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EURCHF: SNB JORDAN - EYE & BUY 1.05/8, 80% SEPT CUT, STRONG CHFSNB President T. Jordan comment highlights: - If Needed, Can Cut Rates Further - 50bps to 1.25% possible until negative rates turn less effective - €˜Big Concern€™ Over Significantly Overvalued CHF in 2016 risk-off dominated year - CHF 3m Libor prices 80% chance of a 25bps cut (-0.75 to -1.00%) within 3 months (was only 40% before brexit) - Low bond yields not ideal for foreign-reserve management - Swiss central bank president currently doesn’t see need to act/ adjust policy, despite risks - Survey shows CHF needs to rise to 1.05 before rate cut President T. Jordan G20 Quotes: 1. “We are monitoring the situation very carefully: what are the consequences for inflation and growth in Switzerland, what are our policy options,” 2. Regards to ECB/ BOE future policy - “The franc remains significantly overvalued, it’s a big concern for us.” 3. “The low level of interest rates is of course not ideal for foreign-currency reserve management, but monetary policy is expansionary everywhere,” Jordan said. “That’s an environment we can’t change and we have to adjust our investment policy accordingly.” 4. “There clearly are risks,” but “whether they materialize or not is not in the hand of Switzerland,” he said. “It depends on the decisions Europe will take and how strongly they will affect the global economy and financial markets” and “we hope, of course, that sensible decisions will be taken.” Trading strategy: 1. Looking at the 1.08 level it looks like there is some clear SNB defence of this level, which is consistent with the SNB's comments that they have intervened at this level in the past (e.g. brexit). - So an easy strategy is to buy any <1.08 dips, with a 1.088-1.09tp as it looks as if there is some consistent buying from the 1.08 level to the 1.09 level so take advantage of this trend , lower the better, as it certainly looks as if the SNB is engaging in intervention at this level and will continue to do so - even if not officially as in the past with the 1.20 level. 2. Bloomberg Poll see's a definite SNB 25bps cut if the EURCHF drifts to the 1.05 level - so beyond buying 1.08 dips with perhaps 1lot, i advise strongly buying 1.05 and less dips with say 2-4lots based on heavy FX intervention directly or rate based if we were to such low levels. TP can be placed at the 1.08-9 level still - In terms of cutting capacity, also polled by BBG showed that the SNB has room for another 50bps of cuts before its negative policy may turn counterproductive - so this strategy is sound for now.
Long
by QuantumLogicTrading
GBPJPY: BOJ MISS; BOE HIT? MORE SELLING ON THE HORIZONBOJ Miss: 1. BOJ deliver one of the biggest misses in history (vs expectations/ pressure) - only increasing ETF purchases and dollar funding by apprx $60bn annual in total vs 10-20bps of Depo and LSP cuts + 5-20trn in QE increase + ETF increase. *See attached post for in-depth detail on the BOJ situation and price action history/ Yen strength/ Safe havens* BOJ Miss Compounded with a BOE Hit: 1. BOE are expected to ease by 25bps and possibly add 50bn to their QE programme on Thursday - a BOJ miss combined with a BOJ hit should cause compounded losses for GBPJPY as there are two drivers - Yen should continue this week to get stronger (as BOJ easing expectations surpass and Yen strength increases) whilst GBP gets weaker as the BOE on Thursday likely takes action, reducing the value of Sterling - with both providing the optimal environment for downside. - Historically, when BOJ has delivered new policy/ missed GBPJPY has sold off aggressively between 2-8days and 700-1200pips. Now whilst I dont expect the same level of aggression in the near-term as the relative value is much lower now (135 vs 175) so moves lower should be smaller - I do expect that 400pips lower on the day is not the end of the selling rally for GBPJPY. - Initially at the start of the week i expect GBPJPY to move lower at least another day (satisfying historical moves), perhaps into the 133.5 level which would be 550pips, lower than the smallest sell-off but fair given the relative value changes - not that i would be surprised to see more. - Later into the week is when I expect the bulk of GBPJPY losses to come (e.g. Thurs/ Fri) - the reason for this is as 1) any Yen downside risk from the MOF releasing upside in the details of their stimulus package would have surpassed e.g. increased stimulus from 28trn-40trn (unlikely) or increased govt spending section - both of which devaluing yen moving gbpjpy potentially higher. Though I think the risks are more skewed to MOF delivering a package that strengthens JPY as it undershoots expectations as several MOF members have mentioned the package being over several years - the more years the less punch the package has (given some expected it (5% of gdp) to be spent in 1yr), equally the less direct govt spending portion of the package will also lessen the depreciative impact on yen (rumoured to be 13trn, if less then Yen could get considerably stronger). As mentioned I see the MOF release to be asymmetrically skewed to expectation downside for these reasons. 2) BOE GBP selling pressure would happen when they cut the rate and adjust their QE programme - this is a highly likely scenario as BOE MPC Minutes in July said "Most members expect to loosen policy in August" and recently the BOE's biggest hawk M. Weale switched stance in light of UK Business PMI/ Optimism prints at 10yr lows saying the BOE needs to act fast/ delaying policy further doesn't make sense. Trading strategy: Sell GBPJPY @mrkt 133.5TP1 130.5TP2 128.5TP3 - risk averse traders could wait for the 50-60% MOF/ general Vol bounce into 136-38 level before shorting - I would reshort here anyway.
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
11
USDJPY - BOJ MISS; FISCAL STIM PACKAGE & TRADING YEN FROM HEREBOJ - 3trn increase in annual ETF Purchases + $24bn increase in USD funding for banks 1. The BOJ on Friday delivered a shockingly poor package, imo they changed the snallest part of their current QQE programme. 2. What was interesting though was the markets reaction - immediately after the decision $Yen spiked higher then lower to 103 level but from then and into and through the London Open $Yen was being brought/ held up around the 103 level - it wasnt until NY came in at 1430GMT that $Yen broke lower. - But even then it was surprisingly a laboured move lower, taking almost the full NY session to find its lowes. - Some of the UJ weakness was down to a big GDP miss of 1.2% vs 2.6%exp, which sold the rates market off now implying only a 12% chance of a hike in September vs 18% the previous day and 25% earlier in the week, so i t would have been interesting to see what would of happened with out this dollar downside impetus. USDJPY from here: 1. Personally from 102.00 i see $Yen lower in the near term e.g. we could easily open 50pips lower on sunday into the key level at 101.5 as the asia session adds to shorts that they missed during their own session post-BOJ. - There is the possibility that we see some upside in $Yen as the MOF releases their fiscal package - the more actual govt spending the package includes and the shorter the timeframe, the greater the impact of the fiscal package on giving UJ some relief - but still i advise shorting rallies as i beliveve we move into the 100s from here. - That said in reality the impact of the fiscal package is likely to be limited if not completely muted as 1) the market already knows the extent and some of the details of the package and has done for the past week+ e.g. 28trn of which the market baring piece, the govt spending, is rumoured to be around 13trn - so this information is likely already baked into the price and imo was the driver of the support we saw on friday at the 103 level (asia/ ldn sellers wary of shorting in anticipation of the fiscal package). Thus any topside is only likely to come if MOF changes this dramatically to say 20trn govt spending (anything less is already pre-priced imo) OR even increases the package (but this is also unlikely as Japan has the highest govt debt:gdp ratio as it is) - but imo it is unlikely they would do either anyway. - In-fact, i actually believe the MOF stimulus package has asymmetrical risks to the downside/ disappointing markets - as several MOF officials have commented that the 28trn package is such a large package that it is likely to be over several years - thus the longer the MOF stretch the package over more disappointment the market will price and this could actually end up being a driver for more Yen appreciation given some expected the whole 28trn in one year - which isnt impossible given the size of the Japanese economy (20x bigger than the package + not all of it is in fresh govt spending). UJ View/ Trading strategy - Sell USDJPY asap @mrkt 102 - 100TP1 99TP2 - or wait for the 30/40% chance of a bounce and sell from 103/4 on Tuesday: 1. So I see UJ moving lower from here to the 100's, until Tuesday where i see there being a risk of the market gaining some topside MOF stimulus surprise (which nonetheless is capped at 103.5-104 tops - in which i would sell) but more likely MOF disappointment (e.g. 5y package, less than expected actual spending) which will give UJ seller more ammo and could push us through the 100 level, assuming UJ has traded on the offer since Sunday open (which is likely imo)..
