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USD/JPY Approaches 152.00 Amid Yen Weakness and Trade War FearsThe USD/JPY exchange rate is recovering from recent lows, reaching 151.90 on February 10, 2025, compared to the previous close of 151.30. After a significant drop in early February, the trend shows a gradual rebound, supported by the Japanese Yen’s weakness due to disappointing macroeconomic data, particularly the sharp decline in Japan’s current account balance to 1,077.3 billion Yen from November’s 3,352.5 billion Yen. The strength of the US Dollar is also fueled by concerns over new 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum announced by President Trump, driving investors toward safe-haven assets like the Greenback. From a technical perspective, USD/JPY is nearing the psychological level of 152.00, with key resistance between 152.40 and 152.90. A breakout above this range could signal further gains, while a rejection may trigger a corrective phase. Volatility is heightened by uncertainty surrounding the Fed’s monetary policy, as it may maintain a cautious stance on rates to counter inflationary pressures. Meanwhile, speculation about a potential rate hike by the Bank of Japan (BoJ) could reduce the interest rate differential between the US and Japan. The Dollar Index (DXY) stands at 108.20, slightly up by 0.1% but down from the intraday high of 108.50, indicating a cautious market sentiment ahead of Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s testimony before Congress on Tuesday and Wednesday. Traders will closely watch his statements for any hints of a policy shift.
Long
by EdgeTradingJourney
1
EUR/AUD: Weekly Engulfing Bar Pullback!The recent performance of the EUR/AUD exchange rate shows a fluctuating trend, with a slight recovery, closing at approximately 1.6450 in the first week of February. In the preceding days, the rate experienced several declines, with a significant drop. These fluctuations reflect the economic dynamics of both the Eurozone and Australia. In the Eurozone, inflation unexpectedly rose to 2.5% in January, exceeding the European Central Bank’s 2% target for the third consecutive month. Despite this, the ECB plans to continue cutting interest rates, expecting inflation to reach its 2% target over the year. Meanwhile, the Eurozone economy showed no growth in the last quarter of 2024, with contractions in Germany and France and stagnation in Italy. In Australia, the leading economic indicators index increased by 0.2% in October 2024, suggesting a slight economic recovery. However, Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirmed a worsening fiscal deficit, projected to rise by AUD 21.8 billion over the next four years, mainly due to unavoidable expenditures. These economic developments impact the EUR/AUD exchange rate, with the Euro benefiting from a more accommodative monetary policy while Australia faces fiscal challenges. Despite the recent upward movement, the negative trends from previous sessions and technical analysis suggest caution is warranted when assessing the short-term trajectory of the EUR/AUD exchange rate.
Short
by EdgeTradingJourney
1
2025 Market Outlook - Cautiously Bullish (Important Bar Counts)Hey Everybody, Thanks for checking out the video. I'm reviewing all major instruments, US and Non US. US has carried the financial markets since 2020 and 2022 and this year out of the gate we're seeing big runs in "uninvestable" spaces like Europe and China. I say that jokingly because of how bad everything thought non US assets were, but here we are watching DAX, FTSE, and HSI running to double digit gains while the US lags behind. Will the US catch up and the global economy tide rise to lift all boats or are we truly seeing a catch up trade that will have headwinds uncertainties a plenty? Time will tell. This week is a holiday shortened trading week, RBA and RBNZ expected to cut rates, Europe and US printing PMI on Friday. BABA and BIDU earnings this week (China related), and NVDA earnings next week (#2 market cap in US). I discuss the big bar counts that I'm watching closely on SPY, SPX, XSP, RSP, NDX, QQQ, DIA, NVDA, META, NFLX, and others that I believe technically will matter for limited upside momentum without a bigger pause, snapback or correction ahead. Cautiously optimistic is a perfect play for 2025. I'm off to a good start for the year and intend to keep that way without chasing or doing anything silly. Thank for watching.
SP:SPX
by ChrisPulver
NAS100 - Nasdaq is setting a new ATH!The index is trading above the EMA200 and EMA50 on the 4-hour timeframe and is trading in its ascending channel. If the index corrects towards the marked trend line, which is also intersecting the demand zone, we can look for further buying opportunities in Nasdaq. At the start of the week, the U.S. dollar strengthened significantly after President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports. He also stated that any country imposing tariffs on American products would face reciprocal tariffs from the U.S. Later, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, in his congressional testimony, emphasized that the central bank is in no hurry to implement further rate cuts. Additionally, data from the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) for January came in higher than expected, further supporting the dollar. Although the dollar experienced a slight correction on Thursday and Friday, these factors, combined with a strong non-farm payroll report for January, led investors to anticipate a rate cut of only 30 basis points for the year. This outlook is more hawkish than the Federal Reserve’s own forecast of a 50-basis-point reduction. In other words, traders in financial markets have fully priced in just a single 0.25% rate cut by December. Kevin Hassett, Chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, revealed in an interview with CBS’s Face The Nation that he meets regularly with Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. He stressed that these meetings are not intended to influence interest rate policy and that Powell’s independence is respected, although the President’s views are still conveyed. Hassett also pointed out that long-term yields have declined, with a 40-basis-point drop in the 10-year Treasury yield, indicating market expectations of lower inflation. Retail sales data showed a 0.9% decline following an upwardly revised 0.7% increase in December. Out of 13 reported categories, nine recorded declines, with the largest drops observed in automobiles, sporting goods, and furniture stores. Following a tense week filled with impactful economic news, the upcoming week is expected to be quieter and shorter, as U.S. markets will be closed on Monday in observance of Presidents’ Day. Key economic events for the week include the release of the Empire State Manufacturing Index on Tuesday, the minutes from the latest Federal Reserve policy meeting, and U.S. housing starts and building permits data on Wednesday. On Thursday, weekly jobless claims and the Philadelphia Fed Manufacturing Index will be released. Finally, Friday will see the publication of preliminary S&P Flash PMI reports and existing home sales data.
