NZDUSD - The uptrend of the dollar is over?!The NZDUSD currency pair is located between the EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe. In case of a downward correction, we can see the demand zones and buy within that zones with the appropriate risk reward.
Although Trump has announced plans to impose tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and several other countries, closer analysis suggests that these measures are more related to addressing issues like migration and drug trafficking than economic policies. Therefore, these actions are not considered a serious threat to international trade and may be interpreted differently by the markets.
The appointment of Scott Bassant, a seasoned expert in currency markets and hedge funds, as the head of the economic team under President-elect Trump, has brought greater confidence to the markets. Bassant, who leans towards boosting the stock market, is likely to pursue more moderate policies, including reducing reliance on tariffs.
One of Bassant’s proposed approaches involves using a weaker dollar instead of trade wars and tariffs to achieve economic goals such as increasing domestic production, improving trade balance, and strengthening the stock market. If international agreements, particularly with China, are reached, this strategy could put additional pressure on the dollar.
Conway, Chief Economist of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, has stated that Trump’s policies are currently viewed as a medium-term risk to inflation and economic volatility. Moreover, forecasts have not yet accounted for potential U.S. tariffs. Conway has also predicted that house prices in New Zealand will rise by 6.8% next year. While he does not expect a significant boom in housing prices, he anticipates a modest revival in the real estate market.
Meanwhile, Silk of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has announced that for February, a rate cut of 25 or 50 basis points is under consideration. During this week’s meeting, all options were reviewed, but the committee quickly reached consensus on a 50-basis-point cut. He clarified that a reduction beyond this level was deemed unnecessary as there remains a need to focus on controlling domestic inflation.
Fed
XAGUSD - Silver will stabilize above $30?!Silver is located between EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its medium-term ascending channel. If the decline continues, we can see the demand zones and buy within that zones with the appropriate risk reward.
The first range is suitable for short-term transactions and the second range is suitable for medium-term transactions.
Peter Krauth, author of The Great Silver Bull and publisher of SilverStockInvestor, has stated that silver could achieve substantial gains during a rate-cutting cycle, with advancements in artificial intelligence potentially emerging as a new driver of demand. Krauth examined the silver market and investment opportunities for 2025, highlighting the significant impact of Federal Reserve rate cuts on silver prices, a point supported by historical data.
He explained, “In the last three rate-cutting cycles, if you look at silver prices from trough to peak, silver has, on average, risen by 332%.” Krauth added, “This process might take about one to two years, but it still offers remarkable returns, doesn’t it? You can review the data—this is how silver has historically performed.”
He further noted that if the U.S. economy enters a recession—an outcome many analysts forecast for the first half of 2025—silver could deliver outstanding performance.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump, the U.S. President-elect, has outlined extensive plans to reshape the nation’s energy policies. According to news sources, Trump intends to request funding from Congress to replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. His transition team is preparing a comprehensive energy policy agenda to be implemented shortly after he assumes office.
Trump also aims to repeal President Biden’s clean energy initiatives and prioritize natural gas. He may condition U.S. financial support for the International Energy Agency (IEA) on its refocusing towards oil and gas while countering its emphasis on green energy.
At the same time, analysts at Deutsche Bank have expressed concerns that the Federal Reserve might cancel its anticipated December rate cut. These concerns stem from stronger-than-expected economic resilience, a stable labor market, and persistent inflation above 2.5%.
Although the analysts still forecast a rate cut in December, the risk of a delay has increased. They predict that the federal funds rate will reach 4.375% by the end of 2025, exceeding the estimated neutral range. This suggests that the Fed may maintain higher rates for an extended period.
Furthermore, Deutsche Bank expects the Federal Reserve to lower rates to a neutral range of 3.75-4.00% in 2026 and 2027, as the impact of tariffs is likely to gradually reduce private domestic demand, creating room for more rate cuts in the long term.
WTI - Stability in the Middle East!WTI oil is below the EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its downward channel. If the downward correction continues towards the demand zone, the next opportunity to buy oil with a suitable risk reward will be provided for us.
Following the ceasefire in Lebanon, U.S. President Joe Biden announced that in the coming days, the United States will work with regional countries, including Turkey, Egypt, Qatar, and Israel, to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza that guarantees the release of hostages and the end of the war.However, he emphasized that such a ceasefire should not allow Hamas to remain in power.
U.S. President-elect Donald Trump plans to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico on his first day in office. This tariff will also include crude oil, with no exceptions considered. Additionally, Trump is preparing another executive order to lift the suspension on liquefied natural gas (LNG) export permits that was implemented under Joe Biden’s presidency. This executive order might require the Department of Energy to approve pending permits or resume reviewing new applications. This move is seen as part of Trump’s early energy policy agenda.
Wall Street has expressed concerns about the potential impact of Trump’s second term on oil prices. Analysts suggest that oil producers may try to boost production before stricter regulations from the Biden era return. However, some experts believe that the nature of shale oil production in the U.S. makes long-term supply increases challenging. Unlike OPEC nations, where oil production is often controlled by national oil companies, oil production in the U.S. is divided among major corporations, independent producers, and private companies.
This analysis aligns with Goldman Sachs’ outlook. Goldman Sachs has forecasted that U.S. crude oil production will increase by just 500,000 barrels per day this year, down from the 1 million barrels per day increase seen last year. Nevertheless, the U.S. will still account for 60% of non-OPEC oil production growth, with the Permian Basin in North America expected to grow by 340,000 barrels per day—lower than Wall Street’s initial projection of 520,000 barrels.
According to Bloomberg, Russia’s seaborne crude oil exports have reached their lowest level in two months. The four-week average of these exports up to November 24 dropped to around 150,000 barrels per day, marking the fourth decrease in five weeks. This decline is largely attributed to a significant reduction in oil flows to India, Russia’s primary buyer, although weekly exports have seen a slight uptick.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and Kazakhstan have issued a joint statement emphasizing the importance of market stability and their commitment to voluntary production cuts under the OPEC+ agreement. In this context, Reuters analysts predict that OPEC+ will likely maintain its oil production cut policy for an extended period due to weak global demand. This group, which accounts for nearly half of the world’s oil production, faces challenges in deciding whether to increase or further reduce production. Increasing production is risky under current conditions, while further cuts may be difficult due to some members’ desire to boost output.
