$JPIRYY -Japan Inflation Rate Highest in Near 2 YearsECONOMICS:JPIRYY 3.6%
(December/2024)
source: Ministry of Internal Affairs & Communications
- The annual inflation rate in Japan jumped to 3.6% in December 2024 from 2.9% in November,
marking the highest reading since January 2023 as food prices rose the most in a year.
Meanwhile, the core inflation rate climbed to a 16-month peak of 3%, in line with estimates.
Inflation
Internet Computer (ICP)Comprehensive Analysis of ICP
Introduction
The Internet Computer Protocol (ICP) is one of the leading projects in the blockchain space, developed with the aim of creating a decentralized internet. This project enables decentralized applications (dApps) to run directly on the blockchain without relying on centralized infrastructure. Due to these features, ICP has captured the attention of developers and investors alike, showcasing significant growth potential in the future.
From a price perspective, ICP has experienced substantial volatility since its launch. It is currently trading within a medium-term ascending channel, which plays a critical role in determining its future price trend.
🔍 Current Status
At present, ICP has entered a correction phase after encountering a weekly resistance zone at $14.623 - $15.704. It is now approaching the lower boundary of its ascending channel and the key weekly support zone at $6.166 - $6.944, which are crucial for preventing further price decline.
Conversely, significant resistance levels at higher zones could limit the upward momentum of the price.
🚀 Key Levels Analysis
Support Levels:
Lower boundary of the ascending channel
Weekly support zone: $6.166 - $6.944
Resistance Levels:
Daily resistance zone: $11.089 - $11.767
Weekly resistance zone: $14.623 - $15.704
Breaking these resistance levels, accompanied by increased trading volume, could strengthen the bullish price movement.
📈 Entry Strategy and Stop Loss
First Entry Point:
When to Enter: If the price bounces off the lower boundary of the ascending channel and the gray support zone ($6.166 - $6.944), a gradual entry is recommended.
Stop Loss: Below the gray support zone at $6.
Second Entry Point:
When to Enter: If the daily resistance zone ($11.089 - $11.767) is broken, initiating a second entry is advisable.
Stop Loss: Below the gray support zone at $6.
Complementary Entry:
A breakout of the 50-level on RSI can serve as an additional confirmation signal for entry.
🎯 Price Targets
Target 1: $21.158 - $23.555
Target 2: $36.722 - $40.641
Achieving these targets requires a confirmed breakout above the weekly resistance zone ($14.623 - $15.704).
⚠️ Key Considerations
Trading Volume: Resistance breakouts must be confirmed by a significant increase in trading volume.
Risk Management: Gradual entry strategies and defined stop losses are essential for minimizing risk.
Ascending Channel: As long as the price remains above the lower boundary of the ascending channel, the medium-term uptrend remains intact.
Alternative Scenario
If the weekly support zone ($6.166 - $6.944) is broken and a candle closes below it, the price could drop further toward $4.5. In this scenario, exiting long positions is recommended.
🔗 Conclusion
The analysis indicates that ICP holds considerable growth potential. However, maintaining proper risk management and closely monitoring key support and resistance zones is crucial. Entering at support zones with a stop loss below $6 and confirming resistance breakouts with high trading volume can be a solid strategy for investment.
BoJ hikes rates, yen pares gainsThe Japanese yen gained as much as 0.8% earlier today but has failed to consolidate these gains. In the European session, USD/JPY is trading at 156.03, dwon 0.02% on the day.
The Bank of Japan hiked its policy rate by 25 basis points earlier today, as expected. This brings the policy rate to 0.5%, its highest level since October 2008, during the global financial crisis. The Japanese yen climbed sharply after the decision but was unable to consolidate these gains.
The BoJ has been signaling that it planned to raise rates at today's meeting, although the BoJ tends to surprise the markets and a rate hike, while expected, was not a given. The BoJ statement expressed hope that this year's wage negotiations would result in strong wage increases, as was the case last year. Governor Ueda has said in the past that he would raise rates provided that inflation was driven by higher wages, which would show that inflation was sustainable. Wage growth has been moving higher and this resulted in today's rate hike.
Japan's inflation rate has been moving higher and the December inflation report, which came out today, showed core CPI climbed to 3%, up from 2.7% in November and in line with the market estimate. The core rate has hovered above the BoJ's 2% target for 2.5 years and at today's meeting, the BoJ upgraded its inflation outlook to above 2% until 2026.
