Archive for Forex and Currency News – Page 3

USD/JPY: Second Consecutive Week Closes Higher

By Analytical Department RoboForex

USD/JPY rose to 159.04 at the end of the week, marking the yen’s second consecutive weekly decline. The Japanese currency came under pressure after weaker inflation data reduced expectations of imminent Bank of Japan policy tightening.

Core inflation in Japan slowed to 1.4% in April, down from 1.8% the previous month – the lowest level in four years. Moreover, the indicator has remained below the Bank of Japan’s 2% target for the third consecutive month.

At its April meeting, the BOJ sharply raised its core inflation forecast for the current year to 2.8%, up from 1.9%. The regulator attributed this revision to high oil prices amid the Middle East conflict and the continued pass-through of business costs to consumers.

Additional market attention has been drawn to reports that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is considering an additional budget to compensate for rising energy prices.

At the same time, markets continue to monitor the risk of fresh foreign exchange interventions. The yen remains near the 160-per-dollar level — the level that triggered Japanese authorities’ interventions in late April and early May.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 chart, USD/JPY is trading within a consolidation range around 158.68 and is moving higher towards 160.09. A test of this level is likely, followed by a possible pullback to 158.66, with scope for a further decline towards 157.00. The MACD indicator supports this scenario, with its signal line above zero and pointing firmly upwards, indicating continued bullish momentum.

USD/JPY is set to close its second consecutive week higher as the yen remains under pressure from softer-than-expected Japanese inflation data. Core inflation slowed to a four-year low of 1.4%, falling further below the BOJ’s 2% target and dampening expectations for near-term policy tightening. This contrasts with the BOJ’s upgraded inflation forecast of 2.8%, driven by energy costs related to the Middle East conflict. With the pair hovering near the critical 160 level, where Japanese authorities intervened in late April and early May, markets remain on high alert for potential intervention. Prime Minister Takaichi’s consideration of an additional budget to address energy prices adds another layer of complexity. Technically, further upside towards 160.09 appears likely in the near term.

Conclusion

GBP/USD stabilised following weaker-than-expected UK inflation data, easing concerns about aggressive Bank of England rate hikes. However, the pound faces headwinds from a soft labour market and rising oil prices, suggesting that any recovery may be short-lived. Technical indicators point to a near-term correction before a potential continuation of the broader trend.

 

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.

Week Ahead: EURUSD inches toward make-or-break support

By ForexTime 

  • EURUSD ↓ 1.1% YTD 
  • Germany CPI + US PCE combo = fresh volatility?
  • EU Flash CPI forecast to trigger moves of ↑ 0.3% & ↓ 0.2% 
  • US April PCE forecast to trigger moves of ↑ 0.5% & ↓ 0.6% 
  • Bloomberg FX model – 71.1% EURUSD – (1.1510 – 1.1730) 

The world’s most-traded FX pair is at a crossroads…and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

After a brief pause, EURUSD is heading straight for critical support at 1.1580.

This is the level that could define the pair’s direction for weeks to come. A clean break lower opens the door to steeper losses, while a firm bounce invites bulls back into the scene.

Bloomberg’s FX model puts a 71.1% probability of EURUSD trading within the 1.1510 – 1.1730 range this week – that’s a potential swing of over 100 pips.

Volatility is coming. The only question is which side it favours.

Why is the EURUSD under pressure

1) A broadly stronger dollar amid ongoing geopolitical risk, a limbo in peace talks and growing bets around higher US rates.

2) Technical forces may also be at play with prices trading below the 50, 100 and 200-day SMA.

Key inflation data from Germany and the United States could spell fresh opportunities for the EURUSD in the week ahead:

Monday, 25th May

•        US Memorial Day holiday, with markets closed

Tuesday, 26th May

•        GBP: UK CBI distributive trades

•        USDInd: US Chicago Fed national activity index, CB consumer confidence, Dallas Fed manufacturing index, S&P/Case-Shiller home prices

 

Wednesday, 27th May

•        AUD: Australia CPI, RBA trimmed mean CPI, construction work done

•        EUR: Eurozone new car registrations

•        USDInd: US MBA mortgage rates, ADP employment change, API crude oil inventories

•        JPY: BoJ Governor Ueda speech

Thursday, 28th May

•        KRW: South Korea interest rate decision

•        EUR: Eurozone economic sentiment, Italy business and consumer confidence, Spain business confidence

