Tag: Forex Trading

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Forex Fundamental Analysis

EUR/AUD Global Macro Analysis – Part 1 & 2

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

Global macro analysis of the EUR/AUD pair will focus on the endogenous analysis of fundamental factors driving economic growth in the EU and Australia. It will also involve exogenous analysis that will focus on factors that influence the EUR/AUD pair’s exchange rate.

Ranking Scale

This analysis will assign a score between -10 and +10, depending on the endogenous and exogenous factors’ impact.

A negative score for the endogenous factors means that the local currency shed some value. When positive, it means that the domestic currency has appreciated. The endogenous score is determined through correlation analysis between the endogenous factors and the GDP growth rate.

On the other hand, when the exogenous factors have a negative score, it means that the exchange rate between the EUR and the AUD will drop. A positive score means that the exchange rate will rise. The exogenous score is determined via a correlation analysis between the exogenous factors and the EUR/AUD pair’s exchange rate.

EUR Endogenous Analysis – Summary

The endogenous analysis of the EUR has an overall score of -3. Based on the factors we have analyzed, we can expect that the Euro has marginally depreciated in 2020.

AUD Endogenous Analysis – Summary

As you can see in the below image, according to the Endogenous Indicators of AUD, we can conclude that this currency has depreciated as well in 2020.

The employment change in Australia tracks the monthly number of people who are gainfully employed or engaged in unpaid work. The fluctuation in the number of those employed on a full-time or parttime basis helps to show economic growth.

Between September and October 2020, the number of those employed in Australia increased by 178,800. This shows that the economy is recovering and adding more jobs to the labor market. However, from January to October, the Australian labor market has lost about 190,100 jobs. Hence, we assign a score of -6.

  • Australia GDP Deflator

The GDP deflator measures the overall inflation for the economy. It is a comprehensive measure of inflation rate compared to other measures since it accounts for the changes in the prices of all goods and services produced within Australia. Changes in the prices often correspond to changes in economic growth.

In the third quarter of 2020, the Australia GDP deflator rose to 102.03 points from 101.64 in Q2. Up to Q3, the GDP deflator in Australia has dropped by 0.07 points. We assign a score of -2.

  • Australia Industrial Production

Industrial production measures the quarterly changes in output from the manufacturing sector, utilities, and mining. Note that the Australian economy is heavily dependent on commodity exports, which means that industrial production changes significantly impact economic growth.

In Q2, the industrial production in Australia dropped by 3.3%, while the YoY Q3 industrial production dropped by 2.02%. The drop in Q2 is the largest quarterly drop in over 25 years. We assign a score of -6.

  • Australia Manufacturing PMI

This PMI is from a survey of companies operating in the industrial sector. The index shows whether the manufacturing sector in Australia is expanding or contracting. In Australia, the Ai Group surveys the changes in new orders, employment, inventory, output prices, and production levels. When the index is above 50, it means that the manufacturing sector is expanding and contracting when it’s below 50.

In November 2020, the AIG Australian manufacturing PMI dropped to 52.1 from 56.3 in October. Despite the drop, the Australian manufacturing PMI points to growth in the industrial sector. Hence, we assign a score of 6.

  • Australia Retail Sales

The retail sales data in Australia tracks the monthly change of the consumer expenditure on goods and services. Consumer goods include items of clothing and footwear, food, and household items. Purchases made in restaurants, departmental stores, and hotel services and deliveries are also included as retail sales.

In October 2020, the MoM retail sales increased by 1.4% from a 1.1% drop in September. In 2020, the average MoM retail sales have grown by 0.97%. We assign a score of 2.

  • Australia Consumer Confidence

The Melbourne Institute and Westpac Bank survey about 1200 households in Australia and constructs the consumer confidence index. The index is based on households’ evaluation of their financial condition for the preceding year and in the next 12 months. It also includes their economic expectations in the next one and five years. When the index is above 100, it shows that households are optimistic and pessimistic if the index is below 100. Note that consumer confidence about their finances and the economy determines their level of expenditure; hence, it drives the rate of GDP growth.

In December 2020, consumer confidence in Australia rose to 112 from 107.7 in November, which is the highest in over ten years. We assign a score of 5.

  • Australia Government Debt to GDP

The government debt to GDP determines the ability of the economy to service its debts. It also impacts the ability of the government to take on more debt to advance an economic agenda. A debt level of below 60% of the GDP is preferable since it ensures that the government can take on more debt without over-leveraging the economy.

In 2019, the Australian government debt to GDP rose to 45.1% from 41.5% in 2018. In 2020, it is expected to reach 50% on account of increased government expenditure during the coronavirus pandemic. We assign a score of -3.

Please check our following article where we discuss the Exogenous analysis of the EUR/AUD Forex pair. Cheers.

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Forex Course

198. The ‘Dollar Smile Theory’

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

The U.S. Dollar Smile Theory is a popular notion that illustrates that the U.S. Dollar stays positive in good as well as bad market conditions. This theory was created by a former economist and strategist Morgan Stanley, and it became popular in 2007.

This was the time when the U.S. dollar witnessed a significant boost amidst the global recession. Many times, looking at the market conditions, people would think the U.S. dollar would fall, but surprisingly it continues to grow.


Source: here.

Why does that happen?

The Dollar Smile Theory answers this question.

Following are the three scenarios that Morgan Stanley put forward to explain the positive growth of the U.S. Dollar.

  • The Strength Due To Risk Aversion

The first reason that the U.S. dollar rise is due to risk aversion. This is a situation where investors rely more on safe-haven currencies such as the dollar, yen, etc. During this period, investors consider the global economy in an unstable position. Hence, they are less likely to invest in the risky asset; instead, they put their cash on U.S. dollars.

  • The Dollar Weakens to New Low – Economic Recession and Slowdown

Under this scenario, the US dollar falls to a new low. The bottom of the smile indicates the dull performance of the currency as the economy struggles with weak fundamentals. Additionally, the possibility of falling interest rates also impacts the position of the U.S. Dollar. This results in the market participants steering clear from the dollar.

Subsequently, the primary motto of the U.S. Dollar becomes to Sell. Investors move from buying the currency to selling it and moving towards currencies that are providing higher yields.

  • The Strength Of The U.S. Economy Helps

The U.S. dollar continues to grow because of the strong economy of the country. After the low, a new smile emerges as the economy sees its light at the end of the tunnel. With the signs of the recovery of the economy, a sense of optimism spreads through the market.

This increases the sentiments towards the dollar again. With the US economy enjoying higher GDP growth, the greenback continues to appreciate. This increases the interest rate in the international market.

Though the theory is quite relevant and backed by some logic, the economy is extremely volatile. So only time will tell how definite the Dollar Smile theory is in the future.

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Forex Market Analysis

Daily F.X. Analysis, December 29 – Top Trade Setups In Forex – Technical Levels in Play! 

On Tuesday, the market’s fundamental side is mostly muted as we don’t have any significant economic data scheduled from any economy. The S&P/CS Composite-20 HPI y/y will be released during the U.S. session; however, it’s low-impact and may not drive any major movement in the market today.

On Tuesday, the market’s fundamental side is mostly muted as we don’t have any significant economic data scheduled from any economy. The S&P/CS Composite-20 HPI y/y will be released during the U.S. session; however, it’s low-impact and may not drive any major movement in the market today.

On Tuesday, the market’s fundamental side is mostly muted as we don’t have any significant economic data scheduled from any economy. The S&P/CS Composite-20 HPI y/y will be released during the U.S. session; however, it’s low-impact and may not drive any major movement in the market today.

Economic Events to Watch Today  

 

EUR/USD – Daily Analysis

The EUR/USD pair was closed at 1.22142 after placing a high of 1.22501 and a low of 1.21809. EUR/USD pair posted gains on Monday; however, some of the gains were lost in the late trading session. On the first day of the new trading week, the EUR/USD pair moved on the upside on the back of a weak U.S. dollar and the rising risk sentiment in the market. The global risk sentiment remained well supported by the latest optimism over a last0-minute Brexit deal and got an additional boost after the U.S. President Donald Trump finally signed the $2.3 trillion pandemic aid and spending package.

On Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed the bipartisan bill of $2.3 trillion packages, including $900 billion for stimulus checks and $1.4 trillion for government funding. Trump, who first called this bill a disgrace, signed the bill and made it legislation as the government was near to shut down. However, he urged the U.S. Congress to increase the stimulus check amount to $2000 from $600. Given his calls, the House of Representatives led by Democratic leaders approved the CASH Act on Monday. The Act was designed to support Trump’s decision to increase the stimulus checks. The House voted 275-134 on Monday to increase the proposed $600 payments to more than triple $2000 and send it to Senate.

All these developments in the U.S. stimulus measure raised the market’s risk sentiment that ultimately added strength in the risk perceived EUR/USD pair. Meanwhile, another reason behind the EUR/USD pair’s upward momentum was the sharp rise in European markets on Monday. At the start of the last trading week of 2020, the Brexit developments and the U.S. stimulus measure raised the risk sentiment that supported the European stocks to move higher levels added in the EUR/USD pair. France’s CAC40 rose by 1.3%, the Swiss SMI surged by 1.8%, and Germany’s DAX index finished up by 1.5% on Monday.

However, some of the EUR/USD pair gains in the late trading session on Monday were lost after the news of a new variant of coronavirus reaching eight European countries emerged. The more contagious variant of coronavirus identified in the U.K. has been confirmed to be reported in Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, and France. This spread of a new variant of coronavirus affected EUR/USD’s upward momentum by weighing on the local currency Euro, as fears for economic slowdown emerged again in the European countries.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.2179     1.2249

1.2144     1.2286

1.2108     1.2320

Pivot Point: 1.2215

EUR/USD– Trading Tip

On Tuesday, the EUR/USD consolidating in a narrow trading range of 1.2259 – 1.2205. On the 2 hour timeframe, the EUR/USD has formed an ascending triangle pattern supporting the pair around 1.2204 and a resistance at 1.2259. The MACD and RSI have now shifted to the bullish zone, supporting a bullish trend in the EUR/USD pair. Additionally, the 50 periods EMA supports the pair at 1.2204, and it’s also expending bullish sentiment for the EUR/USD pair today. 

GBP/USD – Daily Analysis

The GBP/USD pair was closed at 1.34574 after a high of 1.35760 and a low of 1.34289. On Monday, the currency pair GBP/USD fell sharply as market participants showed concerns that the post-Brexit trade agreement will slow the trade after the crucial services sector was largely excluded from the deal. The mayor of French fishing port has warned that Thursday’s historic Brexit trade deal between the U.K. and E.U. still left the fishing sector with many key questions unanswered. The mayor of Boulogne-sur-Mer, Frederic Cuvillier, said that the agreement left French fishermen wondering how it will impact them once the festive season was over. 

The long-awaited agreement between the two parties was resolved after granting a five-year transition period over fisheries, after which E.U. fish captures ought to be reduced by 25%. The concession was given from the U.K., who has initially demanded 60% at the start of the negotiations. Furthermore, on financial services, the Brexit deal is said to go in favor of the E.U. According to Boris Johnson, the agreement on financial services has fallen short of U.K. hopes. He said that perhaps the financial sector did not go as far as the U.K. would like. After these comments, Rishi Sunak offered financial services firms the prospect of closer access to E.U. markets than outlined in the Brexit trade deal.

Sunak said that he hoped that a planned memorandum of understanding on this issue between the U.K. and E.U. would smooth over many obstacles in the next few months. However, all these tensions weighed on the local currency British Pound and dragged the GBP/USD pair to the downside.

Meanwhile, the U.K. reported its highest day of new coronavirus infections on Monday with 41,385 new COVID-19 cases. The surge was driven by the new variant of the virus that is more transmissible and has forced the hospitals to cancel non-urgent procedures and scramble to find the space. Even though the new variant does not appear to make people sicker, it is believed to be up to 70% more contagious, resulting in an increased number of coronavirus infections in the U.K.

The rising number of coronavirus in the country and its faster rate affected the local currency, as hopes for an economic recovery dampened and weighed on the GBP/USD pair. It was another reason behind the downward momentum of the GBP/USD pair on Monday. However, the pair’s losses were limited on Monday due to the weakness of the U.S. dollar. The greenback was weak across the board as the U.S. President Donald Trump has signed the new coronavirus relief bill, turning it into law on Sunday. 

Whereas, the House of Representatives, which is led by Democrats, held a vote on the CASH Act on Monday, approved the Act, and passed it to the Senate. According to CASH Act, the number of stimulus checks in the bipartisan bill of $600 will be increased to $2000 as demanded by U.S. President Donald Trump and supported by the House of Democrats.

All the U.S. stimulus relief bill developments weighed on the U.S. dollar and capped further losses in the GBP/USD pair on Monday in the absence of any macroeconomic data release.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.3393     1.3541

1.3337     1.3633

1.3245     1.3689

Pivot point: 1.3485

GBP/USD– Trading Tip

The GBP/USD is trading at 1.3485, having supported over 1.3443 level. The support level is extended by an upward trendline on the two-hourly timeframes. The GBP/USD pair is likely to face resistance at the 1.3525 level, and a bullish crossover of 1.3525 level can drive Sterling’s price towards 1.3620. The bullish trendline is likely to support the pair today at the 1.3443 level, and violation of this can extend the selling trend until the 1.3343 level.     

