2023 Market Forecast by SolidECN

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Canadian Dollar Climbs as US Jobs Disappoint​

Solid ECN – The Canadian dollar peaked at 1.36 per USD, marking its strongest position since April 9th. This surge comes as the U.S. dollar experiences widespread weakness triggered by disappointing labor market data.

The U.S. economy added 175,000 jobs in April, falling short of the anticipated 243,000. This underperformance, coupled with a higher jobless rate and slowed wage growth, fuels speculation that the Federal Reserve might implement its first rate cut in September.​

Economic Slowdown Signals Potential Rate Cuts in Canada​

In parallel, Canada's economic indicators suggest a similar downturn, hinting at a possible earlier rate adjustment by the Bank of Canada. The Manufacturing PMI in Canada dropped to 49.4 in April 2024, signaling continuous contraction in factory activity for a twelfth consecutive month and falling below the expected 50.2.

Furthermore, with the economy only growing by 0.2% in February and predictions of stagnation in March, pressures mount for monetary policy adjustments.​

 

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Economic Indicators Show Growth and Stability in Mexico​

Solid ECN – The Mexican peso has rallied to approximately 16.8 per USD, marking a significant rebound from its five-month trough of 17.2 on April 25th. This upturn is primarily attributed to a widespread weakening of the U.S. dollar, spurred by indications that the Federal Reserve might implement two rate cuts within the year.

These speculations were fueled by a moderated growth in U.S. job numbers for April and a surprising increase in the unemployment rate, compounded by Federal Reserve Chair Powell's earlier dismissal of any forthcoming rate hikes.​

Stable Monetary Outlook as Mexican Economy Grows​

On the domestic front, Mexico's central bank, Banxico, is expected to maintain its interest rates at 11% in its upcoming May 9th meeting, consistent with its rate cut in March. However, emerging data might spark discussions among Banxico's Governing Council members about potential policy adjustments.

Additionally, Mexico's economic growth has accelerated, with a 0.2% expansion in Q1 of 2024 compared to 0.1% in the previous quarter, surpassing market expectations. Business confidence remains robust, near an 11-year peak, even as inflation persists above 4%.​

 

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BTC Bulls Eye Higher Targets Despite Price Dip​

Bitcoin broke out of the descending trendline (in blue), but the bulls failed to stabilize the price above the EMA 50 and the middle line of the Bollinger Band. Consequently, the pair formed a long-wick bearish candle on the daily chart. As of this writing, the BTC/USD pair has dipped and is currently testing the broken resistance at $61,896.

The technical indicators provide mixed signals. RSI hovers below 50, but AO is bullish, showing a green line.

From a technical perspective, the bullish outlook remains valid if the BTC/USD price remains above $61,896. In this case, the next target could be $67,333.

On the flip side, the downtrend will resume if the price falls below the support level, with $56,460 as the next support level.​

 

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NZDUSD: Fed Officials Hint at Prolonged Rates​

Solid ECN – The New Zealand dollar (NZD) has shown a minor decline to $0.59, influenced by a slight rise in the US dollar. This movement comes as traders anticipate crucial US economic data that might hint at the Federal Reserve's timing for interest rate reductions. The US will soon disclose figures on jobless claims and consumer sentiment, with significant inflation data on the horizon.​

Fed's Strategy on Interest Rates​

Comments from Federal Reserve officials, particularly Fed Bank of Boston President Susan Collins, suggest a cautious approach to monetary policy. Collins indicated that high interest rates might persist longer than expected to mitigate inflation, affecting forex market dynamics.​

Anticipation of NZ Central Bank​

In New Zealand, the focus shifts to the upcoming central bank meeting scheduled for May 22nd. With inflation exceeding initial forecasts, the bank is poised to maintain the interest rate at 5.50%. This decision could shape the short-term trajectory of the NZD in forex markets.​

 

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USDJPY: Yen Holds Steady Amid BOJ Inflation Warnings​

Solid ECN – The Japanese yen has shown relative stability, holding at about 155.6 per dollar following the release of the Bank of Japan's (BOJ) April policy meeting summary. During the meeting, the board highlighted potential inflation risks and deliberated on conditions that might necessitate future interest rate increases.

