracts.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	44.0	39.6	13.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	42.9	45.0	9.1
– Net Position:	2,413	-12,132	9,719
– Gross Longs:	98,997	89,192	30,274
– Gross Shorts:	96,584	101,324	20,555
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.0 to 1	0.9 to 1	1.5 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	100.0	0.0	85.1
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	47.6	-47.4	25.0

New Zealand Dollar Futures:

The New Zealand Dollar large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 25,912 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly reduction of -4,831 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 30,743 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish-Extreme with a score of 90.7 percent. The commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 6.5 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 71.2 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Long Position.

NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	70.0	18.7	7.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	26.5	63.8	5.6
– Net Position:	25,912	-26,828	916
– Gross Longs:	41,683	11,129	4,250
– Gross Shorts:	15,771	37,957	3,334
– Long to Short Ratio:	2.6 to 1	0.3 to 1	1.3 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	90.7	6.5	71.2
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	45.9	-45.8	16.5

Mexican Peso Futures:

The Mexican Peso large speculator standing this week reached a net position of 63,323 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly decline of -304 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 63,627 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 62.5 percent. The commercials are Bearish with a score of 37.5 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 26.6 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

MEXICAN PESO Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	50.6	45.1	3.2
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	17.1	79.9	2.0
– Net Position:	63,323	-65,743	2,420
– Gross Longs:	95,748	85,441	6,150
– Gross Shorts:	32,425	151,184	3,730
– Long to Short Ratio:	3.0 to 1	0.6 to 1	1.6 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	62.5	37.5	26.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish	Bearish	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-28.3	28.1	-8.7

Brazilian Real Futures:

The Brazilian Real large speculator standing this week reached a net position of -42,684 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly lowering of -1,624 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -41,060 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish-Extreme with a score of 0.0 percent. The commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 100.0 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 27.9 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: Hold – Maintain Short Position.

BRAZIL REAL Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	26.6	70.9	2.2
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	75.2	21.4	3.0
– Net Position:	-42,684	43,388	-704
– Gross Longs:	23,319	62,170	1,919
– Gross Shorts:	66,003	18,782	2,623
– Long to Short Ratio:	0.4 to 1	3.3 to 1	0.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	0.0	100.0	27.9
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bearish-Extreme	Bullish-Extreme	Bearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	-6.5	6.3	0.1

Bitcoin Futures:

The Bitcoin large speculator standing this week reached a net position of -118 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday. This was a weekly increase of 794 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -912 net contracts.

This week’s current strength score (the trader positioning range over the past three years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 64.6 percent. The commercials are Bullish with a score of 62.5 percent and the small traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 17.6 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Downtrend. The current action for the model is considered to be: New Sell – Short Position.

BITCOIN Statistics	SPECULATORS	COMMERCIALS	SMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:	81.7	2.6	4.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:	82.2	2.9	4.1
– Net Position:	-118	-88	206
– Gross Longs:	23,083	736	1,363
– Gross Shorts:	23,201	824	1,157
– Long to Short Ratio:	1.0 to 1	0.9 to 1	1.2 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):	64.6	62.5	17.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):	Bullish	Bullish	Bearish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:	9.6	1.5	-15.9

Article By InvestMacro – Receive our weekly COT Newsletter

*COT Report: The COT data, released weekly to the public each Friday, is updated through the most recent Tuesday (data is 3 days old) and shows a quick view of how large speculators or non-commercials (for-profit traders) were positioned in the futures markets.

The CFTC categorizes trader positions according to commercial hedgers (traders who use futures contracts for hedging as part of the business), non-commercials (large traders who speculate to realize trading profits) and nonreportable traders (usually small traders/speculators) as well as their open interest (contracts open in the market at time of reporting). See CFTC criteria here.

COT Updates Forex and Currency News Opinions

12 Jul

Japanese Yen Surges: Potential Intervention Amid Inflation Shocks

By RoboForex Analytical Department

The USD/JPY pair experienced a significant drop to 159.06, driven by sharp declines following the release of unexpectedly low US inflation figures and potential interventions from Japanese authorities.

