Sample Category Title

DXY:

The DXY (US Dollar Index) chart currently has a bearish overall momentum, suggesting the potential for a bearish reaction off the 1st resistance and a drop towards the 1st support.

The 1st support at 104.86 is identified as an overlap support, and it also aligns with the 127.20% Fibonacci Extension level, indicating it could be a significant level where the price might find some buying interest.

The 2nd support at 104.40 is considered an overlap support as well, and it coincides with the 161.80% Fibonacci Extension level, further reinforcing its potential as a support level.

On the resistance side, the 1st resistance at 105.39 is categorized as a pullback resistance, suggesting it could act as a level where the price may face selling pressure.

The 2nd resistance at 105.94 is also identified as a pullback resistance, indicating another potential level where the price may encounter obstacles in its upward movement.

EUR/USD:

The EUR/USD chart currently has a bearish overall momentum, suggesting the potential for a bearish continuation towards the 1st support.

The 1st support at 1.0678 is identified as a pullback support, indicating it could be a significant level where the price might find some buying interest.

The 2nd support at 1.0606 is also considered a support level, and it coincides with the 61.80% Fibonacci Retracement level, further reinforcing its potential as a support zone.

On the resistance side, the 1st resistance at 1.0759 is categorized as a multi-swing high resistance, suggesting it could act as a level where the price may face selling pressure.

The 2nd resistance at 1.0835 is identified as a pullback resistance, indicating another potential level where the price may encounter obstacles in its upward movement.

EUR/JPY:

For EUR/JPY, with a current bearish momentum, there’s a potential scenario of a short-term rise towards the first resistance, followed by a reversal and potential drop towards the first support.

The first support at 160.45 is recognized as a level of pullback support, indicating a point where the price might find support during a potential retracement in the bearish trend.

The second support at 159.96 is also identified as pullback support and coincides with the 61.80% Fibonacci Projection, suggesting it as an additional level of potential support.

On the resistance side, the first resistance at 161.35 is associated with the 127.20% Fibonacci Extension, indicating a significant level that might act as a barrier to the price’s upward movement in the short term within the current bearish context.

Moreover, the second resistance at 161.99 aligns with the 161.80% Fibonacci Extension, suggesting it as another significant level that could potentially hinder the price’s upward movement within the prevailing bearish trend.

EUR/GBP:

For EUR/GBP, with the chart’s current bearish momentum, there’s a potential scenario where the price might rise towards the first resistance in the short term, followed by a reversal and a potential drop towards the first support.

The first support at 0.8668 is identified as a level of pullback support, suggesting a point where the price might find support during a potential retracement in the bearish trend.

The second support at 0.8639 is recognized as multi-swing low support, indicating an additional level that might offer support during the bearish trend.

On the resistance side, the first resistance at 0.8688 is characterized as pullback resistance, aligning with both the 50% Fibonacci Retracement and the 78.60% Fibonacci Projection. This indicates a confluence of Fibonacci levels, making it a significant barrier to the price’s upward movement in the short term within the prevailing bearish context.

Furthermore, the second resistance at 0.8716 is identified as a swing high resistance, suggesting it as an additional level that could impede the price’s upward movement within the current bearish trend.

GBP/USD:

The GBP/USD chart currently has a bearish overall momentum, suggesting the potential for a bearish continuation towards the 1st support.

The 1st support at 1.2321 is identified as a pullback support, indicating it could be a significant level where the price might find some buying interest.

The 2nd support at 1.2266 is also considered a pullback support, adding to the potential support zone.

On the resistance side, the 1st resistance at 1.2447 is categorized as an overlap resistance, and it coincides with the 161.80% Fibonacci Extension level, suggesting it could act as a level where the price may face selling pressure.

The 2nd resistance at 1.2533 is also identified as an overlap resistance, further reinforcing its potential as a resistance level.

GBP/JPY:

For GBP/JPY, with the prevailing bearish momentum, there’s a potential scenario for a bearish continuation towards the first support.

The first support at 184.25 is identified as a level of pullback support and aligns with both the 50% Fibonacci Retracement and the 100% Fibonacci Projection, indicating a confluence of Fibonacci levels. This signifies it as a crucial area where the price might find substantial support during the bearish movement.

On the resistance side, the first resistance at 185.97 is characterized as multi-swing high resistance, indicating a significant barrier to the price’s downward movement within the current bearish scenario.