Meanwhile, rising gas prices have posed significant challenges for European policymakers this winter. Javier Blas, a Bloomberg analyst, believes that Europe has not yet fully faced the realities of the energy crisis caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He warns that Europe has overly attributed last year’s successes to favorable weather conditions. However, these conditions have changed, and this winter is expected to bring higher gas and electricity prices. This situation places significant pressure on energy-intensive industries, with many large factories either reducing activity or shutting down. Households, too, will face greater inflation due to higher energy costs.
These challenges have also put central banks like the European Central Bank and the Bank of England under pressure. Wholesale gas prices in Europe have risen to €47 per megawatt-hour, which is double the February price and 130% higher than the 2010–2020 average.
AUDUSD-The first interest rate cut is postponed until next year?The AUDUSD currency pair is below the EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its downward channel. In case of a valid failure of the channel ceiling, we can see the supply zones and sell within those zones with the appropriate risk reward. The loss of the drawn support range will pave the way down for this currency pair.
The Australian government’s plan to reform the central bank by splitting its board into two divisions is close to becoming law.Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s administration is pushing through dozens of bills in the Senate during the final parliamentary session of the year to implement these major reforms.
In this process, the government and the minority Green Party reached a last-minute agreement to revive stalled legislation. Previous negotiations had failed because the Greens demanded an immediate interest rate cut by Treasurer Jim Chalmers, which critics argued could undermine the central bank’s independence. Now, with sufficient political support, these long-awaited reforms are set to be enacted soon, potentially reshaping Australia’s monetary and economic policies.
Australia’s four major banks—ANZ, Commonwealth Bank, National Australia Bank, and Westpac—have adjusted their forecasts for when the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will make its first interest rate cut. Westpac and NAB now expect this to occur in May 2025, while CBA and ANZ continue to anticipate a February 2025 cut, albeit with caution. The next RBA meeting is scheduled for December 9–10, 2024.
S&P Global Ratings, in its outlook for the global economy in Q1 2025, stated, “Risks are increasing as the new U.S. administration’s policies are likely to heighten inflationary pressures and tighten financial conditions.” The agency predicts global GDP growth of about 3% in 2025, with U.S. economic growth dropping below 2% and China moving toward 4% growth.
According to Bloomberg, economists anticipate that China’s exports will hit a record high this year as international customers place orders early to avoid potential tariffs threatened by Trump. Meanwhile, Australia, known as a safe haven for heavy-duty pickup trucks, is set to experience its most significant automotive shift in years, with new models arriving, including the first off-road hybrid vehicle from China’s BYD.
Australia, famous for its love of SUVs and petrol-fueled pickups, remains one of the laggards in adopting electric vehicles. According to the Australian Automobile Association, EV sales in Q3 dropped by 25% compared to Q2, accounting for just 6.6% of the market—the lowest share since 2022. However, the arrival of new hybrid models like the BYD Shark 6 could transform Australia’s automotive market and boost demand for electric and hybrid vehicles.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce reiterated the country’s opposition to unilateral U.S. tariffs. He urged the U.S. to adhere to World Trade Organization (WTO) rules and emphasized that imposing tariffs would not solve America’s economic challenges. China’s stance against unilateral tariff increases, including those threatened by Trump, remains consistent.
On the other hand, the U.S. economy grew at a robust pace in Q3, primarily driven by a significant surge in consumer spending as inflation continued to ease. GDP rose at an annual rate of 2.8% during this period. Consumer spending, the primary engine of economic growth, increased by 3.5%, marking the highest rate this year.
According to the GDPNow model, the real GDP growth rate (seasonally adjusted annual rate) for Q4 2024 was revised to 2.7% on November 27, up from 2.6% on November 19. Following the release of the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis’ Personal Income and Outlays report, real personal consumption expenditures growth for Q4 was revised upward from 2.8% to 3.0%.
British pound jumps, US PCE inflation meets expectationsThe British pound has posted sharp gains on Wednesday. In the North American session, GBP/USD is trading at .1.2669, up 0.81% on the day.
There are no UK releases today, but in the US it’s a busy data calendar. US GDP (second estimate) showed a gain of 2.8%, unchanged from the initial estimate. The economy is expected to show growth of 2.6% in the third quarter, below second-quarter growth of 3% but still a respectable clip.
The US economy has remained surprisingly resilient despite high interest rates, as the Federal Reserve tightened policy in order to contain inflation. The economy showed some cracks due to high rates but the economy has avoided a recession as the economy has been growing and the labor market has cooled but not collapsed. Consumer spending and confidence remain solid and this has helped propel economic growth. Consumer spending rose to 3.5% in the second quarter and consumer confidence increased in October.
The US personal consumption expenditures price index, which is the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation indicator, came in as expected. The PCE price index was unchanged in October at 0.2% m/m, in line with expectations. Annually, the PCE price index rose 2.3%, matching the market estimate but above the September gain of 2.1%.
The core rate, which excludes food and energy, gained 0.3% m/m, the same as September and in line with the market estimate. Annually, the gain of 2.8% in October was up from the 2.7% gain in September and matched expectations.
The markets have raised the odds of a 25-basis point cut at the Dec. 18 meeting, even though both the headline and core PCE inflation readings rose in October. The probability of a 25-bp cut currently stands at 70% up from 59% a day ago, according to CME’s FedWatch tool.
GBP/USD has pushed above resistance at 1.2620 and is testing resistance at 1.2673. Next, there is resistance at 1.2729
1.2564 and 1.2511 are providing support
XAUUSD - Gold will reach $2,700!?Gold is located between EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe. In case of failure of the drawn trend line, we can witness the continuation of downward trend to demand zone, and in that zone, we can buy with appropriate risk reward.