USD/JPY – Daily Analysis

The USD/JPY pair closed at 103.778 after placing a high of 103.896 and a low of 103.402. The currency pair USD/JPY extended its gains on Monday and raised for the second consecutive day as the market’s risk sentiment increased. The risk-on market sentiment was driven by the latest decision of Donald Trump to sign the bipartisan stimulus bill of $2.3 trillion that he had initially refused to pass. 

The U.S. President Donald Trump turned the bill of $2.3 trillion, including $900 billion for pandemic aid and $1.4 trillion for spending package on Sunday as the government was near to shut down in less than 30 days. However, despite signing the bill, Donald Trump continued urging Congress to increase the number of stimulus checks from $600 per person to $2000. Followed by his calls, the House of Representatives with a Democratic majority approved the CASH Act on Monday to allow the rise in payment of stimulus checks demanded by Donald Trump. The CASH Act was approved by Democrats and sent to Senate for further proceedings.

This added in to the risk sentiment as it raised hopes for economic recovery in a depressing environment and weighed on the safe-haven Japanese Yen that ultimately added in the USD/JPY pair’s upward momentum on Monday. Furthermore, the Bank of Japan released the summary of opinions at the December rate review that showed that the B.O. policymakers were divided on how far to go in changing its stimulus program, with some calling for an overhaul of its strategy achieving 2% inflation. 

The Governor of the Bank of Japan, Haruhiko Kuroda, said that the policy review would not lead to big changes to yield curve control (YCC) instead of focusing on fine-tuning the framework to make it more sustainable. However, some BOJ board members called for a more ambitious review as the hit to grow from coronavirus stokes fears of a return to deflation. 

On the data front, at 04:50 GMT, the Prelim Industrial Production reduced to 0.0% against the forecasted 1.4% and weighed on the Japanese Yen that added gains in the USD/JPY pair. Meanwhile, the USD/JPY pair’s gains were limited on Monday as the U.S. dollar was weak across the board due to the second round of stimulus relief package issuance. The bill will restore unemployment benefits to millions of Americans and averted a partial federal government shutdown that would have begun on Thursday. It raised the risk sentiment and weighed on the U.S. dollar that ultimately capped further upside in the USD/JPY pair on Monday.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

103.47     104.02

103.25     104.37

102.91     104.58

Pivot point: 103.81

USD/JPY – Trading Tips

The USD/JPY is trading sideways at the 103.700 level, supported by an ascending triangle pattern. On the 2 hour timeframe, the USD/JPY pair is gaining support at 103.600 and 103.400 levels along with a resistance level of 103.860, which is extended by a triple top pattern. The pair is now closing a series of doji and spinning top candles, suggesting neutral bias among investors. It’s common during such a timeframe of December as most of the traders are on holiday. Let’s consider taking a buy trade over 103.860 level and selling below the same as this level is of major importance today. Good luck! 

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Forex Market Analysis

Daily F.X. Analysis, December 28 – Top Trade Setups In Forex – Boxing Day Holiday! 

Welcome back to a fresh week after a long weekend. I hope you had a fantastic Christmas. The global banks will be closed in observance of Boxing Day today; therefore, we may have thin volatility and trading volume today in the market. Let’s check out the technical side of the market. 

Welcome back to a fresh week after a long weekend. I hope you had a fantastic Christmas. The global banks will be closed in observance of Boxing Day today; therefore, we may have thin volatility and trading volume today in the market. Let’s check out the technical side of the market. 

Welcome back to a fresh week after a long weekend. I hope you had a fantastic Christmas. The global banks will be closed in observance of Boxing Day today; therefore, we may have thin volatility and trading volume today in the market. Let’s check out the technical side of the market. 

 

Economic Events to Watch Today  


 

EUR/USD – Daily Analysis

The EUR/USD succeeded in maintaining its overnight bullish bias and remained well bid around above the 1.2200 level. However, the currency pair’s sentiment was being supported by the latest progress over the massive U.S. government spending bill and COVID-19 relief measures, which undermined the safe-haven U.S. dollar and contributed to the currency pair gains. 

Moreover, the S&P 500 Futures sentiment was further bolstered by the recent passage of the Brexit deal and upbeat comments from the covid vaccine producers, which in turn, added further weakness to the greenback and contributed to the currency pair gains. In contrast to this, the intensifying concerns about increasing COVID-19 deaths and the possibility of economically-painful hard lockdowns keep questioning the pair’s upside momentum. As of writing, the EUR/USD currency pair is currently trading at 1.2226 and consolidating in the range between 1.2181 – 1.2227.

The S&P 500 Futures enter the 3,700 marks and refreshed intraday high near 3,710 during early Monday. The market trading sentiment recently gained bids after U.S. President Donald Trump signed the much-awaited coronavirus (COVID-19) aid package, which instantly boosted the investor’s confidence. As per the New York Post, President Trump has signed a $2.3 trillion COVID-19 relief and government funding bill that includes $600 stimulus checks for most Americans. The funding bill authorizes direct checks of $600 for people earning up to $75,000 per year. In addition to this, the bill creates a new $300 weekly unemployment supplement and replenishes a forgivable loan program for small businesses, while there’s an additional $600 per child stimulus payment. This latest optimism put a bid under risk assets and weighed over the safe-haven U.S. dollar. 

Elsewhere, the gains in the currency pair were further bolstered after the passage of the Brexit deal and upbeat remarks from the covid vaccine makers. As per the latest report, the U.K.’s Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab said that the United Kingdom is now seeking trade deals with Australia, the United States, and countries in the Indo-Pacific region.” Across the pond, the AstraZeneca CEO Pascal Soriot said that their covid vaccine is effective against the new strain, which in turn exerted an additional positive impact on the market trading sentiment and contributed to the currency pair gains.

Looking ahead, the market traders will keep their eyes only on updates surrounding the virus, vaccine, and the U.S. stimulus package. However, the global markets may witness a dull trading session amid the year-end celebration mood and off at major bourses. 

Daily Technical Levels

Support Resistance

1.2143 1.2231

1.2090 1.2266

1.2055 1.2320

Pivot point: 1.2178

EUR/USD– Trading Tip

The EUR/USD is trading with a bullish bias at the 1.2224 area, having crossed over the triple top resistance level of 1.2200, now working as a support for the EUR/USD. Continuation of an upward trend can extend the buying trend until the 1.2250 level. The EUR/USD pair violates the symmetric triangle pattern, which is likely to drive further upward movement in the market. Bullish bias seems dominant today.

GBP/USD – Daily Analysis

The GBP/USD currency pair managed to maintain its bullish bias through the first half of the Asian session and remained bullish around above the mid-1.3500 level due to the prevalent risk-on market sentiment, which tends to undermine the safe-haven U.S. dollar and contributes to the currency pair gains. Hence the market trading sentiment was supported by the hopes of coronavirus vaccine and progress toward a massive U.S. government spending bill and COVID-19 relief measures. 

On the contrary, the currency pair trimmed some of its sharp gains during Monday’s European session as the renewed uncertainties over the future of the recently signed Brexit deal tend to undermine the British Pound even as markets are off in the U.K. Furthermore, the currency pair’s gains were also capped by the growing market concerns about the continuous rise in new coronavirus cases and the enforcement of fresh restrictions in the U.K. As of writing, the GBP/USD currency pair is currently trading at 1.3561 and consolidating in the range between 1.3530 – 1.3576.

Despite the recent passage of the Brexit deal, the doubts over the key issues like the level Playing Field, Finance, and Gibraltar remain on the cards as the U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has admitted it is an agreement which does not have as much as he would have liked about the financial services sector and regulatory equivalence. He further added that this agreement would give the people hope that we will remain in close dialogue with our European partners regarding things like equivalence decisions. In that way, the uncertainties over the recently signed Brexit deal’s future exerted downside pressure on the GBP/USD currency pair.

Despite this, the S&P 500 Futures managed to extend its previous session’s positive performance and refreshed intraday high near 3,710 during the early European session on the day. The market trading sentiment recently gained bids after U.S. President Donald Trump signed the much-awaited coronavirus (COVID-19) aid package, which instantly boosted the investor’s confidence. As per the New York Post, President Trump has signed a $2.3 trillion COVID-19 relief and government funding bill that includes $600 stimulus checks for most Americans. The funding bill authorizes direct reviews of $600 for people earning up to $75,000 per year. 

In addition to this, the bill creates a new $300 weekly unemployment supplement and replenishes a forgivable loan program for small businesses, while there’s an additional $600 per child stimulus payment. This latest optimism put a bid under risk assets and weighed over the safe-haven U.S. dollar. 

Looking ahead, the market traders will keep their eyes only on updates surrounding the virus, vaccine, and the U.S. stimulus package as the global markets witnessing a dull trading session amid the year-end celebration mood and off at significant bourses. 

Daily Technical Levels

Support Resistance

1.3442 1.3562

1.3378 1.3618 

1.3322 1.3683

Pivot point: 1.3498

GBP/USD– Trading Tip

The Sterling is trading with a bullish bias at 1.376 level, heading further higher towards the next resistance level of 1.3650 level. Support stays at 1.3495 level today. This support level is extended by an upward trendline, which can be seen in the 4-hour timeframe. On the higher side, the GBP/USD pair can prolong the buying trend unto the 1.3622 level, and the bullish trend continuation can lead the GBP/USD pair towards the 1.3706 mark. 

USD/JPY – Daily Analysis

The USD/JPY failed to stop its previous-session bearish bias and remained depressed around below the 103.50 level, mainly due to the broad-based U.S. dollar weakness. The fresh optimism was pressuring the U.S. dollar that the U.S. President Donald Trump signed a $2.3 trillion COVID-19 relief and government funding bill, urging investors to retreat from the safe-haven investment riskier assets. Apart from this, the losses in the U.S. dollar could also be attributed to the lingering doubts over the U.S. economic recovery from COVID-1, which adds further burden around the U.S. dollar and contributes to the currency pair losses. 

The upbeat market sentiment, backed by the hopes of coronavirus vaccine and the U.S. covid stimulus, boosted investors’ confidence and undermined the safe-haven Japanese yen, which, in turn, was seen as one of the leading factors that helped the USD/JPY currency pair to limit its deeper losses.

Despite the worries over the coronavirus pandemic’s resurgence, the optimism over a possible vaccine for the highly infectious coronavirus disease has remained supportive of the market risk tone. Also favoring the optimism could be the recent comments from the covid vaccine producers. As per the keywords, AstraZeneca CEO Pascal Soriot said that their covid vaccine is effective against the new strain. Thus, the risk-on market mood tends to undermine the safe-haven Japanese yen, which becomes the key factor that lends some support to the currency pair to ease the intraday bearish pressure surrounding the USD/JPY currency pair.

In addition to this, the sentiment around the equity market was improved further after U.S. President Donald Trump signed a $2.3 trillion COVID-19 relief and government funding bill. It is worth noted that U.S. President Trump had signed a $2.3 trillion COVID-19 relief and government funding bill that includes $600 stimulus checks for most Americans. The funding bill authorizes direct reviews of $600 for people earning up to $75,000 per year. Furthermore, the bill creates a new $300 weekly unemployment supplement and provides a forgivable loan program for small businesses. Besides this, there’s an additional $600 per child stimulus payment. 

This, in turn, the broad-based U.S. dollar failed to stop its bearish trend and remained depressed on the day. Apart from this, doubts over the U.S. economic recovery remains on the cards amid rising COVID-19 deaths, which adds further burden around the greenback. However, the losses in the U.S. dollar becomes the key factor that kept the currency pair lower. Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar index, which measures the greenback against a bucket of currencies, dropped by 0.15% to 90.112 by 12:09 AM ET (5:09 AM GMT).

In contrast to this, the optimism around the equity market was slightly unaffected by the intensifying market worries regarding the continuous rise in new coronavirus cases in the U.S. and Europe, which keep sparking the worries over the global economic recovery through imposing new lockdown restrictions on economic and social activity. Furthermore, the equity market gains were also capped by the renewed uncertainty over the Brexit deal and intensified China-US tussles.

There isn’t any major market-moving economic data due for release on the day, which in turn, the market traders will keep their eyes only on updates surrounding the virus, vaccine, and the U.S. stimulus package as the global markets seeing a dull trading session amid the year-end celebration mood and off at major bourses.

Daily Technical Levels

Support Resistance

103.47 104.02

103.25 104.37

102.91 104.58

Pivot point: 103.81

USD/JPY – Trading Tips

The USD/JPY trades choppy in between a narrow trading range of 103.750 – 103.360 level. The safe-haven USD/JPY pair faces immediate support of 103.360, and the formation of candles above this level can drive the buying trend until 103.746. Whereas, bullish trend continuation can extend further buying trend until 104.090 level. The MACD and RSI are suggesting selling bias as it’s forming histograms below 0 level. While the 50 EMA also supports the selling trend. Let’s consider taking a selling trade until the 102.990 level today. Good luck!