•        CAD: Canada current account, BoC financial stability report

•        USDInd: US Core PCE, PCE inflation, GDP second estimate, durable goods orders, personal income, personal spending, initial jobless claims, new home sales, EIA crude oil inventories

Friday, 29th May

•        JPY: Japan unemployment, industrial production, consumer confidence, retail sales

•        GBP: UK Nationwide house prices

•        EUR: France, Spain, Italy and Germany preliminary CPI, German unemployment

•        CAD: Canada GDP

•        USDInd: US goods trade balance, wholesale inventories, Chicago PMI

 

Here are 4 key themes that could rock EURUSD:

 

1.     Ongoing Iran war

As the Iran war enters its 13th week, the global economy is absorbing the pressure from high energy prices and prolonged uncertainty.

While there seems to be some progress in talks, Tehran has publicly made it clear that it will not be handing over its enriched uranium stockpiles. Should tensions escalate, this could boost the dollar – enforcing downside pressure on the EURUSD.

 

2.     US April PCE report – Thursday 28th May

It’s a big week for the United States due to a volley of economic reports including the latest PCE report.

The February US personal income and spending report including the PCE index — the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge — will offer key insight into the direction of price pressures.

Markets are forecasting PCE deflator YoY to jump3.9% in April with the core figure rising to 3.3% from 3.2%.

Ultimately, any signs of rising price pressure may reinforce bets around higher US interest rates.

Traders are currently pricing in a 77% probability of a 25-basis point cut by December.

  • The EURUSD may tumble on signs of rising price pressures in the United States.
  • A cooler-than-expected PCE report could boost the EURUSD.

 

3.     Germany CPI report

A string of high impact data releases from Europe including the key CPI from Germany may provide critical insight into the economic outlook.

On Friday 29th May, the latest inflation figures from the largest country in Europe will be published with markets forecasting CPI to cool 2.8% YoY compared to 2.9% in the previous month.

Signs of rising inflationary pressures may reinforce bets around the ECB hiking as soon as June.

 

4.     Technical forces                                                                       

The EURUSD is under pressure on the daily charts with prices trading below the 50, 100 and 200-day SMA.

  • Should 1.1580 prove reliable support, this may trigger a rebound toward the 50-day SMA and 200-day SMA.
  • Weakness below 1.1580 could see a decline toward 1.1510 – the lower bound of Bloomberg’s FX model.

(Source BBG)

Bloomberg’s FX model points to a 71.1% chance that EURUSD will trade within the 1.1510 – 1.1730 range over the next one-week period.


 

Forex-Time-LogoArticle by ForexTime

 

ForexTime Ltd (FXTM) is an award winning international online forex broker regulated by CySEC 185/12 www.forextime.com

GBP/USD Recovers Amid UK Inflation Data: Positive Signals Emerge

By Analytical Department RoboForex

GBP/USD was trading at 1.3428 on Thursday, following a period of volatility after the release of UK inflation data, which came in weaker than expected despite geopolitical tensions over Iran and rising oil prices.

The UK Consumer Price Index (CPI) slowed to 2.8% in April, down from 3.3% in March, while the market had anticipated a reading of 3%.

The market interpreted these figures as a signal that the Bank of England may not need to raise interest rates aggressively in the near term. This has reduced expectations of further tightening and weighed on the pound.

Weak labour market data in the UK added to the negative sentiment. Recent statistics indicated a slowdown in hiring and a decline in new vacancies, reflecting the impact of the broader economic environment.

It is important to note that the effect of slower inflation may be temporary. Since the onset of the Iran conflict, global oil prices have increased by approximately 50%, and this rise is likely to feed into the UK economy and consumer prices over time.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 GBP/USD chart, the pair is trading within a broad consolidation range above 1.3388, currently extending up to 1.3490. A move lower towards 1.3380 is likely. After this, the pair may consolidate, with potential to move to 1.3515 on the upside or decline towards 1.3200 on the downside. The MACD indicator supports this scenario, with the signal line below zero and pointing firmly downwards.

On the H1 chart, GBP/USD is trading within a compact consolidation range around 1.3434, currently extending up to 1.3464. A move lower towards 1.3333 is possible. The Stochastic oscillator confirms this scenario, with its signal line below 50 and pointing firmly downwards towards 20.