CAPITALCOM:US100Long
by Ali_PSND
1
GBP/USD: Bearish Pressure Amid US Inflation and Trade TensionsThe GBP/USD pair has recently declined, closing at 1.24445 on February 12 (-0.0233%) after a 0.6688% increase on February 11. Volatility has dominated recent sessions, with fluctuations between 1.2400 and 1.2500. The decline was triggered by US inflation data, which strengthened expectations of higher Fed rates, weighing on the pound. Despite a 2.5% increase in UK retail sales (compared to the expected 0.2%), GBP struggled to maintain upward momentum, further pressured by uncertainty surrounding US tariffs on steel and aluminum. Technically, support between 1.2320 - 1.2330 remains crucial for potential rebounds towards 1.2550 - 1.2600, but future movements will depend on upcoming economic data and monetary policy expectations on both sides of the Atlantic.
Short
by EdgeTradingJourney
1
GBP/USD dips on hot US inflation reportThe British pound is lower on Wednesday. GBP/USD is trading at 1.2400, down 0.37% on the day. The January inflation report was hotter than expected, giving the US dollar a boost against the major currencies today. Headline CPI rose 3% y/y, above the December gain of 2.9% which was also the market estimate. Monthly, CPI rose 0.5%, up from 0.4% in December and above the market estimate of 0.3%. It was the highest monthly inflation rate since August 2023. The core rate, which excludes food and energy, rose 3.3% from 3.2%, above the market estimate of 3.2%. Monthly core CPI accelerated to 0.4% from 0.2%, above the market estimate of 0.3%. The inflation report didn't change expectations about the March meeting, with the Fed virtually certain to hold rates. However, expectations for a cut in May have dropped to just 9%, compared to 21% a day ago. The economy is performing well and the Fed will be reluctant to lower rates again until it sees inflation moving lower. Fed Chair Powell repeated a familiar message in testimony before a Senate Banking committee on Tuesday, saying that the Fed "does not need to be in a hurry" to adjust policy. Powell said that rate policy remains restrictive but the Fed would be careful not to lower rates too quickly or too slowly. Powell deflected a question about Trump's tariffs and US trade policy but acknowledged that tariffs could lift inflation and complicate the Fed's ability to lower rates. The UK releases GDP on Thursday, with little change expected from the sputtering UK economy. Annually, GDP is projected to remain unchanged at 1%, while the GDP 3-month average to December is expected to decline by 0.1%, compared to a flat reading in the previous release. The economy contracted in the third quarter and may show a small gain in Q4 thanks to increased government spending. GBP/USD tested support at 1.2411 earlier. Below, there is support at 1.2368 1.2491 and 1.2534 are the next resistance lines
by OANDA
When Alt-Season? Here's the Key FactorAlt-Season = BTC.D going down, but liquidity is king. Right now, I don’t believe we’ll see a true alt-season until the Fed starts QE. At the last FOMC meeting, Powell confirmed that QT will continue, meaning there is no reason to expect QE soon. For QE to return, something needs to break—whether in the stock market or the broader economy. Right now: - Stock indices are at all-time highs - The economy remains resilient But cracks could form later this year Possible triggers for QE: - A stock market correction - A credit event (bank failures, debt crisis) - A sudden economic downturn Why QE Matters for Crypto - QE (Quantitative Easing) = Fed buys assets → Lowers interest rates → Pumps risk assets. - QT (Quantitative Tightening) = Fed sells assets → Raises interest rates → Drains liquidity. Crypto thrives in QE environments—that’s why we had the last alt-season in 2021, during extreme money printing. In the chart, BTC.D is overlaid with Total Fed Assets. - When the Fed’s balance sheet expands (QE) → BTC.D drops → Alts pump. - When the Fed’s balance sheet contracts (QT) → BTC.D rises → BTC dominance increases. Bottom Line: For altcoins to outperform, we likely need another QE cycle. Without it, liquidity remains tight, and BTC.D stays high. What’s your take? Will QE return in 2024, or will the Fed hold the line?
