Most traditional risk assets performed fairly poorly throughout the session, especially the aussie and equity markets throughout Asia. Whilst there were no major market moving announcements or headline data releases, it appears investors in Asia are still wary of global economic conditions and, accordingly, are more willing to be risk-negative rather than risk-positive, unlike investors in Europe who appear to have developed a resistance to some risk-negative headlines that would have sent them into a panic just months ago.
The sell-off may not be over for AUD/USD
As was mentioned earlier, the aussie continued to slide against the dollar, eventually hitting a low around 1.0460. A combination of technical and fundamental factors created the perfect mixture for AUD/USD downside. Technically, the pair broke through a key support level around 1.0500 overnight and, in doing so, broke through the bottom of its recent trading range. On the macro side, better than expected retail sales data out of the US is driving investors to USD as they price in a decreased chance of further QE from the Fed. Finally, Australian’s domestic data took an unexpected turn when it showed that consumer confidence fell 2.5% month-on-month, cementing the headline figure well in pessimistic territory (96.6 vs. 99.1 prior) and, conversely, causing the aussie to spike lower.
Why are Australians becoming so pessimistic?
This confidence data highlights how cynical Australians are becoming. But is this really that surprising given events offshore and recent comments from the RBA? In Europe, the US and throughout Asia investors are calling on central banks to attempt to boost global growth throughout numerous stimulus/policy easing measures due to lacklustre levels of economic growth. Domestically, the RBA tempered calls from households for more rates cuts when it warned it would not risk re-inflating a housing bubble. Hence, it appears sentiment in Australia, like most of the world, hangs on the possibility of more action from the world’s major central banks, all of which seem to be waiting on the ECB after Draghi’s latest pledge.
Data watch
In other news, Australia’s Wage Cost Index surprised the market on the upside, printing at +1.0% q/q (expected and prior +0.9%). However, the aussie, unsurprisingly, was unmoved by the data.
In upcoming sessions volume may be a little light with both France and Italy out for a Bank holiday. Furthermore, the only headline releases from the region are from the UK, with jobless claims data and claimant and unemployment rates set to be released. The former is expected to print at 60.K and the latter two are anticipated to have remained unchanged at 4.9% and 8.1%, respectively.
Ones to watch: NZD/USD
This pair has broken through a key support level around 0.8065 and, consequently pushed to a session low around 0.8030. Nonetheless, it is important to see whether the pair retests the aforementioned support level as a resistance level. If so, it may pave the way for push lower. Standing in the way is a fairly large support line around 0.8000.
NZD/USD – hourly
Source: eSignal
Disclaimer: The information and opinions in this report are for general information use only and are not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any currency or CFD contract. All opinions and information contained in this report are subject to change without notice. This report has been prepared without regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any particular recipient. Any references to historical price movements or levels is informational based on our analysis and we do not represent or warranty that any such movements or levels are likely to reoccur in the future. While the information contained herein was obtained from sources believed to be reliable, author does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness, nor does author assume any liability for any direct, indirect or consequential loss that may result from the reliance by any person upon any such information or opinions.
Foreign Exchange and other leveraged products involves significant risk of loss and is not suitable for all investors. Increasing leverage increases risk. Spot Gold and Silver contracts are not subject to regulation under the U.S. Commodity Exchange Act. Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are not available for US residents. Before deciding to trade forex, you should carefully consider your financial objectives, level of experience and risk appetite. Any opinions, news, research, analyses, prices or other information contained herein is intended as general information about the subject matter covered and is provided with the understanding that FOREX.com is not rendering investment, legal, or tax advice. You should consult with appropriate counsel or other advisors on all investment, legal, or tax matters. FOREX.com is regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) in the US, by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) in the UK, the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) in Australia, and the Financial Services Agency (FSA) in Japan.