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
14
USDJPY/ GBPJPY: BUY $YEN IF DATA MISSES; SELL £YEN IF DATA HITSThe Risky BOJ front run trade using CPI inferences - I find it very interesting that the BOJ is releasing ALL of its key economic data (minus GDP) before making the easing decision, especially as we have already had CPI data this month so we will have an 2 CPI releases in one month which ive never seen happen before (CPI from JPY is usually due next week). - This to me indicates strongly that 1) All of the data released e.g. CPI, employment, retail sales, industrial production has some weighting on the BOJ decision and 2) that CPI especially has perhaps the strongest weighting on the BOJ decision as they are releasing 2 CPI prints in one month which means they brought forward the measurement by a week - this means they value the CPI print strongly. - Therefore, knowing this, in an ideal world either 1) ALL of the data will contract, which puts more pressure on a big BOJ easing package or 2) ALL of the data improves which eases the the pressure on the BOJ package - thus from here we are then able to take risk with an "educated" guess of what the policy will tend to be i.e. big or smaller. Long USDJPY if CPI less than -0.4% and generally weak/ miss other data: 1. The rationale is that a lower than expected and last print shows the JPY economy is decelerating even more aggressively than in previous months and therefore the BOJ will me MORE inclinded to ease heavier, as the data suggests there is a bigger problem. - Obviously the data/ CPI print imo acts as a function of BOJ easing, if we get massive misses across the slew of data then we should expect a bigger easing package than if there is only a slight miss - therefore we should treat our trades the same way. 2. Long USDJPY by xlots depending on the serverity of the data miss e.g. if CPI was -1.0% and unemployment ticked up to 3.4% i would do 3lots long usdjpy. If it was -0.5% and 3.3% i would do 1lot for example. Short GBPJPY if CPI is greater than -0.4% and other data generally hits/ is positive 1. The rationale is the opposite of the above - we assume if data improves that the BOJ will be less inclined to do a big easing package so we expect yen to remain strong so we go long yen and short GBP. - Once again the lot size is a function of the serverity of the data e.g. if CPI turned positive to 0.1% and unemployment dropped to 3% we would short 3lots. vs only 1lot if CPI ticked up only 10bps from last and unemployment ticked down only 10bps. Risks to the view: 1. The First risk is that data in general is considered to have "underlying trends" so the fact one print is outstandingly bad/ good might NOT impact policy e.g. thin about US NFP that was less than 100k and shocked markets - but it was a one off so didnt make the FOMC cut rates back. 3. Data underlying trends thus can reduce the weighting this data is given e.g. even if CPI improved to 0.1% from -0.4%, the BOJ could argue this is a one off print as the underlying trend for the past 6m+ has been negative inflation thus they will go ahead with a big easing package. - HOWEVER , the above point "3" in mind i believe data to the downside will be given a greater weighting than data to the upside, so we should have a short yen bias as weak data has been the underlying trend for most data points (especially CPI). -Further, i also think tail-end/ RHS/ LHS results will be given a proportionately larger weighting in their decision so this should also be reflected in our trading e.g. if CPI was -2% from -0.4% i would be a much much more aggressive buyer of UJ than if a -0.5% print from -0.4% is seen. The same can be said to the topside, if i saw +1.5% inflation from -0.4% last i would be a much greater seller of GBPJPY than if i saw -0.3% CPI from -0.4%.
by QuantumLogicTrading
3
BOJ: JPY V USD, EUR, GBP - WHAT THE OPTION MARKET IS TELLING US50 Delta ATM Volatilities: USDJPY - - $Yen has an ATM implied volatility curve of 55.95%mrkt 24.08%1wk 18.31%2wk 14.12%1m - Obviously we are aggressively steeper in the front end, with BOJ tomorrow and JPY MOF Fiscal Package details coming next week providing heightened vol for the 1day and 1wk vols - naturally we then see the curve tail off as the event vol fades. GBPJPY - - £Yen has an ATM implied volatility curve of 58.66%mrkt 25.93%1wk 23.02%2wk 18.30%1m - The same can be said about sterling yens ATM curve, adding that it is steeper accross the tenors as the recently heightened GBP risk/ BOE event vol is priced into the 1wks and 2wks greater relatively vs $yen, with 1ms also outperforming $Yen as the perceived GBP risk/ vol post-brexit carries higher vs the USD. EURJPY - - EUROYEN has an ATM implied volatility curve of 49.42%mrkt 22.82%1wk 18.03%2wk 14.23%1m - EUROYEN mirrors $yen from 1wk-1m as the term structure is very similar for eur vs usd (no significant event vol expected). Though we see a notable 6-7vol divergence in the current vol which is expected as $Yen expressions are favourable for BOJ out-performance positionings (USD a firmer based/ more widely traded) and £Yen are favourable for BOJ under-performance structures as BOE next week compunds the attractiveness in the downside of the cross (BOE likely to ease) which in turn increases the demand for £Yen expression on a BOJ no-show. 25Delta Risk Reversals (25d call vol minus 25d put vol - examines the relative demand) USDJPY - - $Yen RRs are +3 mrkt, +0.62 1wk, -0.67 2wk, -0.81m - Interestingly we are seeing a moderate $Yen topside coverage in the front end (e.g. current and 1wks) implying the market is hedging/ positioning for a BOJ Out-performance Surprise (call demand > Put). The RRs are quite small at +1 so i wouldnt say there is a huge consensus on BOJ HIT expectations. Nonetheless calls are likely being purchased to hedge underlying spot short positions in the near term as any $yen/ BOJ topside is expected to not last long and be faded aggressively - which explains the switch to negative RRs after the BOJ/ MOF events have passed. GBPJPY - - £Yen RRs are -6 mrkt, -3 1wk, -1.3 2wk, -2.2 1m - Understandably SterlingYen has a different RR structure as BOJ and BOE predispositions are priced into option structures, rather than just BOJ (as is the case for £yen and euroyen) - so we see a strong put bias, particularly in the front end (current and 1wks) as these cover the BOE and BOJ event vol. Unlike $Yen we see there is a clear trend for BOJ miss/ downside speculation as it is the logical chosen proxy, as a BOJ miss is highly likely to then be compounded over the current and 1wk terms as BOE hit expectations are priced in, accelerating the GBPJPY to the downside and RRs towards the LHS (BOJ miss = yen strength, BOE hit = Streling weakness - aggressive downside). Also put gbpjpy, automatically hedges any BOJ hit/topside risk as 1wk later the BOE is likely to ease so any yen downside arising from a BOJ hit will likely be smoothed somewhat by BOE easing induced GBP selling; thus lessening the negative impact or even turning the position back into the money.
