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Date: 19th April 2024.

Weekly Commodity Market Update: Oil Prices Correct and Supply Concerns Persist.


Trading Leveraged Products is Risky

The ongoing developments in the Middle East sparked a wave of risk aversion and fueled supply concerns and investors headed for safety. Hopes for imminent rate cuts from the Federal Reserve diminish while attention is now turning towards the demand outlook.

The Gold price hit a high of $2417.89 per ounce overnight. Sentiment has already calmed down again and bullion is trading at $2376.50 per ounce as haven flows ease. Oil prices initially moved higher as concern over escalating tensions with the WTI contract hit a session high of $85.508 per barrel overnight, before correcting to currently $81.45 per barrel.

Oil Prices Under Pressure Amid Middle East Tensions

Last week, commodity indexes showed little movement, with Oil prices undergoing a slight correction. Meanwhile, Gold reached yet another record high, mirroring the upward trend in cocoa prices.

Once again today, USOil prices experienced a correction and has remained under pressure, retesting the 50-day EMA at $81.00 as we moving into the weekend. Hence, despite the Israel’s retaliatory strike on Iran, sentiments stabilized following reports suggesting a measured response aimed at avoiding further escalation. Brent crude futures witnessed a more than 4% leap, driven by concerns over potential disruptions to oil supplies in the Middle East, only to subsequently erase all gains. Similarly with USOIL, UKOIL hovers just below $87 per barrel, marginally below Thursday’s closing figures.

Nevertheless, volatility is expected to continue in the market as several potential risks loom:

* Disruption to the Strait of Hormuz: The possibility of Iran disrupting navigation through the vital shipping lane, is still in play. The Strait of Hormuz serves as the Persian Gulf’s primary route to international waters, with approximately 21 million barrels of oil passing through daily. Recent events, including Iran’s seizure of an Israel-linked container ship, underscore the geopolitical sensitivity of the region.

* Tougher Sanctions on Iran: Analysts speculate that the US may impose stricter sanctions on Iranian oil exports or intensify enforcement of existing restrictions. With global oil consumption reaching 102 million barrels per day, Iran’s production of 3.3 million barrels remains significant. Recent actions targeting Venezuelan oil highlight the potential for increased pressure on Iranian exports.

* OPEC Output Increases: Despite the desire for higher prices, OPEC members such as Saudi Arabia and Russia have constrained output in recent years. However, sustained crude prices above $100 per barrel could prompt concerns about demand and incentivize increased production. The OPEC may opt to boost oil output should tensions escalate further and prices surge.

* Ukraine Conflict: Amidst the focus on the Middle East, markets overlooking Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Potential retaliatory strikes by Kyiv on Russian oil infrastructure could impact exports, adding further complexity to global oil markets.



Technical Analysis

USOIL is marking one of the steepest weekly declines witnessed this year after a brief period of consolidation. The breach below the pivotal support level of 84.00, coupled with the descent below the mid of the 4-month upchannel, signals a possible shift in market sentiment towards a bearish trend reversal.

Adding to the bearish outlook are indications such as the downward slope in the RSI. However, the asset still hold above the 50-day EMA which coincides also with the mid of last year’s downleg, with key support zone at $80.00-$81.00. If it breaks this support zone, the focus may shift towards the 200-day EMA and 38.2% Fib. level at $77.60-$79.00.

Conversely, a rejection of the $81 level and an upside potential could see the price returning back to $84.00. A break of the latter could trigger the attention back to the December’s resistance, situated around $86.60. A breakthrough above this level could ignite a stronger rally towards the $89.20-$90.00 zone.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
Market Analyst
HMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 22nd April 2024.

The NASDAQ Gains As Earnings Gain Momentum, But More Bad News For Tesla.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky

Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

* Investors turn their attention to the “magnificent seven” and earnings reports as the countdown begins.
* The NASDAQ and most global indices trade higher on Monday with the NASDAQ leading gains. Investors concentrating on earnings from Meta, Microsoft, Alphabet and Tesla.
* Tesla announces it will slash its prices once again as sales decline. The stock trades almost 41% lower in 2024.
* The Euro gains momentum as the European Cash Open nears and is the best performing G7 currency of the day so far.

