Markets are setting up for another volatile session today, with the main focus shifting towards tomorrow’s Federal Reserve decision.
🇺🇸 USD — Dollar Strength Continues
The US Dollar is trading near a two-week high as Treasury yields continue to climb. The US 10-year yield has moved above 5%, while markets are now heavily expecting the Fed to raise interest rates tomorrow.
For today, keep an eye on:
• 12:30 UTC — US Empire State Manufacturing Index
• Any major change in Fed rate expectations
• US bond yields — further upside could continue supporting USD
🇬🇧 GBP — UK Labour Market Cooling
UK wage growth slowed to 3.9%, while unemployment remained at 4.9%. This shows some weakness developing in the labour market.
GBP could remain sensitive today, particularly with the Bank of England decision also coming later this week.
🇪🇺 EUR — German ZEW Data Today
German and Eurozone ZEW Economic Sentiment is released at 09:00 UTC.
The market is expecting sentiment to improve, so a strong beat could give EUR some short-term support. A disappointment could put further pressure on EUR/USD, especially while the dollar remains strong.
🇨🇳 CHINA — Mixed Data Overnight
Chinese industrial production beat expectations at 5.2%, but retail sales came in weaker than expected and investment remained under pressure.
This mixed picture is worth watching for AUD and NZD pairs, which often react to changes in the China growth outlook.
🛢 OIL & CAD
Oil remains extremely important right now. Prices are above $100 as Middle East tensions continue to create supply concerns.
Higher oil can support CAD, but at the same time it is increasing global inflation fears and pushing bond yields higher.
CAD Wholesale Sales are also released at 12:30 UTC today.
🥇 GOLD
Gold remains under pressure from two major factors:
• Stronger US Dollar
• Rising US Treasury yields
Even with geopolitical uncertainty, the dollar has recently been winning the safe-haven battle. Watch gold carefully around USD moves and bond yields today.
⚠️ WHAT TO WATCH TODAY
09:00 UTC — German & Eurozone ZEW
12:30 UTC — US Empire State Manufacturing
12:30 UTC — Canadian Wholesale Sales
Oil / Middle East headlines
US Treasury yields
Positioning ahead of tomorrow’s FOMC decision
Tomorrow is the BIG one with the Federal Reserve rate decision, so don’t be surprised if we see choppy price action and position-taking throughout today.
Trade smart, protect your capital and don’t force entries. 📈