by QuantumLogicTrading
6
LONG USDJPY: ANOTHER BOJ OUTPERFORM CASE - 28TRN GOVT STIMULUSAnother argument for the BOJ outperform case - Post BOJ Buy $Yen @MRKT 111tp: 1. We know BOJ and JPY Govt Abe/ Aso have had many meetings post-brexit and as it follows the JPY Govt have announced today that they will deliver a fiscal stimulus package of 28trn - which was to the very right of the curve (10-30 was talked about). - This in mind, imo it is rational to extrapolate that 1) surely if the JPY govt are choosing a tail end stimulus package (aggressive), BOJ will be inclined to do also? Given that it is the BOJ remit for economic targets like inflation, not the governments - BOJ wouldnt want to be seen as dropping the egg would they e.g. govt does as much as it can but BOJ only midly eases - doesnt make sense? Especially given the relationship between kuroda/ aso/ abe it would almost be impossible. - 2) The BOJ will know/ see that the JPY Govt are taking the "extreme" side of measures, so once again this puts the BOJ under-pressure to do the same as they dont want to be seen as "letting the side down" especially as it is the BOJ who really has the power to change things - the Fiscal package is rather an indicative/ nice gesture of the govts willingness to help - rather than any real hard easing when you consider the Govt package is likely to be 28trn a year but the BOJ purchases/ injects 80trn A MONTH to its monetary based in JGBs - thats 960trn a year. So 27trn govt vs 960trn BOJ - is the govt really making an impact or are they instead signalling their commitment/ putting pressure on the BOJ? I think so. Under-performance case: 1. Perhaps less meaty, but nonetheless a valid point - Japan, JPY Govt and BOJ have lived with low inflation/ deflation for the past several decades and no "extreme" action has been taken to resolve it (well not enough to fix the problem anyway) so this pressure on the BOJ we talk about above - is it real? or is it a theoretical pressure that they "Must" hit their targets? - If history predicts the future then yes, it is a theoretical economic pressure - they haven't hit the target for 20yrs so why would they do measures to hit it now? There's no public pressure, im sure theyre happy consuming at lower prices - unlike with high unemployment. - Off topic but it would be interesting to see a Japan with high Unemployment - an economic indicator that causes civil unrest (Greece riots) and is a necessity to be solved for the wellbeing of any nation - thus my bets are if unemployment was at 15-20% (similar comparison to deflation) for the past 15yrs something drastic WOULD have been done a long time ago, or be done on Friday to fix it. After all, theres no driver to fix something that doesnt really need fixing is there? Think about the last time you went to extreme measures to fix something that wasn't much of an issue...
Long
by QuantumLogicTrading
11
LONG DXY / USD: HAWKISH FOMC RATE STATEMENT - SEPTEMBER HIKE?The FOMC rate statement was largely in line with expectations and to the hawkish side - with a september hike hinted at. Much of which followed the rhetoric of FOMC members in the past few weeks (see previous posts) and data (disregarding the poor -4% durable goods mom print). Perhaps the most hawkish/ promising statement made for a Sept rate hike was the fact Fed George Preferred to Raise Rates to Range Between 0.50% and 0.75% - hinting hikes are now being considered. And "Fed Could Raise Rates Later This Year, Possibly As Early As September". Though on balance the Fed did repeat the dovish phrases "low/soft" several times when regarding various measures of inflation and business investment. This FOMC Statement holds in line with my medium run long $ view (hike based) - especially against Yen, GBP, EUR, AUD and NZD who are expected to ease and thus policy diverge. In terms of market pricing, the Fed Funds Future Option implied probabilities of a rate cut have continued their steepening this week - following the 3wk trend with Sept/Nov now pricing a 25.9/ 26.8% probability of a hike (up from 9% 2wks ago) - Dec now has a probability of 41.8% and is showing some stability here, with a 50bps hike implied at 9.9% and rising steadily. From this the implied probability of one rate hike in 2016 is at nearly 70% (Nov+Dec) - which imo is in line, or slightly below my qualitative probability of 90%. With the probability of 2 hikes at 12.5% which is about what i would expect. Nonetheless eyes are now focused on BOJ - which is expected to be a year changing meeting. September FOMC Rate Decision Statement - 0.50% unchanged: --Fed Leaves Policy Rate Unchanged, Says Near Term Economic Risks Have Diminished -Fed Offers More Upbeat Assessment of Labor, Economic Conditions -Fed Could Raise Rates Later This Year, Possibly As Early As September -Federal Reserve Keeps Fed Funds Range Unchanged at 0.25% to 0.50% -FOMC: Voted 9-1 For Fed Funds Rate Action -Fed Leaves Discount Rate Unchanged at 1.00% -Fed: Economic Activity Expanding At A 'Moderate' Rate -Fed: Labor Market Strengthened, Job Gains 'Strong' in June -Fed: Payrolls, Other Indicators Point to 'Some Increase' in Labor Utilization in Recent Months -Fed: Market-Based Inflation Compensation Measures 'Remain Low' -Fed: Survey-Based Inflation Expectations Measures 'Little Changed' -Fed: Inflation Expected to Remain Low in Near Term -Fed: Inflation Expected to Rise to 2% Over Medium Term As Transitory Effects Fade -Fed: Household Spending Has Been 'Growing Strongly' -Fed: Business Fixed Investment Has Been 'Soft' -Fed Continues to Expect 'Only Gradual Increases' In Fed Funds Rate -Kansas City Fed's George Dissents On Fed Policy Action -George Preferred to Raise Rates to Range Between 0.50% and 0.75%
TVC:DXYLong
by QuantumLogicTrading
4
BOJ EXPECTATIONS: EXCEED/ HIT - LONG USDJPY; MISS - SHORT GBPJPYBOJ Miss - Sell GBPJPY @Market price; 129tp1 - up to 800pips. 1. A BOJ miss can be considered as delivering the median expectations e.g. 10bps cut to the depo (-0.2%), 10bps cut to the LSP (-0.1%), Yen10trn increase in monthly JGB purchases & 50% Increase in Annual ETF purchases e.g. 3.3trn-5trn. Fiscal Stimulus Yen10-15trn. - The package above or less should be sold as the market expects this to maintain UJ at 105-6 level. - The short GBPJPY is a great trade anyway as you benefit from the BOE easing carry which should in turn move us to 125 (BOJ miss and BOE hit) - which the BOE 1m forward OIS rates market currently prices 25bps at 100% and the average expectations are 25bps and £50bn of QE (even more certain now as the BOE M. Weale - the most hawkish MPC Member moved to the easing side as Business optimism and PMI dropped to their 10yr lows) - thus GBPJPY can expect further downside even past the BOJ as the BOE is all but guaranteed to ease "most members expect to ease at the august meeting" - July BOE Minutes Quote. - Currently a BOJ miss is the most likely outcome - as many of you have seen in FX Yen has been brought aggressively as expectations have fallen, much a mirroring from the change in rates market where - For the 25th the 3m JPY Libor prices only a 6.65bps cut at to the key rate at 100% and on the same date the 3m euroyen August future prices only a 5.5bps cut at 100%. Though the further dated September 3m euroyen future prices a 9bps cut a 100% - likely a function of the market betting on more action being done in the september meeting (which makes sense). BOJ HIt: Buy USDJPY @Market price; 107-111tp - up to 700pips 1. A BOJ Hit can be considered as double or more the median expectations (in my opinion) - 20bps+ to the depo, 20bps+ to the LSP, Yen20trn+ to the JGB Purchases and 100-200% extra annual ETF purcases from Yen3.3trn to 6.6/9.9trn. Yen20-30trn Fiscal stimulus. - The package above or more IMO will allow $yen to trade to 111, and for a sustained amount of time. - The long USDJPY is the best proxy to play the "over-delivery" imo as USD is the most stable base, and has the most pips to gain on yen weakness - given FOMC hawkishness/ Hiking expectations give USDJPY topside even more impetus. - As above, the markets currently DON'T expect this result, as $Yen trades at the 104 level and rates markets price only 5-6bps of lowering. HOWEVER, if BOJ/ JPY Govt are to deliver a big easing package - one that smashes expectations (such as the one above) it will be now. The reason I think this is the case is below:
by QuantumLogicTrading
11
USDJPY: BOJ - FINAL THOUGHTS; FUNDAMENTAL/ TECHNICAL ANALYSISAt market price: 1. At 104 $yen offers an attractive buy and sell side - from the position of not knowing what the BOJ will do.. - I dont think that this pull-back to 104 is a material shift in risk-sentiment, rather i think this is a technical sell-off where the 107 pivot was hit (as highlighted) at which point BOJ/ UJ bulls lost confidence on their long positions which in turn caused a cascade of $Yen selling on profit taking - right into the 104 pivot. Also as you can see the price traded to 50% retracement of the risk-rally price (currently at 40%) after 4days - i dont consider this a fundamental risk-shift, such a shift would cause much more aggressive selling in fewer days e.g. 50% in 1-2 days, rather than 4 - this just looks like a technical pull-back and i wouldnt be surprised to see use move into the 105mids again. However, A break below 104 and I would agree that this is a BOJ market expectations move/ shift in risk sentiment to risk-off. 2. Most of you will know that I have been a $yen bull for some time citing policy divergence and future policy divergence as the reasoning. - So this in mind, going into BOJ/ Fiscal stimulus, where policy divergence is likely to increase, how does this affect my bullish $yen view? Bullish $Yen arguments: 1. The base case remains approximately 10bps to the depo rate, 10bps to the LSP, yen10trn to JGB and some 50-100% increase to the annual ETF from 3.3trn + the median expectation of stimulus is Yen15trn. - So from a bulls perspective i wonder, how much of this move is already priced in, given the 5-6% move from 100/101 certainly wasn't for free - I think at the 106/7 level pretty much all