Predictably, Governor Ueda didn't provide a timeline for the next rate hike at his post-meeting press conference, but a May rate hike is on the table if the wage negotiations result in higher wages and inflation does not weaken unexpectedly. Another key factor in the timing of the next rate hike will be President Trump's trade policy. Trump had promised to levy tariffs on US trading partners on his first day in office but has delayed the tariffs until at least Feb. 1. The BoJ will want to see which direction Trump's trade policy is going before raising rates again.
There is support at 154.78 and 153.27
156.49 and 158.00 are the next resistance lines
Bank of Japan expected to raise rates, yen calmThe Japanese yen is slightly lower on Thursday. In the European session, USD/JPY is trading at 156.25, down 0.16% on the day.
All eyes are on the Bank of Japan, which meets early on Friday. The BoJ is expected to raise interest rates by 25 basis points which would bring the cash rate to 0.50%. The BoJ has said that it will raise rates if it sees higher wage growth, which would indicate that inflation is sustainable. BoJ policymakers have expressed confidence that wages are moving higher and Deputy Governor Himino said last week that many firms plan to raise wages at least as much as last year.
Investors will be keeping a close eye on the BoJ's rate statement. The tone of the statement could be dovish as BoJ policymakers are concerned about President Donald Trump's threats to levy trade tariffs as early as Feb. 1, a move which could destabilize the financial markets. The BoJ will have to be cautious as it gauges the 'Trump factor".
Another factor supporting a rate hike is the poor performance of the Japanese yen, which has declined around 9% in the past three months. The Federal Reserve is sounding more hawkish and might raise rates only once or twice this year. If the BoJ stays on the sidelines again, the yen could fall further.
Overshadowed by the BoJ meeting, Japan releases December core CPI. Japan's core inflation rate has been climbing higher and is expected to climb to 3% y/y, up from 2.7% in November which was a three-month high. The core rate, which is closely watched by the BOJ, has hovered above the central bank's target of 2% for over two years.
USD/JPY is testing support at 156.20. Below, there is support at 155.68
157.04 and 157.56 are the next resistance lines
USD/JPY climbs, markets eye TrumpThe Japanese yen is in negative territory on Wednesday. In the North American session, USD/JPY is trading at 156.53, up 0.68% on the day.
There are no key releases in the US today. On Thursday, the US releases unemployment claims and President Trump will address the World Economic Forum. Trump has vowed to levy tariffs on US trading partners, including China and the European Union. The financial markets are taking his threats seriously, and on Monday, his first day in office as President, Trump announced that he was delaying applying tariffs until Feb. 1. That announcement was a relief for the market and the US dollar fell sharply against many of the majors, although the yen failed to gain ground. Will Trump's comments at the World Economic Forum shake up the financial markets?
Investors are keeping a close eye on the Bank of Japan rate decision and December Core CPI on Friday. The central bank has hinted at a rate hike at the rate meeting and is widely expected to raise rates to 0.50%, which would be the highest level since the 2008 global financial crisis. After decades of deflation and an ultra-loose monetary policy, inflation has taken root and the BoJ is slowly moving towards normalization. The BoJ's tightening cycle makes it an outlier among the major central banks, most of which are easing rates in response to lower inflation.
Japan's core inflation rate has been steadily rising and is expected to climb to 3% y/y in December 2024, up from 2.7% in November which was a three-month high. The core rate, which is a key gauge of inflation trends, has remained above the BoJ target of 2% for over two years and is a key reason why the BoJ is tightening policy.