Conclusion

GBP/USD stabilised following weaker-than-expected UK inflation data, easing concerns about aggressive Bank of England rate hikes. However, the pound faces headwinds from a soft labour market and rising oil prices, suggesting that any recovery may be short-lived. Technical indicators point to a near-term correction before a potential continuation of the broader trend.

 

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.

EUR/USD Near Six-Week Low as Market Tensions Rise

By Analytical Department RoboForex

EUR/USD slipped to 1.1598 on Wednesday, keeping the pair at its lowest level in six weeks. The US dollar is supported by the escalating conflict between the US and Iran, which is increasing inflationary risks and raising expectations of potential Federal Reserve tightening.

US President Donald Trump warned that Washington could resume attacks on Iran within “two to three days” if Tehran does not accept the terms of a peace agreement. The ongoing conflict continues to restrict navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, pushing oil prices higher and increasing global inflationary pressures.

Amid this backdrop, market expectations of a Fed rate cut this year have largely evaporated. Investors are increasingly anticipating another rate hike before the end of 2026.

Attention was also drawn to comments from the President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, Anna Paulson. She expressed support for maintaining current interest rates and noted that any reduction in borrowing costs would likely only be feasible with a sustained slowdown in inflation.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 EUR/USD chart, the pair is trading within a consolidation range around 1.1600, with potential downside towards 1.1550. A corrective rebound to 1.1600 (testing from below) is possible, followed by a further decline towards 1.1460. The MACD indicator confirms this bearish scenario, with its signal line below zero and pointing firmly downwards, reflecting continued downside momentum.

On the H1 chart, EUR/USD has reached 1.1614 and is now moving lower towards 1.1550. A rebound to 1.1615 may follow before a further decline towards 1.1460. The Stochastic oscillator supports this outlook, with its signal line below 50 and pointing firmly downwards.

Conclusion

The EUR/USD pair remains under pressure amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and rising oil prices, supporting the US dollar. Technical indicators suggest further downside is likely, although short-term corrective moves are possible. Market focus will remain on US-Iran developments and upcoming US economic data for guidance.

 

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.

USD/JPY Rises for Sixth Straight Day: Yen Back on the Cusp of Intervention

By Analytical Department RoboForex

USD/JPY climbed to 158.93 on Monday, marking the yen’s sixth consecutive session of decline. The Japanese currency is under pressure from a stronger dollar amid rising expectations that the Federal Reserve may raise interest rates this year to curb inflation.

US inflation is accelerating due to the energy shock caused by the ongoing Middle East conflict. At the same time, the US and Iran have yet to reach a peace agreement or make progress on reopening the Strait of Hormuz.

The USD/JPY exchange rate is once again approaching the key level of 160, where Japanese authorities intervened in the foreign exchange market to support the yen in late April.

Markets are closely monitoring the risk of fresh intervention by Tokyo. Additional attention has been drawn to statements from Japanese officials that authorities are ready to intervene in the foreign exchange market as many times as necessary.

Support for such expectations has also come from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who previously praised Japan’s actions to stabilise the yen.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 chart, USD/JPY is trading within a consolidation range around 158.33 and is moving higher towards 159.30. A test of this level is likely, followed by a possible pullback to 158.30, with scope for a further decline towards 157.00. The MACD indicator supports this scenario, with its signal line above zero and pointing firmly upwards, indicating continued bullish momentum.

On the H1 chart, USD/JPY has reached 159.00 and is pulling back towards 158.80. A subsequent rise towards 159.30 is possible. The Stochastic oscillator confirms this scenario, with its signal line above 80 and pointing firmly downwards towards 50, indicating that short-term downside pressure may develop.

Conclusion

USD/JPY continues its six-day rally as the yen returns to intervention-warning territory. The dollar is being bolstered by expectations that the Fed may need to raise rates to combat inflation fuelled by the Middle East energy shock, while US-Iran negotiations remain stalled. With the pair approaching the psychologically critical 160 level, where Japanese authorities intervened in late April, markets are on high alert for potential official action. Tokyo has repeatedly signalled its readiness to intervene, and US Treasury Secretary Bessent has offered support for Japan’s approach. Technically, further upside towards 159.30 appears likely before any pullback, but intervention risks may cap gains near current levels.

 

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.

GBP/USD Under Policy Pressure: What Lies Ahead for the Prime Minister?