of the base view is priced e.g. 10bps depo, 10bps LSP, yen10trn JGB increase and yen10-15trn of fiscal stimulus.. - Thus to make a position worth while imo the BOJ/ Fiscal Stimulus is going to have to outperform the median expectation. Imo in order to see 111 and for $yen to trade at such levels as an average for the next 3-6, we would have to see the base case almost doubled; e.g. 20bps to the depo, 20bps to the LSP, yen20trn JGB and perhaps yen20-30trn fiscal stimulus (which has been mentioned). The case for BOJ beating expectations: - I think the market is somewhat underestimating the BOJ/ Govt at only 6bps given the BOJ is seeing an already -0.4% deflationary environment (-0.5% in Tokyo) when - 1) Yen is up 20-30% in 2016 vs most ccys - which is even more deflationary, they need a big package to reduce this; 2) 9 consecutive months of exports falling aggressively - deflationary and a function of strengthening Yen - needs to be combated by aggressive easing policy to devalue the yen for sustained period; 3) No policy change since January - so they have had 6 months of policy transmission, where the situation has worsened, to see now something drastic is needed; 4) Brexit/ Fed hike/ US Election/ China/ other risk-off factors likely to drive yen further up in the future - thus preemptive action needs to be taken now; 5) Great Pressure from JPY Govt/ public given -0.4%CPI is the rate they had back in 2014 when they started the massive QEE programme - basically hasnt changed in 2yrs - BOJ underpressure for results; 6) BOJ knows markets are ready to sell any "average" easing - so they know they need to be aggressive to beat/ get infront of the marker; 7) BOJ knows its perhaps the last and best time to reclaim any market trust/ confidence - anything less than extraordinary and market will continue selling any future BOJ policy as they are already inclined to do - Since BOJ/ Kuroda confidence is low as they have failed to deliver on several previous big occasions e.g. April. - If the above materialises I advise buying $Yen at market price, with a 109-111TP.
by QuantumLogicTrading
6
DXY/ USD: FOMC - GS 65% 2016 RATE HIKE; RABO ONE 2016 RATE HIKEGoldman Sachs on July FOMC Decision : - The run of positive economic news in recent weeks has coincided with generally dovish comments from Fed offcials. Policymakers have indicated that they are not “behind the curve”, and have expressed increased uncertainty about the neutral level of interest rates. We would treat recent comments with caution, however, as we have not heard formal remarks from the Fed'€'s leadership. - Taken together, we see recent economic data and the public comments from Fed officials as consistent with only modest changes to the FOMC statement. We think the committee will upgrade its discussion of the labour market and measures of inflation expectations, but change little else. The period between the July and September meetings will include a number of important data releases as well as the annual Jackson Hole conference. Therefore, policymakers will have an incentive to keep their options open, and plenty of opportunities to guide market expectations, should they need to. - We continue to see a 25% chance that the committee will raise the funds rate in September and a 40% chance that it will do so in December - implying a roughly two thirds probability of at least one rate increase this year. RaboBank on July FOMC Decision: -While the Fed is in a wait-and-see mode to assess the threats to the global outlook and the strength of domestic momentum, recent US data have boosted the Fed;€™s confidence. We expect the Fed to squeeze in one rate hike before the end of the year, most likely in December.
TVC:DXYLong
by QuantumLogicTrading
NZDUSD: TECHNICAL ANALYSIS - 0.70 RES, MA, STDEV, IV=HV & RR NZD$ Technical analysis - Remain bearish below 0.70 - 0.69tp1 0.68tp2 on a rate cut (Aug 10th): Key level close: 1. On the daily and weekly we closed at the strongest pivot point of recent times at 0.70 - this is very bearish as historically this is the strongest level (lower than post brexit). MA: 1. We trade below the 4wk and 3m MA - this is a bearish indication + we are finding some support at the 3m moving average where price currently sits, though NZD$ looks to try and push lower with daily candles skewing their spikes to the downside. We have been above the 6m MA since June which sits at 0.69 and likely offers our next bearish support once we break the 3m MA. IV/ HV: 1. Realised Vols have also unsurprisingly aggressively come off in recent days, likely a function of the RBNZ rhetoric fading. Plus Implied vols are seen steeper in the 1wk and flatter in the 2wk-1m - with 1wk, 2wk and 1m Implied vols trade at 13.12%, 12.66%, 13.09% vs HV 1wk 2wk 1m at 10.90%, 15.60%, 14.58% - this mixture between HV and IV shows there has been considerable volatility drivers in the past/ future which are causing the curves to converge and diverge in no particular direction e.g. brexit, RBNZ hawkish/ dovish comments, future rate expectations - which all distort the interaction between HV and IV. Deviation Channels/ Support levels: 1. We Trade near to the bottom of the 6m deviation channel at 0.69 as NZD economic assessment asserts downside pressure on the pair, nonetheless but we could see support here as 0.69 is also a price action support level. Looking at the 12m SD channel, we are trading just below the average price at 0.703 - hence there is definitely more room for downside and we have just crossed the middle regression line implying we are entering some downside deviation now, with the 12m -2SD resistance level at 0.675 which is in line with the price support level at 0.68 which is where i think we will head after the RBNZ announces a 25bps cut.. Risk-Reversals 1. 25 delta Risk reversals trade marginally bearish for NZD$, with current at -0.2, 1wks at -0.3 and 2wks at -0.6 and 1m at -0.95 - this suggest the NZD$ has a slight downside bias which concurs with the RBNZ's dovish stance and committment to cutting rates that was made clear in the July economic assesment (see attached). - 3m risk reversals trade with a similar downside bias to the 1m at -1 which shows the market expects extended NZD$ downside, likely a function of further rate cut expectations from the RBNZ. *Check the attached posts for indepth fundamentals*
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
USDJPY: BOJ IN FOCUS - G20 KURODA & REUTERS ANALYST EXPECTATIONS28/29th June BOJ Meeting Expectations by 27 analysts polled by Reuters: 1. 23/27 (85%) expect easing from the BOJ. - The Median Analyst expect a 10bps cut to the headline interest rate to -0.2% and a Yen10TRN Extenstion to the BOJ's monetary base target to Yen90TRN a month (JGB and ETF Purchases). - One analyst expects easing in September, two in October and One sometime next Year. 2. Whilst the Median view is 10bps and 10trn extension, further to the right of the easing curve we observe some top investment banks expecting a more with GS forecasting a 20bps cut and an extension to the Monetary base from somewhere between Yen10-20TRN My View: 1. I am concur with those views further to the right of the easing curve - i expect BOJ to deliver 20bps and 10-20trn increase in monthly JGB/ EFT Purchases as the stagnant inflation situation (-0.4%National/ -0.5%Tokyo) requires some aggressive policy. - Reason for this thinking is that currently the Monetary base has been steady at Yen80trn for some time and the rate has been at -0.10% since January - so realistically is a 10trn increase and 10bps decrease going to be sufficient? - Lets look at the maths - a 10trn increase is 12.5% and a 10bps drop takes us to -0.2% - personally i do not think a 12.5% increase and a slight adjustment to the key rate will bring JPY underlying inflation into a uptrend - if 80trn and -10bps can't, i dont think 90trn and -20bps can - they need more e.g. 100trn and -30bps - a 25% increase in monthly monetary base + a significant decrease in the interest rate - bare in mind that the SNB has rates at -0.75% so the BOJ has a lot of room relatively to cut futher, it's not like its on the edge of economic possibility already when other central banks are already more aggressive. 2. Now whether they will deliver to the right/ aggressive side is up for question, as BOJ/ Kuroda have always been on the conservative side. Though in recent times the BOJ have come under-pressure by JPY Govt/ Abe so imo if they will ever deliver big - it will be now. - Kuroda shrugged off heli money (below) but he did communicate that there could/ should be a double effort from monetary and fiscal policy in order to increase the multiplier effect - which bodes well - we could see dramatic fiscal and monetary policy. Even if we fall short of cash dropping out of aircraft. Kuroda's comments at G20: - "Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda said on Saturday he would ease policy further if necessary to achieve its 2 percent inflation goal, while reiterating a commitment to continue with the current stimulus until prices are anchored there." - "If the economy's (recovery) trend continues, leading wages and prices to rise in a virtuous cycle, which is continuing, prices will eventually rise to the 2 percent price stability goal," - "We always examine risk factors for the economy and prices and will take additional easing steps if necessary to achieve the price stability goal. I'll explain that together with Japan's economy, prices and monetary policy at this meeting." - "Uncertainty will continue, including negotiations between Britain and the EU, which will take years. So we will be paying attention to such things," - "If it means that central banks are directly underwriting government bonds, or managing monetary and fiscal policies as one, that would be prohibited in Japan as well as other advanced economies, as lessons from history tell us," - "If governments utilize fiscal policy while central banks ease policy from the economic and price viewpoint, that would boost the multiplier effect on the economy. This so-called policy mix is nothing wrong as macro policy.