Categories
Forex Basic Strategies

Trading The Forex Market Effectively Using ‘Renko’ Charts

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

If you are a Forex trader, you can agree-many winning strategies exist out there. And Renko charts are among the handy weapons you can deploy to your advantage. This write-up will help you grasp handy tips to get your feet wet, as well as scaling your trading into a profitable trajectory.

Renko charts are not very popular as bars or candlesticks among traders. However, they can be very profitable when a trader uses them correctly. Renko chart trading is a robust way to analyze price trends, and even superb when you combine it with another tool to confirm entry and exit positions.

What Is Unique With Renko?

Well, Renko charts only show you the price movements of an underlying asset without factoring in time and volume. The formation of a Renko bar or body is in one direction. And it forms only when prices move by a predefined amount in pips. You can adjust the number of pips per block to suit your needs or trading strategy.

Also, a subsequent Renko bar can only form either adobe or below a previous one. It’s that model that shows you the price direction with unique preciseness.

Their naming arises from Japanese “Renga,” which means brick. Therefore, Renko charting arises from a series of blocks. In the light of Forex trading, the charting of the blocks moves up or down with prices.

Advantages of Trading Forex using Renko charts

  1. Renko charts are simple in both ease of interpretation and use.
  2. Great for determining the levels of support and resistance.
  3. Traders can adjust the block sizes to suit their trading needs.
  4. Renko charts are great at signaling price breakout or reversal.
  5. Ideally, Renko charts only show you how prices are moving.

Overall, Renko charts give traders an edge with overly volatile commodities like Oil and Gold. The charting digs deeper into the pricing histories. The charting model behind Renko builds on plotting price on the -Y-axis Vis a Vis time.

Renko beats conventional price-charting by removing insignificant price movements.

There are three metrics that Renko shades off from ordinary price action. And they are:

  • Any false price breakouts
  • The candle-wicks
  • The price volatility

Ideally, it pays attention to the critical metrics: support, resistance, and the trend.

Whenever prices move, Renko converts that into a commensurate block on the chart. And every block forms after price confirmations. The reality is, Renko charts do not work with partial blocks. They have to be wholesome and in line with the set numbers per single block.

As a trader, it makes great sense if you’re able to sift out short-term fluctuations out of a price chart. Beauty is Renko charting is a great tool at that. Price volatility is the greatest enemy for many traders, especially if you can only bring in a small trading margin.

While most traders can establish trends from normal price- charting, Renko charting is another wholesome set of trading tools to help you sharpen your decisions while trading.

More Pointers with Renko Charts

As indicated earlier, Renko charting creates blocks after by concurrently establishing the closing positions of a previous block. Next, subsequent blocks can only form either below or above a previous one.

Using the precedence above, Renko charting brings you a precise tool into your trading arsenal to help you view trends more clearly. Along with that, it’s also important to calculate the most appropriate block size – in line with the asset you target to trade.

Calculation of Renko blocks

There are two documented methods for the determination of the optimal sizes of Renko blocks.

First is the ATR or Average True Range. It relies on the ART indicator to determine the height of an ordinary candlestick.

Second is the model where a trader provides a predefined value for the size of a block.

So, new blocks only form when price movements meet the minimum value set for a block.

Sniffing a Buy Opportunity with Renko Charts

Image credits: best-trading-platforms.com

Renko charts help traders spot trend directions very clearly. And there are two ways to spot an opportunity to go long. Using the image above, a monthly view of a stock’s prices is visible. Simple, green bricks signify uptrends, while the ref ones signify the downtrend.

Primarily, the years 2017 and 2019 are trends – good opportunities to go long (buy). Towards the end of 2018, there’s a trend reversal (bricks turn red- the opportunity for buyers to exit and pocket profits)

Also, the same trend reversal creates an opportunity for traders to go short and also take profits. Look at 2019 also; the green bricks signify the continuity of the uptrend.

Image Credits: best-trading-platforms.com

Look at the figure above, the EUR/USD pair oscillations ranging from 1.0500 – 1.1500 from 2015 through to -2016. Also, notice the uptrend starting from 2017 but with a reversal along the way. Uptrends are opportunities to go long, while downtrends are opportunities to go short.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to upscale your trading success, Renko charts greatly help. However, ensure that aside from mastering them, it’s excellent to confirm the trends, support, and resistance levels using one or more indicators.

Keep in mind that trading success arises from careful analysis of entry and exit positions. Upfront, it may seem cumbersome – taking time to do the due diligence in the analysis. Utmost, do not trade with emotions. Renko charts and many other tools will help you sharpen your analysis.

The preciseness and effectiveness of a strategy arise from long spells of practical use. Renko is a super-tool for scalping when you compare it to classical price charting or bar or candlesticks.

Other handy trade signal tools to combine with Renko Charts

  • Simple Moving Averages -SME Enter trades with three bars in the direction of the trend and 10 SME sloping downwards or upwards. (This will help you avoid false breaks in a reversal against the trend)
  • On Balance Volume –OBV Enter trades when you confirm the trend and SME as tally that with OBV indicator’s direction.

Parting Shot

Renko charting brings in more preciseness for your trend confirmation in line with price action and the trend. It helps you filter out the noise with volume and time and leaves you with price direction only. For successful scalping, incorporating Renko is a better way to go about it. Renko charts help you keep the focus on the trend for position trades and note it’s the reversal in good time to exit.

Categories
Forex Fundamental Analysis

EUR/NZD Global Macro Analysis – Part 3

EUR/NZD Exogenous Analysis

EUR/NZD Exogenous Analysis

EUR/NZD Exogenous Analysis

  • The EU and New Zealand Current Account to GDP differential

An economy’s current account comprises the balance of trade, net transfer payments, and net factor income. In international trade, a country with a higher current account surplus experiences higher demand for its domestic currency. That means the value of its currency will be higher. Typically, a higher current account to GDP means that the country has more current account surplus.

For the EUR/NZD pair, if the differential of the current account to GDP is negative, it means that the pair’s exchange rate will fall. If it’s positive, we can expect the pair’s exchange rate to increase.

In 2020, New Zealand’s current account to GDP is forecasted to reach -0.8% while that of the EU 3.4%. Thus, the current account to GDP differential between the EU and New Zealand is 4.2%. We assign a score of 4.

The prevailing interest rate in a country determines the flow of capital from foreign investors. Naturally, the country that offers a higher interest rate will attract more foreign investors who seek higher returns. Similarly, a country with lower interest rates will experience an outflow of capital by foreign investors. In the forex market, a currency pair with a positive interest rate differential tends to be bullish since traders are buying the base currency – which offers a higher interest rate and sell the quote currency – which has a lower interest rate. Conversely, a currency pair is expected to be bearish if the interest rate differential is negative since investors will sell the base currency and buy the quote currency.

In 2020, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand cut the official cash rate to 0.25%, while the ECB maintained the interest rate at 0%. Hence, the interest rate differential for the EUR/NZD pair is -0.25%. We assign a score of -3.

  • The EU and New Zealand GDP Growth Rate differential

The value of a country’s domestic currency is impacted by the growth rate of the local economy. Thus, comparing the growth rate between countries’ GDP growth rates helps determine which currency appreciated or depreciated more than the other.

The New Zealand economy contracted by 3.2% in the first three quarters of 2020 and that of the EU by 2.9%. The GDP growth rate differential is 0.3%. We assign a score of 2.

Conclusion

The EUR/NZD exogenous analysis has a cumulative rank of 3. This means that the pair is expected to trade in a bullish trend in the short-term.

The bullish trend can also be observed from the technical analysis of the weekly price charts. The pair is trading above the 200-period MA and the weekly price rebounding from the lower Bollinger Band.

We hope you found this analysis informative. If you have any questions, please let us know in the comments below. Cheers!

Categories
Forex Fundamental Analysis

EUR/NZD Global Macro Analysis – Part 1 & 2

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

In conducting the global macro analysis for the EUR/NZD pair, we will analyze the endogenous factors that impact the EU and New Zealand economic growth. We’ll also analyze exogenous economic factors that affect the EUR/NZD pair’s exchange rate in the forex market.

Ranking Scale

We will rank the effects of the endogenous and exogenous factors on a sliding scale of -10 to +10. The endogenous factors will be ranked based on correlation analysis with the GDP growth rate. When the endogenous ranking is negative, it means that the domestic currency will depreciate and appreciate when positive.

Similarly, the exogenous factors are scored based on correlation analysis with the EUR/NZD pair’s exchange rate. A positive score means that the EUR/NZD pair’s price will rise and drop if the score is negative.

Summary – EUR Endogenous Analysis

Based on the factors we have analyzed, we have got a score of -3, and we can expect the Euro to be marginally depreciating in 2020.

Summary – NZD Endogenous Analysis

A score of -4 on NZD Endogenous Analysis implies that in 2020, the NZD has depreciated as well.

Employment change measures the quarterly change in the number of people who are gainfully employed. It can be used as a comprehensive measure of the labor market changes, which corresponds to economic growth.

In Q3 of 2020, Employment in New Zealand dropped by 0.8%, from a 0.3% drop in Q2 to 2.709 million. The Q3 reading is the largest drop in QoQ employment since Q1 of 2009. We assign a score of  -6.

  • New Zealand GDP Deflator

This indicator measures the quarterly changes in the price of all economic output in New Zealand. It is regarded as the most specific inflation measure since it covers price changes for every good and service produced.

In Q2 of 2020, the New Zealand GDP deflator dropped to 1238 points from 1242 in Q1. This shows that the economy contracted in Q2. Hence, we assign a score of -3.

  • New Zealand Manufacturing Sales

New Zealand manufacturing sales track the change in the volume of total sales made in the manufacturing sector. The indicator tracks the sales in 13 industries, which comprehensively represents New Zealand’s economy. The changes in the volume of sales are directly correlated to the growth of the economy.

In Q3 of 2020, the YoY manufacturing sales in New Zealand increased by 3.1% after dropping by 12.1% in Q2 and 1.9% in Q1. The increase in Q3 is the largest recorded since January 2017. However, since the overall industrial production is still at multi-year lows, we assign a score of -6.

  • New Zealand Manufacturing PMI

This index is aggregated from a survey of purchasing managers in the manufacturing sector. It is a composite of scores regarding output in the sector, prices, expected output, employment, new orders, and inventory. When the PMI is above 50, it means that the manufacturing sector is expanding. A PMI score below 50 shows that the sector is contracting. Naturally, these periods of expansions and contractions are leading indicators of changes in the GDP growth rate.

In November 2020, the New Zealand manufacturing PMI rose to 55.3 from 51.7 in October. The rise was due to increased new orders, inventory, production, and deliveries, as uncertainties surrounding COVID-19 decreased. We assign a score of 4.

  • New Zealand Retail Sales

The retail sales track the changes in the quarterly purchase of final goods and services by households in New Zealand. Although retail sales are often affected by seasonality and tend to be highly volatile, it is a significant measure of the overall economic growth since consumer expenditure is one of the primary drivers of GDP growth.

In Q3 of 2020, New Zealand retail sales increased by 28% from 14.8% recorded in Q2. Historically, the Q3 retail sales increase is the largest rise recorded in New Zealand since 1995. The increase was driven by increased expenditure on groceries, vehicles, and household goods. On average, the QoQ New Zealand retail sales figure has grown by 4.1%. We assign a score of 4.

  • New Zealand Consumer Confidence

The New Zealand consumer confidence is also called the Westpac McDermott Miller Consumer Confidence Index. The index measures the quarterly change in consumers’ pessimism or optimism about the performance of the economy. When the index is above 100, it shows increased optimism by households, and that below 100 shows pessimism.

In the fourth quarter of 2020, New Zealand consumer confidence rose to 106 from 95.1 in Q3. The increased optimism was driven by higher readings in both the current and expected financial situation. We assign a score of 2.

  • New Zealand Government Net Debt to GDP

Investors use this ratio to determine if the economy is capable of servicing its debt obligations. Consequently, the government’s net debt to GDP affects the government securities yield and determines a country’s borrowing costs. Typically, levels below 60% are deemed favorable.

In 2019, the New Zealand Government Net Debt to GDP dropped to 19% from 19.6% in 2018. In 2020, it is projected to range between 27% to 32%, which would be the highest since 1998. We assign a score of 1.

In the next article, we have done the exogenous analysis of both EUR and NZD pairs to accurately forecast this currency pair’s future trend. Please check that out. Cheers.

Categories
Forex Trading Guides

Guide To 160+ Forex Fundamental Indicators

As we all know, there are three primary techniques to trade the Forex market. They are Technical Analysis, Fundamental Analysis, and Sentimental Analysis. Technical Analysis is one of the most prominent ways of trading the market, which involves using Technical Indicators, Price Action Techniques, etc. However, Fundamental analysis is one of the most underrated techniques to gauge the currency price movement.