USA100 – Earnings Season Gains Momentum, More Bad News for Tesla

Last week the NASDAQ’s decline marked the worst week since November 2022, but the price trades higher on Monday. Currently the NASDAQ is the best performing global index, but its performance will largely be dependent on earnings.

So far, technical analysis is still indicating a downward trend and continues to form higher lows as well as highs. The asset also continues to trade lower than the main trend lines, Moving Averages and in the “sell” zone of the RSI. Based on the past 3 retracements, the average retracement size is 1.41%, which means similar retracements could see the price rise a further 0.42%. If the price rises above this level or above $17,234 (Fibonacci retracement 60.0 level), the possibility of a correction or new trend rises.



The question for investors is if the market will take advantage of the lower price to better their entry. This will depend on the upcoming earnings data. This week’s most influential reports for the NASDAQ are:

* Tesla – Tuesday After Market Close
* Meta – Wednesday After Market Close
* Microsoft – Thursday After Market Close
* Alphabet – Thursday After Market Close

The most influential reports will be Microsoft and Alphabet which have the highest “weights” within the index. Tesla on the other hand continues to worry shareholders and CEO Musk cancelled a trip to India over the weekend due to an urgent meeting at Tesla. The company advised they would reduce their workforce by 10% and cut the prices of certain products. Tesla is the NASDAQ’s ninth most influential stock. If earnings and revenue fall short of already subdued expectations, there is a strong chance for the stock price to potentially further decline.

For this reason, the performance of the price movement is likely to depend more on the above upcoming earnings data. If earnings are better than expectations, the index may attempt a correction. Otherwise, investors may see little reason to further expose to that market. If the price drops below $17,102.03, the price action would continue to follow the bearish trend pattern.

EURUSD – Reverting Price Conditions

The Euro is one of the better performing currencies of the day so far, but investors remain concerned about the ECB’s monetary policy. The exchange rate continues to follow a reverting price pattern with the average price at 1.06441. The price currently maintains a “neutral” signal as the price trades at the 75-Bar EMA and slightly above 50.00 on the RSI.

The main price drivers for the Euro over the next 24 hours will be the ECB President’s Speech this evening and tomorrow’s PMI indexes. If President Lagarde continues to advise the Eurozone is close to adjusting interest rates, the currency could come under pressure once more. Also investors will monitor tomorrow’s PMI indexes for the services and manufacturing sector. If the data reads lower than expectations, the Euro again could come under pressure with short term targets at 1.06088.



Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 23rd April 2024.

European PMIs Paint Mixed Picture, ECB advise a June Cut is Certain.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky

Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

* The German DAX recorded its highest monthly increase as investors continue to predict a weaker EU monetary policy.
* JP Morgan again advised stocks are overcrowded and may see a stronger downward correction. However, economists advise this is only possible if geo-political tension escalates or companies fail to beat earnings predictions.
* Gold witnesses its strongest decline in 2024 falling 2.64% on Monday and a further 1.32% during this morning’s Asian session.
* The Euro is the best performing currency after the day’s PMI releases. However, investors should note that the US Dollar during the Asian session was performing significantly better.

USA500 – Visa and Tesla Ready Shareholders For Earnings Release!

The SNP500 rose 0.87% during the US trading session and also broke the previous swing high. However, JP Morgan again told journalists there are signs that the stock market is “overcrowded”. When institutions are overexposed to certain stocks or industries, it only takes one big fund to start de-levering and then others will follow.

Though, investors should note that this would also depend on three factors. The first is earnings, the second is geo-political tensions and the third is inflation. This week, investors will largely watch earnings, particularly Visa and Tesla. Visa and Tesla currently hold a weight of 2.00% and are two of the most influential stocks. Tesla continues to be one of the worst performing stocks, but Visa’s earnings are less certain.

Visa has beat earnings and revenue expectations over the past 4 occasions but has been struggling over the past 30 days. Analysts expect earnings and revenue to remain at the same level compared to the previous quarter. However, higher earnings can potentially increase demand. Visa stocks have risen 5.20% in 2024 and have a dividend yield of 0.76%.