by QuantumLogicTrading
2
SHORT EURUSD: ECB MEMBER NOWOTNY + DOWNSIDE ECONOMIC REVISIONSECB nowotny reiterated senior member official sentiments regarding the situation with Italian banks unsurprisingly saying people "Should not over dramatise situation regarding Italian Banks". He also hawkish said that the Brexit impact forecasted on the EUROZONE economy would be less than the IMF forecasts. Perhaps the most important sentiment though was that regarding the ECB's APP which is due to end in March 2017 saying "Future path of QE decision to be made in Q4" and "Still open to whether to phase QE purchases out or not" - providing little inferences whether the ECB expects to extend or end their APP. However, one would think, unless the underlying inflation trend was to pick up, certainly there would be an extension/ phase out of QE. A source from social media reported on the matter with more conviction and to the hawkish side saying "Reports Said To See No Current Urgency For QE Action In September". Nowotny playing his cards close to his chest regarding the future ECB QE path is unsurprising, however, the Social Media Report claims are a little more worrying given they somewhat write off fresh QE action for the ECB's september meeting - something which many banks/ consensus thought would be the case, given the persistently low Euro inflation and hints from ECB minutes/ Draghi that maturity extension would be likely at the September meeting. However, the authenticity/ reliability of the reports has to be considered given the source is social media. On a more certain note the ECB Polled forecasters posted dovish/ EUR bearish economic outlook figures for EUR, downgrading GDP and inflation readings for 2017 and 18, with 2016 staying unchanged . Trading strategy: 1. This personally doesnt change my material medium-term short EUR$ 1.1100 trade as the macro headwinds/ future headwinds described in previous posts still go unpriced. Though the short view is weakened slightly IF the above "no QE extension" is true since some of the future EUR$ downside was based on further ECB easing. Though all of which is just speculation, and without any conviction from officials, waiting for the September decision itself seems the smartest thing to do continuing short - especially as forecasted GDP/ Inflation figures have been reduced which is bearish for the EUR and as the USD leg of the trade continues to strengthen as rate hike expectations continue to increase in this risk-on market with Fed Funds Futures Opt Implied probs now trading at 19.5% for Sept, 20.8% Nove and 40% for Dec, up from yesterday at 18.8, 20 an 39.8 - the risk-on bias already started today will likely see these probabilities continue to strengthen until the end of the day. ECB Member Nowotny Comments: -ECB's Member Nowotny: "In principle decision from 2nd June not to employ new monetary tools remains true, new uncertainties have emerged." -ECB's Member Nowotny: Still open on whether QE will be phased out gradually or not -ECB's Member Nowotny: Future path Decision on QE to be made in Q4 -ECB's Member Nowotny: EZ 2017 Inflation Seen Over 1%, Sees No Acute Danger Of Deflation -ECB's Nowotny: BREXIT Effect on Eurozone GDP expected to be less than IMF forecast -ECB's Nowotny: Should not over dramatise situation regarding Italian Banks ECB Polled Forecasters: -ECB: Polled Forecasters See Eurozone 2016 HICP at 0.3%, Matching Previous Quarter -ECB: Forecasters See 2017 HICP at 1.2%, vs 1.3% Seen in 2Q -ECB: Forecasters See 2018 HICP at 1.5% vs 1.6% Seen in 2Q -ECB: Forecasters See 2016 GDP Growth at 1.5%, Matching Previous Qtr -ECB: Forecasters See 2017 GDP Growth at 1.4% vs 1.6% Seen in 2Q -ECB: Forecasters See 2018 GDP Growth at 1.6% vs 1.7% Seen in 2Q -ECB: 55% Of Respondents Included Estimate of UK Referendum Impact in Forecasts *See attached posts for more EUR$ downside fundamentals*
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
GBPUSD SHORT: BOE/ FOMC POLICY EXPECTATIONS INCREASINGLY BEARISHFollowing today's Service/ Manufacturing PMI miss (worst contraction in 88 months - since 2009) the Sterling market has come under significant pressure as BOE rate cut expectations increase with OIS rates markets pricing a 94% chance of a 4th Aug cut vs 85% before the PMI's were released. Further, the PMI misses has attracted attention from UK Politicians e.g. Chancellor Hammond - which puts further qualitative pressure on the BOE to cut, rather than just quantitative data prints - Political pressure combined with data pressure is the best us GBP sellers can ask for when looking for a BOE rate cut. I have to say this is a breath of fresh air for GBPUSD shorts that i am holding (cable trades down to 1.30xx) - given that the start of the week was the complete opposite, with strong CPI/ Employment and Hawkish comments from MPC members Weale and Forbes; all of which reducing the pressure on the BOE to cut and thus the sterling market. Below also, following the PMIs we see Aug 4th BOE expectations from BoAML/ JPM - which call for a 25bps cut and 50bn addition to QE (with increased near-term pressure to do so/ act post-PMI) - in which imo will send GBP$ to 1.25, if not through - these expectations are encouraging for shorts thougb it should be remembered the cut was expected in July also but didnt materialise (though the minutes from the meeting did state "most members expect to ease in August". Further we see fresh recession concerns emerge as from Barclays below - once again putting downside pressure on GBP through poor GDP and increased BOE cut likihoods. Further, on the USD side of the trade, in this risk recovery we continue to view FOMC rate hike expectations rising - aiding dollar topside (and gbp$ downside) - as Fed Funds Futures Opt Implied probs now trade at 19.5% for Sept, 20.8% Nov and 40% for Dec, up from yesterday at 18.8, 20 an 39.8 - the risk-on bias already started today will likely see these probabilities continue to strengthen through the end of the day. Trading Strategy: 1. So from here after holding shorts at 1.3400 average, given this fresh and extreme impetus for downside - I will continue to hold my cable lower to the 1.285 target (unload 50%) and save 25-50% (depending if i unload 25% at the 1.305 level) for the Aug meeting itself where 1.25 is likely - where before today holding cable seemed more risky as the risks looked skewed to a hawkish BOE, which now has flipped. Unlikely, but any rallies to 1.33-35 level i will be reshorting - cable downside is a function of time imo. - I like holding short because BOJ are likely to ease, whilst the FOMC stay neutral/ Hawkish, this in turn puts more pressure on the BOE to ease/ GBP - in order to prevent GBP appreciating vs JPY (disinflationairy) BOE must ease too & hawkish FED stance puts pressure on GBPUSD lower. - Risks to the view continue to be if 1) New/ Weale/ Forbes continue to reiterate their hawkish/ no easing stance and perhaps less impactful; 2) Next weeks UK GDP reading - will not contain much Post brexit data so any upside is unlikely to give GBP strength, though downside is welcomed and could cause further selling (Low pre-Brexit GDP gives BOE more reason to cut) GBP OIS PRICING A 94% CHANCE OF A 25BPS CUT FROM THE BOE IN AUGUST (85% PRE PMI) - UK CHANCELLOR HAMMOND: Must restore uncertainty after July PMI - UK CHANCELLOR HAMMOND: BOE will use monetary policy tools at its disposal - UK CHANCELLOR HAMMOND: BOE have tools to respond to market turbulence in the short-term BoAML ON BOE: - We look for the BoE to cut rates 25bp and increase QE by £50bn in August, split between Gilts and private sector assets. - BoE inaction so far and heightened policy uncertainty leaves risk-reward unattractive in the front end in our view. - We prefer to position for potential BoE Gilt purchases, reiterating our 5s20s Gilt flattener as attractive in a QE-scenario. JP MORGAN ON BOE: - Current market pricing of a 25bps rate
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
2
SHORT NZDUSD: GOLDMAN SACHS FORECASTS 0.68, 0.64, 0.62 GOLDMAN SACHS EXPECT 3 RBNZ RATE CUTS OF 25BP APIECE IN AUG, NOV AND MAR. In a scheduled "Economic Update" published on Thursday, the RBNZ signalled a significant strengthening in its easing bias, and dovish shift across its views on domestic inflation and domestic/global growth. At the heart of many of these changes is renewed concern about the elevated NZD. In our view, these changes make clear that the RBNZ is positioning for a deeper easing cycle, notwithstanding ongoing risks to financial stability from rising house prices. NZDUSD Targets: - 3 Month: 0.68 - 6 Month: 0.64 - 12 Month 0.62 This is largely inline with my previous posts/ reaffirms my short view of NZD$ - especially with the possibility of 50bps of cuts increasing for this year (GS citing two cuts); Plus I also see increased USD strength over the medium term as rate hike expectations/ implied probabilities ever grow - Fed Funds Futures Opt Implied probs now trade at 19.5% for Sept, 20.8% Nove and 40% for Dec, up from yesterday at 18.8, 20 an 39.8 - the firsk-on bias already started today will likely see these probabilities continue to strengthen until the end of the day. The Probability of 2 hikes this year is also becoming an ever stronger possibility with 2 hikes pricing at 7.5% in Dec - and with July Pricing a hike for the first time since Brexit at 2.4%
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
2
SHORT NZDUSD: RBNZ DOVISH ECONOMIC ASSESSMENT HIGHLIGHTSThe RBNZ was dovish in their economic assesment and IMO used it to communicate their 100% commitment to a OCR cut. Key drivers of this view were quotes such as "futher policy easing will be required, and monetary policy will remain accomodative.", "NZD currency strength makes it difficult to hit target inflation" and "NZD exachange rate is too high stronger NZD implies inflation outlook will be weak" So clearly there is no illusion as to the RBNZ's August 10th decision. Perhaps the only question, given the extensiveness of the dovish rhetoic/ comments is how much will the RBNZ cut? could it be 50bps rather than than the usual 25bps given how aggressively dovish they have came out on the record. Trading Strategy: 1. From current levels there is little interest in adding fresh shorts - shorts still standing from 0.72/3 are firm and should be held. A 25bps cut IMO will take NZDUSD to 0.68TP and a 50bps cut, with the shock pricing it even lower, likely to 0.65/4. 2. Risks to this downside view continue to be RBNZ driven. As we have seen in the past 2wks Kiwi has traded at the mercy of the RBNZ - 2wks ago when the OCR rate cut initially began to price us to 0.70, the RBNZ came on record talking about kiwi house prices limiting the ability to cut the OCR which caused NZD$ to rally back to 12m highs, where then a week later, the RBNZ announced their emergency "economic assesment" which completely flipped the script back on the dovish side - now this week the assesment has been released and is dovish with the rate hike being price now. - But in the 3wks between now and the rate decision, im sure there is a level for more RBNZ comments to conflict this dovish sentiment. RBNZ Economic Assessment Highlights: -RBNZ: Further Policy Easing Likely -RBNZ: Will Continue to Watch Emerging Flow of Data -RBNZ: House Price Inflation Excessive -RBNZ: Bank Lending Curbs Aim To Limit Financial Sector Instability -RBNZ: Many Uncertainties Around Outlook -RBNZ: High New Zealand Dollar Adding To Headiwinds For Dairy, Manufacturing -RBNZ: High NZ Dollar Makes It Harder To Achieve Inflation Target
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
2
SELL AUDUSD - JUNE RBA MINUTES HIGHLIGHTS - DOVISH/ CUT POSSIBLEOn the margin RBA remained in line with previous meetings, adding little but still keeping it on the dovish side imo. Once again, as in previous minutes (and from several other central banks) RBA continued to communicate the necessity of "watching key data" to drive future policy decisions. Interestingly though, they also mentioned the negative impact of a strong AUD which in turn supports RBA doves out there as a cut is the remedy to stop a deflationairy currency in its tracks. Further, RBA notably were under no illusions regarding their inflation situation stating " inflation set to stay low for some time" - another encouraging stimulus for doves given inflation's important position/ weight for setting future policy. As per the attached post, i remain dovish/ bearsh on aussie$, and i continue to expect a cut to 1.50% (25bps) this year given i expect their inflation to remain stagnant. Clear targets are 0.73 when probability of a cut is higher - though i would enter shorts regardless if AUD$ could find its way to its 12m highs at 0.78, though unlikely. I like USD strength in the medium term too hence supporting the short Aussie dollar view RBA Minutes Highlights: RBA MINUTES: BOARD TO WATCH KEY DATA, WILL MAKE ADJUSTMENT TO RATES IF NEEDED; REVIEW OF FORECASTS IN AUG WILL HELP STEER POLICY - Inflation set to stay low for some time, employment mixed, retail sales look set to pick up - Stronger AUD would complicate economic rebalancing - Economic transition is now well advanced
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
3