CRYPTOCAP:BTC.D
by DonVelarisTrading
2
$GOLD EASES FROM RECORD HIGHS AHEAD OF U.S. INFLATION DATAGOLD EASES FROM RECORD HIGHS AHEAD OF U.S. INFLATION DATA 1/7 Gold hit a record high of $2,942.70/oz on Feb 11, fueled by safe-haven demand amid fresh U.S. tariffs. Today, it’s dipped 0.2% to $2,892.50 as investors take profits and watch U.S. inflation data. Let’s dig in! 💰⚖️ 2/7 – RECENT PRICE ACTION • All-time high at $2,942.70/oz—sparked by President Trump’s 25% tariffs on steel & aluminum • Spot gold now at $2,892.50 (↓0.2%), with futures at $2,931.40 (↓0.1%) • The rally’s paused—are we in for a short breather or a bigger correction? 🤔 3/7 – TARIFF TENSIONS • 25% tariffs raise global trade war fears, boosting gold’s safe-haven appeal • Markets worried about inflation, as import costs could climb • Gold remains a hedge against economic uncertainty and currency devaluation 🌐⛔️ 4/7 – MACROECONOMIC DRIVERS • Fed Chair Powell’s hawkish comments on rate policy sent gold lower—higher rates often weigh on non-yielding assets • U.S. inflation data (due soon) could shape the Fed’s next move—any upside surprise might strengthen the dollar, pressuring gold further 5/7 – INVESTOR SENTIMENT • Profit-taking: After a massive run-up, traders might lock in gains • Safe Haven: Still an underlying bullish sentiment if tariffs escalate • The $2,900–$2,950 range is in focus—will gold consolidate or stage another breakout? 6/7 Where’s gold heading next? 1️⃣ Above $3,000—safe haven demand remains strong ✨ 2️⃣ Sideways around $2,900—pausing for data 🏖️ 3️⃣ Back under $2,850—hawkish Fed sinks gold ⬇️ Vote below! 🗳️👇 7/7 – STRATEGY WATCH • Short-Term: Watch U.S. inflation data & dollar moves—gold typically moves opposite the greenback • Long-Term: If tariffs stoke inflationary pressure, gold may shine even brighter. Keep an eye on geopolitical developments! 🌎
OANDA:XAUUSDLong
by DCAChampion
2
Australian dollar drifting after mixed confidence dataThe Australian dollar is showing little movement on Tuesday.  In the European session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.6279, up 0.05% on the day. Australian confidence indicators were mixed on Tuesday.  The Westpac consumer sentiment index climbed 0.1% in February to 92.2 points, which means a majority of the surveyed consumers were pessimistic about econmic conditions.  The reading bounced back from a 0.7% decline in January but was shy of the forecast of 0.4%.  Consumer confidence remains weak as consumers have been squeezed by high inflation and elevated interest rates.  The survey noted that consumers have become more confident that the central bank will lower rates. The National Australia Bank's (NAB) business confidence index, which rose 6 points in January to +4. However, business conditions index dropped to +3 from +6 a month earlier, as profitability and employment weakened.  The NAB survey noted that retail spending has improved and this trend would need to continue if business conditions were to improve. The mixed confidence numbers come just one week before a crucial Reserve Bank of Australia meeting.  A rate cut is virtually certain at the meeting, which would mark the RBA's first rate cut since Nov. 2020.  The RBA is yet to join the easing cycle which other major central banks have implemented as inflation has fallen. The Federal Reserve is widely expected to continue to maintain interest rates at the March meeting.  The US economy remains robust and the labor market has slowed gradually, which means there isn't much pressure on Fed policy makers to lower rates in the coming months.  Barring unexpected economic news, the Fed is expected to cut rates no more than one or two times in 2025. AUD/USD tested support at 0.6267 earlier. Below, there is support at 0.6245 There is resistance at 0.6299 and 0.6321
by OANDA
GBP/NZD: Bearish Outlook Confirmed by Head and ShouldersThe GBP/NZD exchange rate at NZ$2.1922 reflects a persistent downtrend, confirming recent weakness in the British Pound against major counterparts. The formation of a head and shoulders pattern on the daily chart suggests further downside risk, with the pair testing key support levels. Market fluctuations between NZ$2.1754 and NZ$2.22 highlight ongoing volatility driven by external economic factors, including U.S. tariffs and mixed macroeconomic data from both the UK and New Zealand. The Pound remains under pressure due to inflation concerns and lackluster GDP growth, while the NZD struggles to capitalize on the Pound’s weakness amid subdued domestic data. The technical setup and broader macroeconomic landscape signal a potential continuation of bearish momentum for GBP/NZD.