USD/JPY has pushed above resistance at 155.51 and 156.24. Above, there is resistance at 156.97
154.78 and 154.05 are the next support levels
$DXY Dollar on Deck: Will Tariffs Ignite or Undermine the Green TVC:DXY Dollar on Deck: Will Tariffs Ignite or Undermine the Greenback? 🔥💰
Is the U.S. Dollar about to flex its muscles like the Incredible Hulk—or get knocked out by global trade tensions? Let’s find out. 💪⚡
1/
Is the U.S. Dollar about to “Hulk out” 💪 or trip over its own shoelaces? Let’s break down the latest on the Dollar Index ( TVC:DXY ) after new tariff chatter. 🧵
2/
Markets briefly cheered Trump’s slower tariff rollout, fueling an S&P rally. But lingering threats against China, the EU, & NAFTA partners keep investors on edge—and that spells potential volatility for the dollar. ⚠️
3/
Near-term catalyst? February 1. Tariffs could jump to 10% on Chinese imports & 25% on Canada/Mexico. Higher import costs might boost the dollar (safe-haven appeal + inflation expectations), but watch for global retaliation. 🌐
4/
Tariffs + inflation = possible dollar strength. When prices rise, the greenback often flexes. But if the global economy slows due to aggressive trade policies, the TVC:DXY could feel the burn. 🔥
5/
Currency manipulation reviews by April 1 add more spice. If the U.S. takes action against “manipulators,” some see it as bullish for the buck. Others fear a global trade skirmish that drags everyone down. 🤔
6/
From a technical angle:
• Watch key support/resistance levels.
• Safe-haven flows could drive TVC:DXY up.
• Swift reversals are possible if markets sense overreach or a global slowdown. 📈📉
7/
Where do you see TVC:DXY heading with these tariff moves?
A) Strong rally ahead 🚀
B) Short spike, then slump ⬇️
C) Range-bound and choppy 🤷♂️
Tell us in the comments
1inch Network (1INCH)Comprehensive Analysis of 1INCH/USDT 🪙
Introduction
1INCH is the native token of the 1inch Network, a DEX aggregator designed to optimize trades in the DeFi space. This platform enables users to access the best rates across various decentralized exchanges. The 1INCH token serves multiple purposes, such as reducing transaction fees, offering discounts, and acting as a governance token.
🔍 Technical Analysis Breakdown
1. Long-Term Descending Channel
1INCH has broken out of its long-term descending channel and is currently retesting the channel boundary. This pullback is a positive sign for a potential bullish continuation, but further confirmation is needed.
2. Daily Support Zone (Red)
The $0.3377 - $0.3757 range is identified as a key daily support level.
If the price stabilizes within this zone and starts to rise, it could confirm the pullback and signal the beginning of an upward move toward higher resistance levels.
3. Weekly Resistance Zone (Green)
The $0.6276 - $0.7049 range represents a significant resistance in the weekly timeframe.
A breakout above this zone, accompanied by increased trading volume, could lead to a rally toward the blue target zone ($1.1819 - $1.450).
4. Support in Case of a Drop
If the red support zone fails to hold:
The price might re-enter the descending channel and move toward the weekly support zone ($0.2101 - $0.2338), marked in gray.
📌 Suggested Entry Points
1. Breakout-Based Entry:
Condition: Price breaks above the green resistance zone with increased trading volume and stabilizes above this range.
2. Pullback-Based Entry:
Red Zone ($0.3377 - $0.3757): Enter with a stop-loss below the red support zone.
Gray Zone ($0.2101 - $0.2338): Enter with a stop-loss below the gray support zone.
Note: The gray zone offers a higher risk-to-reward ratio but comes with greater risk.
📈 Entry Triggers and Confirmation Signals
RSI Support:
Price holding above the midline on higher timeframe RSI charts can confirm the start of an uptrend.
Increased Trading Volume:
Breakouts of key zones must be validated by significant volume increases.
Low-volume breakouts could indicate false signals (fakeouts).
⚠️ Key Risk Management Tips
Volume Monitoring:
Ensure volume spikes during breakouts to avoid falling for fakeouts.
Capital Management:
Given the sensitivity of this analysis, strictly adhere to proper capital management strategies and set stop-loss orders at the identified levels.
Patience and Confirmation:
Avoid impulsive entries. Wait for clear confirmation signals before committing to a trade.
✨ Final Conclusion
1INCH is at a critical juncture from a technical perspective:
The breakout from the descending channel and the pullback to the support zone indicate a positive setup for a bullish continuation.
Close monitoring of price behavior in the key zones (red and green) is essential, with confirmations such as rising trading volume and RSI support being mandatory for entry.
A successful breakout of the weekly resistance (green) could lead to targets in the blue zone ($1.1819 - $1.450).
However, if the red support zone fails to hold, a decline toward the gray support zone becomes a strong possibility.
UK GDP less than expected, pound edges lowerThe British pound has edged lower on Thursday. In the European session, GBP/USD is currently trading at 1.2205, down 0.22%.