Additionally, the second resistance at 186.67 is recognized as a swing high resistance, suggesting it as an additional significant obstacle to the price’s downward movement within the prevailing bearish trend.

USD/CHF:

The USD/CHF chart currently has a bullish overall momentum, suggesting the potential for a bullish continuation towards the 1st resistance.

The 1st support at 0.8947 is identified as an overlap support, and it coincides with the 78.60% Fibonacci Retracement level, indicating it could be a significant level where the price might find buying interest.

The 2nd support at 0.8902 is categorized as a multi-swing low support, further reinforcing its potential as a support level.

On the resistance side, the 1st resistance at 0.9011 is also identified as an overlap resistance, and it marks a potential level where the price may face selling pressure.

The 2nd resistance at 0.9072 is categorized as another overlap resistance, adding to the potential resistance zone.

USD/JPY:

The USD/JPY chart currently has a bearish overall momentum, suggesting the potential for a bearish reaction off the 1st resistance level and a drop towards the 1st support level.

The 1st support at 148.40 is identified as an overlap support, indicating it could be a significant level where the price might find some buying interest.

The 2nd support at 147.45 is also considered an overlap support, further reinforcing its potential as a support level.

On the resistance side, the 1st resistance at 149.99 is categorized as a pullback resistance, suggesting it could act as a level where the price may face selling pressure.

The 2nd resistance at 150.79 is identified as a pullback resistance and coincides with the 61.80% Fibonacci Retracement level, indicating it could be a strong resistance level where the price may encounter obstacles in its upward movement.

Intermediate support at 148.99 is noted as a swing low support, adding another potential support level to watch for price movements.

USD/CAD:

The USD/CAD chart is currently exhibiting a bearish overall momentum, indicating the potential for a bearish reaction off the 1st resistance level and a subsequent drop towards the 1st support level.

The 1st support level at 1.3576 is considered a significant level as it is a multi-swing low support and is further reinforced by the presence of the 61.80% Fibonacci Retracement, suggesting that it may act as a strong support zone where buyers could become active.

In addition, the 2nd support level at 1.3523 is categorized as a pullback support, adding to its potential as a level where the price could find support and reverse its downward movement.

On the resistance side, the 1st resistance level at 1.3738 is identified as a pullback resistance, indicating it could serve as a level where the price encounters selling pressure and potentially reverses.

Furthermore, the 2nd resistance level at 1.3805 is also considered a pullback resistance, reinforced by the presence of the 61.80% Fibonacci Retracement, suggesting that it may act as a strong resistance zone.

Intermediate support at 1.3642 is noted as a swing low support, providing an additional support level to watch.

AUD/USD:

The AUD/USD chart is currently characterized by a bearish overall momentum, indicating the potential for a bearish continuation towards the 1st support level.

The 1st support level at 0.6455 is identified as a pullback support, suggesting it could be a significant level where the price might find buying interest and potentially reverse its downward movement.

Additionally, the 2nd support level at 0.6392 is also categorized as a pullback support, reinforcing its potential as a level of support for the price.

On the resistance side, the 1st resistance level at 0.6517 is considered an overlap resistance, implying that it could act as a level where the price encounters selling pressure.

Furthermore, the 2nd resistance level at 0.6607 is categorized as a swing high resistance, indicating another potential obstacle for the price’s upward movement.

NZD/USD

The NZD/USD chart currently exhibits a bearish overall momentum, suggesting the potential for a bearish continuation towards the 1st support level.

The 1st support level at 0.5930 is identified as a pullback support, indicating it could serve as a significant level where the price may find buying interest and potentially reverse its downward movement.

Further down, the 2nd support at 0.5864 is also categorized as a pullback support, reinforcing its potential significance as a level of support.

On the resistance side, the 1st resistance at 0.6002 is considered an overlap resistance, suggesting that it could act as a level where the price encounters selling pressure.

Similarly, the 2nd resistance at 0.6056 is categorized as a swing high resistance, indicating another potential level where the price may face obstacles in its upward movement.

DJ30:

For DJ30, the chart is currently reflecting a bearish momentum, suggesting a potential scenario for a bearish continuation towards the first support level.

The first support at 33872.98 is identified as a level of pullback support, indicating a significant area where the price might find support during its potential downward movement in the bearish trend.

The second support at 33668.31 is also recognized as pullback support, providing an additional level that might offer support during the bearish trend.