The continuation of the upward movement of gold and its reaching the supply zone will provide us with its next selling position.
Gold price volatility remains high as the precious metal reacts to changes in geopolitical instability caused by the incoming administration of US President-elect Donald Trump. However, Nitesh Shah, head of commodity research and macroeconomics at WisdomTree, still predicts that gold's upward trend will continue in 2025.
In a recent interview with Kitco News, Shah stated that he expects the US dollar to depreciate in 2025, which will benefit gold prices. He added that although Trump's policies can help strengthen the dollar at the beginning of the year, it will be difficult to maintain this trend; Because the government budget deficit will continue.
"Most likely, debt will increase and that should put downward pressure on the dollar," he said.
Meanwhile, Shah believes the Federal Reserve's interest rate-cutting policies could help lower bond yields, another factor driving gold prices higher. He said in his recent research note: "Now that we are back in the cycle of interest rate cuts, bond yields have fallen and investors are ready to buy gold again."
Although Shah is optimistic about gold, in his opinion, the price of this precious metal will have limits to growth in the coming year. He predicts that gold prices will reach around $2,850 per ounce by the fourth quarter of 2024. "The current situation is still relatively positive for gold," Shah said. "Originally, I was projecting $3,000, but according to my updated modeling, to reach that goal, bond yields would need to fall significantly from current levels."
On the other hand, the Bank of America (BofA) in its recent report has pointed out four key aspects of the future US government policies that can reduce the demand for gold in the short term. These factors include the increase in interest rates and the strengthening of the US dollar.
However, these negative factors do not in any way affect Bank of America's positive long-term outlook for gold, with gold prices expected to reach $3,000 per ounce by the end of 2025.
Deregulation: Deregulation policies in the energy and financial services sectors could increase interest rates, which would make gold less attractive.
Fiscal policy: Broader and longer tax cuts could boost short-term economic growth and push interest rates higher, posing challenges for gold.
Tariffs: The increase in tariffs on China and other major countries can lead to pressure on the currencies of emerging markets, and this may reduce gold purchases by central banks.
Fed policy: If economic growth and tariffs push up inflation, the Fed may stop the rate-cutting cycle, which would reduce the appeal of gold as a safe haven.
Impact on gold demand:
In the short term, there is a possibility of reducing the desire of investors to buy gold due to the mentioned policies.
Central banks in emerging countries may reduce gold purchases due to currency pressures from tariff risks.
The long-term outlook remains positive:
Structural demand from central banks and strategic investors underpins a positive long-term outlook for gold.
The attractiveness of gold as a hedge against geopolitical risks, economic instabilities and possible inflationary pressures remains.
Conclusion:
Although near-term policies under the incoming US administration, including stronger economic growth, higher inflation and a stronger dollar, pose significant headwinds for gold, Bank of America maintains its forecast of $3,000 an ounce by the end of 2025. . This long-term optimism stems from structural and cyclical factors that support gold demand in a challenging policy environment.
USDCHF - The new Treasury Secretary will weaken the dollar?!The USDCHF currency pair is located between EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its upward channel. If the upward movement continues, we can see the midline of the channel and the supply zone, and sell in the form of scalps with the appropriate risk reward. A downward correction towards the demand zones will provide us with the next buying positions for this currency pair.
Chris Turner, an analyst at ING, noted in a recent report that the dollar is likely to remain stable through the end of the year, even if the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates in December. While markets remain divided on the likelihood of a rate cut next month, ING anticipates a 25-basis-point reduction. Turner suggested that such a move, coupled with potential seasonal weakness, could weigh negatively on the dollar. However, amid geopolitical uncertainties and the stronger performance of the U.S. economy compared to the Eurozone, the dollar is expected to remain supported by demand for safe-haven assets.
According to the U.S. Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index, “the probability of a U.S. recession within the next 12 months reached its lowest point in November.”
The minutes from the Federal Reserve’s November meeting, released last night, revealed that some policymakers believe the pace of rate cuts could accelerate if economic activity declines or the labor market weakens. Conversely, some officials warned that persistent inflation might necessitate halting the easing cycle and maintaining rates at restrictive levels. Many policymakers highlighted uncertainty about the neutral rate, emphasizing the need for a gradual reduction in monetary restrictions.
Scott Bennett, the newly appointed U.S. Treasury Secretary, believes that a weak dollar policy could become a cornerstone of Trump’s second administration. In a letter published earlier this year by Bennett’s hedge fund, he argued that Trump is more likely to pursue a dollar-weakening strategy than rely on tariffs. Bennett stated that tariffs tend to drive inflation and strengthen the dollar, which conflicts with efforts to revive U.S. manufacturing.
Bennett predicted that a weaker dollar early in Trump’s second term could enhance the competitiveness of U.S. industrial production. He argued that a weaker dollar, coupled with cheap and abundant energy, could fuel economic growth. This perspective diverges from Wall Street’s current consensus, which leans toward a stronger dollar. Bennett remarked that dollar strengthening might only occur later in Trump’s term if efforts to onshore production prove successful.
He also pointed to the constraints imposed by tariffs, corporate tax cuts, and budget deficits, which he believes hinder Trump’s economic objectives. Bennett suggested that focusing on deliberate currency devaluation could simultaneously achieve GDP growth, fiscal improvement, and stock market gains—at least in nominal terms.
Bennett stressed that targeting a weaker dollar against the Chinese yuan and Japanese yen could yield more impactful results. He even suggested that such a strategy could allow China to claim it had avoided U.S. tariffs, presenting it as a “win.”
Bennett’s statements carry significant weight given his new role as Treasury Secretary. He also briefly referenced the concept of Bretton Woods 3, noting that while it is not currently a primary scenario, conditions for its realization are in place.