The UK economy climbed out of negative growth for the first time in three months but not by much. After GDP contracted by 0.1% in September and October, November saw a small gain of 0.1%, missing the market estimate of 0.2%. In the three months to November, GDP showed no growth.
The small uptick in growth in November was welcome news for the government but the economic outlook is not very bright. The recent "tax and spend" budget will see tax increases take effect in April, including a rise in employer National Insurance contributions. This will hurt the business sector and many firms will cut back on spending and investment, which in turn will dampen economic growth. Inflation remains high and combined with low growth, stagflation is a real danger.
Another headache for the government is Donald Trump, who has promised to slap tariffs on US trading partners. The UK is heavily reliant on its export sector and a trade war with the US would be devastating for the fragile UK economy. As well, Trump's protectionist trade polices could lead to higher inflation which could derail much of the progress made to contain inflation. This week's soft UK inflation and GDP reports have raised expectations that the Bank of England will lower interest rates at the next meeting on Feb. 6.
In the US, December's inflation release presented a mixed picture, as headline CPI rose for a third straight month, while core CPI eased slightly. Expectations for a rate cut rose in the aftermath of the inflation report, sending the US dollar lower against many of the majors.
GBP/USD tested resistance at 1.2242 earlier. Above, there is resistance at 1.2310
1.2176 and 1.2108 are the next support levels
$USIRYYY -U.S Inflation Rate (December/2024)ECONOMICS:USIRYY
December/2024
source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
-The annual inflation rate in the US accelerated for the third consecutive month to 2.9% in December, as expected.
On a monthly basis, the CPI rose by 0.4%, exceeding expectations of 0.3%.
However, annual core inflation slightly decreased to 3.2% from 3.3%, below the anticipated 3.3%. The monthly core rate also eased to 0.2% from 0.3%, in line with expectations.
$GBIRYY -U.K Inflation Rate (December/2024)ECONOMICS:GBIRYY
December/2024
source: Office for National Statistics
-Annual inflation rate in the UK unexpectedly edged lower to 2.5% in December 2024 from 2.6% in November, below forecasts of 2.6%. However, it matched the BoE's forecast from early November.
Prices slowed for restaurants and hotels (3.4%, the lowest since July 2021 vs 4%), mainly due to a 1.9% fall in prices of hotels.
Inflation also slowed for recreation and communication (3.4% vs 3.6%) and services (4.4%, the lowest since March 2022 vs 5) and steadied for food and non-alcoholic beverages (at 2%). Meanwhile, prices decreased less for transport (-0.6% vs -0.9%) as upward effects from motor fuels and second-hand cars (1%) partially offset a downward effect from air fare (-26%).
Also, prices rose slightly more for housing and utilities (3.1% vs 3%). Compared to November, the CPI rose 0.3%, above 0.1% in the previous period but below forecasts of 0.4%.
The annual core inflation rate also declined to 3.2% from 3.5% and the monthly rate went up to 0.3%, below forecasts of 0.5%.
Aussie rises after US core CPI declines to 3.2%The Australian dollar is higher for a third consecutive trading day. In the North American session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.6233, up 0.63% at the time of writing.
The US inflation report for December was a mixed bag, as headline CPI rose while the core rate declined. Headline CPI rose to 2.9% y/y from 2.7% in November, matching the market estimate. Monthly, headline CPI rose to 0.4%, up from 0.3% and above the market estimate of 0.3%.
The more important story was the decline in core CPI, which excludes food and energy and is more closely watched by the Federal Reserve than the headline data. Core CPI eased to 3.2% y/y in December, down from 3.3% over the past three months and below the market estimate of 3.3%. Monthly, core CPI ticked lower to 0.2% in December, down from 0.3% a month earlier and in line with the market estimate.
The decline in core CPI was small but still significant, as the core rate showed downward movement after remaining unchanged for three months. Investors responded by raising the probability of a quarter-point cut in March at 29%, up from 19% prior to the inflation release, according to CME's FedWatch. The Fed meets at the end of the month and is virtually certain to hold rates.
Australia releases the December employment report early on Thursday. Australia's labor market remains solid, although the economy as a whole is struggling. Job growth increased by a strong 35.6 thousand in November, beating expectations. Will the positive trend continue? The market estimate for December stands at 15 thousand, which would mark a nine-month low. The unemployment rate has been low and fell to an eight-month low in November at 3.9%. It is expected to creep up to 4.0% in December.
