Abstract:Market Review | July 3, 2024
Market Overview
Yesterday, FED Chairman Jerome Powell addressed the ongoing speculation regarding rate cuts, emphasizing the need for additional data to confirm that recent weaker inflation readings truly reflect the underlying price pressures. This statement followed the release of labor market data, which continues to show persistent tightness, thereby heightening the prospects of rate cuts this September.
The Labor Department's latest report, released on Tuesday, revealed that job openings rose by 221,000 to 8.140 million at the end of May. This figure, the lowest since February 2021, still slightly exceeded Wall Street's expectations, underscoring the complex dynamics of the current labor market.
Adding to the economic picture, Mondays data showed that the ISM Manufacturing PMI contracted, dropping 20 basis points from 48.7 in the previous month to 48.5, and missing the anticipated figure of 49.2. This contractionary trend in manufacturing signals potential challenges ahead.
Powells dovish comments had immediate repercussions in the financial markets. U.S. Treasury notes experienced a dip, with the yield on the benchmark 10-year notes falling 4.9 basis points to 4.43%. Concurrently, the dollar weakened, providing a boost to global stock exchanges. The Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.41% to close at 39,331.85, the S&P 500 rose 0.62% to 5,509.01, and the Nasdaq Composite saw an impressive gain of 0.84%, reaching 18,028.76.
Looking ahead, key economic data scheduled for release includes Payrolls, Unemployment claims, and the Services PMI. Later in the week, the FOMC Meeting Minutes, Hourly Earnings, Employment change, and the Unemployment rate will be closely watched, as they will directly influence market expectations regarding the timing and likelihood of a rate cut.
Currently, the CME FedWatch Tool indicates that traders are pricing in about a 67% chance of a Fed rate cut in September, reflecting the growing anticipation within the market.
Gold
The gold market remains relatively calm, with prices stabilizing at 2332.174. Our analysis remains unchanged from yesterday as we await further price action. However, with Powell's recent comments suggesting potential rate cuts on the horizon, there is a possibility that the metals market could gain bullish momentum.
Silver
Silver is gradually inching higher towards the 29.900 mark. We continue to monitor this movement closely as further economic data is expected soon, which could influence silver prices.
DXY (Dollar Index)
The dollar has dipped below the 105.840 level. Despite Powell's dovish remarks, the movement has not been dramatic. However, the prospect of a bearish market looms, and we may see continued declines in the dollar's value.
GBP/USD
The pound has strengthened against the dollar, rebounding from the anchor point at 1.26487. If dovish economic data continues to emerge, we might see a sustained bullish trend for the pound.
AUD/USD
The Australian dollar has found support at 0.66541 and is attempting to move higher. However, the momentum appears insufficient to drive significant upward movement at this time, so we will continue to watch the price action closely.
NZD/USD
The New Zealand dollar remains below 0.60954 but has shown signs of recovery after failing to reach 0.60455. We are observing the potential for a return to trading above 0.60847, awaiting further developments.
EUR/USD
The euro has rebounded since last months trading session and is currently consolidating between 1.07637 and 1.027240. We are keeping a close eye on the price movements to see how the situation unfolds.
USD/JPY
The yen has stagnated around 161.700 following Powell's dovish comments. Nevertheless, a rising trend is apparent, reflecting the yen's inherent weakness.
USD/CHF
The Swiss franc continues to exhibit weakness, driven by last month's rate cuts. Despite a slight market reaction following Powells comments, we expect the uptrend to continue and will be monitoring the price closely.
USD/CAD
USD/CAD is consolidating within the range of 1.37435 to 1.36612. The CAD showed signs of recovery after Powell's remarks. Looking ahead, the Bank of Canadas approach to data-driven decisions on rate cuts will be crucial. Depending on economic performance in the coming months, the BoC might hold off on cutting rates, potentially favoring CAD strength.
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