However, as mentioned above, the performance of the stock market will largely depend also on inflation and geo-political tensions. Though these are not likely to change within the upcoming days. In regard to inflation, investors will be eager to see if inflation again rises, in which case, interest rate cuts will likely not be possible for 2024. If this scenario materialises, stocks can decline between 20-30% ($3,700-$4,220).

GER30 – ECB Ready To Cut Rates In June 2024!

On a 2-hour timeframe the price of the GER30 is trading above the 75-Bar EMA and above the VWAP. In addition to this, the asset is obtaining buy signals also from oscillators and price action. The index has retraced since the release of the European PMI data, but if the price rises above 18,067, without breaking the day’s low price, buy signals will become active.



One of the key drivers, along with this morning’s PMI release for Germany and France, is the latest comments from members of the ECB. According to ECB representative Mr Villeroy, even if oil remains volatile, the regulator will look to cut in June 2024. In addition to Mr Villeroy, Mr De Guindos told journalists that a rate cut in June is “crystal clear”. The guidance given is increasing the demand for the German DAX as are indications of stronger economic data.

The French PMI data saw the Services index rise above 50.00 for the first time since May 2023 and beat expectations. However, the manufacturing index continues to struggle and fell compared to the previous month. The German PMI was a similar picture. The Services PMI rose to a 10-month high and beat expectations, but the Manufacturing Index read lower than the 42.8 expectations and is at a 6-month low.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 24th April 2024.

Market News – Stock markets strengthen as tech rally widens.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky

Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

* The bulls are back in town for now. Wall Street climbed, led by tech and especially the Magnificent 7 — all cohorts rallied, even Tesla which broke a 7-session losing streak even as its earnings news was awaited.
* US: The weaker than expected PMI data from S&P Global was the excuse needed to underpin a short covering rally in Treasuries after the big selloff in April.
* Record US Auction boosted demand! A well bid 2-year sale also added to the gains in Treasuries, while signs of future price pressures saw the long end underperform. Demand petered out into the finish, however, especially with the surge on Wall Street, and yields edged off their lows.
* Australia: The hot inflation print pointed to sticky local price pressures and reinforced the case for the RBA to hold rates at a 12-year high. The CPI rose to 3.6% y/y VS 3.5% estimate, while core CPI rose 4%, also higher than forecast and well above the RBA’s 2-3% target.
* Japan: Strong warning for intervention by officials. The BoJ is widely expected on Friday to leave policy settings & bond purchase amounts unchanged.
* NEW YORK (AP) — The Biden administration has finalized a new rule set to make millions more salaried workers eligible for overtime pay in the US.



Financial Markets Performance:

* The USDIndex slumped, falling to 105.39 largely on profit taking and as haven demand faded.
* USDJPY flirts with 155 after FM Suzuki issued the strongest warning to date on the chance of intervention, saying last week’s meeting with US and South Korean counterparts had laid the groundwork for Tokyo to act against excessive Yen moves.
* AUDUSD up for a 3rd day in a row, to 0.6528 amid a broadly weaker USD but also a strong Aussie post a hot inflation print.
* USOIL steady at $83 ahead of sanctions against Iran and shrinking US Inventories.
* Gold closed slightly lower at $2332, but off yesterday’s $2289 nadir.



Market Trends:

* The NASDAQ increased 1.59%, with the S&P500 up 1.20%, while the Dow rallied 0.69%. Dissipating geopolitical risks also supported.
* EU stock futures are posting gains, after a largely stronger close across Asia. Nikkei and Hang Seng gained more than 2% amid a strengthening tech rally. Australian shares underperformed.
* Tesla Inc. (+13.33% after hours) spiked after its statement for the launch of more affordable vehicles despite a sales miss. The stock halted a 7-day plunge, climbing alongside other members of the group.
* Microsoft Corp., Meta Platforms Inc. and Alphabet Inc. are also due to report earnings this week. Profits for the “Magnificent Seven” group — which also includes Apple Inc., Amazon.com Inc. and Nvidia Corp. — are forecast to rise about 40% in the Q1 a year ago, according to Bloomberg Intelligence data. The group of tech megacaps is crucial to the S&P 500 since the companies carry the heaviest weightings in the benchmark.
* Visa revenue advanced by 17% as Consumer Card spending increased.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 25th April 2024.