Meanwhile, Swiss National Bank Chairman Schlegel stated that Switzerland benefits from a flexible inflation framework that enables it to respond more effectively to economic shocks. He noted that while the Swiss franc is recognized as a safe-haven currency, this very characteristic can lead to appreciation during global recessions, which may harm Switzerland’s economy. The SNB remains committed to price stability, which Schlegel identified as a key factor in the country’s economic success. He also did not rule out the possibility of a return to negative interest rates.
New Zealand dollar eyes RBNZ rate announcementThe New Zealand dollar is in positive territory on Tuesday, after a four-day losing streak. In the European session, NZD/USD is trading at 0.5850, up 0.09% on the day. Earlier, the New Zealand dollar fell as low as 0.5797, its lowest level since Nov. 1.
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand makes its rate announcement on Wednesday and the markets have priced in a jumbo rate cut of a 50 basis point for a second straight meeting. This would bring the cash rate to 4.25%, its lowest level since November 2022.
The RBNZ has done a good job of lowering inflation, which fell to 2.2% in the second quarter. This is the first time in over three years that inflation is within the target band of between 1 and 3 percent. Still, elevated rates have taken a heavy toll on the economy, as GDP declined 0.2% in the second quarter and likely fell in Q3 as well, which would mark a recession. The central bank’s aggressive rate-cutting is aimed at providing the economy with a much-needed boost.
The New Zealand dollar stands to be the big loser from an oversized rate cut. The currency plunged around 1% after the 50-bp chop in October and we could see another sharp drop on Wednesday if the central bank cuts again by 50 basis points.
The Federal Reserve releases the minutes of the November meeting later today. At the meeting, the Fed lowered rates by 25 basis points. Investors will be looking for insights about what the Fed may have planned for the Dec. 18 meeting. A few weeks ago, a second straight 25-bp cut appeared likely but with the US economy remaining strong, the Fed may opt to pause. Interest-rate future markets are currently pricing in a cut at 59% and a pause at 41%, according to the CME’s Fed Watch.
NZD/USD is testing resistance at 0.5857. Above, there is resistance at 0.5898
There is support at 0.5793 and 0.5752
Gold Awaiting the FOMCGold prices are experiencing a recovery after hitting a six-day low at $2,605, consolidating around $2,625. Market attention is focused on the November Fed meeting minutes, which could provide decisive signals regarding a possible rate cut in December, currently estimated at a 61% probability according to the CME FedWatch Tool. If the intraday support at $2,605 fails, prices could target $2,550. Conversely, a daily close above $2,670 would be necessary to reignite bullish momentum, with targets at $2,700 and $2,750. The fundamental context remains complex: Donald Trump's statements on new tariffs have reignited demand for safe-haven assets, including gold and the US dollar, while rebounding bond yields cap enthusiasm for the precious metal. Decreasing geopolitical tensions between Israel and Lebanon represent an additional headwind for gold, as they reduce the need for global risk hedging. Additionally, Trump's appointment of Scott Bessent as Treasury Secretary has reassured bond markets, strengthening the dollar and limiting gold's gains. Overall, gold prices are balanced between contrasting fundamental and technical forces, as traders await the Fed minutes for clearer direction.
XAUUSD - The rise of gold is over!?Gold is above EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe. In case of a corrective movement with low momentum, we can witness the continued rise and see supply zones and sell within that range with a suitable risk reward.
After enduring two weeks of sharp declines following Donald Trump's election victory, the gold market bounced back with a strong bounce last week. The price of this precious metal grew in all trading sessions of the week and by Friday afternoon, with an increase of nearly 150 dollars, it once again attracted the attention of investors.
Commerzbank commodity analyst Carsten Fritsch notes that the Swiss Federal Customs Service released data on gold exports in October this week. "These data showed very different trends. Deliveries to China were significantly weaker at just 5 tonnes. Almost no gold was exported to Hong Kong. On the other hand, exports to India have increased. However, the export level in October was still relatively low at 11.7 tons. A little more gold than the previous month has been delivered to America.
However, inflows of 30 tonnes into US-listed gold ETFs, reported by the World Gold Council (WGC), in October were higher than the 9.4 tonnes reported. The sharp increase in Swiss gold exports to the UK to 31.9 tonnes is surprising, although gold ETFs listed there recorded outflows in October, according to the World Gold Council.
Darin Newsom, chief market analyst at Barchart.com, stated in his analysis of the future trend of gold:
"The path of movement of gold is still upward. But due to the speed and intensity of the recent upward trend, there is a possibility of a sudden correction in the market. This risk increases due to the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States and the end of the month."
He also emphasized:
"Despite this, geopolitical factors continue to play a decisive role in the market. The current chaos has overwhelmed technical analysis and Russian President Putin has not backed down from his nuclear threats. These conditions will most likely lead investors to buy gold until the end of 2024."
Next week, the US economic calendar will be shorter than usual due to the Thanksgiving holiday, but several key reports will continue to be in the focus of traders. On Tuesday, the Conference Board's consumer confidence index for November and new home sales for October will be released in early market hours. Next, the minutes of the last meeting of the Federal Reserve Open Market Committee (FOMC) are published.
On Wednesday, key data releases will be limited to the early hours of the day due to the Thanksgiving holiday. The market will watch the release of the Personal Consumption Expenditure (PCE) core inflation index for October, which is one of the key indicators considered by the Federal Reserve to assess inflation. At the same time, the statistics of durable goods orders and the weekly report of unemployment claimants will also be published. Then, pending home sales figures for October will be released, which will provide a clear picture of housing market trends.
USDCHF - Who is the next head of the Fed?!The USDCHF currency pair is above EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its upward channel. If the upward movement continues, we can see the ceiling of the channel and sell within that zone with the appropriate risk reward. A downward correction towards the demand zones will provide us with the next buying positions for this currency pair.
According to a report by the Wall Street Journal, Donald Trump is considering options to choose Kevin Warsh as Treasury Secretary, and it is possible that he will later be nominated to head the Federal Reserve. The decision is still undecided, and Trump will likely make his final decision near the end of Jerome Powell's term in May 2026.