A significant focus was on the yen’s depreciation, which has been a key driver of escalating prices and draws particular scrutiny from the central bank.​

BOJ’s Monetary Policy Outlook​

Despite the inflation concerns, the BOJ plans to keep financial conditions accommodating and closely monitor the development of economic and price trends. This stance comes amid slowing wage growth in Japan for March, which complicates the BOJ’s projections of a positive feedback loop between rising wages and prices.

Furthermore, the yen's recent performance reflects a nearly 2% decline over the week, even amid indications of potential government interventions to stabilize the currency, following a sharp 5.2% rally from its lows, supported by about $60 billion in spending by the BOJ to defend its value.​

 

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EURUSD Bearish Outlook​

Solid ECN – As of the latest trading session, the Euro continues to decline, trading at approximately 1.07 against the U.S. dollar, notably below the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement level. The current technical indicators support the bearish outlook; the Awesome Oscillator (AO) has dipped below zero, while the Relative Strength Index (RSI) remains under the median line, suggesting weakened momentum.

The EUR/USD downtrend appears poised to continue as it trades below a significant descending trendline. The primary resistance level is at the 50% Fibonacci level of 1.079.

If this resistance holds, the downtrend initiated on May 3rd will likely extend, potentially reaching a target of 1.069. This target aligns with the ascending trendline and the 23.6% Fibonacci level, providing a technical confluence that supports the bearish scenario.​

 

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Bitcoin Dips Below Key $61.9K Level​

Solid ECN – Bitcoin dipped below $61,896 in today's trading session. The technical indicators are bearish, with the RSI hovering below 50 and the Awesome Oscillator bars in red.

From a technical standpoint, the downtrend momentum that started earlier this week will likely continue, with the median line of the Bollinger Band acting as resistance. If BTC/USD remains below this line, the next milestone for sellers will likely be $59,559.

Conversely, the bearish outlook could be invalidated if the price crosses and stabilizes above $62,702.​

 

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AUDUSD Analysis​

Solid ECN – The AUD/USD pair has resumed its uptrend from 0.655 after testing the 50-day EMA. Currently, the Australian dollar is trading around 0.660 against the U.S. dollar, with bulls aiming to stabilize above the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement level.

The RSI is above 50, indicating momentum in favor of the upward move. Technically, 0.6557 serves as the primary support for the bullish trend. If the price holds above this level, the next target is likely around 0.664.​

 

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Key Reports to Influence Gold Prices​

Solid ECN – Gold prices soared to $2,350 per ounce this past Friday, reacting to traders' expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut. The anticipation grew after Thursday’s economic report showed a surprising increase in Americans filing for unemployment benefits, hinting at a potential cooling of the labor market.

Such economic indicators often lead to a softer approach to interest rates, benefiting assets like gold, which thrives in lower-rate environments.​

Monitoring Future Economic Indicators​

Investors and traders are now poised to closely analyze the upcoming Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) reports. These indicators will provide further clarity on the Federal Reserve's stance.

Despite some Federal officials expressing caution about easing policies too quickly, the general sentiment leans towards reducing rates, especially with pressures from global economic uncertainties and market demand.​

Influences on Gold’s Market Performance​

Significant factors such as increased over-the-counter market investments, ongoing central bank acquisitions, and rising demand in Asian markets continue to push gold prices upward.

Additionally, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Ukraine are escalating, further increasing gold's appeal as a safe-haven asset. With these dynamics, gold is on track for a 2.2% weekly gain.

 

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EURUSD Technical Analysis​

Solid ECN – EUR/USD rose from the 61.8% Fibonacci retracement level yesterday and is now testing the descending trendline near 1.07.