On the resistance side, the first resistance at 34112.38 is characterized as an overlap resistance, signifying a significant barrier to the price’s downward movement within the current bearish scenario.

Furthermore, the second resistance at 34400.00 is identified as pullback resistance, suggesting it could act as another substantial barrier to the price’s downward movement within the prevailing bearish trend.

GER40:

For GER40, the current momentum of the chart indicates a bearish trend, suggesting a potential scenario for a bearish reaction off the first resistance, potentially leading to a drop towards the first support.

The first support at 15009.30 is identified as a level of pullback support, signifying a crucial area where the price might find support during a potential downward movement. This level aligns with both the 38.20% Fibonacci Retracement and the 61.80% Fibonacci Projection, indicating a confluence of Fibonacci levels, making it a significant support zone.

The second support at 14906.10 is also recognized as pullback support and aligns with the 50% Fibonacci Retracement and the 100% Fibonacci Projection, indicating another zone of Fibonacci confluence, making it another crucial area of potential support during a bearish movement.

On the resistance side, the first resistance at 15138.90 is characterized as an overlap resistance, representing a significant barrier to the price’s upward movement within the current bearish scenario.

Additionally, the second resistance at 15287.40 is also identified as an overlap resistance, suggesting it as another considerable obstacle to the price’s upward movement within the prevailing bearish trend.

US500

For US500, the current chart momentum indicates a bearish trend, suggesting a potential scenario for a bearish continuation towards the first support level.

The first support at 4318.4 is identified as a pullback support and coincides with the 23.60% Fibonacci Retracement, marking a significant level where the price might find support during its potential downward movement.

The second support at 4266.2 is also recognized as pullback support, aligning with both the 38.20% Fibonacci Retracement and the 61.80% Fibonacci Projection, indicating a confluence of Fibonacci levels. This signifies it as a crucial level of potential support during a bearish movement.

On the resistance side, the first resistance at 4369.4 is characterized as multi-swing high resistance, representing a significant barrier to the price’s upward movement within the current bearish scenario.

Additionally, the second resistance at 4397.8 is also identified as multi-swing high resistance, suggesting it as another considerable obstacle to the price’s upward movement within the prevailing bearish trend.

BTC/USD:

For BTC/USD, the current chart reflects a neutral momentum, suggesting a potential scenario for price fluctuation between the first resistance and the first support levels.

The first support at 34136 is attributed to multi-swing low support, indicating a level where the price might find support during any potential decline.

The second support at 33623 is also identified as multi-swing low support, offering an additional level that might provide support in case the price experiences a decline.

On the resistance side, the first resistance at 35363 is characterized as multi-swing high resistance, representing a significant barrier to the price’s upward movement in the neutral scenario.

Additionally, the second resistance at 36060 is recognized as swing high resistance, suggesting it could pose another substantial barrier to the price’s upward movement within the prevailing neutral trend.

ETH/USD:

For ETH/USD, the current chart shows a neutral momentum, indicating a potential scenario where the price could fluctuate between the first resistance and the first support levels.

The first support at 1861.10 is identified as an overlap support, suggesting a level where the price might find support during any potential decline.

The second support at 1767.61 is recognized as multi-swing low support, providing an additional level that might offer substantial support in case of a price decline.

On the resistance side, the first resistance at 1905.09 is characterized as multi-swing high resistance, representing a significant barrier to the price’s upward movement in the neutral scenario.

Moreover, the second resistance at 1945.18 is also identified as multi-swing high resistance, further suggesting it as a substantial barrier to the price’s upward movement within the prevailing neutral trend.

WTI/USD:

The WTI (West Texas Intermediate) chart currently demonstrates a bearish overall momentum, primarily influenced by two key factors. First, the price is within a bearish descending channel, indicating a consistent pattern of lower highs and lower lows. Second, the price is positioned below the bearish Ichimoku cloud, which typically suggests a bearish sentiment and reinforces the downward momentum.

Given this prevailing bearish sentiment, there is a potential scenario where the price breaks bearishly below the 1st support and continues to decline towards the 2nd support level.

The 1st support level at 80.10 holds significance as it represents a multi-swing low support, implying that it could attract buying interest and potentially act as a price reversal point.

Further down, the 2nd support at 77.19 is identified as an overlap support, further emphasizing its role as a substantial level of potential support.

On the resistance side, the 1st resistance at 83.07 is categorized as an overlap resistance, signifying a level where selling pressure may emerge.