By Analytical Department RoboForex

GBP/USD held at 1.3528 on Thursday following an overnight decline. The pound remains under pressure, close to its lowest levels since late April, amid media reports of a potential leadership contest within the ruling party. According to The Times, British Health Minister Wes Streeting is preparing to launch a campaign against Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Despite pressure from parts of the government and more than 80 Labour Party MPs, Starmer has reiterated that he does not intend to resign following the party’s weak performance in the local elections. The cabinet composition remains largely stable, despite a few resignations from junior ministers.

External factors continue to weigh on the pound. Talks between the US and Iran remain inconclusive, while restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz keep oil prices elevated. Against this backdrop, the market continues to price in nearly three Bank of England rate hikes by the end of the year.

Investors are also awaiting the release of new UK macroeconomic data, including first-quarter GDP figures.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 chart, GBP/USD is trading within a broad consolidation range above 1.3515, currently extending up to 1.3530. A move lower towards 1.3480 is possible. After this, the pair may consolidate before attempting a move higher towards 1.3650 or a further decline towards 1.3340. The MACD indicator supports this scenario, with its signal line below zero and pointing firmly downwards.

On the H1 chart, GBP/USD is trading within a compact consolidation range around 1.3515, currently extending down to 1.3483. A rebound towards 1.3530 (testing from below) is possible, followed by a potential move lower towards 1.3480. The Stochastic oscillator confirms this scenario, with its signal line below 50 and pointing firmly downwards towards 20.

Conclusion

GBP/USD remains under dual pressure from domestic political uncertainty and global economic risks. Further weakness in the pound is possible if leadership concerns and geopolitical tensions persist, while UK GDP data may act as a short-term catalyst for volatility.

 

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.

USD/JPY Continues to Climb Amid External and Domestic Pressures

By Analytical Department RoboForex

USD/JPY rose to 157.65 on Wednesday, marking a third consecutive day of gains. The yen came under pressure following stronger-than-expected US inflation data, reinforcing expectations that the Federal Reserve will maintain its hawkish stance.

Market focus remains on the Bank of Japan. Following its April meeting, some policymakers signalled the possibility of a further rate hike. Rising global oil prices are adding to inflationary pressures in Japan. The OECD forecasts that the BoJ’s key rate could reach 2% by the end of 2027.

Currency markets are also watching for potential interventions. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted that Washington and Tokyo view excessive currency volatility as undesirable, which was seen as indirect support for Japan’s efforts to stabilise the yen.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 chart, USD/JPY is trading around 157.33, with a breakout suggesting further upside towards 157.97. A short-term correction to 156.50 is possible before a potential move higher resumes. The MACD indicator, above zero and pointing firmly upwards, supports further gains.

On the H1 chart, USD/JPY has reached 157.77 and is moving lower towards 157.30. A subsequent rise towards 157.97 is possible. The Stochastic oscillator confirms short-term bullish momentum, although a pullback may develop, indicating some near-term downside risk.

Conclusion

USD/JPY is advancing under both external and domestic influences, supported by technical indicators. While short-term corrections are possible, the broader trend remains upward.

 

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.

EUR/USD on Edge: Middle East and China in Focus

By Analytical Department RoboForex

EUR/USD dipped slightly on Tuesday, retreating to 1.1762. The US dollar has returned to favour as a defensive asset after US President Donald Trump questioned the sustainability of the truce with Iran and rejected Tehran’s latest peace proposal.

Trump also plans to convene a meeting with his national security team to discuss a potential resumption of military operations and a review of plans to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.

The ongoing conflict continues to keep oil prices elevated, fuelling inflationary pressures and expectations that interest rates may remain higher for longer to contain price pressures.

Investors are now turning their attention to US inflation data for April, which is expected to indicate how the Iran conflict is impacting the economy and help guide potential Federal Reserve decisions.

An additional market factor is the expected meeting later this week between Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, which is likely to focus on trade relations and the development of artificial intelligence.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 chart, EUR/USD is trading within a consolidation range around 1.1755, with potential downside towards 1.1688. At the same time, a move higher towards 1.1818 remains possible, with further upside to 1.1870. This scenario is supported by the MACD indicator, with its signal line above zero and pointing firmly upwards, indicating continued bullish momentum.

On the H1 chart, EUR/USD has reached 1.1786. A decline towards 1.1740 is likely, followed by a possible rebound to 1.1760 and further upside towards 1.1818. This scenario is confirmed by the Stochastic oscillator, with its signal line near 20 and pointing firmly upwards.