Investors Monitor a Potential Japanese Intervention, and upcoming Tech Earnings.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky

* Meta stocks top earnings expectations, but revenue guidance for the next 6 months triggers significant selloff. Meta stocks decline 15.00% and the Magnificent Seven also trade lower.
* Japanese Authorities are on watch and most market experts predict the Japanese Federal Government will intervene once again.
* The Japanese Yen is the day’s worst performing currency while the Australian Dollar continues to top the charts.
* The US Dollar trades 0.10% lower, but this afternoon’s performance is likely to be dependent on the US GDP.

USA100 – Meta Stocks Fall 15% On the Next 6-Months Guidance

The NASDAQ has declined 1.51% over the past 24 hours, unable to maintain momentum from Monday and Tuesday. Technical analysts advise the decline is partially simply a break in the bullish momentum and the asset continues to follow a bullish correction pattern. However, if the decline continues throughout the day, the retracement scenario becomes a lesser possibility.

In terms of indications and technical analysis, most oscillators, and momentum-based signals point to a downward price movement. The USA100 trades below the 75-Bar EMA, below the VWAP and the RSI hovers above 40.00. All these factors point towards a bearish trend. The bearish signals are also likely to strengthen if the price declines below $17,295.11.



The stock which is experiencing considerably large volatility is Meta which has fallen more than 15.00%. The past quarter’s earnings beat expectations and according to economists, remain stable and strong. Earnings Per Share beat expectations by 8.10% and revenue was as expected. However, company expenses significantly rose in the past quarter and the guidance for the second half of the year is lower than previous expectations. These two factors have caused investors to consider selling their shares and cashing in their profits.

Meta’s decline is one of the main causes for the USA100’s bearish trend. CFRA Senior Analyst, Angelo Zino, advises the selloff may be a slight over reaction based on earnings data. If Meta stocks rise again, investors can start to evaluate a possible upward correction. However, a concern for investors is that more and more companies are indicating caution for the second half of the year.

The price movements will largely now depend on Microsoft and Alphabet earnings tonight after market close. Microsoft is the most influential stock for the NASDAQ and Alphabet is the third. The two make up 14.25% of the overall index. If the two companies also witness their stocks decline after the earnings reports, the USA100 may struggle to gain upward momentum.

EURJPY – Will Japan Intervene Again?

In the currency market, the Japanese Yen remains within the spotlight as investors believe the Japanese Federal Government is likely to again intervene. The Federal Government has previously intervened in the past 12 months which caused a sharp rise in the Yen before again declining. The government opted for this option in an attempt to hinder a further decline.

Volatility within the Japanese Yen will also depend on today’s US GDP reading and tomorrow’s Core PCE Price Index. However, investors will more importantly pay close attention to the Bank of Japan’s monetary policy. Investors will be keen to see if the central bank believes it is appropriate to again hike in 2024 as well as comment regarding inflation and the economy.



In terms of technical analysis, breakout levels can be considered as areas where the exchange rate may retrace or correct. Breakout levels can be seen at 166.656 and 166.333. However, the only indicators pointing to a decline are the RSI and similar oscillators which advise the price is at risk of being “overbought”.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 26th April 2024.

Alphabet Easily Beat Earnings Predictions But Focus Shifts to Today’s PCE Data.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky

* Microsoft and Alphabet’s earnings reports beat expectations pushing the NASDAQ to the top of the charts.
* The Bank of Japan keep interest rates unchanged applying pressure on the Japanese Yen. The Yen Index declines 0.36% and is down 40% against the USD over the past 5 years.
* The US GDP growth rate falls below its 2.5% expectations, reading 1.6%, but economists advise the Fed may only cut once in 2024!
* The market turns its attention to the Core PCE Price Index which analysts expect to fall from 2.8% to 2.6%.