Similarly, the 2nd resistance at 85.42 is also considered an overlap resistance, indicating another potential area where price could face resistance.

XAU/USD (GOLD):

The XAU/USD chart currently has a bearish overall momentum, indicating the potential for a bearish continuation towards the 1st support level.

The 1st support at 1962.37 is identified as an overlap support and coincides with the 127.20% Fibonacci Extension level, suggesting it could be a significant level where the price might find some buying interest.

The 2nd support at 1946.66 is considered a pullback support and aligns with the 161.80% Fibonacci Extension level, further reinforcing its potential as a support level.

On the resistance side, the 1st resistance at 1992.33 is categorized as an overlap resistance, suggesting it could act as a level where the price may face selling pressure.

The 2nd resistance at 2006.32 is noted as a multi-swing high resistance, indicating another potential level where the price may encounter obstacles in its upward movement.

Daily Pivots: (S1) 0.6449; (P) 0.6484; (R1) 0.6547; More...

Intraday bias in AUD/USD is turned neutral first with today's steep retreat. For now, another rise will remain mildly in favor as long as 0.6411 minor support holds. Sustained break of 0.6510 cluster resistance (38.2% retracement of 0.6894 to 0.6269 at 0.6508) will argue that whole decline from 0.7156 might be completed with three waves down to 0.6269. Stronger rally should then be seen to medium term trend line resistance (now at 0.6700). However, firm break of 0.6411 will indicate rejection by 0.6510, and turn bias back to the downside for retesting 0.6269 low.

In the bigger picture, there is no confirmation that down trend from 0.8006 (2021 high) has completed. While current rebound from 0.6269 might extend higher, it could be the third leg of a corrective pattern from 0.6169 (2022 low) only. For now, medium term bearishness will remain as long as 0.6894 resistance holds.

Australian Dollar is taking a surprising dip today despite RBA's anticipated decision to raise the cash rate target by 25bps. Investors have taken this opportunity to lock in profits, influenced by the central bank's softened rhetoric on the immediate need for further rate hikes. It appears RBA is likely to pause again to evaluate the impact of its policy measures, likely awaiting Q4 data in February before considering additional moves.

The mood in Asia also influenced commodity currencies, with a dour risk sentiment catalyzed by China's unexpectedly steep drop in trade surplus. Although nominal wages in Japan edged higher, the overall weakness in Yen suggests that such positive data is insufficient to counterbalance the ongoing slide in real wages growth and household expenditure.

On the flip side, Dollar emerged as one of the strongest performers of the day so far, closely followed by Swiss Franc. Euro and British Pound are also making headway, with Sterling exhibiting a minor advantage over the common currency.

From a technical standpoint, Dollar's recent downward momentum appears to be waning. A recovery could be imminent, yet it's premature to declare a bullish reversal. A critical point of interest for Forex traders will be 55 4H EMA (now at 1.0643) in EUR/USD. Should Euro sustain above this level, it could signal that choppy rise from 1.0447 is set to continue through 1.0755 resistance later on. Conversely, sustained break below the 55 4H EMA might suggest the rebound is over, and send EUR/USD through 1.0515 support to retest 1.0447 low.

In Asia, at the time of writing, Nikkei is down -1.26%. Hong Kong HSI is down -1.50%. China Shanghai SSE is down -0.35%. Singapore Strait Times is down -0.33%. Japan 10-year JGB yield is up 0.0074 at 0.881. Overnight, DOW rose 0.10%. S&P 500 rose 0.18%. NASDAQ rose 0.30%. 10-year yield rose 0.104 to 4.662.

RBA hikes to 4.35%, future path hinges on evolving data

RBA announced an increase in cash rate target by 25 bps to 4.35%, aligning with market anticipations. Accompanying this move, RBA signaled a shift to a neutral policy stance, indicating that "whether further tightening of monetary policy is required... will depend upon the data and the evolving assessment of risks ."

In the statement, RBA said inflation is "still too high" and is proving "more persistent than expected a few months ago". A rate hike was was warranted today to be "more assured" that inflation would return to target in a "reasonable timeframe".

The central bank's outlook is tempered by "significant uncertainties," particularly regarding the persistence of services inflation which has been notably resilient internationally and could mirror in the Australian market.