Conclusion

EUR/USD remains sensitive to geopolitical developments in the Middle East and upcoming US–China discussions. Strong inflation data could support the US dollar, while positive diplomatic progress may ease pressure on the pair and support further euro gains.

 

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.

Yen Speculator Bets jump after intervention, CAD & AUD Bets continue higher as USD Index Bets fall

By InvestMacro

Speculators OI FX Futures COT Chart

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 May 5th 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 Japanese Yen & Canadian Dollar

Speculators Nets FX Futures COT Chart
The COT currency market speculator bets were overall slightly lower this week as five out of the eleven currency markets we cover had higher positioning while the other six markets had lower speculator contracts.

Leading the gains for the currency markets was the Japanese Yen (40,321 contracts) with the Canadian Dollar (23,817 contracts), the Brazilian Real (20,354 contracts), the Australian Dollar (6,805 contracts) and the Swiss Franc (700 contracts) also showing positive weeks.

The currencies seeing declines in speculator bets on the week were the Mexican Peso (-5,696 contracts), the US Dollar Index (-3,815 contracts), the EuroFX (-3,510 contracts), the British Pound (-3,269 contracts), the New Zealand Dollar (-1,929 contracts) and Bitcoin (-951 contracts) also registering lower bets on the week.

Yen Speculator Bets jump after intervention, CAD & AUD Bets continue higher as USD Index Bets fall

Highlighting the Currency speculator positions this week was a boost in the Japanese Yen, the Canadian Dollar, and the Brazilian Real positions while the US Dollar Index bets fell by the most since the fall.

First off, the Japanese Yen speculator position jumped by over 40,000 contracts this week after it had previously fallen in four out of the previous five weeks. This has a lot to do with the Bank of Japan intervening in the Currency market last week, as the BOJ has been trying to arrest the Japanese Yen’s fall. Currently, the speculator net position for the Japanese Yen contracts remains in a bearish level for a 10th straight week, with the total net position this week at -61,738 net contracts. The BOJ currency intervention has stemmed the slide in the yen for the time being, but this week’s USD/JPY currency pair closed out the week at 156.68.

The Brazilian Real saw its speculator bets jump this week by over 20,000 net contracts. This is a third consecutive week of positive changes and this week’s boost has pushed the net position over 66,000 bullish contracts. This is the highest level for the Brazilian Real contracts since September 30th of 2025, a span of 31 weeks. In the Futures market, the Brazilian Real continues to be on a strong bullish uptrend against the US Dollar, and this week closed at the highest level since February of 2024.

Canadian Dollar contracts continued their strong weekly gains with a third consecutive weekly rise and a boost by over 23,000 contracts this week. This recent positive sentiment for the Canadian Dollar has taken the net speculator bearish standing down to a total of -14,659 net contracts — the best position (least bearish) of the past six weeks. In the Foreign Exchange markets this week, the Canadian Dollar cooled off after four consecutive gaining weeks, and this week closed out at a 0.7321 exchange level. The CAD is still in an ascending triangle pattern and would need to rise clean above 0.7400 to the upside for a further bullish break out.

The Australian Dollar net position saw a second straight weekly gain and is now at the highest speculator position of the past five weeks. Overall, the Australian Dollar speculator positioning is in a super strong position, considering it’s near the top of its three-year range with a strength score of 98.5%. The Australian Dollar bets have now been in bullish territory for 15 consecutive weeks. In the Foreign Exchange market, the Australian Dollar has continued on a strong uptrend after falling as low as 0.5920 in April of 2025. Since that low, the AUD has ascended by over 20% and now trades at 0.7237 against the US Dollar, the highest level since 2022.

The US Dollar Index saw speculator bets dropped this week by -3,815 contracts and marks the biggest one-week fall since September. The US Dollar Index speculator bets have now declined for four consecutive weeks and have taken the overall net position to a virtual neutral level at just 693 net contracts. The US Dollar Index in the Foreign Exchange markets dipped this week for a second consecutive week, however, it remains in its range that has persisted for almost a year with a low support level of 96.50 and a high resistance level of 100.00 (the USD Index is currently trading at 97.78).

Bitcoin, Mexican Peso, and Brazilian Real lead major Currency price performances.

This week saw Bitcoin lead the pack in price gains with a modest 1.98% rise on the week. The Mexican Peso came in second with a 1.50% gain, while the Brazilian Real was also higher by 1% with a 1.17% uptick. The New Zealand Dollar was higher by approximately 1% this week, while the Swiss Franc rose by 0.58%.