As we all know, there are three primary techniques to trade the Forex market. They are Technical Analysis, Fundamental Analysis, and Sentimental Analysis. Technical Analysis is one of the most prominent ways of trading the market, which involves using Technical Indicators, Price Action Techniques, etc. However, Fundamental analysis is one of the most underrated techniques to gauge the currency price movement.

As we all know, there are three primary techniques to trade the Forex market. They are Technical Analysis, Fundamental Analysis, and Sentimental Analysis. Technical Analysis is one of the most prominent ways of trading the market, which involves using Technical Indicators, Price Action Techniques, etc. However, Fundamental analysis is one of the most underrated techniques to gauge the currency price movement.

Therefore, at Forex Academy, we have put forward a series of Fundamental Indicators that we believe strongly impact the Forex price charts. We have clearly explained the importance of each of these indicators and pictographically showed the relative impact of the indicator’s news release on the Forex currency pairs.

This guide will help you navigate through these indicators in the easiest way possible. The order of these indicators implies their relative importance. As the list goes down, the importance of the indicators deteriorates.

Interest Rate

Inflation Rate

Government Debt to GDP Ratio

Current Account to GDP Ratio

Balance Of Trade

Unemployment Rate

Labor Force Participation Rate

Core Inflation

Cash Reserve Ratio

Productivity

Foreign Exchange Reserves

Non-Farm Payroll

Consumer Price Index

Producer Price Index

Corporate Tax

Building Permits

Income Tax

Consumer Confidence

Capital Flows

Crude Oil Production

Consumer Credit

Gold Reserves

Consumer Spending

Tourism Revenues

Personal Spending

Personal Saving

Initial Jobless Claims

Terrorism Index

Gasoline Prices

Government Debt

Credit Rating’

Core Consumer Price

New Orders

Mining Production

Car Registrations

Manufacturing Production

Manufacturing PMI

Leading Economic Index

Households Debt to GDP

Imports

Housing Index

Housing Starts

Government Budget

Disposable Personal Income

Cement Production

Car Production

Capacity Utilization

Bank Lending Rate

Home Ownership Rate

Government Spending

Foreign Direct Investment

Fiscal Expenditure

Government Revenue

Exports

Employed Persons

Construction Output

Wage Growth

Private Sector Credit

Steel Production

Services PMI

Terms Of Trade

Ease of Doing Business

Corruption Index

Electricity Production

Composite PMI

Industrial Production Index

Factory Orders

Corporate Profits

Internet Speed

ZEW Economic Sentiment Index

Changes in Inventories

GDP Constant Prices

Retail Sales MoM

Gross National Product

GDP From Agriculture

Gross Fixed Capital Formation

GDP From Manufacturing

GDP From Public Administration

GDP Per Capita PPP

GDP Per Capita

GDP Growth Rate

Long Term Unemployment Rate

Labour Costs

Full-Time Employment

Minimum Wages

Employment Change

Central Bank Balance Sheet

Youth Unemployment Rate

Harmonized Consumer Prices

Export Prices

Imports by Category

Import Prices

Imports by Country

Exports by Category

GDP From Utilities

GDP From Transport

GDP from Services

GDP from Mining

GDP from Construction

Business Confidence

Sales Tax Rate

Social Security Rate

Job Vacancies

Corruption Rank

Interbank Rate

Small Business Sentiment

Bankruptcies’

Deposit Interest Rate

Employment Rate

Food Inflation

Households Debt to Income

Lending Rate

Industrial Production MoM

Inflation Rate MoM

Producer Prices Change

GDP Annual Growth Rate 

Loan Growth

Loans to Private Sector

Retail Sales YoY

Wages

GDP Deflator

Total Vehicle Sales

IP Addresses

Asylum Applications

Government Budget Value

Social Security Rate For Employees

Social Security Rate For Companies

Employment Trends Index

Commitments of Traders

Reserve Assets

Money Supply

New Home Sales

Public Sector Net Borrowing

Cryptocurrency Negotiation

Existing-Home Sales

Durable Goods Orders

Pending Home Sales

Job Cuts

Home Loans

Sentix Investor Confidence

Gross Domestic Product Estimate

Foreign Securities Purchases

Mortgage Market Index

US Crude Oil Inventories

Personal Consumption Expenditures Price Index

Machinery Orders

Long Government Bond Auction 

US Redbook

German Ifo Business Climate Index

US 10-Year TIPS Auction

US Baker Hughes Oil Rig Count

Jobs to Applications Ratio

Commodity Prices

Business Investment

Wholesale Trade Sales

Retail Sales Monitor

Economy Watchers Current Index

US TIC Net Long-Term Transactions

This list is all you need, to master the fundamental indicators and how they affect the Forex price movements. If you have any questions, please let us know in the comments below. Cheers!

Categories
Forex Course

197. Using The USDX Numbers To Trade The Forex Market

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

The U.S. Dollar Index is one of the most reckoned currency indexes and trades on exchanges with the DXY ticker or the USDX ticker. This index has been around in the market since 1973, when the base value was kept at 100,000.00, which is now 100.00.

It is a very prominent factor that facilitates Greenback. And the basket used to measure the U.S. dollar index value has only been changed once post-Euro replaced many other European currencies in 1999.

Formula To Calculate USDX

USDX = 50.14348112 * the EUR/USD exchange rate ^ (-0.576) * the USD/JPY exchange rate ^ (0.136) * the GBP/USD exchange rate ^ (-0.119) X the USD/CAD exchange rate ^ (0.091) × the USD/SEK exchange rate ^ (0.042) * the USD/CHF exchange rate ^ (0.036).

Implementing The US Dollar Index to Trade Forex

The movement determined in the U.S. currency index, such as the USDX, offers traders a sense of how the currency is experiencing a change in its value against other currencies in the index. For instance, if there is a rise in the USDX level, this indicates the rise in the U.S. dollar. Similarly, when the level of USDX is falling, so is the dollar in the foreign exchange market.

Many financial reporters leverage the changes witnessed in the U.S. Dollar Index’s value to offer their viewers and audiences an idea of how the U.S. dollar performed in the foreign exchange market. This works as an alternative to analyzing how each currency increased or decreased against the dollar.

Moreover, the USDX can also act as an inverse indicator that reflects the strength of the consolidated Euro currency of the European Union, considering that the weight of Euro (57.6%) is the most in the index.

Another prominent aspect that the forex trader should consider is how the movements of the USDX is associated with the other currencies that are put against the U.S. Dollar.

For instance, when the currency pair is measured as USD/JPY, it is likely to be positively correlated, and both the currencies should rise and fall at the same time.

Contrarily, when the currency pair is measured like EUR/USD, then the currency pair and USDX are inversely correlated. This implies that they are likely to move in the opposite direction, where one will fall when the other rises.

[wp_quiz id=”97457″]
Categories
Forex Elliott Wave Forex Market Analysis

GBPCAD Triangle Pattern Completion. What’s Next?

The GBPCAD cross shows the completion of an Elliott wave triangle developed in its wave ((b)) of Minute degree, which moves inside the incomplete wave 2 of Minor degree. 

The GBPCAD cross shows the completion of an Elliott wave triangle developed in its wave ((b)) of Minute degree, which moves inside the incomplete wave 2 of Minor degree. 

The GBPCAD cross shows the completion of an Elliott wave triangle developed in its wave ((b)) of Minute degree, which moves inside the incomplete wave 2 of Minor degree. 

Technical Overview

The big picture of GBPCAD cross under the Elliott Wave view exposed in the following daily chart shows the progress of a corrective structure that began on March 09th when the price found fresh sellers at 1.80531. Once the cross topped at 180531, the cross completed an impulsive wave identified as wave 1 of Minor degree labeled in green and began to develop its wave 2 of the same degree, which remains incomplete.

The previous chart also shows the price developed its wave ((a)) of Minute degree in black as a sharp decline, making its next path corresponding to wave ((b)) as a triangle pattern. This price context carries us to verify the alternation principle between waves inside a corrective pattern. In fact,  the speedy first corrective leg gave way to an elapsed second move in an extended time range compared with wave ((a)). Likewise, the next decline corresponding to wave ((c)) shouldn’t be as quick as wave ((a)).

On the other hand, the piercing below the base-line of the triangle that connects the end of waves (b) and (d) of Minuette degree labeled in blue suggests that the cross could see further declines in the following weeks. Additionally, considering that the price action didn’t surpass the end of wave (e), the likelihood of further drops increases.

Technical Outlook

The next daily chart exposes the time segment of the corrective sequence corresponding to wave 2 of Minor degree, in which waves ((a)) and ((b)) in black were moving for 259 days, starting when the cross topped at 1.80531 and till the end of wave (e) in blue. Additionally, the piercing of the base-line that connects the end of waves (b) and (b) suggests that wave (c) should be in progress.

In this context, the incomplete bearish sequence in progress corresponding to wave ((c)) could extend in a fraction of 259 days, for example, 50 percent of that time or approximately 130 days, which carries us to foresee a downward correction in the GBPCAD cross till early April 2021. Likewise, the potential bearish target zone can be found between 1.65562 and 1.63042.

In summary, the GBPCAD cross advances in an incomplete corrective sequence corresponding to wave 2 of Minor degree. Simultaneously, its internal structure reveals the progress in its wave ((c)). The potential bearish target for this segment extends between 165562 and 1.63042. Also, the downward sequence could elapse until early April 2021. Finally, the invalidation level of the current bearish scenario is located at 1.75549.

Categories
Forex Course

196. Ever Wondered What ‘Trade-Weighted Dollar Index’ Is All About?

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

The trade-weighted dollar is a prominent index developed by the FED in order to measure the value of the U.S. dollar spending on its competitiveness against the trading partners. It is used to determine the purchasing value of the U.S. dollar and to summarize the impact of appreciation and depreciation of the currency against foreign currencies.

The Importance Of Trade-Weighted Dollar Index

When the value of the U.S. dollar rises, the import to the country becomes less expensive, whereas exports become expensive. A Trade-Weighted Dollar Index is used to measure the value of the foreign exchange of the U.S. dollar in comparison to specific foreign currencies.

It offers weightage or importance to currencies that are most popularly used in international trade, instead of comparing the dollar value to every foreign currency. As the currencies are weighted distinctively, the modifications in each currency will have a different effect on the trade-weighted dollar as well as corresponding indexes.

After the U.S. Dollar Index, Trade-Weighted Dollar Index is the primary tool used to measure the strength of the U.S. dollar. It is also reckoned as the Broad Index was introduced in 1998 by the U.S. Federal Reserve Board.

It was created after the integration of the Euro and to reflect the trade patterns of the U.S. more precisely. The Federal Reserve picked 26 currencies for this broad index, envisioning the acceptance of the Euro by 11 countries belonging to the European Union.

Countries Included In The Trade-Weighted Dollar

Index

Here are the countries with the weight on the index –

  • Eurozone – 18.947
  • China – 15.835
  • Canada – 13.384
  • Mexico – 13.524
  • Japan – 6.272
  • United Kingdom – 5.306
  • Korea – 3.322
  • Taiwan – 1.95
  • Singapore – 1.848
  • Brazil – 1.979
  • Malaysia – 1.246
  • Hong Kong – 1.41
  • India – 2.874
  • Switzerland – 2.554
  • Thailand -1.096
  • Australia – 1.395
  • Russia – 0.526
  • Israel – 1.053
  • Sweden – 0.52
  • Indonesia – 0.675
  • Saudi Arabia – 0.499
  • Chile – 0.625
  • Philippines – 0.687
  • Colombia – 0.604
  • Argentina – 0.507

Final Thoughts

Trade-Weighted US Dollar is a broad index that includes countries from all across the world. Traders will also find some developing countries in the broad index list, which makes it a better reflection of the value of the U.S. dollar worldwide.

[wp_quiz id=”97448″]
Categories
Forex Market

Is Market Analysis a Must for Trading?

Imagine that you are a doctor and a patient visits you. Instead of conducting a full check-up, you just put the person on the table and start operating. This doesn’t sound good, does it?

Imagine that you are a doctor and a patient visits you. Instead of conducting a full check-up, you just put the person on the table and start operating. This doesn’t sound good, does it?

Imagine that you are a doctor and a patient visits you. Instead of conducting a full check-up, you just put the person on the table and start operating. This doesn’t sound good, does it?

      …well, neither does trading without any analysis.

The thing is…we may choose between thousands of different ways to start trading, but there are always a few crucial points to consider. We have all heard stories about people who approach trading as if it were gambling. They rely on emotions, luck, and intuition to determine the future of their finances. However, although this method is wrong and dangerous, what do you believe is the missing component?

If you just took a coin and chose the head as a sign to go long and the tail to go short, you would have a 50-50% chance of succeeding, right? Well, it depends. With knowledge of the market and indicators, a developed toolbox, and proper analysis, this ratio would immediately change.

We need to have a clear idea of where we are going to set our take profit and stop loss and what our risk-to-reward ratio is going to be. These points cannot be determined randomly. We need money management to know how to manage any trade, from entry to exit. 

Many professional traders will condemn any vague, unclear approach because, as traders, we can have a much greater chance of winning with the precision and clarity that come with knowledge, analysis, and money management. 

No matter which strategy you apply in trading, money management should come first. Calculate your risk properly and do not let the trade run loose.