The effectiveness of monetary policy changes and the response of wage settings and pricing decisions amid a slowdown in economic growth are areas of unpredictability, especially given the current tightness of the labor market. Household consumption prospects are also veiled with uncertainty, too. T

Looking abroad, RBA's statement brought to light the ongoing global uncertainties, notably the economic trajectory of China and the far-reaching consequences of international conflicts, adding further dimensions to the central bank's considerations.

China's export decline deepens while imports rebound

China's export figures have taken a sharper downturn than anticipated in October, contracting by -6.4% yoy to USD 274.8B, exceeding market predictions of -3.1% yoy. This downturn marks the sixth consecutive month where China's exports have receded.

In contrast, imports defied expectations with a 3.0% yoy increase, a significant departure from the forecasted -5.4% yoy decline, and putting an end to an 11-month streak of contraction.

The culmination of these trade activities resulted in a considerable narrowing of the trade surplus, which shrunk from USD 77.7B to USD 56.5B. This is a stark contraction compared to the anticipated figure of USD 84.2B.

Japan's labor cash earnings up 1.2% yoy, but real wages down for 18th month

Japan reported a modest increase in nominal labor cash earnings in September, with 1.2% yoy rise that slightly exceeded market expectations of 1.0% yoy gain. This uptick, an improvement from the previous month's 0.8%, may seem like a positive indicator at first glance, with base salary growth also marking an increase to 1.4% yoy from August's 1.2% yoy.

However, not all components of earnings showed strength. Special payments, often a volatile category, continued to decline by -6.0% yoy , albeit a less severe contraction than -6.3% yoy reported in August. Meanwhile, overtime pay exhibited a marginal increase, rising 0.7% yoy, suggesting a modest uptick in extra working hours.

The nuanced picture of Japan's wage situation becomes more concerning when adjusted for inflation. Real wages, which reflect the purchasing power of income, fell sharply by -2.4% yoy compared to the same month last year, marking the 18th consecutive month of decline. This persistent slide in real wages points to the squeeze on household income as inflation outpaces nominal wage growth.

In line with the strain on incomes, household spending dipped by -2.8% yoy , although the figure is marginally better than the anticipated -3.0% yoy fall. This marks the seventh straight month of decline, underscoring the ongoing reticence of Japanese consumers to open their wallets amid economic uncertainties.

On a more positive note, on a seasonally adjusted basis, household spending saw an unexpected increase of 0.3% mom, defying expectations of a -0.4% mom decline.

BoE's Pill suggests rate cuts by mid-2024 "not totally unreasonable"

In an online event overnight, BoE Chief Economist Huw Pill acknowledged the slower pace of reduction compared to global counterparts. The UK has also seen inflation climbed higher. Despite this lag, he expressed confidence that "We're going to see the UK get down to levels more comparable to what we're seeing in the rest of the world."

Pill's remarks came amid the backdrop of market expectations that have priced in a potential rate cut as early as August 2024. He finds this timing "not totally unreasonable," highlighting it's a period when the Bank might reassess its stance, albeit with the usual caveat that economic conditions are fluid and subject to change.

Moreover, Pill tempered expectations of a return to the ultra-low interest rate environment seen pre-pandemic, indicating that future rates are more likely to find a middle ground. This perspective reinforces the notion that the era of zero interest rates was an anomaly rather than a standard monetary condition.

Fed's Kashkari signals preference for stronger policy action to tame inflation target

Minneapolis Federal Reserve President Neel Kashkari expressed concern over the consequences of insufficient tightening in a WSJ interview, saying, "Under-tightening will not get us back to 2% in a reasonable time." He favored a stance that leans toward an aggressive policy rather than a cautious one.

In a subsequent conversation with Fox News, Kashkari drew attention to the economy's endurance despite Fed's recent rounds of rate increases. "The economy has proved to be really resilient even though we've raised interest rates a lot over the past couple of years. That's good news," he said. This resilience suggests that the economy might be better positioned to handle further rate hikes, should they be deemed necessary.

However, Kashkari was clear that the Fed's job is far from over, as inflation remains a critical challenge. "We need to let the data keep coming to us to see if we really have got the inflation genie back in the bottle so to speak," he conveyed, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance. He added, "We haven't completely solved the inflation problem. We still have more work ahead of us to get it done."

Looking ahead

Germany industrial production, Swiss foreign currency reserves, Eurozone PPI will be released in European session. Later in the day, trade balance from Canada and US will be featured.