On Thursday, the pair plunged nearly 3%, prompted by US inflation data and rumours of Tokyo’s intervention to bolster the yen, which is nearing 38-year lows. Masato Kanda, Japan’s chief currency diplomat, hinted at readiness to intervene in the currency market but remained non-committal about the specific actions taken the previous evening.

Market participants are left to speculate on the nature of these moves as official data that could confirm government interventions will only be available at the end of the month. Reports from Asahi suggest that interventions did occur, while Nikkei highlighted the BoJ’s inspections of banks’ euro-yen rates, potentially escalating market tensions and supporting the yen’s strength.

USD/JPY technical analysis

The USD/JPY chart shows a second correction impulse down to 157.40. The potential for a recovery to 159.60 is noted, which would serve as a test from below. A subsequent decline to 157.22 is anticipated. This bearish outlook is supported by the MACD indicator, whose signal line is below zero, indicating a downward trend.

The H1 chart confirms the formation of a downward trajectory towards 157.22, with the immediate target of 157.40 already achieved. A rebound to 159.60 is expected, followed by another decline to the target level. The Stochastic oscillator aligns with this analysis, showing a signal line above 80 and preparing for a downward adjustment to 20, suggesting potential for further declines.

Investors and traders will closely watch further statements from Japanese officials and the forthcoming official statistics to clarify the situation, as these factors will significantly influence the yen’s trajectory in the near term.

Disclaimer

Financial News Forex and Currency News

11 Jul

Japanese Yen Faces Continued Decline Amid Interest Rate Differentials

By RoboForex Analytical Department

The USD/JPY pair has risen to 161.65, with the market cautious ahead of today’s US consumer price index release. Despite this, the yen remains weakened by the significant interest rate differential between the Bank of Japan (BoJ) and the Federal Reserve.

Earlier this year, the BoJ abandoned its longstanding negative interest rate policy, adjusting the rate to zero. However, this adjustment has not halted the yen’s depreciation, raising concerns about the currency’s ongoing decline.

Investors eagerly await the BoJ’s meeting in July, where crucial decisions on bond purchases are expected. The outcome of this meeting could mark a significant shift in Japan’s monetary policy.

Mixed economic signals from Japan

Morning statistics from Japan showed mixed results. Core machinery orders declined by 3.2% month-on-month in May, following a 2.9% decrease the previous month. However, on an annual basis, these orders increased by 10.8%, surpassing the expected 7.2% growth, suggesting some underlying strength in the industrial sector.

USD/JPY technical analysis

The USD/JPY is establishing a consolidation range around 161.12. The price could reach up to 162.00, considered a local target within the current upward trend. Following this level, a correction to 158.80 is anticipated, which could lead to another growth phase targeting 163.30. This bullish outlook is supported technically by the MACD indicator, where the signal line is prominently above zero and oriented upward.

On the H1 chart, the pair has completed a growth structure reaching 161.79. Currently, a downward impulse to 161.47 has been observed. A continuation of this correction to 161.12 is expected, which should precede another rise to 162.00. This analysis is corroborated by the Stochastic oscillator, with the signal line poised to drop from above 80 to 20, indicating potential short-term pullbacks before further gains.

Investors and traders will closely monitor upcoming data releases and central bank communications to gauge the potential directions for both the yen and broader currency markets.

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09 Jul

EUR/USD Holds Firm Amid Weakening Dollar and Rate Cut Expectations

By RoboForex Analytical Department

The EUR/USD pair is maintaining its position close to a multi-week high of 1.0829, benefitting from the weakening US dollar following a disappointing June US employment market report. Market anticipation is now building ahead of an upcoming speech by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell.

Despite the looming potential for political deadlock in France, the euro has remained resilient. Investors are finding reassurance in the belief that the current political situation may act as a deterrent to any drastic fiscal measures from far-right or far-left parties, thereby stabilising the financial landscape.

With a relatively quiet macroeconomic calendar, attention is squarely on the US interest rate trajectory. According to CME FedWatch, the likelihood of a rate cut at the Fed’s September meeting has increased to 76%, up from 66% the previous week. Expectations are also growing for a second rate cut in December.

Jerome Powell’s testimony before Congress, starting Tuesday, will be pivotal for currency markets, as insights into the Fed’s policy outlook could influence exchange rates significantly.