Short
by EdgeTradingJourney
1
$BTC BITCOIN TRADERS EYE ‘HUGE’ US JOBS DATA AS BTC RISKS $95K BITCOIN TRADERS EYE ‘HUGE’ US JOBS DATA AS BTC RISKS $95K DIP 1/7 Bitcoin is hovering around GETTEX:97K , after dropping 3.5% yesterday. 🚀📉 Now, all eyes are on the upcoming US January jobs report—could it ignite the next major BTC move? 2/7 Prediction markets signal a 28% chance of a “huge beat” (300K+ jobs) vs. Wall Street’s 169K forecast. 📊 A stronger-than-expected jobs print might fuel more Fed hawkishness, pressuring risk assets like BTC. 3/7 Market Sentiment: If job numbers soar, the Fed could keep rates higher for longer. ⬆️🏦 CME’s FedWatch Tool shows a 14.5% chance for a 0.25% cut in March, meaning rate reductions are still unlikely. 4/7 Price & Liquidity: BTC sits in a narrow trading range. 💹 Traders see liquidity around $95K—we could dip there before another leg up. 5/7 BTC is “pinned” until a catalyst—like the jobs data—sparks real volatility. ⚡️ Will an oversized payroll number push BTC toward $95K or trigger a surprise bounce? 6/7 Where do you see BTC heading after the jobs data drop? 1️⃣ Dip to $95K 2️⃣ Sideways chop 3️⃣ Break above $100K 4️⃣ Something else? Vote below! 👇🗳️ 7/7 With strong job numbers, the Fed might keep its foot on the brake 🏁, challenging $BTC. But if the data disappoints, a relief rally could be on the table. Keep your risk management in check!
BINANCE:BTCUSDLong
by DCAChampion
1
Yen eyes US payrolls, Japan household spending jumpsThe Japanese yen is in negative territory on Friday.  This follows a two-day rally which saw the  yen jump  1.9% and hit a three-month high.  In the European session, USD/JPY is trading at 151.94, up 0.39% on the day.  On the data front, Japan's household spending was much stronger than expected and the US releases nonfarm payrolls. Japan's household spending has been struggling as inflation remains relatively high.  This made the December report a pleasant surprise, as household spending was much higher than expected.  Annually, household spending climbed 2.7%, crushing the market estimate of 0.2% and rebounding from -0.4% in November.  The monthly gain of 2.3% followed the November reading of 0.4% and beat the market estimate of -0.5%. Household spending was the strongest since Aug. 2022, driven by strong wage gains. However, it is questionable whether the impressive gain is a temporary blip, given that the December wage growth was largely driven by bonuses.  Still, real wages (adjusted for inflation) rose for a second straight month in December, which supports the case for the Bank of Japan to continue raising interest rates.  BoJ policy makers have been unusually candid about plans to raise rates, although the timing is uncertain, with May or August strong possibilities for the next rate hike. The US wraps up the week with nonfarm payrolls, one of the most important economic events.  The market estimate stands at 170 thousand for January, after a surprisingly strong gain of 256 thousand in December.  If the January forecast is accurate, it would mark a sharp drop that would make headlines, but is close to the past three-month average. The Federal Reserve won't be worried if job creation slows as long as the labor market is cooling at a slow pace.  The Fed is expected to cut rates only once or twice this year, but that could change if inflation or the labor market provide any surprises. USD/JPY is testing resistance at 151.86.  Next, there is resistance at 152.48 150.83 and 150.21 are the next support levels
by OANDA
GBP/JPY: Finally, the Rate Cut Has Arrived!GBP/JPY is facing significant bearish pressure, with the price dropping to around 188.40 in the recent sessions on February 6, 2025. The main catalyst behind this trend has been the Bank of England’s interest rate cut of 25 basis points, bringing it down to 4.5%. This decision has intensified the weakness of the British pound, prompting investors to liquidate long positions and fueling the strong decline in the pair. The market is now pricing in the possibility of further rate cuts in the coming months, which keeps sentiment firmly bearish. From a technical perspective, the breakdown below the key level of 190.50 has confirmed the loss of bullish momentum. Even the recovery attempts seen in previous days, such as the rebound to 193.00 on February 4, have proven weak and incapable of reversing the primary trend. The current phase of weakness could lead the pair to test further lower support levels, with 187.50 and then 185.80 as possible bearish targets unless there is a positive reaction from the pound. On the macroeconomic front, the divergence between the BoE and the Bank of Japan could theoretically provide some medium-term support for the pound, given that the BoJ continues to maintain an ultra-loose monetary policy. However, the market currently seems more focused on the deteriorating economic outlook for the UK and the increasing likelihood that the BoE will continue cutting rates, enhancing the yen’s appeal as a defensive asset. If risk-off sentiment intensifies, we could see an acceleration of the bearish trend in GBP/JPY, especially if the global market enters a more pronounced risk-averse phase.