AUD/USD Daily Report

Daily Pivots: (S1) 0.6449; (P) 0.6484; (R1) 0.6547; More...

Intraday bias in AUD/USD is turned neutral first with today's steep retreat. For now, another rise will remain mildly in favor as long as 0.6411 minor support holds. Sustained break of 0.6510 cluster resistance (38.2% retracement of 0.6894 to 0.6269 at 0.6508) will argue that whole decline from 0.7156 might be completed with three waves down to 0.6269. Stronger rally should then be seen to medium term trend line resistance (now at 0.6700). However, firm break of 0.6411 will indicate rejection by 0.6510, and turn bias back to the downside for retesting 0.6269 low.

In the bigger picture, there is no confirmation that down trend from 0.8006 (2021 high) has completed. While current rebound from 0.6269 might extend higher, it could be the third leg of a corrective pattern from 0.6169 (2022 low) only. For now, medium term bearishness will remain as long as 0.6894 resistance holds.

Economic Indicators Update

GMT	Ccy	Events	Actual	Forecast	Previous	Revised
23:30	JPY	Labor Cash Earnings Y/Y Sep	1.20%	1.00%	1.10%	0.80%
23:30	JPY	Overall Household Spending Y/Y Sep	-2.80%	-3.00%	-2.50%
00:01	GBP	BRC Like-For-Like Retail Sales Y/Y Oct	2.60%		2.80%
03:00	CNY	Trade Balance (USD) Oct	56.5B	84.2B	77.7B
03:30	AUD	RBA Interest Rate Decision	4.35%	4.35%	4.10%
07:00	EUR	Germany Industrial Production M/M Sep		-0.30%	-0.20%
08:00	CHF	Foreign Currency Reserves (CHF) Oct			678B
10:00	EUR	Eurozone PPI M/M Sep		0.30%	0.60%
10:00	EUR	Eurozone PPI Y/Y Sep		-12.50%	-11.50%
12:30	CAD	Trade Balance (CAD) Sep		1.0B	0.7B
13:30	USD	Trade Balance (USD) Sep		-60.5B	-58.3B

Short Term Elliott Wave in Nasdaq Futures (NQ_F) shows the Index ended wave ((W)) at 14140.25. The Index rallies to correct cycle from 7.19.2023 high in wave ((X)). Internal of wave ((X)) is unfolding as a zigzag Elliott Wave structure. Up from wave ((W)), wave (A) is in progress as a nesting impulse. Wave 1 rally ended at 14476.5 and pulback in wave 2 ended at 14306.25. Index then nested higher. Up from wave 2, wave ((i)) ended at 14472 and dips in wave ((ii)) ended at 14311.25. The Index then extended higher again in wave ((iii)) towards 15017.25.

Pullback in wave ((iv)) ended at 14925.50. Final leg higher wave ((v)) ended at 15275.5 which completed wave 3. Expect the Index to pullback in wave 4 and see support in 3, 7, 11 swing for more upside in wave 5 to end wave (A) of ((X)). Wave 4 may reach 23.6 – 38.2% Fibonacci retracement of wave 3 which comes at 14892 – 15030. Once wave 5 of (A) ends, the Index should pullback in larger degree wave (B) to correct cycle from 10.27.2023 low before it turns higher again. Near term, as far as pivot at 14140.25 low stays intact, expect dips to find support in 3, 7, or 11 swing for further upside.

Nasdaq (NQ_F) 60 Minutes Elliott Wave Chart From 11.03.2023

NQ_F Elliott Wave Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ca1l7Ym_gIs

• The prior four days of the rally have reached an extreme overbought condition.
• Odds have increased for a minor pull-back scenario reinforced by the latest reading from the 4-hour RSI momentum indicator.
• Watch the 32,760 key short-term pivotal resistance with an immediate support zone at 32,120/31,620.

In the past week, the Japan 225 Index (a proxy for the Nikkei 225 futures) has indeed staged the expected bullish reversal after a retest close to its 200-day moving average and 30,490/320 medium-term pivotal support zone.

It rallied by +6.85% to print an intraday high of 32,823 on 3 November and notched its best weekly return since March 2022.

Overstretched rally

Fig 1: Japan 225 minor short-term trend as of 7 Nov 2023 (Source: TradingView, click to enlarge chart)

The past four days of bullish impulsive moves have now reached an extreme overbought condition as depicted by the 4-hour RSI momentum indicator with a reading of 82.84 printed yesterday, 6 November, its highest level since 17 May 2023.