Technical analysis of EUR/USD

The EUR/USD is navigating through a consolidation range just above the 1.0806 level. There is a strong potential for an upward move towards 1.0900, which is currently being considered. If this level is reached, a retest to 1.0844 may follow before another potential rise to 1.0944. This bullish setup is further supported by the MACD indicator, where the signal line remains above zero and points upwards, indicating a continued upward momentum.

On the H1 chart, the market is poised for further advancement after completing a growth pattern to 1.0840 and a subsequent correction to 1.0820. A move towards 1.0844 is expected. If this level is breached, it could pave the way to 1.0900. The Stochastic oscillator reinforces this outlook, with the signal line currently above 50 and trending upwards, suggesting a strengthening bullish momentum.

Investors will be keenly watching for Powell’s comments and any further economic indicators this week, as they could play a crucial role in shaping short-term market dynamics and currency valuations.

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08 Jul

AUD/USD Hits Six-Month High Amid RBA Rate Hike Speculations

By RoboForex Analytical Department

The AUD/USD pair reached a six-month high of 0.6752, marking its fifth consecutive day of gains. The currency’s strength is largely driven by market expectations that the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) might diverge from the global trend of lowering interest rates, raising them in response to escalating inflation pressures. May’s CPI figures have intensified discussions around monetary tightening.

Market sentiment is split between expectations for a rate hike and maintaining the current rates at the RBA’s next meeting in August. High domestic yields draw international capital, boost the Australian dollar, and provide a haven from the political uncertainties in the US and Europe.

Moreover, a weaker US dollar, underscored by unimpressive economic data released on Friday, has also bolstered the AUD. This data reinforced the Federal Reserve’s dovish stance on monetary policy.

Technical analysis of AUD/USD

The market has established a broad consolidation pattern centred around 0.6723. Moving forward, there is a potential for an upward movement to 0.6822. Once this level is reached, a retraction to 0.6750 for a retest might occur, followed by a continuation of the upward trajectory towards 0.6858. This bullish outlook is supported by the MACD indicator, with its signal line positioned above zero and trending upwards.

The AUD/USD pair is currently challenging the 0.6757 level, with the potential to extend the rally towards 0.6806. Following this target, a pullback to 0.6757 could occur, setting the stage for another rise to 0.6822. The stochastic oscillator, situated above the 50 mark, suggests an imminent climb to 80, reinforcing the bullish momentum forecasted.

Traders and investors are closely monitoring developments, especially the upcoming RBA meeting, which could significantly influence the direction of the AUD/USD pair.

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03 Jul

AUD/USD Sees Uptick Amidst Mixed Sentiment

By RoboForex Analytical Department

AUD/USD has climbed to 0.6676 yet remains in a “sideways” pattern, indicating a lack of clear directional momentum in the market.

The Australian dollar’s appreciation is linked to a softening in the US dollar’s stance, influenced by remarks from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell. Powell highlighted the need for further economic data to assess the disinflationary trends, suggesting a cautious approach to rate adjustments. This uncertainty around US monetary policy has led to a dip in the USD, boosting AUD.

Conversely, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) maintains a vigilant stance on inflation, with recent minutes suggesting a potential rate hike if inflationary pressures escalate. This possibility lends some support to the Australian dollar. Recent economic data from Australia, including a spike in May’s retail sales and continued private sector growth in June, further bolsters this perspective.

Market speculation hints at a potential RBA rate increase in August, with forthcoming data likely to provide clearer indicators of this likelihood.

Technical analysis of AUD/USD

The AUD/USD pair navigates within a broad consolidation range, forming a diverging “Triangle” around 0.6662. Currently, there is potential for the price to ascend to 0.6702. Upon reaching this level, a retraction to 0.6662 is anticipated, with a potential downward break targeting 0.6555 before resuming upward movements towards 0.6737. The MACD indicator supports this growth scenario, with its signal line positioned above zero and upwards.

On the hourly chart, a tight consolidation has been observed around 0.6662. The expected trajectory involves an ascent to 0.6690, potentially extending to 0.6702. This growth forecast is underscored by the Stochastic oscillator, whose signal line is above 80, suggesting an impending downward adjustment to around 50.