On the other hand, according to Bloomberg, the Bridgewater company has announced that Trump may choose the chairman of the Federal Reserve who will follow his policies more. Because of Trump's economic policies, the US may not be able to reach the 2% inflation target. Trump's plans may increase costs and thus favor the stock market over bonds. Bob Prince, Bridgewater's chief investment officer, said Trump's policies on tariffs, fiscal stimulus and immigration are likely to keep the U.S. from reaching its 2 percent inflation target.
If U.S. inflation approaches 3 percent over the next year and a half, Trump may appoint a Fed chairman who is aligned with a higher inflation target and allows interest rates to fall.
Also, Goolsby, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, has predicted that interest rates will drop significantly next year. Referring to the significant reduction in inflation and the state of the labor market, he expressed confidence that the inflation is moving towards the 2% target of the central bank and that the labor market has reached the level of almost full and stable employment.
GBPUSD - The pound, vulnerable to financial policies?!The GBPUSD currency pair is below the EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its downward channel. If the downward trend continues due to the release of today's economic data, we can see the demand zones and buy within those zones with the appropriate risk reward. In case of an upward correction, this currency pair can be sold within the specified supply zones.
The UK government has quietly abandoned the Conservatives’ plan for managing pension accounts. This plan, introduced by former Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, aimed to address the issue of small, lost pension accounts. However, it faced widespread criticism from the savings industry. Instead, the new government has decided to focus on launching a pension dashboard to help individuals track their missing savings. Additionally, Rachel Reeves, Hunt’s successor, has announced plans for “megafunds” to consolidate the fragmented state of the current pension system.
In October, the UK’s public sector net borrowing rose to £17.4 billion, significantly exceeding the £12.9 billion forecast and the previous figure of £16.6 billion. Excluding banking groups, the figure also stood at £17.4 billion, surpassing the earlier estimate of £13.3 billion. This increase in borrowing highlights the government’s growing need for financial resources and could impact future fiscal policies.
Natural gas prices in the UK have reached their highest levels compared to European benchmarks since late 2021. This reflects the country’s heightened vulnerability to cold weather due to a lack of large storage sites. While futures contracts have shown little movement, they remain near last year’s peak levels. Additionally, natural gas prices have risen by over 15% so far in November, further emphasizing the fragility of the UK’s gas market.
Mann, a member of the Bank of England, has expressed concerns about exchange rate volatility.She described a 1% rate cut as overly aggressive and suggested that decisions on reducing interest rates should be postponed until economic conditions stabilize. She emphasized that significant monetary changes should only occur based on robust data and evidence.
Meanwhile, at TD Securities, a team of strategists led by Oscar Munoz and Gennadiy Goldberg expects the Federal Reserve to halt rate cuts in the first half of 2025, as central bank policymakers assess the impact of Trump’s policies. Similarly, interest rate strategists at JPMorgan have adjusted their expectations for the Fed. Broadly speaking, potential conflicts between the Federal Reserve and Trump’s White House seem highly likely, given that Trump’s policies could clash with monetary policies focused on curbing growth and reducing inflation.
USTEC rose after avoiding Lutnick as a Treasury Secretary
The Nasdaq index has surged, fueled by solid expectations surrounding Nvidia's Q3 earnings and the alleviation of uncertainty following the appointment of the new Treasury Secretary.
Investors are breathing a sigh of relief as Howard Lutnick, a staunch supporter of Trump's tariff policies, has been nominated for Commerce Secretary rather than Treasury Secretary. In contrast, Kevin Warsh, who is running for Treasury Secretary, has openly criticized protectionist measures such as tariffs. This shift has heightened expectations that some economic issues stemming from Trump’s tariff policies will be mitigated.
Furthermore, Wall Street consistently raises Nvidia's target stock price. Investors anticipate that Nvidia's Q3 earnings will surpass market consensus, and Wall Street confidently anticipates that the Q4 guidance will also exceed expectations.
USTEC briefly tested the support at 20300 and rebounded to 20770. The index sustains upward momentum, holding above the trend line. If USTEC sustains its upward trend above the resistance at 20700, the index could gain upward momentum toward the 21250 high. Conversely, if USTEC fails to hold above the trend line and 20300, the index may fall further to 19950.
LONG GOLD NOW, LET ME BREAK IT DOWN !Gold price stays firm for the second consecutive day so far, drawing support from the recent retracement in the US Treasury bond yields across the curve, fuelling the corrective downside in the US Dollar (USD) against its major currency rivals.
The US bond yields have embarked upon a correction mode as investors remain wary of the impact of the potential fiscal and trade policies to be introduced by US President-elect Donald Trump on the economic and inflation outlook.
Additionally, Gold price capitalizes on the renewed geopolitical escalation between Russia and Ukraine after US President Joe Biden authorized Ukraine to use American Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to strike inside Russia on Sunday. The decision to allow the use of long-range US weapons inside Russia came after Moscow deployed North Korean ground troops to supplement its own forces.
Moreover, expectations of more stimulus measures coming in from China also bode well for the bright metal. China is the world’s top Gold consumer. Securities Journal, Chinese state media, quoted analysts saying further cuts to the Reserve Requirement Ratio (RRR) coming this year.
Note that China is the world’s top Gold consumer, and any support measures by the local authorities to boost economic performance seem positive for the precious metal. However, it remains to be seen if Gold price manages to hold on to its recovery momentum as traders turn cautious, awaiting more cues on the Fed’s interest rate outlook from the central bank talks due Tuesday and later this week.
XAUUSD - Buy Gold!?The US dollar gained strength again last week due to the effects of Trump being elected as the next US president. Considering that the Republican Party will control the US Congress in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, it is expected that the implementation of Trump's pre-election promises will easily become law.
The new US president wants drastic cuts in corporate taxes and tariffs on goods imported from around the world, especially from China. From the point of view of the financial community, these actions could increase inflation and prevent the Federal Reserve from lowering interest rates in the future.