Right now, the RSI indicator has just exited from its overbought which increases the odds of a minor pull-back towards the 20 and 50-day moving average region.

Watch the 32,760 key short-term pivotal resistance

If the 32,760 pivotal resistance (also the minor swing highs area of 25 September/12 October 2023) is not surpassed to the upside, the price actions of the Japan 225 Index may undergo a minor corrective pull-back towards the immediate support zone of 32,120/31,620 (50% Fibonacci retracement of the recent swift up move from 30 October low to 4 November 2023 high & the 20-day moving average) before a potential new bullish impulsive up move sequence unf0lds.

However, a clearance above 32,760 opens up scope to see the next intermediate resistance coming in at 33,410 in the first step (the medium-term descending trendline in place since the 19 June 2023 high).

China's export figures have taken a sharper downturn than anticipated in October, contracting by -6.4% yoy to USD 274.8B, exceeding market predictions of -3.1% yoy. This downturn marks the sixth consecutive month where China's exports have receded.

In contrast, imports defied expectations with a 3.0% yoy increase, a significant departure from the forecasted -5.4% yoy decline, and putting an end to an 11-month streak of contraction.

The culmination of these trade activities resulted in a considerable narrowing of the trade surplus, which shrunk from USD 77.7B to USD 56.5B. This is a stark contraction compared to the anticipated figure of USD 84.2B.

RBA announced an increase in cash rate target by 25 bps to 4.35%, aligning with market anticipations. Accompanying this move, RBA signaled a shift to a neutral policy stance, indicating that "whether further tightening of monetary policy is required... will depend upon the data and the evolving assessment of risks ."

In the statement, RBA said inflation is "still too high" and is proving "more persistent than expected a few months ago". A rate hike was was warranted today to be "more assured" that inflation would return to target in a "reasonable timeframe".

The central bank's outlook is tempered by "significant uncertainties," particularly regarding the persistence of services inflation which has been notably resilient internationally and could mirror in the Australian market.

The effectiveness of monetary policy changes and the response of wage settings and pricing decisions amid a slowdown in economic growth are areas of unpredictability, especially given the current tightness of the labor market. Household consumption prospects are also veiled with uncertainty, too. T

Looking abroad, RBA's statement brought to light the ongoing global uncertainties, notably the economic trajectory of China and the far-reaching consequences of international conflicts, adding further dimensions to the central bank's considerations.

Full RBA statement here.

 

At its meeting today, the Board decided to raise the cash rate target by 25 basis points to 4.35 per cent. It also increased the interest rate paid on Exchange Settlement balances by 25 basis points to 4.25 per cent.

Inflation in Australia has passed its peak but is still too high and is proving more persistent than expected a few months ago. The latest reading on CPI inflation indicates that while goods price inflation has eased further, the prices of many services are continuing to rise briskly. While the central forecast is for CPI inflation to continue to decline, progress looks to be slower than earlier expected. CPI inflation is now expected to be around 3½ per cent by the end of 2024 and at the top of the target range of 2 to 3 per cent by the end of 2025. The Board judged an increase in interest rates was warranted today to be more assured that inflation would return to target in a reasonable timeframe.

The Board had held interest rates steady since June following an increase of 4 percentage points since May last year. It had judged that higher interest rates were working to establish a more sustainable balance between supply and demand in the economy. Furthermore, it had noted that the impact of the more recent rate rises would continue to flow through the economy. It had therefore decided that it was appropriate to hold rates steady to provide time to assess the impact of the increase in interest rates so far. In particular, the Board had indicated that it would be paying close attention to developments in the global economy, trends in household spending, and the outlook for inflation and the labour market.

Since its August meeting, the Board has received updated information on inflation, the labour market, economic activity and the revised set of forecasts. The weight of this information suggests that the risk of inflation remaining higher for longer has increased. While the economy is experiencing a period of below-trend growth, it has been stronger than expected over the first half of the year. Underlying inflation was higher than expected at the time of the August forecasts, including across a broad range of services. Conditions in the labour market have eased but they remain tight. Housing prices are continuing to rise across the country.

At the same time, high inflation is weighing on people's real incomes and household consumption growth is weak, as is dwelling investment. Given that the economy is forecast to grow below trend, employment is expected to grow slower than the labour force and the unemployment rate is expected to rise gradually to around 4¼ per cent. This is a more moderate increase than previously forecast. Wages growth has picked up over the past year but is still consistent with the inflation target, provided that productivity growth picks up.