The Reserve Bank of Australia meets on Feb. 18 and the strength of the labor market is a key consideration in the central bank's decision-making. As long as the labor market remains solid and does not deteriorate quickly, the RBA can afford to hold off on a rate cut. If, however, the employment report is softer than expected, it would put pressure on the RBA to lower rates at next month's meeting.
AUD/USD is testing resistance at 0.6231. Above, there is resistance at 0.6255
0.6189 and 0.6171 are providing support
US100 NASDAQ SHORTThe US dollar is broadly firmer, though the Japanese yen is proving a resilient ahead of the BOJ deputy governor's speech
Nasdaq slide as key tech stocks get hit
All three benchmarks are down for the last two weeks, with tech shares causing most of the damage
With the 10-year yield potentially getting to 5%, it’s going to be very hard for the equity market to really gain any meaningful traction here until there’s — at minimum — stability in interest rates
Interest rates rise? iN 2025 it will be possible:Inflation, signs of recession.
Cool +168% move $0.54 to $1.45 in 2 hours premarket $SGBXForget about market moving 1% on CPI news if you've got a stock like NASDAQ:SGBX moving 100% or 200%, taking a piece of the action at the safe spot in & out then moving on to the next one and repeating until you've got more money than you know what to do with
Market Analisys: S&P 500SP:SPX
In recent months, the S&P 500 has experienced notable fluctuations:
1. All-Time High : The index reached a record high of 6,099.97 points on December 6, 2024.
2. Correction : It then faced a correction, dropping to a low of 5,805.65 points by January 8, 2025.
3. Current Performance : As of January 14, 2025, the index closed at 5,842.91 points, reflecting a slight 0.11% increase compared to the previous day.
4. Technical Outlook : Analysts highlight potential weakness, with the next support level identified at 5,771.5 points.
In summary, the SP:SPX has exhibited volatility, peaking in December 2024 and entering a correction phase in early 2025.
Let's analyze in detail the various phases that have led us to this point – starting from October 27, 2023, the last moment with a significant downturn.
Since then, we’ve seen an increase of about 50%, with a maximum drawdown of 10%. This represents a more than positive performance. Prior to this, we experienced a brief decline lasting around 90 days, with a drop of approximately 11%.
Subsequent rallies have generally been strong, although they have been shorter and more contained. In total, we’ve experienced 5 rallies and 5 pullbacks. Currently, we are in a downtrend.
As mentioned earlier, except for the first rally, the most significant one, recent bull runs have been consistently interrupted by unwelcome news, data that does not meet investor expectations, and announcements from the FED and ECB indicating that interest rate cuts will be smaller than anticipated. All of this has brought us to the current situation.
We are now facing a maximum decline of about 5-6%, with a bounce on the trendline that has been guiding us since October 2023. This is all happening as inflation data is released today. The market seems to have entered a phase where it seeks further confirmations from the economy, and the technical chart is showing exactly that. Additionally, we have several other key economic data releases scheduled for this week.
What do you think the market’s next move will be?
BOJ to discuss rate hike, yen dips lowerThe yen remains calm and is lower on Tuesday. In the North American session, USD/JPY is trading at 157.98, up 0.34% on the day.
There are no tier-1 events out of Japan this week and the yen is having a relatively quiet week. That could change with the release of US inflation on Wednesday. Headline CPI is expected to rise to 2.9% y/y in December from 2.7% in November, while core CPI is expected to remain at 3.3% y/y for a third straight month. Inflation reports have had significant impact on rate expectations but the December inflation rate might not be all that significant, as expectations of a rate cut have fallen in recent weeks.
Since the December meeting, the Fed has tried to dampen rate-cut expectations and the market is not expecting a rate cut in the first quarter of 2025. The money markets have currently priced in a quarter-point cut at the Jan. 29 meeting at below 3% and at the March meeting at around 20%. With inflation largely under control and a solid labor market, there is little reason for the Fed to cut rates in the near term.
The Bank of Japan tends not to telegraph its rate plans, leaving investors in the dark and on the hunt for clues about the central bank's rate plans. The uncertainty adds to the drama ahead of BoJ meetings and means that each meeting should be treated as a market-mover.