Long
by EdgeTradingJourney
1
XAUUSD - Where will gold go?!US President Donald Trump has raised serious concerns among global economies and financial markets by threatening to impose punitive tariffs on the country’s largest trading partners. So far, he has imposed a 10% tariff on goods imported from China, delayed the implementation of 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, and indicated that the European Union will be the next target of his trade policies. However, beyond the political hype, tariffs have important practical and economic effects. Tariffs are actually a type of tax on imported goods that, like other taxes, are a source of revenue for the government. Many countries impose these taxes to protect domestic production, as tariffs increase the price of foreign goods and therefore strengthen the competitiveness of domestic products. Trump, however, is using this tool not only to support domestic industries but also as leverage in his foreign policy. One example of this policy is his decision to postpone the imposition of new tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada, which was made after the two countries agreed to implement stricter measures to control immigration and combat drug trafficking at their common borders. Tariffs were once a major source of revenue for the US government, but their share has declined significantly over the past century. According to an analysis of official data by the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, as of last year, tariffs accounted for less than 3 percent of total federal revenue. If the tariffs were to be permanently imposed, as Trump initially proposed, the total additional costs to American importers over the next decade could reach $1.1 trillion. The nonpartisan Tax Foundation estimates that the policy could lead to tax increases of up to $110 billion by 2025 alone. The think tank also estimates that tariffs on China, which began under Trump and expanded under Biden, currently generate $77 billion in revenue for the U.S. government annually. Economic studies show that ultimately, American consumers and businesses will bear the brunt of these tariffs. While some foreign producers may lower their prices or accept some of the costs from American importers, in many cases, companies will raise the prices of their goods to compensate for the additional costs, and those costs will be passed on to consumers. A look at recent U.S.-China trade relations provides a clear example of the impact of tariffs. During Trump’s first term, he imposed a series of tariffs on Chinese imports, including steel, aluminum, and industrial engines. The policy has reduced China’s share of U.S. imports from about 20 percent in 2018 to 14 percent by 2023. Meanwhile, official demand for gold continues to play a major role in the precious metal’s market, keeping prices near record levels. It’s not just emerging market central banks buying gold to protect their currencies. Krishan Gopal, senior analyst for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa at the World Gold Council, pointed to data released by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in a social media post that showed Taiwan’s central bank increased its gold reserves in October. According to the report, the official gold reserves of the Central Bank of Taiwan reached 424 tons three months ago. Despite the recent volatility in the gold market, analysts believe that the continued purchases of central banks will continue to be the main factor in maintaining the bullish trend of the precious metal. Joy Yang, global head of index product management at MarketVector Indexes, said that with the increasing geopolitical uncertainties caused by Trump’s economic policies and the slogan of “America First”, central banks are looking for more neutral assets to preserve the value of their reserves. According to him, these policies of the Trump administration have made gold a more attractive option for countries that want to protect themselves against economic risks and reduce their dependence on the US dollar and Treasuries. Katie Kriski, commodity market strategist at Invesco, also believes that the high demand for gold by central banks continues to create significant value for retail investors. He also predicted that this trend will not stop in the near future, citing the People’s Bank of China as one of the most prominent examples of this behavior in the global gold market. Gold is above the EMA200 and EMA50 on the 1-hour timeframe and is in its ascending channel. A correction towards the demand zone for gold will provide us with the next buying opportunity with a good risk-reward ratio.
FOREXCOM:XAUUSDLong
by Ali_PSND
GBPUSD - Will the dollar return to the bullish trajectory?!US President Donald Trump has once again shown his mastery of political bluffs. He pushed negotiations with Mexico and Canada to the brink of crisis, there were numerous reports of increased tariffs and tougher measures, but in the end, he canceled everything. Instead, only a few symbolic measures were announced at the border, many of which had been discussed before. Now it seems that this scenario will be repeated again in the next 30 days. That this was a bluff was predictable from the beginning, but it was a challenging experience for analysts and markets. If you didn’t have a moment of doubt during this process, you probably weren’t paying close enough attention. But that’s the Trump strategy: in the market you have to have a strong belief that you are on the right track. When everyone is panicking, you have to stay calm and watch the process from the outside. The trade war has caused significant volatility in financial markets, and it’s not easy to make a profit in this environment. One of the main challenges was the timing. Last week, Trump announced that Mexico and Canada could do nothing to prevent the tariffs. But just days later, the two countries made almost no concessions and no tariffs were imposed. The signs of a shift in direction were already clear. The most important sign was the comments of Kevin Hassett, the White House economic adviser, who indicated that the talks were changing direction. He shifted the focus of the discussion to the problem of drugs and fentanyl, a shift that indicated that the Trump administration was looking to declare a victory in the negotiations. When even CNBC analysts noticed the change, it was clear that the direction of the talks had changed. “It doesn’t seem like you believe that these tariffs are going to happen, or that they will last very long,” one of the network’s hosts told Hassett in an interview. How did the financial markets react? The currency market was one of the best indicators to understand developments. While the stock markets were volatile, the trends in Forex were more transparent and occurred without random disturbances. The focus of attention on financial markets today is the Bank of England’s monetary policy decision. The Bank of England is expected to cut interest rates by 25 basis points, starting the new year. The decision will not come as a surprise, as OIS market data shows that traders have priced in a cut with a probability of around 92%. The cut will take the Bank of England’s policy rate to 4.50%, while policymakers continue to gradually reduce interest rates. However, the most important part of the decision will be the central bank’s statement and tone. The results of the December vote showed that there is a division among BoE policymakers. Dhingra, Ramsden and Taylor had voted for a 25 basis point cut earlier in the same meeting. The Bank of England continues to insist that “a gradual approach to removing monetary policy constraints remains appropriate.” This will remain the watchword for monetary policy today, even if interest rate cuts are implemented. But economic uncertainties remain. The December inflation report showed that price pressures have eased, but the trend is not sustainable. Analysts have made a few key points: • The decline in inflation has been driven largely by falling service prices. • But a closer look suggests that the decline may be temporary. Rob Wood of Pantheon Economics explained that the ONS’s calculation method has led to a drop in airline prices on December 10. The drop came before the Christmas break, when prices would normally have been expected to rise. Overall, the disinflationary trend remains unsustainable. With core inflation still above 3%, the Bank of England remains committed to keeping price pressures in check. Future Forecast: • The Bank of England will cut interest rates today as expected, but will emphasize that future actions will depend on economic data. • Traders do not expect interest rate cuts in February and March, but have forecast the next cut for May 2025. • In total, interest rate cuts for 2025 are estimated at around 83 basis points. Since the Bank of England is unlikely to make any clear commitments on the future course of its policies, the impact of this decision on the value of the pound and government bonds (Gilts) is expected to be limited. The GBPUSD currency pair is located between the EMA200 and EMA50 on the 4-hour timeframe and is moving in its ascending channel. In case of a downward correction, the pair can be bought within the specified demand zone.