The Euro gained by 0.47%. The Australian Dollar was higher by 0.41%, and the British Pound Sterling rounded out the gainers with a modest uptick of 0.27% on the week.

On the downside, the US Dollar Index tripped by -0.17% this week, while the Japanese Yen was lower by -0.30%. The Canadian Dollar was the biggest negative returner with a -0.67% shortfall.


Currencies Data:

Speculators FX Futures COT Data Table
Legend: Open Interest | Speculators Current Net Position | Weekly Specs Change | Specs Strength Score compared to last 3-Years (0-100 range)


Strength Scores led by Australian Dollar & Brazilian Real

Speculators Strength Scores FX Futures COT Chart
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 Australian Dollar (99 percent) and the Brazilian Real (89 percent) lead the currency markets this week. The Canadian Dollar (78 percent) and Bitcoin (78 percent) come in as the next highest in the weekly strength scores.

On the downside, the New Zealand Dollar (10 percent) and the British Pound (12 percent) come in at the lowest strength levels currently and are in Extreme-Bearish territory (below 20 percent). The next lowest strength scores are the Swiss Franc (31 percent) and the Japanese Yen (34 percent).

3-Year Strength Statistics:
US Dollar Index (46.0 percent) vs US Dollar Index previous week (56.3 percent)
EuroFX (41.0 percent) vs EuroFX previous week (42.4 percent)
British Pound Sterling (12.5 percent) vs British Pound Sterling previous week (13.8 percent)
Japanese Yen (33.7 percent) vs Japanese Yen previous week (22.6 percent)
Swiss Franc (30.9 percent) vs Swiss Franc previous week (29.5 percent)
Canadian Dollar (78.1 percent) vs Canadian Dollar previous week (67.9 percent)
Australian Dollar (98.5 percent) vs Australian Dollar previous week (94.9 percent)
New Zealand Dollar (9.7 percent) vs New Zealand Dollar previous week (11.9 percent)
Mexican Peso (45.1 percent) vs Mexican Peso previous week (49.1 percent)
Brazilian Real (88.5 percent) vs Brazilian Real previous week (73.7 percent)
Bitcoin (78.1 percent) vs Bitcoin previous week (97.1 percent)


Brazilian Real & EuroFX top the 6-Week Strength Trends

Speculators Trends FX Futures COT Chart
COT Strength Score Trends (or move index, calculates the 6-week changes in strength scores) showed that the Brazilian Real (13 percent) and the EuroFX (9 percent) lead the past six weeks trends for the currencies. The Australian Dollar (4 percent) is the next highest positive mover in the 3-Year trends data.

The New Zealand Dollar (-24 percent) leads the downside trend scores currently with the Swiss Franc (-15 percent), Bitcoin (-13 percent) and the Mexican Peso (-8 percent) following next with lower trend scores.

3-Year Strength Trends:
US Dollar Index (-7.9 percent) vs US Dollar Index previous week (2.2 percent)
EuroFX (8.7 percent) vs EuroFX previous week (5.6 percent)
British Pound Sterling (-2.3 percent) vs British Pound Sterling previous week (2.1 percent)
Japanese Yen (0.3 percent) vs Japanese Yen previous week (-9.4 percent)
Swiss Franc (-15.0 percent) vs Swiss Franc previous week (-20.3 percent)
Canadian Dollar (-5.6 percent) vs Canadian Dollar previous week (-16.9 percent)
Australian Dollar (4.1 percent) vs Australian Dollar previous week (1.5 percent)
New Zealand Dollar (-24.3 percent) vs New Zealand Dollar previous week (-26.6 percent)
Mexican Peso (-8.5 percent) vs Mexican Peso previous week (-0.5 percent)
Brazilian Real (12.8 percent) vs Brazilian Real previous week (-2.1 percent)
Bitcoin (-13.2 percent) vs Bitcoin previous week (12.3 percent)


Individual COT Forex Markets:

US Dollar Index Futures:

US Dollar Index Forex Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • US Dollar Index large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 693 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position decline of -3,815 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 4,508 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 46.0 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bullish with a score of 52.3 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 54.3 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Uptrend.