USA100 – Alphabet Easily Beat Analysts’ Earnings Predictions and Sees its P/E Ratio Fall!

The price of the NASDAQ ended the day higher and rose to a slightly higher high. As a result, the index is close to forming a traditional bullish trend and making Wednesday’s decline a retracement or medium-term correction. In terms technical analysis, indicators are mainly indicating a reverting price condition where the asset cannot maintain longer term momentum. However, momentum indications provide a slight bullish bias.



The upward price movement is being driven by earnings reports from Microsoft and Alphabet which beat earnings expectations. Microsoft is the most influential stock for the NASDAQ while Alphabet is the third most influential. Alphabet’s earnings beat expectations by 21.61% and revenue rose more than $6 billion. As a result, the price of the stock rose 11.56% after market close.

Furthermore, Microsoft’s Earnings Per Share beat Wall Street’s expectations by 3.40% and revenue by 1.50%. The stock rose by 4.30% after market close and is close to trading at the all-time high. However, investors should note that from the “magnificent 7”, Alphabet and Meta have the lowest Price to Earnings ratio. Meaning these stocks are the most likely to be trading below their intrinsic value.

However, investors should note that negatives for the stock market in general remain. This also supports the bias shown by technical analysis. The GDP growth rate fell considerably below expectations while inflation data continues to show signs of rising prices. Investors will closely be monitoring today’s Core PCE Price Index which is the most watched index by the Federal Reserve. Analysts expect the Core PCE Price Index to fall from 2.8% to 2.6%. If the index reads more than 0.3%, a rate cut will become unlikely making stocks less attractive.

Whereas, if the PCE Price Index is not as high as expectations, Bond Yields will likely decline, as will the US Dollar and a rate cut will be put back on the table. As a result, investors may look to take advantage of the strong earnings and continue purchasing stocks.

USDJPY – BOJ Hold Interest Rates Unchanged!

The price of the USDJPY exchange rate again rose to an all-time recent high after increasing in value for 3 consecutive days. Trend and momentum-based indicators point towards a higher price. However, the exchange rate is trading within the overbought range of most oscillators and is also showing a divergence pattern. Both are known to indicate a decline, but not necessarily a complete change of trend.

The Bank of Japan’s statement from earlier this morning was largely “dovish” and gave no clear indication that the central bank wishes to keep rising interest rates. However, shortly the Governor will answer questions from journalists and may give a more hawkish tone. Either way, investors are mainly concentrating on if the Federal Government will again opt to intervene within the currency market. Most economists believe the intervention will only come if the USD continues to rise and it will not be before the Core PCE Price Index.



Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 29th April 2024.

Market News – Yen spikes after drifting to 1990’s levels.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky

Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

* The Yen recovered sharply following a plunge to its lowest level in 34 years (USDJPY above 160 for the first time since 1990), prompting speculation of potential intervention by authorities. – The volatility was attributed in part to thin liquidity due to a public holiday in Japan.
* Japan’s Kanda Said: ‘No Comment for Now’ when asked if intervened.
Note: Japan is closed for holidays – Showa Day
* European and US stock futures climbed, mirroring a positive trend in Asian markets.
* China industrial profit growth slowed sharply. Data will add to concerns that the government is struggling to maintain growth momentum.
* Chinese stocks led the rally in Asia, supported by increased foreign investment and improved earnings. Property shares surged following positive developments, including major developer CIFI Holdings Group Co. resolving liquidity issues with bondholders.
* US Treasury returns have declined by 2.3% this month – largest monthly drop since February 2023. Market sentiment now suggests only one Fed rate reduction for 2024.
* Geopolitics: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is engaged in efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza during meetings in the Middle East today.

Financial Markets Performance:

* USDJPY hit a session high of 160.17 before the sharp bounce in the Yen, not just against the Dollar. Markets saw the bounce as sign of possible government intervention, with Japanese banks reportedly dumping dollars aggressively. USDJPY fell as low at 155.06, but has already inched up to 157.02.
* The USDIndex fell back to 105.30 across all of its G7 peers.
* USOIL steady at $82-60-83.00 per barrel and Gold is also consolidating at $2330 per ounce.