SELL NZDUSD: EYES ON CPI PRINT 23:45GMT - >0.5%=0.73; <0.4%=0.67Short NZDUSD based on low CPI/ inflation = an RBNZ OCR cut is 90% likely - 105 mins after market open at 23:45GMT NZD releases their June CPI print. - In all RBNZ mandates they reiterate how they consider CPI to be their "main/ sole" target or dictator of the monetary policy they set (check any of their minutes etc). - Their target is 2%, plus recently they announced that they would hold an "emergency"/ brought forward economic assessment (this lead to increased short bets on NZD$ at the back of last week (with NZD$ falling from 0.733 to 0.710) as many speculated that this meant the RBNZ has a heads up on the CPI print - e.g. its bad). - See here for more details on NZD CPI and likelihood of a RBNZ OCR cut: www.bloomberg.com - In simple terms if CPI fails to grow on the quarter for NZD e.g. 0.4% or has in fact fallen e.g. 0.3% or less - it is highly likely that the RBNZ will cut their OCR rate, in order to boost the CPI, which in turn will send NZD$ likely to a terminal rate of 0.67 (could be as much as 0.65), hence why last week we saw shorts increase on the pair as fast money tries to front run the market/ print. Trading Strategy - Short NZD$ if CPI print misses or equals 0.4% - Stagnant/ low Inflation = RBNZ OCR cut likely: 1. Personally I dont have any interest in playing the long kiwi$ side e.g. if the print is higher as; 1) the RBNZ isnt happy with NZD trading so well (due to its deflationairy pressures), so action could come to reduce the NZD. 2) There is approximately 300-400pips of downside from here (at least) if a RBNZ OCR cut comes, whereas a no cut will likely see NZD$ Drift to 0.73 (maybe higher) so the risk:reward complex isn't as attractive to the upside IMO. 2. I will be waiting for the CPI print at 23:45GMT - if it is lower or equal to 0.4% I will Short NZDUSD 2lot@Market price; 0.68TP1 0.67TP2 0.65TP3 . 3. This trade is effectively betting on an RBNZ OCR rate cut; See attached posts for more details but this is already highly likely - and IMO is a definite if CPI is 0.4% (even more so if it is lower). Ideally id love to see 0.3%. - The rate cut is ranked likely if CPI comes in at 0.4% or less because 1) Inflation is the RBNZ key target, so stagnation is what they have to avoid - a rate cut is the likely tool they'll use given they have one of the highest CB rates in the developed world; 2) the NZD dollar is very expensive across the board and the RBNZ have communicated their dismay regarding the strength of the currency (e.g. saying its very strong/ causing disinflationairy pressures) - so a OCR cut is also the likely response if the RBNZ wants to depreciate the NZD dollar against all of its trading partners; 3) An OCR cut will ease any of the Brexit Commonwealth Headwinds that may or may not drift into NZD's economy of negative impact - so as these 3 reasons are compounded I believe an OCR cut is made ever more highly (80-90%) likely thus bearish bets against NZDUSD make sense to me from here. 3. This CPI trade, if comes in on target (0.4% or less), is also good as LDN and NY session's will have 8-14 hours until they start - so you will be able to get ahead of the market/ mostof the largest FX flows. Though the Asia session will be in full swing so dont expect an easy ride - IMO fingers should be on the trigger to execute the short immediately if 0.4% or less is seen - NZDUSD will likely drop 200+pips in less than 30seconds if these figures are the case (if not even quicker). Any questions or comments please ask - reading the "sell nzdusd @0.73 - tp 700pips" post ive attached helps support this short Kiwi$ trade
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
19
SHORT EURUSD: MISPRICING ECB & FED POLICY/ FUTURE POLICY/ BREXITThe Gross underpricing of ECB and FOMC Monetary Policy Changes - A fully-priced medium-term equilibrium Lower coming? EURUSD: *Short EURUSD 3m-12m Duration: 1/2lots @1.11 - 1.07TP1; 1.04-5TP2 1.01TP3 1. On Decemeber 2nd the ECB cut their rate by 10bps to 0.05%, paradoxically this actually caused EURUSD to rally higher. Thus this is a mispricing as Reductions in CB interest rates send currencies lower as 1) it reduces the demand for the currency as hot money flows, seeking higher rates, falls and; 2) Increases the Supply of the currency as at lower interest rates, banks borrow more and lend more, which in turn (through the bank/ credit multiplier) increases the EUR money supply. - So reduced demand + increased supply = EUR should have a lower value, so EURUSD should have fallen. Instead EURUSD actually rallied 350pips higher to 1.095 on the day - so this policy action has been underpriced - Though it should be noted that the reason EURUSD didnt fall was because going into the Dec ECB meeting expectations of Draghi were priced at 15-20bps of cuts so since he "failed" the market reacted hawkishly/ buy EUR. 2. On Dec 16th the FOMC increased their rate by 25bps to 0.50%. For the same, but opposite, reasons above this leads to increased USD demand and reduced supply. - so the net impact should be aggressively increased USD strength, however, EURUSD only fell by some 100pips before days after erasing these gains to 1.08 back to 1.10 - so this policy action has been underpriced . 3. On March 10th ECB cut their rate to 0.00% or 5bps and extended their QE programme by several EUR100bn. This once again reduces EUR demand and increases EUR supply (even more so as QE is combined). - So the net impact once again should be for EUR weakness to be priced in and EURUSD to trade much lower. However, once again paradoxically on the day EURUSD actually traded HIGHER? from 1.10 to 1.12 - so this ECB policy action is the third CB action to go UNPRICED in EURUSD 4. On the 24th of June the UK voted to leave the European Union in a shock Brexit vote - now given that it was a shock vote, EUR should have traded aggressively lower as one of its strongest countries voting to leave its economic union 1) weakens the E.Unions GDP/ Employment/ Inflation status as the UK leaves; 2) Causes uncertainty regarding the new trade agreements between the UK and itself, especially given that the UK is one of the regions biggest export markets; 3) causes uncertainty regarding other nations leaving - a run on the EU could develop.. currently several more nations have called for a vote. - So all in all the Brexit result is negative for the economic stability of the Euro area and as a result this should reduce demand for EUR as investors fear the worst/ choose safer currencies. Reduced EUR demand should cause EURUSD to trade lower - it took a 200pip loss to 1.118 - 200pips of downside is not enough to price perhaps the most uncertain event possible for the EUR (800pips more suitable given UK is 16% of the eurozone).