Traders may prefer lower or higher time frames, trying to make the most out of the chart analysis. Technical traders are going to rely on different tools to gather information about the market. However, to know whether you should enter a trade or not, you can do the naked chart reading as well and still know exactly what you should do to succeed.

Naked chart traders do not use algorithms but focus on what candlesticks are telling them about current market activity. Although these traders do not use any indicators in this case, they still need a developed skill set to generate wins and limit losses. 

As naked-chart strategy requires traders to interpret price action signals, they need to determine the overall market direction and read various patterns. Indicators may not be relevant in this trading approach, but managing one’s emotions and attitude is as important as in any other trading style.

Some aspects of trading are universal. Whether you are a technical trader or a naked-chart one, you will need to learn to analyze the market and yourself.

We know how the trading world offers abundant possibilities. Needless to say, trading comes with its own set of risks. That is why some affluent people are keen on seeking advice from experienced traders to ensure a good return. Nowadays, we are also seeing a rise in automated trading (i.e. expert advisors or trading robots) that aims to alleviate the entire trading conundrum and achieve profit without breaking a sweat.

With this approach, traders are free of having to manage each step of the trade themselves. They, however, need to invest in this ready-made system and, preferably, consult with a trading manager as well. 

Now, regardless of any easing that comes with purchasing EAs, people still need to understand the strategy that their robot is using. These traders may not be complete or independent, but they must analyze how the EA they chose works.

You may not care about who is running the state or which report is coming out next, but you still have the task of realizing how you are going to manage a new trade. How do you know that something is a signal or not? How are you going to tell if you are in an uptrend or downtrend? Which strategy brings you the best results? The questions may go on and on, and you are the only one who can answer them.

Based on everything we said above, there is no trading without some form of analysis.

To earn a profit, you need to know the key points in your trading, including your maximum risk and potential reward. What is more, earning a sustainable income should also push you towards understanding what triggers you to behave irrationally. For example, your leverage may be too high or too low, but without assessing the whys, you cannot progress any further. Any algorithm you develop can also help your trades run smoothly and prevent future losses.

Some professional technical traders will say how trading is based on three key concepts – money management, trading psychology, and technical analysis.

Now, even if you are not a really big fan of indicators or prefer a different approach, you need to build experience, as it will help you eliminate future mistakes and manage your emotions better. Yet, to get to the point of having a comprehensive perspective of your personality and the market, you still have to carry out thorough testing. 

You need to see in advance if your chosen strategy is going to yield results. And, even if it does, you might react differently once you start investing real money. Try to obtain a 360 vision of everything – the market, your involvement, and any tools you may be using.

This is why, whichever time frame or strategy you are using, you need to backtest, forward test, and real-life test your system. 

Imagine a situation where you finally started making money, but you suddenly, out the blue, take a few really bad losses with the price hitting your stop loss. 

What do you do? 

You must assess what went wrong – was it emotions, technical analysis, or something else. How can you improve your trading without recording what you were doing? The only thing that matters at the end of the day is the bottom line. Compare your total wins and losses and see if there are any loose ends. 

Trading is more about protecting your account from losses than about sole winning.

You can always use a demo account to see how your approach is working out for you. Any trader with experience will advise you to take notes on every trade you take, including all entry and exit points, indicator settings, and other key information concerning the trade.

Personality tests are also an invaluable tool for traders to get the gist of some negative beliefs that are deeply rooted in your subconscious. You do want to know if there is a part of you that is blocking your prosperity and growth. Finally, understand that whichever approach you take, trading is all about analysis, of yourself and what you do.

You are free to make your own selection of your trading style or even entrust a trading robot with your finances, but do not for one second believe in easy money with no involvement on your side.

Your trading is like a flower bud – you need to devote time, effort, and energy to see it grow, and bloom. Sometimes, you will use less water and more fertilizer to accommodate the changing seasons, but you will always be present, monitoring the development from the seed to the full-blossom stage. If you wanted to take yourself to the next level, you might consider attending a florist competition. That is when you would further build your skills and might even learn how to cut and decorate flowers. 

Still, the one thing that connects all the different stages of this process is analysis. Some people are blessed with a green thumb, so they know intuitively what to do to help the flower grow. However, to be an expert, everyone needs to include a detailed assessment of factors affecting their success in their chosen field.

Categories
Forex Fundamental Analysis

EUR/GBP Global Macro Analysis – Part 3

EUR/GBP Exogenous Analysis

EUR/GBP Exogenous Analysis

EUR/GBP Exogenous Analysis

  • The EU and the UK Current Account to GDP differential

This indicator is used to measure how competitive an economy is in the international market. When a country has a higher trade surplus, the current account to GDP ratio is higher. Conversely, if a country has a lower trade surplus or deficit, the ratio is smaller.

Typically, economies with a higher surplus in terms of the balance of trade tend to have more exports than imports. That means that their value on exports is higher than imports, implying that the domestic currency is in high demand in the forex market. Similarly, a running deficit means lower demand for the domestic currency in the forex market since it is a net importer.

In 2020, the EU current account to GDP is expected to hit 3.4% while that of the UK -4%. The differential is 7%. Based on the correlation with the exchange rate of the EUR/GBP pair, we assign a score of 6. That means we expect a bullish trend for the pair.

This helps determine where the most investor capital will flow. Expectedly, investors will direct their capital to the country with a higher interest rate to earn superior returns. In the forex market, traders tend to be bullish when a currency pair has a positive interest rate differential and bearish if it has a negative interest rate differential.

In the EU, the ECB has maintained interest rates at 0%, while the BOE cut interest rates from 0.75% to 0.1%. Therefore, the interest rate differential for the EUR/GBP pair is -0.1%. Based on the correlation with the EUR/GBP exchange rate, we assign a score of -2.

  • The EU and the UK GDP Growth Rate differential

The differential in GDP growth helps to efficiently compare economic growth by eliminating the aspect of the size of different economies.

For the first three quarters of 2020, the EU economy has contracted by 2.9% while the UK has contracted by 6.8%. That makes the GDP growth rate differential between the two economies 3.9%. It means that the EU economy contracted at a slower pace than the UK. Based on the correlation with the EUR/GBP price, we assign a score of 5.

Conclusion

The exogenous analysis of the EUR/GBP pair has a score of 9. This inflationary score means that we can expect a bullish trend for the pair in the short-term.

Our technical analysis shows the pair trading above the 200-period MA. More so, notice that the EUR/GBP pair bounces off the lower Bollinger band crossing above the middle band, supporting our fundamental analysis. Happy  Trading.

Categories
Forex Fundamental Analysis

EUR/GBP Global Macro Analysis – Part 2

GBP Endogenous Analysis – Summary

GBP Endogenous Analysis – Summary

GBP Endogenous Analysis – Summary

The GBP endogenous analysis has a score of -9. We can therefore understand that the GBP has depreciated in 2020.

  • United Kingdom Employment Change

The UK unemployment change measures the changes in the number of people who are above 16 years and employed. This data is a 3-month moving average of the change in employment, which measures a general trend in the labor industry changes, which typically corresponds to fluctuations in the economy.

In the three months to September 2020, the number of employed people in the UK dropped by 164,000. The YoY employment change shows a drop of 247,000 jobs, which is the worst in ten years. Based on correlation analysis, we assign a score of -7.

  • United Kingdom GDP Deflator

The UK GDP deflator is used as a measure of the comprehensive change in inflation. It filters out any nominal price changes in the entirety of the goods and services produced within the UK.

In Q3 of 2020, the UK GDP deflator dropped to 109.12 from 111.9 in Q2 – the highest ever recorded in UK history. The UK GDP deflator has increased by 6.41in 2020. We, therefore, assign a score of 4 based on its correlation with the GDP growth.

  • United Kingdom Industrial Production

This indicator tracks the changes in all the firms operating under the industrial sector in the UK. The manufacturing sector accounts for about 70% of the total industrial output. The major components of the manufacturing sector are food, tobacco, and drinks, which account for 11%. The manufacture of transport equipment and basic metals account for 17%, pharmaceuticals and non-metallic 6% each. Quarrying and mining activities account for 12% of the industrial production, with 10% for oil and gas extraction.

In September 2020, MoM industrial production in the UK rose by 0.5 while YoY dropped by 6.3%. Despite the growth and recovery of industrial activity from the coronavirus pandemic, the output is still 5.6% lower than the pre-pandemic levels. Thus, we assign a score of -3 based on correlation with GDP growth.

  • United Kingdom Manufacturing PMI

This index is a result of a survey of about 600 companies in the industrial sector. It is a composite of new orders, which accounts for 30%, output 25%, employment 20%, deliveries from suppliers 15%, and inventory 10%. When the index is above 50, it shows that the manufacturing sector is expanding. Below 50, the manufacturing sector is expected to contract, which impacts the GDP output.

In November 2020, the UK manufacturing PMI was 55.6 – the highest recorded in three years. This was mainly driven by increased inventories and increased new orders as a result of Brexit. We assign a score of 3 based on correlation with the GDP growth rate.

  • United Kingdom Consumer Spending

Consumer spending in the UK shows the amount of money that households spent on the purchase of goods and services in the retail sector. Note that expenditure by households is among the primary drivers of GDP growth.

In Q3 of 2020, the UK consumer spending rose to £304.5 billion from £258.32 billion in Q2. This increase is attributed to the restriction imposed at the onset of the coronavirus outbreak, resulting in the economic slowdown. It is, however, still lower than the pre-pandemic levels. Thus, we assign a score of -5 based on correlation with the GDP growth rate.

  • United Kingdom Consumer Confidence

In the UK, GfK surveys about 2000 households to establish their opinions about the past and future economic conditions, their financial situation, and prospects of saving. The survey period covers about 12 months into the future, which makes it a leading indicator of consumer spending, and by extension, the overall economy.

In November 2020, the UK consumer confidence dropped to -33 edging closer to yearly lows of -34 registered at the height of the pandemic. We assign a score of -5 based on its correlation with the GDP growth rate.

  • United Kingdom Public Sector Net Debt to GDP

This ratio tracks the indebtedness of the UK economy. Based on the economy out, both domestic and foreign investors use the ratio to determine whether the UK can be able to service its debt obligations in the future comfortably.

In the financial year 2018 – 2019, the UK’s public sector net debt to GDP was 80.8%, down from 82.4%. In 2020, it is expected to hit 100% with a longer-term average of 91%. We assign a score of 4 since the increased net pubic debt managed to avoid a deeper recession in 2020.

In the next article, we have performed the Exogenous analysis of the EUR/GBP pair and concluded what trend to expect in this currency pair in the near future. Cheers.

Categories
Forex Fundamental Analysis

EUR/GBP Global Macro Analysis – Part 1

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

A global macro analysis attempts to analyze the endogenous factors that influence the value of a country’s domestic currency and exogenous factors that affect how the domestic currency fairs in the forex market. The endogenous analysis will cover fundamental economic factors that drive GDP growth in the UK and the Euro Area. The exogenous factors will analyze the price exchange rate dynamics between the EUR and the GBP.

Ranking Scale

Both the endogenous and the exogenous factors will be ranked on a scale of -10 to +10. A negative ranking for the endogenous factors means that they had a deflationary effect on the domestic currency. A positive ranking implies that they had an inflationary impact. Similarly, a negative score for the exogenous factors means the EUR/GBP is bearish and bullish when the score is positive.

EUR Endogenous Analysis – Summary

The endogenous analysis of the EUR has an overall score of -3. Based on the factors we have analyzed, we can expect that the Euro has marginally depreciated in 2020.

This is a quarterly measurement of the changes in both part-time and full-time employment in the EU. It includes individuals working for profit or pay and those who perform family work unpaid. Changes in employment help put economic growth in perspective since an expanding economy corresponds to increased employment opportunities and a contracting economy leads to job losses.

In the third quarter of 2020, employment in the EU increased by 0.9% compared to the 2.7% drop in Q2. Up to Q3 2020, employment in the EU has dropped by 2.1 %. Based on correlation with GDP, we assign a score of -5.

  • European Union GDP Deflator

The GDP deflator is an in-depth measure of the rate of inflation. It measures the changes in the price levels of all goods and services produced in an economy. Therefore, it is the perfect measure of the changes in real economic activities. i.e., it filters out any nominal changes in price.

In Q3 of 2020, the EU GDP deflator rose to 107.17 from 106.37 in Q2. Cumulatively, the EU GDP deflator in 2020 has increased by 2.45. We assign a score of 3 based on the weak correlation between the inflation rate and GDP.

  • European Union Manufacturing Production

In the EU, manufacturing production accounts for about 80% of the total industrial output. With most EU economies heavily reliant on manufacturing, the sector forms a significant portion of the GDP and the labor market.

In September 2020, the YoY manufacturing production in the EU decreased by 6.1%. This is an improvement from the decline of 6.3% in August. The overall industrial production reduced by 5.8% during the period.

We assign a score of -5 based on its correlation with the GDP.