Market outlook

As the global financial landscape navigates through mixed economic signals and central bank policies, the AUD/USD pair will likely continue to experience volatility. Investors and traders will closely monitor upcoming economic releases and central bank communications to gauge the potential shifts in monetary policy, especially from the RBA and the Fed, which could significantly influence the currency pair’s movements in the near term.

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02 Jul

EUR/USD Struggles to Maintain Gains Amid Mixed Economic Signals

By RoboForex Analytical Department

The EUR/USD pair experienced a noticeable uptick yesterday, but failed to sustain its peak, settling at 1.0732 today. Early gains were buoyed by the initial outcomes from France’s parliamentary elections, which did not reflect the worst-case scenario, sparking a temporary surge in risk appetite and bolstering the euro.

However, last evening’s economic indicators from the U.S. painted a mixed picture, dampening the initial enthusiasm. The ISM Manufacturing Index for June dipped to 48.5 from 48.7, falling short of expectations and remaining below the pivotal 50-point mark that delineates expansion from contraction. Conversely, Markit’s Manufacturing PMI indicated a slight improvement, rising to 51.6 from 51.3.

Additionally, a report showed a 0.1% month-on-month decline in U.S. construction spending for May, a reversal from the previous increase of 0.3% and weaker than anticipated, suggesting a potential slowdown in the construction sector and broader economic support.

Market participants are now turning their attention to an upcoming speech by Jerome Powell, Chair of the Federal Reserve, for further clues on the direction of U.S. monetary policy.

Technical analysis of EUR/USD

The EUR/USD pair completed a correction to 1.0774 but is now forming a declining wave towards 1.0675. Should this level be reached, a minor correction to 1.0714 may occur before a potential further drop to 1.0630, and potentially extending down to 1.0573. The MACD indicator underlines this bearish outlook with its signal line positioned below zero and histograms trending downwards.

On the hourly chart, the pair is currently crafting a declining structure with an initial target at 1.0675. Following this, a correction towards 1.0714 is plausible, before a continuation of the downtrend to 1.0640. The Stochastic oscillator corroborates this view, with its signal line approaching the 20 level, indicating a potential for further declines before a rebound towards 50 might occur.

Market outlook

Investors will continue to assess the blend of economic data and central bank signals, particularly from the Fed, to gauge the potential trajectory of interest rates and their impact on currency valuations. Today’s speech by Jerome Powell could be particularly pivotal in setting market expectations moving forward.

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01 Jul

The Japanese yen faces further depreciation amid rate differentials

By RoboForex Analytical Department

The USD/JPY pair continues to escalate, currently positioned at 160.88, nearing the 37-year peak of 161.27 achieved last Friday.

Early today, the yen temporarily strengthened following Japan’s Q2 Tankan survey results, which indicated a slight improvement in industrial sentiment to 13 points from 11. However, the services sector displayed mixed results, maintaining 27 points against predictions of an increase, with future expectations slightly downgraded.

Despite these data points, the predominant driver of the yen’s weakness remains the significant interest rate differential between the Bank of Japan (BoJ) and the US Federal Reserve.

The BoJ has no immediate plans to adjust interest rates but might alter its government bond purchases, hinting at potential monetary tightening. However, market sentiment remains sceptical about such changes, contributing to the yen’s downward pressure.

USD/JPY technical analysis

The USD/JPY is creating a consolidation range just below the 161.26 level. A brief surge to 161.33, considered a local peak within this upward trend, is possible. After this level, a corrective movement to 158.66 might initiate, potentially followed by another upward wave aiming for 163.30. This forecast is supported by the MACD indicator, with its signal line positioned above zero but pointing downwards, suggesting upcoming corrections.

The pair completed an upward movement to 161.26, followed by a correction to 160.26. Currently, it has surged to 160.88, forming a consolidation range. Breaking above this range could lead to a rise towards 161.30. Conversely, a downward break might lead to a correction to at least 160.11 before another potential rise to 161.30. The Stochastic oscillator indicates that the signal line, currently above 50, is poised to drop to 20, reflecting potential short-term declines before further gains.

Market outlook

As investors navigate these fluctuations, the broader focus remains on global central bank policies, particularly any shifts by the BoJ or the Fed that could influence the USD/JPY trajectory. The upcoming economic releases and central bank updates will be crucial in shaping market dynamics and the yen’s valuation against the dollar.

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