US DOLLAR INDEX StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:52.530.98.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:50.335.75.4
– Net Position:693-1,569876
– Gross Longs:17,04810,0352,634
– Gross Shorts:16,35511,6041,758
– Long to Short Ratio:1.0 to 10.9 to 11.5 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):46.052.354.3
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-7.98.3-2.1

 


Euro Currency Futures:

Euro Currency Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • Euro Currency large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 32,202 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position fall of -3,510 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 35,712 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 41.0 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bullish with a score of 56.2 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 61.4 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Downtrend.

EURO Currency StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:26.758.910.8
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:22.767.95.8
– Net Position:32,202-73,37941,177
– Gross Longs:217,474480,88688,156
– Gross Shorts:185,272554,26546,979
– Long to Short Ratio:1.2 to 10.9 to 11.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):41.056.261.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:8.7-9.17.8

 


British Pound Sterling Futures:

British Pound Sterling Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • British Pound Sterling large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -63,908 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position lowering of -3,269 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -60,639 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish-Extreme with a score of 12.5 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 85.8 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 48.6 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Downtrend.

BRITISH POUND StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:22.765.59.3
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:45.841.79.9
– Net Position:-63,90865,684-1,776
– Gross Longs:62,573180,93225,560
– Gross Shorts:126,481115,24827,336
– Long to Short Ratio:0.5 to 11.6 to 10.9 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):12.585.848.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bearish-ExtremeBullish-ExtremeBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-2.31.82.6

 


Japanese Yen Futures:

Japanese Yen Forex Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • Japanese Yen large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -61,738 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position rise of 40,321 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -102,059 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 33.7 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bullish with a score of 66.0 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 42.1 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Downtrend.

JAPANESE YEN StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:30.852.710.7
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:48.235.810.1
– Net Position:-61,73859,6502,088
– Gross Longs:109,035186,54437,725
– Gross Shorts:170,773126,89435,637
– Long to Short Ratio:0.6 to 11.5 to 11.1 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):33.766.042.1
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:0.30.4-7.3

 


Swiss Franc Futures:

Swiss Franc Forex Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • Swiss Franc large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -34,521 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position boost of 700 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -35,221 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 30.9 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bullish with a score of 69.4 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 43.4 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend.

SWISS FRANC StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:7.680.511.7
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:44.135.220.5
– Net Position:-34,52142,861-8,340
– Gross Longs:7,14576,07611,018
– Gross Shorts:41,66633,21519,358
– Long to Short Ratio:0.2 to 12.3 to 10.6 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):30.969.443.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-15.018.7-17.3

 


Canadian Dollar Futures:

Canadian Dollar Forex Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • Canadian Dollar large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -14,659 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position advance of 23,817 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -38,476 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 78.1 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bearish with a score of 23.0 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish with a score of 50.5 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend.

CANADIAN DOLLAR StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:30.255.112.7
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:36.249.911.9
– Net Position:-14,65912,7941,865
– Gross Longs:73,650134,38330,958
– Gross Shorts:88,309121,58929,093
– Long to Short Ratio:0.8 to 11.1 to 11.1 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):78.123.050.5
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearishBullish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-5.65.7-3.1

 


Australian Dollar Futures:

Australian Dollar Forex Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • Australian Dollar large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 78,674 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position gain of 6,805 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 71,869 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish-Extreme with a score of 98.5 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 1.5 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 96.8 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend.

AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:51.233.015.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:23.170.85.4
– Net Position:78,674-105,54526,871
– Gross Longs:143,21492,27242,086
– Gross Shorts:64,540197,81715,215
– Long to Short Ratio:2.2 to 10.5 to 12.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):98.51.596.8
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bullish-ExtremeBearish-ExtremeBullish-Extreme
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:4.1-4.97.2

 


New Zealand Dollar Futures:

New Zealand Dollar Forex Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • New Zealand Dollar large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of -48,251 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position decline of -1,929 contracts from the previous week which had a total of -46,322 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish-Extreme with a score of 9.7 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bullish-Extreme with a score of 89.6 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 38.3 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend.

NEW ZEALAND DOLLAR StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:10.685.04.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:67.227.25.3
– Net Position:-48,25149,327-1,076
– Gross Longs:9,06372,5813,486
– Gross Shorts:57,31423,2544,562
– Long to Short Ratio:0.2 to 13.1 to 10.8 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):9.789.638.3
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bearish-ExtremeBullish-ExtremeBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-24.324.3-5.0

 


Mexican Peso Futures:

Mexican Peso Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • Mexican Peso large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 62,127 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position lowering of -5,696 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 67,823 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bearish with a score of 45.1 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bullish with a score of 52.8 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 49.5 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend.