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
2
LONG USD VS JPY, EUR, GBP: HAWISK FED BULLARD - FED FUNDS RALLYBullard is the lone Fed official forecasting just one additional rate increase, and expects modest growth over the next two and a half years. But he reiterated Tuesday he's not expecting the economy to head south. However, did go out of his way to mention a relatively dovish point "We Have Some Ammunition if We Need it During Next Recession". Nonetheless he remained hawkish net on the margin, reiterating FED Georges hawkish comments regarding the labour market "About as Good as It's Ever Been", whilst using the June NFP print to flatten any questions regarding the low May print saying "Strong June Jobs Gains Showed May Report Was 'An Anomaly'". Similarly Bullard continued with Georges sentiment of the US's post-brexit robustness stating that the "Market Reaction to Brexit Shock Was 'Satisfactory,' 'Orderly'" - and infact surprisingly pushed this hawkish brexit sentiment on to new levels of "Ultimately the Brexit Impact on U.S. Economy Will be 'Close to Zero'". This is perhaps the most hawkish/ upbeat statement i have heard form a key Fed member since the decision which is positive given Bullard's naturally dovish stance. Bullard also stressed the need for a solid US Fiscal package to boost demand, where i have to say fiscal stimulus has almost gone forgotten about in the last 7-years post crash, given the dominance of the central banks, quoting "U.S. Badly Needs Fiscal Agenda for Boosting Economic Growth". Once again todays "FED speaker tracker" continues to add to my long $ view in the medium term. Today already we have seen front end rates continue their aggressive recovery this week, with the fed funds rate implied 25bps hike probability now trading for Sept/ Nov at a whopping 18% vs 11.7%Mon, with Dec trading at 36.3% vs 29.2%Mon . 10y UST (TNX) rates trade up another 4% today after a 5% gain yesterday, whilst 30yrs trade 3% up on the day (TNY) - as global risk rallies. Whilst USD is trading a little weaker in the immediate term as it readjusts lower for risk-on USD selling, long USD/ DXY is my medium term view as we continue to see the US FOMC Rate curve aggressively steepen, which is likely to continue for the next week at least - steeper implied curve means hike is more likely - more likely or realised hikes = increased (in the medium-term) dollar strength. Further, we expect dovish/ easing BOJ BOE ECB over the same period, this monetary policy divergence compounds the long $ view against its 3 biggest crosses (hence the long DXY expression) Medium term trading strategy: 1. The best expression of this medium term USD view is long DXY - as above I hold 8/10 conviction views for a number of the heavily weighted USD basket crosses based largely on likely monetary policy divergence in the medium term (FOMC Hiking whilst BOE, BOJ & ECB ease/ cut) e.g. LONG USDJPY @104 - 106.3TP1 109.5TP2; SHORT EURUSD @1.11 - 109.3TP1 107.5TP2; GBPUSD @1.34 - 131.2TP1 128.5TP2
Long
by QuantumLogicTrading
8
BUY USDJPY @104 & SELL GBPUSD @1.33: RISK-ON, POLITICS, BOJ, BOEThe Federal Reserve's regulatory point man said work to address the lessons of the 2008 financial crisis won't be complete without better regulation of short-term funding both inside and outside the banking system. St Louis Fed President Jim Bullard may be the Fed's new super dove, but he's no pessimist, he says. Bullard is the lone Fed official forecasting just one additional rate increase, and expects modest growth over the next two and a half years. But he reiterated Tuesday he's not expecting the economy to head south. Trading Strategy 1. Given this I remain bullish on the $ in the medium term, despite this spike in risk-on which IMO is unlikely to last more than 2wks. In the immediate term I like long $yen as the best play ATM vs other expressions - with a target of 109, entry at 104 as 1) the markets have finally signalled they are ready for a recovery bull run, post the brexit risk-off/ safe haven rally - largley on the back of CB stimulus. I believe USDJPY has been the most sold risk-on asset, thus it is now ripe for buying; 2) JPY fiscal stimulus is likely to come; 3) BOJ is likely to deliver 10-20bps of cuts to its interest rate 4) we have broken the 104 "brexit seller resistance level" which has held since the vote - this break imo means we can now move to 109+ as the recovery leg before resuming lower; 5) the Fed Funds Rate curve continues to steepen across the curve but particularly aggressively in the front end (yesterday 10ys adding 5%) and as a result implied probabilities of hikes continue to rally across the 2016/17 tenors (Dec hike now 33.7% vs 29.2%Mon); 5) check the attached posts for long $jpy support 2. Secondly, short GBP$ is a trade i am closely eyeing.. I am a 70% seller at 1.32 (90% at 1.35) - short GBP rallies is the preferred trade as the BOE is likely to deliver easing in Aug that will drive us down to the 1.25 terminal rate that I have predicted - thus i am hoping we get some "poor information money" flows into GBP up to 1.34/5 going into Friday as 1) UK Political Uncertainty is eased - as Theresa May is the New PM starting Wednesday; 2) GBP buying on Thursday if the BOE doesn't cut rates, whilst I (and the market) believes an august cut is the likelihood instead, given the aggressive GBP selling these past weeks it is prudent to assume quite a large amount of money may/was be betting on a July Cut thus if this "disappoints" some of the market we could see cable trade higher to 1.34+; 3) Long GBP is the risk-on trade, so if risk holds up/ carries on rallying we could see GBP$ take us to 1.34+ - CB and Fiscal stimulus + the fact risk has been depressed for so long, i believe risk has the momentum to rally until the end of the week at least (next risk-rally then looks to 28th July for BOJ stimulus?) 3. The long $Yen and short GBP$ also acts as a dynamic hedge as the long UJ is the risk-on coverage, with the short cable the risk-off half - combining both semi-hedges your exposure, something i like to do when trading. FED Tarullo Speech Highlights - "the conditions for destructive runs that threaten financial stability could exist even where no institutions that might be perceived as too-big-to-fail are immediately involved" FED Bullard Speech Highlights - Bullard: An unemployment rate around 4.7%, gross domestic product growth of 2% and the Fed' preferred inflation gauge, the personal consumption expenditures index, at 2%. - "If there are no major shocks to the economy, this situation could be sustained over a forecasting horizon of two and a half years" - "we have no reason to forecast a recession given the current state of the US economy"
Long
by QuantumLogicTrading
TRADING CORRELATION PT 1- EURUSD: SELL EUR$ ON DXY MOVES HIGHER This 2-part article will look at the practical application of correlations in trading and show how to use correlation inferences to exploit the statistical advantages they offer. On the 4h time frame, the highest day-tradable timeframe imo we see EUR$ has an exclusively negative and almost 1for1 correlation with the dollar index (or dollar "market"), however, despite popular belief EU actually has a mixed and weak correlation with GU (as we see the EU v GU correlation move from positive to negative several times). This relationship is backed up by EU price action currently trading at +2sd of the mean, whilst GU performs the stark opposite at -2sd of the mean. We can use this information in 2 ways to trade the 4h time frame - please bear in mind this is the 4h timeframe only, corrs differ using different time-frames. 1. We know that EU and GU dont hold any confident correlation thus we SHOULDNT make trades based for EU based on GU - despite many people often trading EU based on GU moves. 2. Instead, we know 4h EU is highly correlated with the $ Market, thus we CAN make trades based on $ Index moves - so personally, i will wait for the $index to move/break higher, at which point i will then SHORT EU, since they have a 90%+ negative correlation relationship which is rising atm. - This imo gives us a perfect entry signal, once $ Index moves up we can then short the overweight EU which is trading at highly volatile levels above its average. I also like short EU fundamentally for: FOMC hawkish or hike on the 16th - must push eur$ lower BREXIT 23rd june - UK Referendum imo has NOT yet been priced at all in downside euro's yet (especially compared to GU, this is the main driver for the increase in negative corrs between the two pairs currently) ECB poor econ management - Eurozone is STILL suffering with below 0% inflation and 10%+ unemployment, i think this trend will continue throughout the year and ECB will have to do more printing/ issue more EURO supply side, thus moving EU down - especially if the FOMC hikes and the Monetary policy diverges more. I will shortly release a follow up article, looking at a higher time-frame to illustrate the different tradable inferences we can make.
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading
2
GBPUSD OPEN - 100 PIPS LOWER; UNDERPRICED RISK = SELL PULL BACKSA disappointing open from cable with a bears perspective. Gapping down 100 pips to 1.435 almost immediately puts my sell limit orders (at 146.5) in "unlikely" territory of being hit this week. On friday following the $ EMP report cable managed to rally to 1.458 - i was hopeful it would tick a few more pips upward before the slew of selling started as we move further into FOMC and Brexit event Uncertainty territory. Reason being, i was looking for better/ safer levels to short at - cable at 1.465 is an almost CERTAIN trade (the ones i like) as the next daily support level isnt until 1.443 which means there was over 200 pips of 0 risk equity upside to be collected. Since we are already trading well below last weeks lows at 1.436, we will likely soon test the daily support level at 1.433 then 1.430. TRADING STRATEGY: SELL/ FADE ANY PULL BACKS IN A PYRAMID e.g. 1@1.450, 2@1.456 & 3@1.464! TPSL is discretionary.. i personally have my stops just above 1.48 (on my current shorts at 1.45as I will be holding until the 23/24th of june (to include the FOMC and BREXIT REF volatility) which at somepoint IMO will yield at least TP1.5x the amount of SL = 250/300pips. FOMC hike = 1.38 or 700pips; FOMC Hawkish = 1.41 or 400 pips; BREXIT uncertainty = 1.40-1 or 400-500pips; BREXIT YES = < 1.345. Thus the risks from 1.45 are certainly skewed to the downside for cable (upside for shorts) in my opinion. Above is my strategy for this week, given it is the last realistic week we will be able to add "risk-cheap" shorts to our portfolios (given FOMC is on the 16th and brexit ref on the 23rd). BUT given we have already started the week lower, I think the market has finally begun to price in the cheap risk hence the 100 pips lower - you will see in my previous articles i said to short cable anything below 1.45 - which is now 150pips of upside and looking good for more!
Short
by QuantumLogicTrading