  • Euro Area Manufacturing PMI

Markit surveys about 3000 manufacturing firms. The Markit manufacturing PMI comprises five indexes: new orders accounting for 30% weight of the index, output 25%, employment 20%, delivery by suppliers 15%, and inventory 10%. The Euro Area manufacturing is seen to be improving when the index is above 50 and contracting when below 50. At 50, the index shows that there is no change in the manufacturing sector.

In November 2020, the IHS Markit Eurozone Manufacturing PMI was 53.8, down from 54.8 registered in October. The October reading was the highest ever recorded in the past two years. Despite the November drop, the manufacturing PMI is still higher than during the pre-pandemic period. We, therefore, assign a score of 5.

  • European Union Retail Sales

Retail Sales measures the change in the value of goods and services purchased by households for final consumption. In the EU, food, drinks, and tobacco contribute to the highest in retail sales – 40%. Furniture and electrical goods account for 11.5%, books and computer equipment 11.4%, clothing and textile 9.2%, fuel 9%, medical and pharmaceuticals 8.9%, non-food products and others 10%.

In October 2020, the MoM EU retail sales increased by 1.5%, while the YoY increased by 4.2%. Based on our correlation analysis with EU GDP, we assign a score of 3.

  • Euro Area Consumer Confidence

The consumer confidence survey in the Euro Area covers about 23,000 households. Their opinions are gauged from issues ranging from economic expectations, financial situation, savings goals, and expenditure plans on households’ goods and services. These responses are aggregated into an index from -100 to 100. Consumer confidence is a leading indicator of household expenditure, which is a primary driver of the GDP.

In November 2020, the Euro Area consumer confidence was -17.6, down from -15.5 in October. It is also the lowest reading since May – primarily because of the new lockdown measures bound to impact the labor market. Based on correlation with GDP, we assign a score of -3.

  • Euro Area Government Debt to GDP

This is meant to gauge whether the government is over-leveraged and if it might run into problems servicing future debt obligations.

The Euro Area Government Debt to GDP dropped from 79.5% in 2018 to 77.6% in 2019. In 2020, it is projected to hit 102% but stabilize around 92% in the long run. Based on correlation with GDP, we assign a score of -1.

In our very next article, we have performed the Endogenous analysis of GBP to see if it has appreciated or depreciated in this year. Make sure to check that and let us know in case of any questions in the comments below. Cheers.

Categories
Forex Course

195. Understanding The U.S. Dollar Index Numbers

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

The U.S. Dollar Index is a measure of the value of the Dollar in respect to foreign currencies as measured by the respective exchange rates. More than half of the index value of the Dollar is measured against the Euro. The British Pound, the Japanese Yen, the Swedish Krona, the Canadian Dollar, and the Swiss Franc. It is a market on its own as well as an indicator of the U.S. dollar strength on a global level. Moreover, it can also be used as the technical analysis to determine trends of various markets.

How Is The US Dollar Index calculated?

Below is the formula to calculate USDX–

USDX = 50.14348112 × EUR/USD^(-0.576) × USD/JPY^(0.136) × GBP/USD^(-0.119) × USD/CAD^(0.091) × USD/SEK^(0.042) × USD/CHF^(0.036)

Each currency value is multiplied by its weights. When the U.S. dollar is the base currency, this comes at a positive figure. On the other hand, when the U.S. dollar is used as the quoted currency; then this would come as a negative value. Additionally, pounds and euros are only countries where the U.S. dollar is used as the base currency as they are quoted in respect of the Dollar.

How To Interpret the U.S. Dollar Index?

Similar to any currency pair, there is a dedicated chart of the U.S. Dollar Index (USDX). Additionally, the index is calculated five days a week and 24 hours a day. The U.S. Dollar Index measures the value relative to a 100.000 base.

If the index value stands at 120, this means that the U.S. dollar has witnessed 20% appreciations against other currencies in the basket. This simply implies that the U.S. dollar has strengthened in comparison to other currencies. On the other hand, if the index value shows at 70, this implies a depreciation of 30%

Final Thoughts

The U.S. Dollar Index enables traders to monitor the value of the U.S. dollar in comparison to six currencies within the bracket in a single transaction. Moreover, it also assists them to hedge the bets against risks associated with the Dollar. Investors can use this index to hedge the normal movement of currency or speculate.

[wp_quiz id=”97442″]
Categories
Forex Course

194. Introduction To The US Dollar Index (USDX)

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

The U.S. dollar index is referred to as a measure of the value of the U.S. dollar, which is relative to the value of a series of currencies that are the most important trading partners of the country. The USDX is similar to other forms of trade-weighted indexes that also use the exchange rates from the leading currencies.

U.S. Dollar Index – A Brief History

In the year 1970, the U.S. Dollar Index switched between 80 and 110. This was the time when the U.S. economy was witnessing recession and rising inflation levels. With the Federal Reserve increasing interest rates to cut inflation, money flowed into the U.S. dollar, resulting in a rise in the USD index. In February 1985, the USD Index hit 164.720; this is the highest it has ever been.

However, this caused significant issues for the U.S. exporters whose goods were no longer competitive internationally. Subsequently, strong actions were taken by the U.S. government to make the currency more competitive, with five nations agreeing to manipulate the U.S. dollar in the forex markets.

This made the Dollar Index dropped by 51% over the course of four years. Since that time, the index has tracked the performance of the economy as well as liquidity flows.

Fundamentals of U.S. Dollar Index

This index is presently calculated by factoring in the exchange rates of six leading world currencies, including Euro (EUR), British Pounds (GBP), Canadian Dollar (CAD), Swiss Franc (CHF), Swedish Krona (SEK), and Japanese Yen (JPY). The biggest component of this index is the EUR, which accounts for approximately 58% of the basket. The weights of the rest of the currencies in the index include –

  • GBP (11.9%)
  • JPY (13.6%)
  • SEK (4.2%)
  • CAD (9.1%)
  • CHF (3.6%)

What Impact The Price Of The USD Index?

The USD Index is primarily impacted by the demand for and the supply of the U.S. Dollar. Related currencies of the baskets are also an important factor. These factors impact the price of each pair of currency in the formula that is being used to calculate the value of the U.S. Dollar’s value. The demand and supply of currencies are determined by monetary policies.

In the upcoming course lessons, we will be learning more about the US Dollar index. So, stay tuned. Please take the quiz below before you go. Cheers.

[wp_quiz id=”97429″]
Categories
Beginners Forex Education Forex Basics

How Many Times Per Day Do Professional Traders Trade?

The forex trading industry is known for 24-hour market access, flexible hours, and many other benefits, but many people avoid trading because they assume that they do not have enough time to dedicate to everything trading entails. Before you decide that your lifestyle simply won’t support a career as a forex trader, you should take […]

The forex trading industry is known for 24-hour market access, flexible hours, and many other benefits, but many people avoid trading because they assume that they do not have enough time to dedicate to everything trading entails. Before you decide that your lifestyle simply won’t support a career as a forex trader, you should take […]

The forex trading industry is known for 24-hour market access, flexible hours, and many other benefits, but many people avoid trading because they assume that they do not have enough time to dedicate to everything trading entails. Before you decide that your lifestyle simply won’t support a career as a forex trader, you should take a look at the three different types of professional traders we’ve outlined and the number of times each trade per day below. The answers just might surprise you!

Swing Traders

Swing traders typically place one or more trades each day and leave them open for a varying amount of time, from several hours to several days. This trading style is considered a short-term to medium-term investment and traders generally use technical analysis to find trading opportunities, sometimes in conjunction with fundamental analysis in order to analyze trends and other data about prices.  

While the exact amount of weekly trades that are put in depends on market conditions, this trading style is considered to be a lower maintenance option as traders can enter positions and then do nothing for longer periods of time. Of course, you’ll still have to keep an eye on important data in order to make smart trading decisions, so you’ll want to invest some time each day or week to take technical and possibly fundamental factors into consideration. 

High-Frequency Trading

As the name suggests, high-frequency traders enter quite a lot of trades per day, sometimes in the hundreds or thousands. It would be impossible for a human to do all of this manually, therefore, algorithms and computer systems are used, with quicker connections being required than those that are typically available to the average trader. This shouldn’t be confused with expert advisors, as these systems work differently. High-frequency trading is most commonly used by larger institutions, like hedge funds and banks. 

Home-based traders that want to practice high-frequency trading without having access to extra technical connections typically place around 20 trades per day manually. This style focuses on making small profits off each trade, which adds up over time. This trading style is best suited for traders that have more time on their hands, as it requires a lot more effort than swing trading. 

Investors

The pattern that investors follow involves holding onto the currency they are trading when it is in an uptrend for weeks or months at a time. In some cases, traders might even hang onto a currency for years! This is because currency pairs typically go through a cycle that lasts 2 to 3 years per trend and investors are looking to capitalize on those moves. 

This trading style requires more patience from the trader, as it can take a long time to reach maximum profitability before you should sell. On the bright side, this is another strategy that doesn’t require constant effort, which means that traders can do it in their spare time or even while working a full-time job. Of course, you’ll want to keep an eye on your trades and pay attention to data that could affect the prices of currency pairs that you are currently holding. 

The Bottom Line

No matter what trading strategy you choose, you’ll need to invest some time into looking at data, reading charts, staying up-to-date on the news, and pouring over other fundamental or technical data in order to make informed trading decisions. If you’re pressed for time, you can always follow a professional strategy like swing trading or investing that does not require a large number of trades to be entered each day. The fact that these traders often hold positions for days, weeks, or years also provides a great deal of flexibility. If you want to go another route, consider high-frequency trading, which involves entering a large number of trades each day in an attempt to make a small profit off each one. This is the most high-maintenance option on our list, but it does offer a good outlook of profitability.

Categories
Beginners Forex Education Forex Basics

Six Key Mistakes New Traders Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Within the last few decades, trading in the financial markets has seen a sharp increase in popularity, which has led to a boom in the number of newbie traders signing up for trading accounts all over the world. While trading can be a great way to make money from home or even as a full-time […]

Within the last few decades, trading in the financial markets has seen a sharp increase in popularity, which has led to a boom in the number of newbie traders signing up for trading accounts all over the world. While trading can be a great way to make money from home or even as a full-time […]

Within the last few decades, trading in the financial markets has seen a sharp increase in popularity, which has led to a boom in the number of newbie traders signing up for trading accounts all over the world. While trading can be a great way to make money from home or even as a full-time job, many of these beginners start out with no real idea of what they should be doing.

After losing a little bit of money (or blowing their account balance), they feel discouraged and give up. In reality, most of these failed trading attempts can be contributed to common trading mistakes that could have easily been avoided if the novice traders were aware of them. If you don’t want to suffer the same fate, we have good news, as you’ll simply need to read this article so you’ll be aware of these mistakes.  

Mistake #1: Trading Without a Strategy

Ask yourself these questions:

  • “What instruments do I plan to trade?” For example, you might answer something like “Major currency pairs, minors, and some CFD options.” 
  • “What evidence will I look for to tell me to enter a trade?” Some traders might answer that they are looking at fundamental data, while others are looking at technical data or a combination of the two. 
  • “How much am I willing to risk on each trade?” This answer varies based on personal preference; however, a smart choice would be around 1% of your total account balance. 

Your answers might look a lot different than our suggestions, but the point is that you should have some type of answer to these types of questions. If you do, then you’ve been doing your homework and likely have an idea of a trading plan and strategy. If you couldn’t come up with an answer, then you’ll need to develop a plan so that you can start well-prepared. One of the beautiful things about the forex market is that while nothing is guaranteed, traders do have the chance to significantly improve their chances of making money by educating themselves and sticking to their trading plan. One of the biggest mistakes beginners make is opening a trading account with no real plan, which is essentially the same as just gambling. A bit of preparation will go a long way if you simply invest time into your plan and follow it. 

All you’ll need to do is develop a solid trading plan and choose a strategy that will work for you. This will take some research and work, but it is one of the most crucial steps to trading success from the very beginning. 

Mistake #2: Not Testing Your Plan

Once your trading plan and strategy is in place, you may be feeling very eager to jump in and get started trading. Unfortunately, there may be some problems that you didn’t oversee. This can be very costly if you’re trading on a live account and it could even drain your account balance altogether. Many traders reach this point, feel discouraged, and decide to give up before their trading career ever even got a chance to take off. Keep in mind that your plan may sound great on paper, but you still need to test it in a real setting to make sure that it lives up to expectations. 

The good news is that you can avoid this problem by signing up for a free demo account through your broker. You may already know about demo accounts, but if you don’t, you simply need to know that these simulation accounts allow you to practice trading in a live environment while using virtual funds. Since there is no financial risk, you can test your plan to your heart’s content until you’re confident that your strategy is profitable beforehand. 

Mistake #3: Lacking Discipline

If you’ve ever read about trading psychology, you probably have some idea of the ways that emotions can affect our trading decisions. Sadly, some traders skip over this category completely when they’re learning about trading, which leaves them unprepared in the event that their emotions do start to cause problems. Every trader needs to know that feelings of greed, resentment, overconfidence, anxiety, and other emotions can cause you to make avoidable mistakes like risking too much money, deviating from your trading plan, overtrading, and more. If you don’t know this, then it can catch you off guard.