MEXICAN PESO StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:49.046.93.5
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:15.882.71.0
– Net Position:62,127-66,9444,817
– Gross Longs:91,59287,6366,627
– Gross Shorts:29,465154,5801,810
– Long to Short Ratio:3.1 to 10.6 to 13.7 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):45.152.849.5
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BearishBullishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-8.57.09.2

 


Brazilian Real Futures:

Brazil Real Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • Brazilian Real large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 66,797 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position gain of 20,354 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 46,443 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish-Extreme with a score of 88.5 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bearish-Extreme with a score of 10.8 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 42.6 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Strong Uptrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Strong Uptrend.

BRAZIL REAL StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:71.324.23.9
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:20.478.11.0
– Net Position:66,797-70,6483,851
– Gross Longs:93,50031,7435,099
– Gross Shorts:26,703102,3911,248
– Long to Short Ratio:3.5 to 10.3 to 14.1 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):88.510.842.6
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):Bullish-ExtremeBearish-ExtremeBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:12.8-12.60.2

 


Bitcoin Futures:

Bitcoin Crypto Futures COT ChartPositioning Notes:

  • Bitcoin large speculator standing this week equaled a net position of 1,441 contracts in the data reported through Tuesday.
  • Weekly Speculator position decline of -951 contracts from the previous week which had a total of 2,392 net contracts.
  • This week’s current strength score (range over the past 3 years, measured from 0 to 100) shows the speculators are currently Bullish with a score of 78.1 percent.
  • The Commercials are Bearish with a score of 22.4 percent.
  • The Small Traders (not shown in chart) are Bearish with a score of 42.4 percent.

Price Trend-Following Model: Weak Downtrend

Our weekly trend-following model classifies the current market price position as: Weak Downtrend.

BITCOIN StatisticsSPECULATORSCOMMERCIALSSMALL TRADERS
– Percent of Open Interest Longs:82.51.55.1
– Percent of Open Interest Shorts:76.38.14.6
– Net Position:1,441-1,53998
– Gross Longs:19,3013491,184
– Gross Shorts:17,8601,8881,086
– Long to Short Ratio:1.1 to 10.2 to 11.1 to 1
NET POSITION TREND:
– Strength Index Score (3 Year Range Pct):78.122.442.4
– Strength Index Reading (3 Year Range):BullishBearishBearish
NET POSITION MOVEMENT INDEX:
– 6-Week Change in Strength Index:-13.29.113.2

 


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*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.

Yen Stabilises, but Intervention Risks Remain

By Analytical Department RoboForex

USD/JPY is holding near 156.83 on Friday. Despite heightened volatility in recent sessions, the yen is set to end the week broadly unchanged. Fears of intervention and Tokyo’s firm rhetoric have failed to support a sustained strengthening of the currency.

Japanese authorities have stated that they are not constrained by the frequency of their interventions in the foreign exchange market and remain in constant contact with the US. Earlier, the yen rose sharply amid suspected interventions on 30 April and 6 May, but there was no official confirmation of these actions.

Domestic data has been stronger. Real wages rose for the third consecutive month, supporting expectations of further tightening by the Bank of Japan (BoJ).

Nevertheless, the external backdrop remains negative. A stronger dollar and tensions around the Strait of Hormuz continue to weigh on the yen.

Technical Analysis

On the H4 chart, USD/JPY is trading within a consolidation range around 156.50 and is moving higher towards 157.39. A test of this level is likely, followed by a possible pullback to 156.50 before a further move higher towards 157.90. The MACD indicator supports this scenario, with its signal line below zero and pointing firmly upwards, indicating that bullish momentum is building.

On the H1 chart, USD/JPY has reached 156.95 and is now pulling back towards 156.50. A rebound towards 157.00 may follow, with a possible extension to 157.39. The Stochastic oscillator confirms this view, with its signal line below 80 and pointing firmly downwards towards 20, indicating that short-term downside pressure remains.

Conclusion

The yen has stabilised near 156.83 against the dollar, but intervention risks persist despite Tokyo’s verbal warnings. Domestic wage growth supports BoJ tightening expectations, yet external factors such as a strong dollar and geopolitical tensions continue to weigh on the currency. Technically, a short-term rise to 157.39 may be followed by a pullback to 156.50 before any further upside develops.

 

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.