BoJ's Deputy Governor Ryozo Himino said on Tuesday that the BoJ would discuss a rate hike at the Jan. 24 meeting. Himino didn't say what decision he expected the BoJ to make but reiterated Governor's Ueda recent comments that wage growth was solid and that there was a lot of uncertainty surrounding Donald Trump's trade policies.
USD/JPY tested resistance at 158.13 earlier. Above, there is resistance at 158.49
There is support at 157.78 and 157.42
AUD/USD steady as consumer sentiment slips lowerThe Australian dollar is showing little movement on Tuesday. In the European session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.6174, down 0.06% at the time of writing.
The Australian consumer remains pessimistic about the economic outlook. The Westpac consumer sentiment index fell 0.7% in January from -2% in December 2024. This brought the index down to 92.1 in January, down from 92.8 a month earlier.
The Westpac report found that confidence over employment has been falling and interestingly, a majority of consumers expect interest rates to move higher, despite signals that the Reserve Bank of Australia's first rate move will be a cut rather than a hike. The RBA hasn't moved on rates in over a year and the current cash rate of 4.25% continues to squeeze businesses and consumers. Australia releases third-quarter inflation on Jan. 29 and the central bank will be watching. That inflation reading could result in a historic rate cut if inflation is lower than expected.
We'll get a look at the US Producer Price Index later today, with mixed numbers expected. PPI is projected to jump from 3.0% to 3.4% y/y while decreasing monthly from 0.4% to 0.3%. Core PPI and is expected to jump to 3.8% y/y from 3.4% and from 0.2% to 03% m/m. If the PPI report indicates an acceleration as is expected, the money markets will likely lower their expectations for a rate cut.
Currently, the money markets have priced in a quarter-point cut at the Jan. 29 meeting at below 3% and at the March meeting at around 20%. Federal Reserve members are sounding hawkish and have signaled that the market shouldn't expect a rate cut anytime soon.
AUD/USD tested resistance at 0.6193 earlier. Above, there is resistance at 0.6209
0.6162 and 0.6146 are providing support
Levrage During this Metals Bull - finding the next Newmount?Relatively safe ways to gain exposure to leveraged plays in the form of mining companies.
Many established miners are way too unbelievably low with current metals prices. Here we look at the technical perspective on why I am bullish on these cyclical mining stocks and why they could yield outstanding returns - which is to say now may be the time to scale in before they catch up to precious metals prices.
FSM
ASM
SBSW
USD/CAD in holding pattern ahead of US, Cdn. jobs dataThe Canadian dollar started the week with strong gains but has shown little movement since then. In the European session, USD/CAD is trading at 1.4411, up 0.12% at the time of writing. We could see stronger movement from the Canadian dollar in the North American session, with the release of Canadian and US employment reports.
Canada's economy may not be in great shape but the labor market remains strong. The economy added an impressive 50.5 thousand jobs in November and is expected to add another 24.9 thousand in December. Still, the unemployment rate has been steadily increasing and is expected to tick up to 6.9% in December from 6.8% a month earlier. A year ago, the unemployment rate stood at 5.8%. This disconnect between increased employment and a rising unemployment rate is due to a rapidly growing labor market which has been boosted by high immigration levels.
Another sign that the labor market is in solid shape is strong wage growth. Average hourly wages have exceeded inflation and this complicates the picture for the Bank of Canada as it charts its rate path for early 2025. The BoC has been aggressive, delivering back-to-back half point interest rate cuts in October and December 2024. Inflation is largely under control as headline CPI dipped to 1.9% in November from 2% in October. However, core inflation is trending around 2.6%, well above the BoC's target of 2%. The central bank is likely to take a more gradual path in its easing, which likely means that upcoming rate cuts will be in increments of 25 basis points. The BoC meets next on Jan. 29.
In the US, all eyes are on today's nonfarm payrolls report. The market estimate stands at 160 thousand for December, compared to 227 thousand in November. The US labor market has been cooling slowly and the Federal Reserve would like that trend to continue as it charts its rate cut path for the coming months. An unexpected reading could have a strong impact on the direction of the US dollar in today's North American session.
USD/CAD is testing resistance at 1.4411. Above, there is resistance at 1.4427
1.4388 and 1.4372 are the next support levels
Sterling sliding, Fed worried about TrumpThe British pound is on a nasty slide and has lost 1.8% since Monday. In the European session, GBP/USD is currently trading at 1.2294, down 0.53%. Earlier, the pound fell as low as 1.2237 (1%), it lowest level since Nov. 2023.