Long
by Ali_PSND
XAGUSD - How far will silver go?!On the 4-hour timeframe, silver is above the EMA200 and EMA50 and is moving in its ascending channel. If the correction continues, we can see a demand range. We can buy in that range with an appropriate reward to risk. Gold demand in China is showing signs of a strong rebound, even as the physical flow of gold from the UK to the United States continues. Meanwhile, analysts at Heraeus Precious Metals have indicated that there is evidence suggesting that the growing demand for silver in the solar industry may have peaked. Last week, both the Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank acted in line with market expectations. The Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates unchanged, while the European Central Bank implemented a 25-basis-point rate cut. Regarding silver, Heraeus analysts questioned whether China could sustain its rapid growth in the solar energy sector. They reported, “The total installed capacity of photovoltaic (PV) panels in China reached 886.66 gigawatts in 2024, marking a 46% increase compared to the previous year. This 277-gigawatt expansion exceeded industry forecasts and surpassed China’s own 2024 capacity projections by 17 gigawatts. However, while this growth is remarkable, it falls short of the record 54% increase seen in 2023, following a 28% rise in 2021. This trend suggests that China may be approaching its peak photovoltaic capacity growth.” The analysts also noted that, over the past two years, rapid solar energy growth has been driven by unprecedentedly low photovoltaic module prices, largely due to intense competition among manufacturers. They explained, “However, in 2025, polysilicon producers (GCL and Tongwei) have agreed to limit their production, while solar module manufacturers (Jinko, JA Solar, and Canadian Solar) have reached a minimum pricing consensus to restore profitability. This could drive up the price of solar modules, leading to higher capital costs for projects.” They added, “Projections indicate that 232 million ounces of silver were used in 495 gigawatts of photovoltaic applications in 2024. If installation rates remain steady year-over-year, solar demand for silver could reach a record 270 million ounces in 2025, an increase of 39 million ounces.” Meanwhile, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bassett announced that the Trump administration is focusing on reducing the yield on 10-year Treasury bonds rather than the Federal Reserve’s short-term interest rate cuts. Over the weekend, Trump remarked that the Federal Open Market Committee’s decision not to cut interest rates was a “good” move, indicating his emphasis on 10-year yields. This policy could contribute to financial stability and help control inflation. However, some analysts have warned that Trump’s measures, along with spending cuts by his ally Elon Musk, may not have a significant impact, as a large portion of U.S. government expenditures remains allocated to healthcare, social security, and defense. According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, economists at Morgan Stanley no longer anticipate that the Federal Reserve will lower interest rates in March. They now predict only one rate cut in 2025, expected in June. As Morgan Stanley stated, “The implementation of tariffs earlier than expected is likely to halt the downward inflation trend at a higher level, making any short-term rate cuts impossible.”
OANDA:XAGUSDLong
by Ali_PSND
SPX500 programmed to have a correction.My analysis is straightforward. On the weekly timeframe, there is a significant bearish divergence on the RSI, indicating that the market is moving in the wrong direction relative to fundamentals. This divergence has been present for six months, so one might assume there’s no reason for a change. The market is in a bubble, but it needs a catalyst to wake up. While I appreciate some of Trump's policies, certain aspects of his approach could crash the market. - Imposing tariffs on most imports might seem like a good idea. Trump aims to make the U.S. a producer of goods rather than an importer. However, the U.S. has lost much of its manufacturing base, engineering expertise, and know-how. China now dominates these areas, making this policy difficult to implement within the short span of a four-year term. Instead, tariffs on all imports would raise prices, worsening inflation. The market's prolonged rise has been largely driven by the Fed's efforts to control inflation. Higher inflation would force the Fed to raise interest rates, spooking the market. Another risk is a potential disagreement between the government and the Fed over policies, which would create uncertainty. I believe that increased inflation, higher prices, and tariffs will ultimately undermine trust in U.S. monetary policies, leading to the opposite of the intended effect. The USD could weaken, and more countries may move away from dollarization (regardless of tariffs, as Trump cannot dictate other nations' monetary policies). The market would likely react negatively, and the bearish divergence would play out, potentially causing a crash lasting at least a year, similar to what happened in January 2022. I hope I’m wrong, but this scenario has a high probability of occurring.