You’ll likely feel some type of emotion at some point, but the best way to avoid this problem is to stay disciplined and remember to always stick to your trading plan. Reading about trading psychology so that you can identify and remedy any related problems is another important step. If you’re ever feeling overly emotional and you can’t calm down, the best thing to do is to take a short break from trading until you feel more level-headed in order to avoid making emotion-driven mistakes. 

Mistake #4: Having Unrealistic Expectations

Whenever someone opens their first trading account, they have some kind of picture in their mind about how things will go. Many beginners start with unrealistic expectations about how much money they’ll make. Oftentimes, this is because those traders have heard about the success of others, possibly even people they know, and they assume that they can reach the same level of profitability from the beginning. In reality, you may be working with a much smaller deposit and you won’t have the experience those investors possess at the beginning, which can lead to disappointment. 

From the beginning, you’ll need to set more realistic goals that focus on positive notes like improving yourself as trading, losing less money each month, sticking to your trading plan, and so on. It isn’t a good idea to set exact monetary goals, as it can be difficult to predict how much money you’ll make due to the market’s unpredictability, especially from the beginning. 

Mistake #5: Not Understanding the Market

All traders need to understand the market and what causes prices to change in order to make smart trading decisions. There’s a lot to learn on the subject, as microeconomics and certain events like elections or pandemics can really shake up the market. Many beginners are in a rush to get started and may briefly glance over this topic before moving on, only to realize that they don’t really know what’s going on once they get started. 

Before you open a trading account, you should spend an ample amount of time researching these topics so that you’ll be more aware of the factors that affect the market. If you’ve already opened an account and you’re confused, consider taking some time off to brush up on your knowledge of these subjects. Some of this knowledge will also be gained through experience as you make trades and live through certain events. 

Mistake #6: Overusing Leverage

Leverage can be both good and bad for traders, as it can help you to make large profits, or it can help you to wipe your account clean when used incorrectly. Many beginners don’t entirely understand leverage and might think that it is best to use the maximum leverage cap offered by their broker to make the most profits. You might make a lot of money doing this, but you’ll likely be risking a lot more money than you’re willing to lose in doing so. 

Start by ensuring that you understand what leverage is and how it works, then you can incorporate leverage limits into your trading plan. Don’t assume that you should use the highest leverage available, especially if it is more than 1:100. As you gain practice over time, you can adjust your plan and trade with higher leverage with a better chance of using it correctly.

Categories
Crypto Videos

Stimulus Hope Is Driving Up The Dow Jones – Should You Buy Or Short it?

https://youtu.be/LzN_bjCRLrE

https://youtu.be/LzN_bjCRLrE


Stimulus hopes drive up the Dow Jones – where next? 

Thank you for joining this Forex Academy educational video

In this session, we will be looking at the Dow Jones 30 Industrial Index and looking for indications of the next likely move.

While the United States economy is still reeling from the ongoing Covid situation, which has as a country in its grip, investors are looking long-term, buoyed on by vaccine news and hopes of a speedy back to normal recovery once it has been rolled out to the general population. 

In reality, of course, this may still take over 12 months to implement. Therefore hopes of the recovery are fuelled by my hopes that the American government will continue to support individuals and companies via a Covid-19 relief aid stimulus to help unemployed and financial relief for other individuals and those who need it.

This has been stifled somewhat by the fact that the discussions between the democrats and republicans have not yet been able to agree on how much money the state should put up. Current estimations are that a $900 billion stimulus bill may include checks for $600 for eligible adults and their independents. 

Some Republicans have asked for hand-outs of $1,200 per individual and $2400 per couple, with $500 going to children, to support families through this critical time.

The plan is that the 900 billion stimulus package will be the first of two parts, with phase one considered as an emergency relief bill, and phase two will kick in during the early part of January 2021, once that has been agreed on.

It is talk of the stimulus package, which has been keeping the Dow Jones at record highs.

This is a daily chart of the Dow Jones 30 industrial index.  We can see that since March 2020, the general trend has been a bull trend to the upside, following on from the earlier crash as the pandemic took hold in early February. The technical line numbered 1 shows the general upward trend as hopes of a V-shaped recovery fuelled investor to buy the index.

More recently, talks of an emergency stimulus package, and especially during November where investors believed a deal was imminent, saw price action move higher from this average and particularly where we see the bullish bounce from the line where we see a steady rise up to the record-breaking 30,000 level at position A. 

Talks of the stimulus package went to and fro between the democrats and republicans, with concerns of the, will they or won’t they agree on a package and where price action moved lower to the trend line at position 2, while talks stalled, and where price action itself bounced this higher trend line, marked as 2, back up at position B C  and D in an overall bias squeeze to the upside, where price continued to flirt with 30,000 and eventually where there was a significant close and open above this key level.

In this 1-hour chart, we can see that price action is seeing resistance at around 30,300.

And by adding this support line, we now have rising wedge formation clearly evident, where price action is fading to the upside, with a potential break above the 30,300 level. Should this immanent covid relief bill be agreed upon, price action could punch higher and continue with potential for the 30,300 level to become a support line and a possible move higher by 200 or 300 points.

There is so much pressure on the American government right now to come up with an agreed amount of stimulus for those who need it that it is almost impossible that nothing will happen. This is what is driving the Dow Jones Index and other US indices higher at the moment.

  

Categories
Forex Elliott Wave Forex Market Analysis

AUDNZD: Profiting from its Intraday Triangle Pattern

The AUDNZD cross seems to start a movement in wave 3 of Minor degree labeled in green after completing its second corrective wave of the same degree, which found its bottom at 1.04181 on December 01st.

Technical Overview

The big picture of the AUDNZD cross and under the Elliott Wave perspective and illustrated in the following daily chart reveals the bullish sequence of Minor degree that began last March 09th, when the price pierced the parity level, dropping to 0.99906.

Once the price found fresh buyers, the Oceanic cross climbed in five internal movements of Minute degree, identified in black, until 1.10438, where the cross completed its first wave in green. After this completion, AUDNZD dropped in a complex corrective formation identified as a double-three pattern, which found support at 1.04181 on December 01st. From there, it bounced up to the current levels. 

On the other hand, the breakout of the short-term descending trendline that connects the end of wave ((x)), in black, with the end of wave (b), in blue, suggests the end of the second wave of Minor degree.

Short-term Technical Outlook

The intraday view unfolded in the next 2-hour chart shows the rally that remains in progress since December 01st when the cross found fresh buyers at 1.04181 suggesting further upsides in the following trading sessions.

The previous chart shows the wave (iii) movement of the Minuette degree labeled in blue, which currently looks consolidating its internal structure in a potential running triangle pattern. 

According to the Elliott Wave theory, practically all running triangle patterns tend to be confused with ending diagonals driving retail traders to open trades in the opposite direction to the current trend instead of considering the pattern as a continuation of the trend. Therefore under this scenario, our main bias remains on the bullish side. In this regard, this triangular pattern makes us think that the Oceanic cross might continue extending its movement until the potential target zone between 1.0758 and 1.0816, where the price could complete its third wave, in blue.

In summary, the AUDNZD cross completed its second wave of Minor degree subdivided in a descending three-wave sequence calling for a new upward movement in favor of the first rally, which should follow a five-wave sequence. In this context, the internal structure shows the progress in the third wave of an impulsive wave, which looks consolidating in a running triangle pattern. The potential target of the current rally is located between 1.0758 and 1.0816. On the other hand, the bullish scenario’s invalidation level is set at 1.04181, corresponding to the origin of the current upward sequence.

Categories
Forex Basic Strategies

What is the Best Trading Position? Part IV – How Much Can Traders Win?

We showed how to manage your risk in the last three articles of this series. Today, we are embarking on another journey, teaching you how to manage your money like a professional, wealthy trader. The problem with most traders is that everyone is anxious about how much money they can lose, never thinking about whether there is a win limit too. That is where we are heading in this article – learning about our maximums.

We showed how to manage your risk in the last three articles of this series. Today, we are embarking on another journey, teaching you how to manage your money like a professional, wealthy trader. The problem with most traders is that everyone is anxious about how much money they can lose, never thinking about whether there is a win limit too. That is where we are heading in this article – learning about our maximums.

We showed how to manage your risk in the last three articles of this series. Today, we are embarking on another journey, teaching you how to manage your money like a professional, wealthy trader. The problem with most traders is that everyone is anxious about how much money they can lose, never thinking about whether there is a win limit too. That is where we are heading in this article – learning about our maximums.

Is the More Always the Merrier?

First of all, where does your money come from? Is it from the pure quantity of items you own or what you get to do with them? You may have an abundance of assets with a remarkable track record of winning trades, but what are they worth if they sit there collecting the dust? Think what the wealthiest people do – they always find a way to liquidate their assets because, otherwise, there is no point in any of the efforts made.

When is Enough Actually Enough?

We have all seen quite a few examples of people who seem to lack boundaries. We witness this behavior in casinos when the initial investment gets multiplied several times, but the lucky individual eventually returns home with empty pockets. We get to see such an unbalanced approach in the world of trading as well, having traders stay in trades too long without taking necessary precautions. It usually happens with those impressive trades where you get to buy something for a price that rises well above what anyone could ever expect. The idea of earning in one trade what you get to earn in an entire year is very exciting, isn’t it? Still, it is also very unfortunate to know the statistics of people who fail to ride these winning trades with a sense of precaution too.

How should I manage my wins?

First and foremost, learn how to scale out – take a portion of your trade off the table, put it into your trading account, and keep the rest running accordingly. You can use the ATR indicator to know exactly when you should take the initial profit. For example, if you are a forex trader and the ATR of the currency pair you are trading is 90, you will need 90 pips before you get to take any additional action. 

We will even go one step further and give you the exact formula you can use in trading to manage your trades:

Calculate your risk based on parts 2 &3 of this series.

Divide your risk (number of pips you are risking) into two halves (for MT4 TP partial closing limitation purposes).

Make two half trades with that new number.

Place the stop loss properly on both trades.

Set the ATR where you want to take the initial profit on one of the two trades.

After it closes automatically, move your stop loss to the break-even point (where you entered the trade).

Keep the second trade position running, trends may prolong for days.

How Does Scaling Work in Real Trading?

In the NZD/CHF daily chart below, you can see that the ATR equals 60. This information tells us that the stop loss is going to be 90 (please, read the second article of this series if you do not understand why) and that our take-profit point is going to be 90. After finalizing all risk-related calculations, we also know that the value per pip equals 11.11 for our 50,000 USD account. To scale out, we are going to need to cut this value in half, so we get 5.55. Now we should insert all of the necessary information. The only thing we mustn’t do is check up on the trades all the time because we do want to avoid emotional reactions, urges to make changes, or exit the trades prematurely. 

The moment the price hits your take-profit level, we are going to move our stop loss (90) to the break-even point, knowing that the first half of the trade is a winner you can no longer lose. At this point, you can make use of some other tools, such as Heiken Ashi, exit indicators, and trailing stops, among others, to assist with your trade. These tools can be of great help with your second trade for as long as it runs, especially since knowing when to exit is one of the crucial elements of professional trading. 

What is the Best Return I Can Get?

In the stock market, for example, a 10—11% return per year is considered to be a really good result because it mirrors the stock market average. If you can increase this percentage in time, you will become one of the few elite traders who are able to achieve such returns. If you are considering a specific benchmark to hit, this may as well be a great reference because these trading skills are always in high demand. Warren Buffett for example, one of the most prominent figures on the investment scene in America, makes a 20% return per year while some of the most affluent figures in the forex market willingly give exorbitant amounts of money to their advisors just to get a 13% yearly return.

As usual, we are leaving you with a task that you should complete based on the past few lessons you learned here:

How would you apply the scaling out strategy based on the EUR/USD monthly chart provided below?

What we really want you to know is that this approach helps you know that you are safe and that a portion of your investment is safe too. Many traders never scale out and years may go by before they face the consequences of their actions. You do not have to be the winner only; be a smart winner too. It really doesn’t matter what you trade (gold, corn, stocks, or forex, among others) because all smart traders share this one key skill that is so easy to apply. Accompanied by other trading skills, scaling in and out is the one way you can avoid the casino scenario and ensure the best trading position. Lastly, even if you encounter an unfavorable period or take a loss at some point in your trade, be patient and refrain from reacting impulsively because your stable and consistent approach to trading will even out any transient imbalance in the end. 

Part V to be posted tomorrow. Stay tuned!

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Forex Videos

Forex Trading Algorithms Part 5 Elements Of Computer Languages For EA Design!

 

 

 

Trading Algorithms – The Elements of a Computer Language – Part III: Objects

 

The most striking feature of modern programming is object-oriented programming. This video will explain the underlying philosophy and why OOP is such a big deal in modern app development.

 

Procedural programming versus OOP

Traditional programming is based on procedures or functions applied to a pre-defined collection of data structures. The main procedure starts moving and modifying variables and structures to obtain an output to print or display on a screen. 