The latest setback for the pound was Thursday's British Retail Consortium (BRC) Shop Price index, which came in at -1% in December, lower than the November reading of -0.4% and the market estimate of -0.6%. This was the lowest level since July 2021. This points to weaker consumer spending, a key engine of the economy.
The BRC has projected that food inflation will continue to accelerate, which will add to the squeeze that weary consumers are feeling from inflation and high interest rates. The UK government introduced a "tax and spend" budget last October but retailers have argued that this recipe will lead to retail job cuts and higher prices.
The Federal Reserve minutes of the December meeting, released on Wednesday, indicated that policy makers were concerned about the upside risk to inflation, particularly due to incoming President-elect Trump's potential trade and immigration policies. Trump has promised to slap punishing tariffs on US trade partners, including China. Trump has also called for mass deportations of illegal immigrants.
The minutes did not mention Trump by name but there was no doubt that Fed members had Trump in mind. Members noted their concern that inflation could rise due to "the likely effects of potential changes in trade and immigration policy".
Members also indicated that the Fed was "at or near the point" of slowing the pace of easing. After starting the easing cycle with a jumbo rate cut of 50 basis points, the Fed has delivered back-to-back cuts of 25 basis points. At the December meeting, the Fed lowered its rate forecast for 2025 to two cuts, down from four in the September forecast.
After the December meeting, the currency markets reacted sharply to the revised forecast and the US dollar shot up against the majors. The Fed again sounded hawkish in the minutes but this time the US dollar showed little movement against the majors, with the exception of GBP/USD.
GBP/USD is testing support at 1.2292. Below, there is support at 1.2220
1.2393 and 1.2465 are the next resistance lines
Australian dollar falls as core CPI dips lowerThe Australian dollar is lower for a second straight trading day. In the North American session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.6214, down 0.27% at the time of writing. The Australian dollar dropped as low as 0.60% but has pared much of those losses.
Australia's inflation report was a mixed bag in November. Headline inflation rose 2.3% y/y, up from 2.1% in the previous two months and above the market estimate of 2.2%. This marked the highest level since August and was partially driven by a lower electricity rebate for most households.
At the same time, the trimmed mean inflation, the Reserve Bank of Australia's preferred core inflation gauge, fell from 3.5% to 3.2% in November. This reading is close to the upper limit of the RBA's target band of 2%-3% and supports the case for the RBA to join the other major central banks in lowering rates.
The RBA has maintained the cash rate at 4.35% at nine consecutive meetings but is this prolonged pause about to end? In the aftermath of today's inflation report, the money markets have priced in a quarter-point hike in February at over 70%. Australia releases the quarterly inflation report for the fourth quarter on Jan. 29 and if inflation is lower than expected, expectations of a rate cut will likely increase.
The US economy has been solid and this week's services and employment indicators headed higher. The ISM Services PMI rose to 54.1 in December, up from 52.1 and above the market estimate of 53.3. JOLT Job Openings jumped to 8.09 million in November and 7.8 million in October. The market is looking ahead to Friday's nonfarm payrolls, which is expected to drop to 154 thousand, compared to 227 thousand in November.
AUD/USD tested support at 0.6214 earlier. Below, there is support at 0.6182
0.6250 and 0.6282 are the next resistance lines
Swiss inflation declines, Swiss franc steadyThe Swiss franc is higher for a third straight trading day. In the European session, USD/CHF is currently trading at 0.9038, down 0.09% on the day.
Switzerland's inflation rate continues to fall and that is raising concerns at the Swiss National Bank. Other central banks are worried about the upside risk of inflation but the SNB is worried about inflation dropping below its target band of between 0% and 2%.
December CPI came in at -0.1% m/m for a third straight month, in line with the market estimate. Annually, CPI ticked lower to 0.6% from 0.7% in November, also matching the market estimate. Food and services prices decelerated, while housing and energy inflation rose to 3.4%, up from 3.3% in November.
The SNB only meets four times a year and the next meeting isn't until Mar. 30. Still, the soft December CPI report has cemented a rate cut in March, with the markets currently pricing in a 25-basis point cut at 98%. Could we see a larger cut in March? The answer is yes, if inflation continues to decelerate.