US inflation data in October indicated the persistence of price pressures. Also, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell recently stated that there is no need to rush to cut interest rates. This has led some market participants to believe that interest rate cuts will stop in the near future.
Mark Leboitt, publisher of VR Metals/Resource Letter, commented: "Gold's price correction is happening as expected, with a possible drop to the $2,300 level, although the long-term view remains to reach $3,700. considers
"Right now, gold is oversold, so we're likely to see a correction," he continued. In such a situation, buying at weak price points for long-term positions and doing short-term transactions with a buying approach can be considered a suitable strategy.
Darin Newsom, senior market analyst at Barchart.com, said: "For the coming week, an upward trend is expected. The excitement and frenzy surrounding the recent US election is likely coming to an end, which means the market will face new uncertainties. In such a situation, gold can once again be considered as a safe asset by investors and can be bought as a hedge against the volatility of other market sectors, especially the stock market.
This week for the US we have S&P Global manufacturing, services and composite PMI data to watch out for. The beginning of the easing cycle in September and the first reduction in interest rates have revived hopes for the improvement of data such as PMI, and economic activities are expected to improve, especially in the manufacturing and industrial sector, with the continued reduction in borrowing costs. Therefore, although we cannot expect a significant improvement in the short term, we can hope for the improvement of the production sector in the future and gradually.
In addition, the speeches of several central bank officials are also of particular importance to traders, as they try to get indications of the speed and possible depth of interest rate cuts. Among the important speeches of the week, we can mention Goolsby's statement on Monday and his appearance again with Hamek on Thursday.
NAS100 - Nasdaq will reach above 21,000?!The index is located between EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is trading in its ascending channel. If the index rises towards the two specified supply zones, you can look for NASDAQ sell positions with the appropriate risk reward. Nasdaq's buying position is in the demand zone after the continuation of the corrective movement, and considering the downward sentiment at the end of the week, it should be saved quickly.
China’s Export Restrictions and Their Impact on Global Supply Chains
• China Tightens Export Controls:
Starting December 1, China will implement new regulations to tighten export restrictions on critical metals and raw materials, including tungsten, graphite, magnesium, and aluminum alloys, essential for the technology sector.
• China’s Objectives:
These measures are part of a broader strategy to manage sensitive exports and protect national interests.
• Global Market Impact:
The new restrictions are expected to disrupt global technology supply chains and introduce volatility in related markets.
Zelensky’s Perspective on Trump’s Presidency
• Zelensky’s Comments:
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that the war in Ukraine could end sooner if Donald Trump returns to the White House.
• Constructive Interaction with Trump:
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine successfully communicated its vision for peace to Trump, and he observed no opposition from Trump regarding Ukraine’s stance.
• Implications of Zelensky’s Remarks:
These comments reflect Ukraine’s hope for continued international support to expedite the resolution of the conflict.
US Economic Forecasts
• Q3 Earnings Reports from Major Companies:
This week, companies such as NVIDIA and TARGET will release their third-quarter (Q3) earnings reports.
• Federal Reserve Rate Cuts:
Rick Rieder, Chief Investment Officer at BlackRock, predicts that the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) will cut interest rates by 25 basis points in December.
• The current Federal Funds rate range is 4.5% to 4.75%, which Rieder considers restrictive.
• Following the December cut, the Fed is expected to pause temporarily to reassess future adjustments.
Jerome Powell’s Statements and Market Reactions
• Powell on a Strong US Economy:
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell highlighted the robust performance of the US economy, stating there is no urgency to lower interest rates.
• Cautious Approach to Rate Cuts:
Powell stressed that decisions should be made carefully due to uncertainties surrounding the neutral rate level.
• Market Reaction:
These statements reduced market expectations for a rate cut in December.
XAUUSD - Gold waiting for the Hawkish Federal Reserve!Gold is below the EMA200 and EMA50 in the 30-minute timeframe. In case of breaking the resistance range or correction with low momentum, we can witness the continuation of the rise and see the limited supply and sell in that range with the appropriate risk reward.
Inflation Outlook and Economic Policies in the US and Their Impact on Markets
Consumer Price Increase in the US and Gradual Decline in Inflationary Pressures
• October Data:
In October, the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose by 0.2% compared to September. Core inflation (excluding energy and food) also increased by 0.3%, aligning with market expectations.
• Expert Analysis:
Dr. Christoph Balz and Bernd Weidensteiner from Commerzbank emphasized that while the data shows no significant progress, it indicates a gradual reduction in inflationary pressures.
• Core inflation remains far from the Federal Reserve’s 2% target, holding steady at 0.3%, similar to August and September.
• This suggests that inflation is likely to stay above the central bank’s target in the long term.
• Trump’s Policies and Inflation:
Economists predict that emerging economic policies under Trump, including higher tariffs and reduced immigration, may further strain the labor market and contribute to higher inflation in the long run.
Jerome Powell’s Remarks and Market Reactions
• No Need for Financial Policy Easing:
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated that given strong economic growth, a robust labor market, and inflation still above the 2% target, there is no immediate need for monetary policy easing.
• Market Reaction:
These comments raised concerns among investors, signaling a potential slowdown in the pace of interest rate cuts.
US Dollar Outlook
• Stability and Growth of the Dollar:
According to Barclays Investment Bank, the US dollar will maintain its upward trajectory due to economic resilience and shifting market expectations regarding Federal Reserve interest rate policies.
• Factors Supporting Dollar Strength:
• Trump’s trade and fiscal policies, including higher tariffs and domestic initiatives, are key drivers of dollar strength.
• Barclays projects the dollar will remain strong and continue its upward trend through 2025.
• China’s efforts to boost its economy may have a limited impact on weakening the dollar but are unlikely to significantly disrupt its rising trajectory.