The technical indicators are bullish, but for the uptrend to resume, the price must close and stabilize above the trendline. If this happens, the euro will strengthen against the dollar, with the next milestone likely at 1.088.

We recommend closely monitoring price movements near the bearish trendline and checking lower timeframes, such as the 4-hour chart, for bearish candlestick patterns. If the bulls fail to close above the trendline, EUR/USD could face renewed selling pressure, potentially pushing the price down to the 50% Fibonacci support level.​

 

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WTI Crude Drops Below $78, Eyes on OPEC​

Solid ECN – WTI crude futures experienced a significant decline, dropping below $78 per barrel this Monday. This downward trend extended from last week when oil prices fell sharply by more than 1%. The drop is largely attributed to growing concerns about demand, influenced by economic indicators and policy signals from the U.S.​

Economic Signals Affect Oil Demand​

Recent statements by U.S. Federal Reserve officials suggest that high interest rates might persist, potentially slowing economic growth and reducing oil demand. This speculation is supported by a notable decrease in U.S. consumer confidence reported last Friday, signaling an economic slowdown. Additionally, increases in U.S. gasoline and distillate inventories ahead of the summer imply weaker-than-expected demand.​

Looking Ahead: OPEC's Next Moves​

Investors are now focusing on OPEC's policy meeting scheduled for early June. There is widespread anticipation that OPEC may continue its supply cuts into the latter half of the year, potentially influencing future market dynamics.​

 

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Franc Strengthens, Dollar Weakens Post-Fed​

Solid ECN—The Swiss franc has remarkably recovered, climbing to 0.91 against the US dollar from a seven-month low of 0.92 on May 1st. This rebound was sparked by unexpectedly high inflation data, which reduced the market's expectation that the Swiss National Bank (SNB) would further relax monetary policy. In April, inflation surged to 1.4% from a low of 1% the previous month, significantly exceeding forecasts of 1.1%.​

Inflation Concerns Shape Policy​

The recent jump in inflation rates is noteworthy, especially since the SNB had warned that prices could be unstable due to global tensions and a relaxed stance on the franc. Although foreign currency reserves have increased, the rapid inflation has fueled worries about potential ongoing price rises. These concerns have led to speculation about whether the SNB will reduce interest rates again in June.​

Dollar's Influence on the Franc​

Additionally, the franc's strength was bolstered by a weakening US dollar after the Federal Reserve avoided strong indications of future rate hikes. This backdrop provides a complex landscape for forex traders and investors, suggesting a cautious strategy approach.

 

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Bulls Eye Key Breakout for EURUSD Rally​

Solid ECN – The EURUSD currency pair pulled back from last week's trading session's 61.8% Fibonacci support level. As of posting, the pair trades around the 1.078 mark, clinging to the descending trendline on the 4-hour chart.

Technical indicators suggest a bullish trend. However, for the uptrend to continue, the bulls must close and stabilize the price above 1.079. If this scenario comes into play, the European currency will likely gain more ground against the U.S. dollar, with 1.081 as the initial target, followed by the 1.083 mark.

Conversely, the downtrend will likely continue if the EURUSD price dips below the 1.075 minor support. In this case, bears would test the 1.073 level, followed by the 50% Fibonacci support.​

 

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Key Technical Levels for Gold Traders​

Solid ECN – Gold has declined from $2,378 against the U.S. dollar on May 10 and is currently trading around $2,340. With technical indicators signaling a bearish trend, the dip is likely to extend to the EMA 50, a level supported by the lower line of the bullish flag.

Given the primary bullish trend, the EMA 50 can provide a good opportunity for traders and investors to join the bull market.