Market Trends:

* Stock markets rallied overnight, with the Nikkei gaining 0.8% as the Yen rallied amid intervention speculation. The Hang Seng jumped 0.98%, the CSI 300 lifted 1.3%.
* The S&P500 rallied 1% to finish its first winning week in the last four. The Dow rose 153 points, or 0.4%, and the Nasdaq composite jumped 2%.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 30th April 2024.

Market News – Cautiousness ahead of Fed, NFP & Earnings.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky

Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

* Trading remains quiet in a very busy week of data, earnings, supply, NFP and the Fed.
* Treasury yields and Wall Street posted small gains on the day but overall reain steady. It looks like fatigue has set in for the bears after knocking bonds and stocks sharply lower on the month.
* European equity futures are also steady, while the USD rose slightly against the G7 amid speculation the Fed may take a more hawkish tone when announcing its policy decision on Wednesday.
* German retail sales bounced 1.8% m/m in March. Sales were still down -2.7% y/y, but the rebound at the end of the first quarter is encouraging and suggests that higher wages and lower inflation are boosting consumption trends.
* German import price inflation was higher than expected. With the Euro lower against the Dollar, import price inflation is set to continue to nudge higher.
* French GDP expanded 0.2% q/q in the Q1 of the year.
* Japan’s unemployment unexpectedly was at 2.6% in March 2024, the same pace as in the prior month.



Financial Markets Performance:

* The USDIndex recovered slightly but holds below 105.90.
* After the assumed MoF intervention to support the Yen USDJPY was knocked down to an intraday low of 154.54 from a new 34-year high of 160.17.
* Soft Commodities: Top losers are Cocoa (-11.15%) and Wheat (-9.84%). Gains are led by Sugar (3.74%), Cotton (1.57%) and Rapeseed (1.25%).
* Metals: Top gainers are Platinum (3.70%) and Copper (2.12%). Biggest losers are Steel Rebar (-0.81%) and Silver (-0.50%). In addition, there was a slight change on Gold (-0.14%).
* Energies: Top commodity gainers are Natural gas (6.78%). Biggest losers are Natural Gas UK GBP (-4.89%), Natural Gas EU Dutch TTF (-3.85%) and Crude Oil WTI (-1.22%). In addition, there was a slight change on Brent Crude Oil (-1.09%).

Market Trends:

* Stocks were modestly higher with gains of 0.39% on the Dow, with the S&P500 and NASDAQ advancing 0.32% and 0.35%, respectively.
* Tesla rallied as much as 15% after receiving the green light for full self-driving technology in China, while Trump Media jumped 12% to boost gains on Wall Street.
* Earnings releases this week from the biggest US players include Amazon, McDonald’s, Apple and Coca-Cola. Meanwhile, Paramount is expected to post its earnings after today’s close.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 2nd May 2024.

Market News – Stocks mixed; Yen support still on; Eyes on NFP & Apple tonight.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky

Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

*As the Fed maintained a “high-for-longer” stance, stocks gave up their gains with attention turning back to earnings.
*Chair Powell and the Fed were not as hawkish as feared and the markets reacted immediately and in textbook fashion to the still dovish policy stance.
*The Fed flagged that recent disappointing inflation readings could make rate cuts a while in coming, but Fed chief Jerome Powell characterized the risk of more hikes as “unlikely,” giving some solace to markets.
*Stocks traded mixed across Asia, while in Europe, DAX and FTSE futures are finding buyers and US futures are also in demand, after the Fed’s message.
*Yen: Another suspected intervention by authorities, this time in late New York trading, ran into resistance from traders keen to keep selling the currency.
*Swiss CPI lifted to 1.4% y/y in April from 1.0% y/y in the previous month. Headline numbers are still at low levels and base effects play a role, with the different timing of Easter this year also likely to distort the picture. That said, the numbers may not question the SNB’s decision to cut rates, but they do not support another rate cut in June.