USDCAD - CAD look at the oil market!The USDCAD currency pair is above the EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its upward channel. Due to the location of this currency pair at the ceiling of the channel, you can save a part of your purchase position. The correction of this currency pair towards the demand zones will provide us with the next buying positions.
Monetary Policy in Canada
• Interest Rate Cuts:
Goldman Sachs forecasts that the Bank of Canada will cut interest rates by 50 basis points in December (previous forecast: 25 basis points). It is expected that this downward trend will continue, reaching a terminal rate of 2.25% by June 2025 (previous forecast: 2.50%).
Oil Developments in the U.S.
• Crude Oil Production:
U.S. crude oil production has reached 13.23 million barrels per day this year, slightly higher than the previous figure of 13.22 million. For 2024, production is forecasted at 13.53 million barrels per day (a minor decrease from the previous forecast of 13.54 million barrels).
• Crude Oil Prices:
The average price of Brent oil in 2024 is projected at $80.95 per barrel (slightly higher than the previous forecast of $80.89). For 2025, the average is expected to decline to $76.06 per barrel (previous forecast: $77.59).
The average price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) oil is estimated at $77 per barrel in 2024 and $71.6 in 2025, slightly below earlier projections.
Oil Demand:
• U.S. oil demand for 2024 and 2025 is estimated at 20.3 million and 20.5 million barrels per day, unchanged from previous forecasts.
OPEC and Production Adjustments:
• Lower Global Demand Growth Forecasts:
OPEC has reduced its forecasts for global oil demand growth in 2024 and 2025 to 1.82 and 1.54 million barrels per day, respectively (previous forecasts: 1.93 and 1.64 million).
• Increased OPEC Production:
OPEC’s average crude production in October rose to 26. 53 million barrels per day, a 466,000-barrel increase from September, primarily due to higher output from Libya.
Geopolitical Issues and Iran’s Oil Policies
• Iran’s Response to Sanctions:
Iran’s oil minister announced that plans have been developed to maintain stable oil exports to counter potential policies from Donald Trump’s administration.
• Negotiations Between Iran and the U.S.:
Iranian sources reported that Tehran postponed an attack on Israel after Trump’s election to facilitate potential negotiations. Messages conveyed through Baghdad included recommendations to avoid escalating tensions and create an opportunity for talks.
Developments in Lebanon and Israel
• Ceasefire negotiations in Lebanon are nearing conclusion. Israeli sources have confirmed alignment between the U.S. and Israel on the ceasefire agreement. However, Lebanon’s situation remains complex, with ongoing discussions between Hezbollah, the parliament speaker, the prime minister, and U.S. officials.
XAGUSD - Silver will continue to rise?!Silver is below the EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its medium-term bullish channel. If the decline continues due to the current economic data, we can see demand zone and buy within that zone with a suitable risk reward. If the upward trend line is broken and the $30 range is maintained, we can see the continuation of the rise up to the level of $32.
Over the past year, silver struggled to keep pace with gold, as gold reached multiple record highs while silver remained below $30 an ounce for a prolonged period. However, according to one analyst, this trend may shift in 2025, with the gold-to-silver ratio expected to moderate from its recent highs.
Julian Wee, a market strategist at UBS, commented, “Gold remains a favored asset for portfolio risk hedging against various risks, but the shift from a ‘soft landing’ to ‘no landing’ argues for a balance between a defensive stance and exposure to economic growth. Silver, which has historically shown a high correlation with gold, may benefit more from increased industrial demand.”
Wee highlighted that amid rising geopolitical tensions, gold has emerged as a preferred hedge. He noted that gold “has risen 35% this year alone, and demand has remained strong amid numerous risk events and declining global interest rates. At least for this month, gold has asserted itself as a hedge against slower economic growth and rising inflation.”
He further remarked that silver, like gold, also exhibits an inverse relationship to risk aversion, thus serving a similar defensive role. “Amid resilient U.S. GDP growth, investors may find it beneficial to add to portfolios that maintain a strong defensive stance while gradually enhancing exposure to stronger economic growth,” he suggested.
According to Wee, silver is expected to see increased demand due to its widespread use in sectors like technology and electric vehicles, as well as in LED production, solar panels, and medical applications owing to its antibacterial properties. Industrial demand will likely lead to higher demand for physically-backed ETFs. On the supply side, mine production is anticipated to remain limited in 2025.
Jerome Powell, the Federal Reserve Chairman, discussed various factors affecting productivity growth, including the rise of new businesses and workforce mobility. He also noted that automation has contributed to productivity improvements.
Powell emphasized that the current monetary policy is restrictive, though the exact degree remains uncertain. He stated that the Federal Reserve has begun the process of rate reductions and is moving towards a neutral rate, underscoring the need for a gradual and careful approach.
Powell suggested that slowing the pace of rate cuts could be appropriate if data permits. He mentioned that the current monetary policy is well-positioned, providing space for rate reductions if needed, though a careful approach remains necessary. Powell also referred to the recent Producer Price Index (PPI) reading, which showed a slight increase, but he believes the inflation trajectory remains on the right path. He stressed that monetary policy should neither be overly restrictive nor overly lenient.
USD/JPY hit 15-week high, Japan GDP nextThe Japanese is lower for a fourth straight trading day and has declined 2.1% during that time. In the North American session, USD/JPY is trading at 155.85 up 0.25% on the day.
The markets are braced for a sharp slowdown in third-quarter GDP, which will be released early Friday. The market estimate stands at 0.7% y/y, compared to a revised 3.1% in the second quarter. On a quarterly basis, GDP is expected to ease to 0.2%, following a revised 0.7% gain in Q2. The strong GDP numbers in the second quarter reflected wage negotiations in the spring which resulted in sharp wage increases and a recovery in the auto industry.
The BoJ meets next on Dec. 19 and key data such as the GDP release and inflation will be important factors ahead of the meeting. As well, wages have been rising which could translate into increased consumer spending and demand-driven inflation.