However, if the XAUUSD price dips below the 38.2% Fibonacci level, the downtrend will likely extend to $2,306, followed by the 50% Fibonacci support level.​

 

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EURUSD - ECB and Fed Rate Cuts, What to Expect?​

Solid ECN – The Euro has strengthened above $1.078, reaching a five-week high. This rise comes as investors focus on important US and Euro Area economic data. Key figures like US inflation, first-quarter GDP, and employment statistics are closely monitored, as they could influence future monetary policies.​

ECB and Fed Rate Expectations​

The European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to start cutting interest rates in June, with a projected reduction of around 70 basis points this year. In contrast, the Federal Reserve will likely delay its rate cuts until September, with anticipated decreases of less than 45 basis points. These differing timelines reflect each central bank's response to their respective economic conditions.​

Bank of England's Potential Moves​

The Bank of England maintained its interest rates unchanged in May. However, a rate cut during the summer is possible. This potential move signals the bank's readiness to adjust its policy in response to economic developments.​

 

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Forecasting Silver Prices Amidst Technical Signals​

Solid ECN—Silver trades in an uptrend above the 50% Fibonacci retracement level. The XAG/USD pair is currently experiencing a pullback from the $28.7 resistance, trading at about $28.3.

Silver's primary trend remains bullish if the price stays above EMA 50 and the 50% Fibonacci level. However, the awesome oscillator shows divergence, which could cause the trend to reverse or step into a consolidation phase.

From a technical standpoint, if the price falls below the ascending trendline, the decline that began at $28.7 can extend to EMA 50 and then to the 38.2% Fibonacci level.

Conversely, bulls must push the market up to close above the $28.7 resistance for the uptrend to resume.​

 

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GBPUSD at a Crossroad​

Solid ECN – The GBP/USD pair is testing the upper band of the bearish trend line on the 4-hour chart, which coincides with the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement level. As of now, the pair trades at approximately 1.258 as the uptrend cools down.

From a technical perspective, if the price remains below the descending trend line, it will likely target 1.256, followed by the 50% Fibonacci retracement level.

Conversely, if buying pressure escalates and the pound sterling rises above 1.259, the bullish wave that began on May 9 will likely target the 1.263 resistance level.​

 

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WTI Crude Rises Amid Canadian Wildfires​

Solid ECN—WTI crude futures climbed to $79 per barrel on Wednesday, helping to recover some losses from the previous day. The rise was mainly due to wildfires in Canada threatening the country's oil sands industry, which produces 3.3 million barrels daily.​

Oil Prices Boosted by US Inventory Drop​

Oil prices were also supported by US industry data showing a drop in crude inventories by 3.104 million barrels last week. This decline was more significant than the expected 1.35 million barrel draw. The US EIA will release official data later today.​

OPEC Exceeds Limits But Remains Optimistic​

Despite an OPEC+ report revealing members exceeded production limits by 568,000 barrels per day last month, OPEC remains positive about future demand. They project global oil demand to rise by 2.25 million barrels per day in 2024 and 1.85 million in 2025.​

 

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GBPUSD Eyes Key Levels as Bulls Gain Momentum​

Solid ECN – The GBPUSD currency pair broke out of the descending trendline and the 1.2590 barrier. The bulls will likely target 1.263 this week, and if this level is breached, the path to 1.2708 will be paved.

If the price dips to 1.2590 support, there is a buying opportunity. This level offers a decent bid to join the bull market. Therefore, traders and investors should monitor this level closely if the price bounces.

The 61.8% Fibonacci level plays a pivotal role between the bear and bull markets. Should this level be breached, the bull market would be invalidated, and the bearish trend beginning from 1.263 will likely continue with the ascending trendline as the initial target.​

 

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AUDUSD: Bulls Target 0.676 Amid Bullish Indicators​

Solid ECN—In today's trading session, the AUDUSD broke through the 0.665 resistance, and bulls are working to stabilize the price above this key resistance level.

Technical indicators signal bullish trends, suggesting the uptrend is likely to continue. If the Australian dollar sustains above the 50 EMA, the uptrend could persist, with the next bullish target set at the 0.676 mark.

Conversely, falling below the 50 EMA would invalidate the current bullish technical analysis.​