Financial Markets Performance:

*The USDIndex has corrected to 105.58, but USDJPY is already inching higher again, after a sharp drop to a low of 153.04 on Tuesday that sparked fresh intervention speculation. The pair is currently trading at 155.38.
*Treasury yields plunged and were down over double digits before profit taking set in.
USOIL finished with a -3.6% loss to $79.00, the lowest since March 12. Currently it is as $79.53.
*Gold was up 1.4% to $2319.55 per ounce, reclaiming the $2300 level.

Market Trends:

*Wall Street climbed initially with gains of 1.4% on the NASDAQ, 1.2% on the Dow, and 0.96% on the S&P500. The NASDAQ and S&P500 closed with losses of -0.3%, while the Dow was 0.23% firmer.
*The Hang Seng rallied more than 2%, and the ASX also posting slight gains, while CSI 300 and Nikkei declined.
*Apple’s earnings report is due after the US market closes today, will give investors a better sense of how the iPhone maker is weathering a sales slump, due in part to a sluggish China market.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 7th May 2024.

Dow Jones Close To 1-Month High, Eyes on Disney Earnings.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky

*The stock market trades at a 3-week high after significant support from the latest earning reports and US employment data.
*Economists continue to expect a rate cut no earlier than September 2024 despite the US unemployment rate rising to 3.9%.
*The US Dollar Index trades higher on Tuesday and fully corrects the decline from NFP Friday.
*Dow Jones investors wait for Disney to release their latest quarterly earnings data. The stock holds a weight of 1.93%.

USDJPY – The US Dollar Regains Lost Ground

The USDJPY is an interesting pair on Tuesday as the US Dollar is the best performing currency within the market while the Yen is witnessing the strongest decline. Investors will continue to monitor as we enter the European Cash Open to ensure no significant changes. The exchange rate has been declining since the 29th of April when the Japanese Government is believed to have intervened and strengthened the Yen. However, the US Dollar has been gaining over the past 24 hours. During this morning’s Asian Session, the exchange rate trades 0.44% higher.



Currently the only concern for the US Dollar is the latest employment data which illustrates a potential slowing employment sector. However, investors are quick to point out that this cannot be known simply from 1 weak month. This is the first time the NFP data read lower since November 2023. No major data is in the calendar for the next two days which can influence the US Dollar. Despite the weaker employment data and lower wage growth, investors continue to predict a rate cut no earlier than September 2024. This is something which can also be seen on the CME FedWatch Tool, which shows a 34.3% chance of rates remaining unchanged in September.

In regard to the Japanese Yen, most analysts expect the next rate increase in the second half of this year depending on a stable movement of inflation. In addition, investors are monitoring the actions of financial authorities, expecting new currency interventions from them against a weakening Yen. This is the main concern for investors speculating against the Yen. However, economists continue to advise the Yen will struggle to gain even with a small rate hike, unless the rest of the financial world starts cutting rates.

USA30 – Investors Turn To Disney Earnings Data!

The Dow Jones is close to trading at a 1-month high and is also trading slightly higher this morning. The index recently has been supported by the latest employment data which indicates a higher possibility of rate cuts by the Fed. Today investors focus on the quarterly earnings report for Disney.

Disney stocks are trading 0.37% higher during this morning’s pre-trading hours indicating investors believe the report will be positive. So far this year the stock is trading 28.40% higher and is one of the better performing stocks. Yesterday, the stock rose by 2.47% but remains significantly lower than its all-time high of $197. Currently analysts believe the earnings data will either be similar to the previous quarter or slightly lower. If earnings and revenue read higher, the stock is likely to continue rising. The stock is the 22nd most influential stock for the Dow Jones and will only influence the USA30 and USA500, not the USA100.



Currently, technical analysis continues to indicate a strong price sentiment. The price trades above the 75-bar EMA and above the VWAP. In addition to this, the RSI is trading at 68.11 which also signals buyers are controlling the market. The only concern for traders is retracements. A weaker retracement could decline to $38,703, whereas a stronger retracement can fall back to $38,571.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.