SP:SPXShort
by CryptoNikkoid
3
EUR/USD: Between Rebound Hopes and Tariff TensionsThe EUR/USD pair experienced a strong rebound on Tuesday, rising by 0.8% and breaking a six-day losing streak, although it failed to reclaim the 1.0400 threshold. Despite this recovery, bullish momentum remains fragile as the euro is heavily influenced by broader market flows and the anticipation of upcoming US Non-Farm Payroll (NFP) data. The pair found initial support at the weekly low of 1.0209 on February 3, with a potential decline towards the 2025 bottom of 1.0176 if this support fails. A break below this level could pave the way for a test of the psychological parity threshold. On the upside, resistance is identified at 1.0532, the year’s high recorded on January 27. The pair’s recovery was driven by a weakening US dollar, as the Dollar Index (DXY) fell below the 108.00 support, influenced by market reactions to President Donald Trump’s plans to delay a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican goods while maintaining a 10% levy on Chinese imports. Although the US dollar has weakened, the tariff issue is expected to strengthen its position in the long term, potentially supporting a bullish outlook for the currency. Central banks also play a crucial role: the Federal Reserve kept interest rates unchanged last week, signaling a cautious approach amid strong economic growth, persistent inflation, and low unemployment. Meanwhile, the European Central Bank (ECB) cut rates by 25 basis points, hinting at possible further easing while expressing optimism about controlling eurozone inflation. ECB President Christine Lagarde emphasized a data-driven approach, ruling out the possibility of aggressive rate cuts. Trade tensions, particularly those linked to US tariffs, could further complicate the euro’s outlook. Prolonged tariffs could fuel inflation in the United States, prompting the Fed to adopt a more hawkish stance, which could strengthen the dollar and put pressure on the euro, potentially pushing the EUR/USD pair toward parity. Looking ahead, the euro faces challenges from the resilience of the US dollar, divergent monetary policies between the ECB and the Fed, and structural issues within the eurozone, such as Germany’s economic slowdown. While short-term rallies are possible, the overall outlook for the euro remains uncertain, with persistent risks related to geopolitical tensions and tariff policies likely to shape the pair’s trajectory.
Short
by EdgeTradingJourney
1
GBP/AUD: The Impact of Tariffs on MarketsThe GBP/AUD exchange rate showed mixed movements from January 27 to February 4, 2025, closing at 1.99489 on February 4 with a decline of approximately 0.42% compared to the previous session. Despite a modest rally on February 3, with an increase of about 0.58%, the subsequent downturn signals prevailing bearish sentiment. This fluctuation highlights a cautious market environment influenced by several key factors. A technical report dated February 4 highlighted a symmetrical triangle pattern where, despite a bullish crossover of the 9-period moving average above the 14-period moving average, the price remains confined between a resistance level around 2.0050. This range-bound behavior reflects traders' hesitation as they await a decisive breakout to confirm the next directional trend. Additionally, geopolitical factors have significantly impacted volatility. The announcement of new U.S. tariffs by President Trump temporarily pushed GBP/AUD above 2.012. However, this rally was short-lived, with the rate retracting shortly after due to market adjustments, demonstrating the pair's sensitivity to external economic policies. Furthermore, risk-off flows have contributed to intermittent strength in GBP/AUD, but the overall sentiment remains mixed. Technical indicators and the persistent narrow trading range indicate ongoing uncertainty, applying continuous downward pressure on the pair.
Short
by EdgeTradingJourney
1
NAS100 - Tariff War, the scourge of the stock market?!The index is below the EMA200 and EMA50 on the four-hour timeframe and is trading in its descending channel. If the index corrects towards the indicated trend line, we can look for the next short-term buying positions in Nasdaq. The Nasdaq being in the demand range will provide us with the conditions to buy it with a reasonable reward to risk. While the world remained focused on the first week of the Trump administration, a relatively unknown Chinese startup shocked the tech industry last week by releasing an open-source AI tool. This tool, developed with significantly fewer resources and at a much lower cost than its American counterparts like ChatGPT, has managed to match and, in some cases, surpass its U.S. rivals. The startup, DeepSeek, has gone even further by making its tool freely available for download. Only those who wish to use the company’s API, which allows seamless integration with existing applications, are required to pay a fee—amounting to just 3% of the cost of competing tools. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Saturday imposing sweeping tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China. He pressured these nations to curb the flow of fentanyl and illegal immigrants from Mexico and Canada into the U.S.—a move that could reignite inflation and hinder global economic growth. In response, Mexico and Canada, two of the U.S.‘s largest trading partners, immediately vowed to impose retaliatory tariffs. China, on the other hand, announced that it would challenge Trump’s decision at the World Trade Organization (WTO) and take additional “countermeasures.” Under three executive orders, starting Tuesday, imports from Mexico and Canada will be subject to a 25% tariff, while Chinese goods will face a 10% levy. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded by stating that Canada will impose a 25% tariff on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods starting Tuesday, followed by an additional $125 billion in tariffs three weeks later. Trudeau warned that these tariffs would increase grocery and fuel costs for American consumers, potentially shut down auto assembly plants, and restrict the supply of nickel, potash, uranium, steel, and aluminum. He also urged Canadians to avoid traveling to the U.S. and boycott American products. As investors looked for clarity from this week’s Federal Reserve meeting, Wall Street was left uncertain, now anticipating that the Fed will likely keep rates unchanged until late in the year.