In the US, the Producer Price Index (PPI) rose in October to 2.4% y/y, up from a revised 1.9% gain in September. The core rate also rose to 3.1% from a revised 2.9% in September. The increase in PPI comes on the heels of consumer inflation (CPI) which rose from 2.4% y/y to 2.6%. The core rate remained unchanged at 3.3%.
The Federal Reserve is unlikely to change its plans due to the rise in inflation, which had decelerated for six straight months. The path of inflation can be bumpy and Fed policymakers won’t be losing sleep over a single monthly increase. If inflation accelerates next month, however, there will be some concern and we could hear calls for an oversized half-point cut in December.
USD is testing resistance at 155.95. Above, there is resistance at 1.5643
There is support at 155.15 and 154.67
USDJPY - Will the yen continue to weaken?!The USDJPY currency pair is above the EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its medium-term bullish channel. In case of correction due to the release of today's economic data, we can see the demand zones and buy within those two zones with the appropriate risk reward.
John Thune, the senator from South Dakota, has been elected as the Republican Senate Majority Leader. This election received broad support from Trump-aligned Republicans, though some factions within the GOP, particularly the far-right, were less welcoming of the choice. In this race, Thune faced competition from John Cornyn of Texas and Rick Scott of Florida, although Scott was not seen as a significant threat. Thune ultimately won in a direct, closed-ballot vote against Cornyn, securing the Senate leadership position.
Moody’s has announced that financial risks concerning the United States’ fiscal strength have escalated. In a statement, Moody’s highlighted the outlook on U.S. national debt, identifying the “decisive victory of Republicans” as a specific risk factor. Moody’s stated, “In the absence of policy measures to curb the budget deficit, federal fiscal strength will deteriorate, increasingly impacting the U.S. sovereign credit profile.”
Given the fiscal policies promised by Trump during his election campaign—and the high likelihood of their passage due to the shift in Congress—U.S. fiscal strength-related risks have increased. While Trump’s victory has been seen as positive for certain risk assets, it has had negative implications for bonds.
Meanwhile, a Bank of Japan official indicated that Japan is not currently in need of extensive financial support, allowing the central bank to resume interest rate hikes after a brief pause to assess U.S. economic developments.
Another Bank of Japan member warned that raising rates could cause market shocks, disrupting the normalization path of Japan’s monetary policies, as the divergence in policy directions between the U.S. and Japan could heighten foreign exchange market volatility. Additionally, one member emphasized the need to be prepared for potential market fluctuations due to the U.S. presidential election results.
GBPUSD - Is inflation under control in America?!The GBPUSD currency pair is located between EMA200 and EMA50 in the 4H timeframe and is moving in its downward channel. If the downward trend continues due to the release of today's economic data, we can see the demand zones and buy within those zones with the appropriate risk reward. In case of an upward correction, this currency pair can be sold within the specified supply zones.
The Governor of the Bank of England noted that the UK’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) does not accurately indicate whether underlying inflation dynamics have been suppressed. There remains a risk of rising energy prices, and inflation within the services sector is notably resilient and persistent. He anticipates greater volatility ahead, with some inflationary drivers potentially shifting upwards.
Additionally, according to new data from the Cleveland Federal Reserve, the inflation trend in the U.S. continues to remain above 2 percent. The Median CPI for the previous month was reported at 4.09 percent, a slight increase from 4.08 percent in the prior month. Since June, this measure has only seen a minor decline, from 4.15 percent to the current level.
Median CPI is a monthly inflation indicator that measures price changes at the midpoint of a basket of goods. Although this method may differ from the standard CPI, it focuses on items that fall within the midpoint of the distribution.
Charts within this report show that other inflation indicators are relatively stabilized, while the decline in the headline CPI is primarily due to a drop in energy prices, which is considered a temporary factor.
According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, despite ongoing challenges, debt levels remain manageable. Although delinquency rates have risen, income growth continues to outpace household debt growth. In the third quarter, delinquency transition rates varied, with credit card delinquencies improving, while delinquency rates for auto loans and mortgages saw a decline.
At the end of Q3, 3.5 percent of debt was in some stage of delinquency, up from 3.2 percent in Q2. Overall delinquency rates also increased during this period. According to the data, credit card balances in Q3 rose 8.1 percent compared to the same period last year, reaching $1.17 trillion, marking an increase of around $24 billion from Q2. Additionally, mortgage balances increased by $75 billion in this period, reaching $12.59 trillion.
GBP/USD extends losses as US inflation risesThe British pound continues to lose ground and is down for a fourth straight trading day. In the North American session, GBP/USD is trading at 1.2709, down 0.18% on the day. Earlier, the pound dropped below the 1.27 line for the first time since Aug. 8.
US inflation has been on a prolonged downswing but that streak has ended. After decelerating for six straight months, headline CPI for October rose to 2.6% y/y, up from 2.4% in September. The US dollar has responded with modest gains against the major currencies. Monthly, headline CPI was unchanged at 0.2%, in line with expectations. The core rate was unchanged in October, at 3.3% annually and 0.3% monthly, which matched expectations.
The jump in inflation may not have been a surprise, but market rate-cut odds have jumped sharply. Just a day ago, the markets had priced in a 58% probability of a cut in December, but this has surged to 82% currently, according to CME’s FedWatch.
Inflation is largely contained but by no means defeated. The Federal Reserve has waged a tough battle and is no mood to see inflation rebound. The next inflation report will be released just one week ahead of the Dec. 18 rate meeting and if inflation again moves higher, it’s possible that the Fed will respond with an oversized 50-basis point cut.
Another headache for the Federal Reserve could be the Trump election win, with the Republicans winning the Senate and likely the House of Representatives. The incoming Trump administration represents an upside risk to inflation, as President-elect Trump has promised sweeping tariffs on imports, notably China and Europe. If Trump makes good on his tariff threat, goods imported into the US will become more expensive which would boost inflation. That could complicate the Fed’s plans to continue trimming rates in 2025.
There is resistance at 1.2781 and 1.2843
1.2685 and 1.2683 are the next support levels