Returning inflation to target within a reasonable timeframe remains the Board's priority. High inflation makes life difficult for everyone and damages the functioning of the economy. It erodes the value of savings, hurts household budgets, makes it harder for businesses to plan and invest, and worsens income inequality. And if high inflation were to become entrenched in people's expectations, it would be much more costly to reduce later, involving even higher interest rates and a larger rise in unemployment. To date, medium-term inflation expectations have been consistent with the inflation target and it is important that this remains the case.

There are still significant uncertainties around the outlook. Services price inflation has been surprisingly persistent overseas and the same could occur in Australia. There are uncertainties regarding the lags in the effect of monetary policy and how firms' pricing decisions and wages will respond to the slower growth in the economy at a time when the labour market remains tight. The outlook for household consumption also remains uncertain, with many households experiencing a painful squeeze on their finances, while some are benefiting from rising housing prices, substantial savings buffers and higher interest income. And globally, there remains a high level of uncertainty around the outlook for the Chinese economy and the implications of the conflicts abroad.

Whether further tightening of monetary policy is required to ensure that inflation returns to target in a reasonable timeframe will depend upon the data and the evolving assessment of risks. In making its decisions, the Board will continue to pay close attention to developments in the global economy, trends in domestic demand, and the outlook for inflation and the labour market. The Board remains resolute in its determination to return inflation to target and will do what is necessary to achieve that outcome.

Key Highlights

• EUR/USD started a recovery wave above the 1.0650 resistance.
• It broke a key contracting triangle with resistance near 1.0665 on the 4-hour chart.
• GBP/USD surged above the 1.2300 resistance zone.
• Ethereum and XRP extended their rally with strong bullish moves.

EUR/USD Technical Analysis

The Euro formed a base and started a recovery wave above 1.0600 against the US Dollar. EUR/USD cleared many hurdles near 1.0620 to move into a positive zone.

Looking at the 4-hour chart, the pair broke a key contracting triangle with resistance near 1.0665. It even settled above the 1.0700 level, the 100 simple moving average (red, 4 hours), and the 200 simple moving average (green, 4 hours).

Finally, it tested the 1.0750 resistance. If the bulls remain in action, there could be more upsides toward the 1.0800 level. Any more gains might send it toward the 1.0880 level.

If there is a downside correction, the pair might find bids near the 1.0700 level. The first major support is now forming near the 1.0665 level, below which the pair could test the 1.0635 pivot level in the near term.

The main support sits near the 1.0580 level and the 100 simple moving average (red, 4 hours). A downside break below the 1.0580 level might spark a sharp decline. The next key support sits at 1.0500.

Looking at GBP/USD, the pair found support near the 1.2070 level and recently started a strong increase above the 1.2300 level.

Economic Releases

• US Goods and Services Trade Balance for Sep 2023 - Forecast $-60.2B, versus $-58.3B previous.

Japan reported a modest increase in nominal labor cash earnings in September, with 1.2% yoy rise that slightly exceeded market expectations of 1.0% yoy gain. This uptick, an improvement from the previous month's 0.8%, may seem like a positive indicator at first glance, with base salary growth also marking an increase to 1.4% yoy from August's 1.2% yoy.

However, not all components of earnings showed strength. Special payments, often a volatile category, continued to decline by -6.0% yoy , albeit a less severe contraction than -6.3% yoy reported in August. Meanwhile, overtime pay exhibited a marginal increase, rising 0.7% yoy, suggesting a modest uptick in extra working hours.

The nuanced picture of Japan's wage situation becomes more concerning when adjusted for inflation. Real wages, which reflect the purchasing power of income, fell sharply by -2.4% yoy compared to the same month last year, marking the 18th consecutive month of decline. This persistent slide in real wages points to the squeeze on household income as inflation outpaces nominal wage growth.

In line with the strain on incomes, household spending dipped by -2.8% yoy , although the figure is marginally better than the anticipated -3.0% yoy fall. This marks the seventh straight month of decline, underscoring the ongoing reticence of Japanese consumers to open their wallets amid economic uncertainties.

On a more positive note, on a seasonally adjusted basis, household spending saw an unexpected increase of 0.3% mom, defying expectations of a -0.4% mom decline.