CAPITALCOM:US100Long
by Ali_PSND
XAUUSD - Gold hits new ATH!Gold is trading above EMA200 and EMA50 on the 1-hour timeframe and is in its ascending channel. A correction towards the demand zone will provide us with the next buying opportunity with a good risk-reward ratio. Donald Trump has announced his intention to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico due to the fentanyl issue, emphasizing that these tariffs will take effect starting Saturday. He also stated that China will eventually have to pay tariffs as well, and that the U.S. is already implementing trade restrictions against Beijing. Trump further asserted that the era of passively watching BRICS nations attempt to distance themselves from the U.S. dollar is over. He declared that these countries must commit to neither creating a new BRICS currency nor supporting any alternative to the powerful U.S. dollar. Otherwise, they will face 100% tariffs and lose access to the thriving American economy. He insisted that BRICS has no chance of replacing the U.S. dollar in global trade, and any country attempting to do so will face severe economic consequences. (Translation continues…) Continuation of the English Translation: Trump’s repeated tariff threats have raised concerns among American consumers and introduced economic risks for the United States. Even the mere discussion of such tariffs can have significant economic effects by influencing consumer behavior. Evidence suggests that many Americans are seriously worried about the potential consequences of these policies. According to a survey conducted by economists from the University of Texas, the University of California, and the University of Chicago, Americans expect substantial tariffs to be imposed on all major trade partners—50% on Chinese imports and 35% on imports from Canada and Europe. Contrary to Trump’s claims, most citizens believe these tariffs will directly impact them by driving up prices. When asked about a hypothetical 20% tariff, half of the respondents stated that the majority of the costs would be passed directly to consumers. Political differences are also evident in the perception of these tariffs. Democrats and Republicans disagree on the extent to which consumers will bear the costs. Democrats estimate that 68% of the tariff burden will fall on consumers, whereas Republicans believe it will be around 41%. Regardless of political stance, the financial strain from these tariffs is expected to be significant, particularly for consumers already weary of inflation. Both the public and economists recognize that tariffs on imports can also raise prices for domestically produced goods. The economic impact of tariffs was clearly demonstrated during Trump’s first term. A study found that the tariffs imposed in 2018 on washing machines from South Korea and China led to a nearly equivalent price increase for washing machines in the U.S.—and even drove up the price of dryers as well. Even if these new tariffs are not implemented, their mere threat can lead to price hikes. Many consumers, anticipating higher costs, are choosing to make purchases in advance. In a survey, 43% of respondents stated that they would buy products before the tariffs take effect to avoid potential price increases.Another survey in January found that 20% of people believed that now was the right time to buy durable goods because prices were likely to rise. Businesses are responding in a similar fashion. Many companies are stockpiling inventory ahead of potential tariff hikes or shifting their supply chains to countries that would not be affected. This behavior has contributed to a surge in exports from China to the U.S., with December marking the second-highest export level on record—at least partly driven by efforts to preempt new tariffs. These strategies, however, come with additional costs, much of which will likely be passed on to consumers. The COVID-19 pandemic provided a clear example of how supply chain disruptions can lead to widespread cost increases. For instance, higher import costs for auto parts eventually resulted in more expensive vehicle repairs and insurance premiums. Stimulating inflation under current economic conditions—even temporarily—would be costly. The Federal Reserve has paused further interest rate cuts, waiting for clearer signs of sustained inflation reduction. Rising prices for key goods, particularly automobiles, halted progress in lowering inflation in the fourth quarter of last year. Additional inflationary pressures caused by tariff expectations could delay the Fed’s next rate cut and keep interest rates elevated for an extended period. The uncertainty surrounding future tariffs reinforces the Fed’s cautious stance. Inflation is not the only concern stemming from tariff threats. A third of survey respondents indicated that the likelihood of widespread tariffs would lead them to cut spending and increase savings. The greater the uncertainty surrounding trade policy, the stronger the incentive for precautionary savings. American consumers have been the driving force behind the nation’s economic recovery. However, the recent wave of tariff threats has created deep concerns, potentially putting the U.S. economy—widely regarded as one of the strongest in the world—at risk.
FOREXCOM:XAUUSDLong
by Ali_PSND