The SNB slashed rates by 50 basis points in December and the 0.1% decline in inflation in November likely was an important factor in the oversized rate cut, which was the largest in 10 years. There are two more inflation reports ahead of the March rate meeting and the SNB could respond with another 50-bp cut if inflation is close to the bottom of the 0%-2% target range.
The US releases ISM Services PMI for December, the key services indicator, later today. Over the past two years, the PMI has pointed to expansion in every month but two, pointing to prolonged growth in business activity. The PMI is expected to improve to 53.0, following 52.1 in November.
USD/CHF tested resistance at 0.9053 earlier. Above, there is resistance at 0.9097
0.9001 and 0.8957 are the next support levels
dogwifhat (WIF)Technical Analysis of WIF Coin 🟢
Key Zones and Market Structure:
Main Support (Green Zone):
The long-term market floor lies within the range of 1.393 – 1.482, a zone where buyers have previously entered with strong momentum.
Main Resistance (Red Zone):
The range of 4.015 – 4.346 serves as a significant ceiling, acting as a major barrier to new highs.
Current Price Analysis: The price is currently trading at 2.061 and is attempting to break through the intermediate resistance at 2.178 – 2.268 with sufficient buying volume. The price's reaction to this level will determine its short-term direction.
Bullish Scenario:
✅ First Target (TP1):
If the current resistance is broken and the price moves past the 2.178 – 2.268 range, the next likely move will be toward the 2.821 – 2.989 area.
✅ Second Target (TP2):
Should the price continue with high volume and break through TP1, the final target will be in the range of 4.015 – 4.346, which represents the ideal exit point.
Key Point: Trading volume must increase during key level breaks; otherwise, the risk of a false breakout (fakeout) rises.
Bearish Scenario:
❌ Stage 1:
If the current resistance holds, the price may decline to the support range of 1.741 – 1.828.
❌ Stage 2:
If the gray support level is breached, the next support target will be at 1.393 – 1.482.
Key Point: A decrease in trading volume near key support levels could signal a deeper price drop.
Volume Analysis:
Volume increase near key zones (resistances and supports) is essential.
A decrease in volume when attempting to break resistance increases the likelihood of a fakeout.
RSI and Momentum Analysis:
📉 RSI Trendline:
Breaking the descending RSI trendline, along with crossing the 50 level, could confirm the beginning of a bullish wave.
📈 Overbought Zone:
If RSI enters the 76.86 – 80.48 range, the price may face corrective pressure in the upper resistance zones.
Suggested Strategy for Professional Traders:
Enter the market only after a confirmed breakout of resistance with high volume.
Use a scaling-in strategy to minimize risk.
Set stop-loss orders below key support zones to protect capital.
Final Summary:
This analysis identifies the key levels and possible scenarios for WIF Coin. Price action around critical support and resistance zones, combined with trading volume, will determine the future trend. For market entry, wait for confirmation of breaks or reactions at the specified levels.
Euro surges close to 1%, German CPI loomsThe euro has started the week with sharp gains. In the European session, EUR/USD is currently trading at 1.0403, up 0.91% on the day.
Germany's economy may not be in great shape. but inflation has been moving higher and the trend is expected to continue when December CPI is released later today. Inflation rose from 2% to 2.2% in November, its highest level in four months, and is expected to hit 2.4% in December. Service inflation is at 4% and core CPI at 3%, which indicates the battle to contain inflation isn't over.
Once the locomotive of Europe, Germany's economy has faltered badly and has slowed the eurozone's recovery. Germany's once mighty auto industry has been hurt by weaker Chinese demand due to the slowdown in the the world's second-largest economy. As well, China has gained a larger share of the global automotive market, at the expense of German auto exports. Unsurprisingly, Germany's manufacturing sector is stuck in contraction territory.
Germany's services sector moved back into expansion mode in December, as the Services PMI rose to a revised 51.3, up from 49.3 in November. The eurozone Services PMI improved to a revised 51.6, up from 49.5 in November. Spain continues to impress with its economic data, as the Services PMI climbed to 57.3, up from 53.1 in November. This marked a sixteenth straight month of expansion and was the highest level of growth since April 2023.
The US releases Final Services PMI later today. The market estimate for December stands at 58.5, compared to 56.1 in November. This points to strong business activity, which has been the linchpin of the US economy.
EUR/USD has pushed above resistance at 1.0331. Above, there is resistance at 1.0436 and 1.0564
There is support at 1.0203 and 1.0098