The main drawback is that most of the primary data is globally allocated and potentially modified by other application sections. Thus a change to improve or correct one section of the code may interact with other sections, potentially creating hard to detect new bugs. The maintenance of large projects based on procedural programming is a nightmare, especially when a different programmer has to do it.

 

Object-oriented programming, on the other hand, uses objects with their own inner data structures. So, code mods happen within a single self-contained object, and any new bug is limited to that object.

 

Classes

The basic unit on Object-Oriented Programming is the Class. A Class is the description of an Object. Then, several objects are to be created using that Class description, called “instances” of the Class. 

Simply put, a Class is a collection of data structures and the procedures or functions allowed for these data structures. Classes provide data and function together. 

In our real-life, we are surrounded by objects with shape and functionality, such as cars, TVs, houses, and pants. All have their intrinsic properties. A vehicle has an engine, four wheels, battery, throttle, brakes, steering wheel, doors, seats, and so forth, and all these parts are also objects. But not all cars are equal; brand, color, engine power, seat materials, etc., change. That also happens with computer objects.

A new class can be created from a parent class, with new functionality, or with changing functionality from the parent class in a process called “inheritance.”

 

An example of a class

The Bag class is just a container for other objects. We can add or take out items to and from the Bag. The main data storage is in the self.data variable. But, bear in mind that self.data is different for every new Bag object created!. We can see that the data structure of the Bag object cannot be accessed but with the supplied methods, add, sub, and show.

 

A Python financial class

A financial class can be made of around a historical OHLC data structure. Using it, we can create new information such as indicators and various stats, such as swing high/low length and duration statistics, and other information related to price analysis and forecasting.

You can see an example of what a pro-built class can do by looking at the stock-pandas class package documentation. We can see that the stock-pandas project is solely focused on the creation of a class to handle statistics and indicators for a financial data series, presenting a complete package.

As we can see, the advantages of OOP are huge. Packages can be built, which, later, can easily be versioned, updated, and expanded. The creation of apps using classes and OOP is much more straightforward, so the time needed to complete a project is shortened drastically.

Now that we have reviewed the basics of modern programming, let’s move back to trading algorithms.

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Forex Fundamental Analysis

NZD/USD Global Macro Analysis – Part 3

NZD/USD Exogenous Analysis

NZD/USD Exogenous Analysis

NZD/USD Exogenous Analysis

To effectively compare the US and the New Zealand economies, we will conduct exogenous analysis using the following fundamental aspects;

  • The US and New Zealand balance of trade difference
  • GDP growth differential in the US and New Zealand
  • The US and New Zealand interest rate differential

The US and New Zealand balance of trade difference

A country’s participation in international trade tends to determine the demand for its domestic currency. If a country is a net exporter, its currency will be in high demand in the forex market, increasing its value against other currencies.

In October 2020, New Zealand’s trade deficit was NZD 500 million compared to the US trade deficit of $63.1 billion. Although New Zealand’s trade deficit is improving, it is still lower than the balance of trade in January. On the other hand, the US trade deficit has been widening throughout the year. The difference between the two countries’ balance of trade is the trade deficit differential. Based on its correlation with the price of the NZD/USD pair, we assign a score of 4.

GDP growth differential in the US and New Zealand

GDP growth differential is the difference between the rate at which the US and New Zealand economies are expanding. It will help to show which economy is growing at a faster pace hence impacting the exchange rate between the two countries. A country whose GDP is expanding faster will enjoy favorable domestic macroeconomic conditions. Hence its currency will appreciate.

In Q3 of 2020, the New Zealand GDP contracted by 12.2% while that of the US expanded by 33.1%. That represents a GDP growth rate differential of 45.3%. If this trend continues, we should expect that the USD will strengthen against the NZD hence a bearish NZD/USD pair.

Based on our correlation analysis, we assign the GDP growth differential between the US and New Zealand a score of -4.

The US and New Zealand interest rate differential

The interest rate differential is the difference between the prevailing interest rates in New Zealand and the US. The country with a higher interest rate tends to attract more capital, inceasing the value of its currency.

At the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand cut its official cash rate from 1% to 0.25%. During the same period, the US Federal Reserve cut the interest rate from 1.75% to 0.25%. Presently, the interest rate differential in NZD/USD is 0%.

Based on the correlation with the price of the NZD/USD pair, we assign a score of 1.

Conclusion

The NZD/USD pair has an exogenous score of 1. That means we should expect that the pair will continue on a mild bullish trend in the short-term. Note that this trend is also supported by technical analysis.

As seen in the above 1-week chart, the NZD/USD has successfully breached the upper Bollinger band indicating bullish momentum. This supports our fundamental analysis, as well. All the best.

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Forex Fundamental Analysis

NZD/USD Global Macro Analysis – Part 1 & 2

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

The global macro analysis of the NZD/USD pair will involve the endogenous and exogenous analyses of the US and New Zealand economies. The endogenous analysis will focus on domestic macroeconomic factors that drive the economy. The exogenous analysis will focus on economic indicators that comprehensively compare both the US and New Zealand economies.

Ranking Scale

Both the endogenous and exogenous factors will be ranked on a scale of -10 to +10. A negative ranking for the endogenous means that the factor had a negative impact on either the currency, while a positive ranking had a bullish impact on the currency.

Similarly, when the exogenous factor is negative, it has a bearish impact on the currency pair, while a positive ranking means it had a bullish impact.

Summary – USD Endogenous Analysis

From the above table, a clear deflationary effect can be seen on the USD currency and implies that USD has depreciated in its value since the beginning of 2020. For the complete USD Endogenous Analysis, please check here.

Summary – NZD Endogenous Analysis

The NZD endogenous analysis has a total score of 4. This shows that the NZD appreciated in 2020.

  • New Zealand Inflation Rate

The CPI is the most commonly used measure of inflation in New Zealand. Here are the top categories included in the CPI: Housing with a weight of 24.2%; food and non-alcoholic drinks 18.8%; transportation 15%; recreation 9.4%; alcoholic drinks 7%; clothing, household goods and services, health, and education all have a combined weight of 18.2%.

In September 2020, New Zealand CPI increased by 0.7%. Based on the correlation with the GDP, we assign a score of -1.

  • New Zealand Unemployment Rate

This rate shows the number of New Zealand’s working population out of work and actively looking for gainful employment. As an economic indicator, it can be used to show the economy’s ability to add new jobs to the market.

In Q3 of 2020, the New Zealand unemployment rate increased to 5.3% from 4% in Q2. This shows that the labor market is yet to recover from the economic shocks of the coronavirus pandemic. Based on correlation analysis, we assign a score of -5.

  • New Zealand Manufacturing PMI

This is an index that measures the growth in the manufacturing sector in New Zealand. It is a composite of new orders, employment, inventories, and orders delivered from the manufacturing sector. When the index is above 50, it means that the manufacturing sector in New Zealand is expanding. The sector is seen to be contracting when the index is below 50.

In October 2020, the index declined to 51.7 from 54. However, the index is above the pre-coronavirus levels. That implies the manufacturing sector is recovering swiftly. Based on the correlation analysis with GDP, we assign it a score of 3.

  • New Zealand Business Confidence

In any economy, business confidence goes hand-in-hand with business confidence. In New Zealand, the business confidence index is based on a survey of about 700 businesses. The index is the difference between the number of businesses that anticipate economic improvements and those that expect the economic conditions will decline. The index covers export intentions, profit expectations, employment intentions, activity outlook, and capacity utilization.

In November 2020, the ANZ Business Confidence was -6.9 compared to -15.7 in October. Although in the negative territory, the November reading is the highest since September 2017. This shows that more businesses are becoming optimistic about the future operating environment, mostly thanks to the aggressive expansionary monetary and fiscal policies.

Based on correlation analysis with the GDP, we assign ANZ business confidence a score of 4.

  • New Zealand Retail Sales

In New Zealand, retail sales data is aggregated quarterly. It measures the change in the value of goods and services purchased by households. Remember that consumer expenditure is the main driver of economic growth, which makes the retail sales data a leading indicator of GDP growth.

In Q3 of 2020, the New Zealand retail sales increased by 28% from a drop of 14.6% and 1.2% in Q2 and Q1, respectively. The 28% increase is the largest quarterly increase in 25 years. The YoY retail sales increased by 8.3% in Q3 compared to a 14.2% drop in Q2. Based on our correlation analysis, we assign the New Zealand retail sales a score of 6.

  • New Zealand Consumer Confidence

In New Zealand, consumer confidence tends to correlate with households’ willingness to spend in the economy. The Westpac McDermott Miller Consumer Confidence Index gauges the optimist of New Zealand households regarding the economy. The index covers households’ views on their finances, purchases in the economy, and the overall economy.

A score of above 100 shows an increasing level of optimism, while below 100 shows increasing pessimism.

In Q3 of 2020, the New Zealand consumer confidence index dropped to 95.1 from 97.2 in Q2 and 104.2 in Q1. Q3 reading is the lowest in New Zealand since 2008. Based on its correlation with GDP, we assign a score of -4.

  • New Zealand Government Net Debt to GDP

Gross national Debt to GDP helps both local and foreign creditors gauge a country’s ability to service its debt. This indicator shows the level at which the domestic economy is leveraged. A lower ratio is preferable since it means that the country has a higher GDP compared to its debt. This means that it can be able to access cheap debt in the future.

In the 2018/2019 fiscal year, the New Zealand government debt to GDP dropped to 19% from 19.6% in the 2017/2018 fiscal year. In 2020, the New Zealand government debt to GDP is projected to increase to 27% on account of the government’s aggressive spending to ease the economic pressure from the coronavirus pandemic. Based on correlation analysis with GDP, we assign New Zealand government debt to GDP a score of 1.

In the very next article, let’s analyze the exogenous indicators and forecast if this currency pair seems to be bullish or bearish in the near future.

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Forex Videos

US Stock Indices – Which Currencies Should You Be Buying Right Now!

https://youtu.be/v7XW-1ytzWs

https://youtu.be/v7XW-1ytzWs


US stock indices – Bad news is the new good news!

Thank you for joining this forex academy educational video.

In this session we will be looking at us stock indices,  and trying to reason why they are at record highs when the US economy is faltering due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

This is a chart of the S&P 500 index which measures the stock performance of 500 of the largest companies listed on the United States stock exchanges it is a commonly follow equity index.

On Friday the 4th of December 2020 the index rose to an all-time record high currently sitting at 3699.  Remarkable considering the unit United States is still in the grip of the coronavirus pandemic and where hospitals are currently overrun with victims of the disease across the United States, and especially New York and California, where ICU capacity is down to just 15%, and where the governor of California has recently said he expects large areas of the state of California to be locked down within the next few days affecting businesses and individuals’ livelihoods.

 In an almost identical trajectory since march the Dow Jones industrial average index has also reached record highs and is holding ground above the key 30,000 level.  This is simply staggering bearing in mind millions of people are still unemployed and gross domestic product and have a key indicators show that the American economy is not showing a V-shaped recovery, as was expected and hoped for by the federal reserve.

The NASDAQ Composite index and Barrons 400 also simultaneously hit all time highs. A rare occurrence.

Conversely the US dollar index, or DXY, which is a weighted index against major currencies including the euro, British pound, and yen, over the same period since the middle of march 2020 has been falling from its peak of 103.00, to 90.7 at the time of writing.

Traders have been using the dollar index as any inversely correlated technical analysis tool in particular when trading the Dow Jones 30 industrial average.

One of the reasons for this is that as the federal reserve pour billions of dollars into the system many of these are being used by institutions, traders, speculators and investors to buy stocks and shares in the hope that the US economy will quickly recover once the pandemic is under control within the United States and things revert to normal, and where history tells us that many stock indices go on to recover over 10% of their market value following previous pandemics, including Sars, and asian bird flu.

 It was no coincidence that these levels were reached after the November us non farm payroll where the unemployment rate fell to 6.7% from 6.9% and where 245,000 jobs were added, and although just year ago these types of numbers would have been seen as fantastic for the American economy,  the November key jobs report, where analyst expectations were  for over 600,000 jobs to have been added, was seen as disappointing.

 

And so while the US economy looks to be stalling and payroll numbers are weak and yet there is such optimism by investors which is keeping the US stock market buoyant. So what is going on what is really behind this?  Certainly, the US dollar seems to be reflective of the poor state of affairs with the United States economy.  And as previously alluded to, some of these dollars are finding their way back into the stock market, even though some major American corporations are lagging. The news that the covid vaccine will soon be rolled out across the globe has encouraged investors, but the truth may be that the market is expecting that the woeful economic data will simply force congress to quickly pass a stimulus bill before the Christmas break, and this would effectively prop up the American economy providing a much-needed lifeline for workers and businesses and where some of the anticipated $900 billion being talked about as a potential amount which could be agreed by both the democrats and republicans would likely maintain the buoyancy in the stock markets. The flip side of the stimulus is that on a supply and demand basis the influx of dollars will likely weigh on the dollar index providing counter currencies such as the Euro, Canadian dollar and the Australian and New Zealand dollars a lift.    

 

Categories
Forex Signals

Gold Trade Choppy – Can Upward Channel Underpin? 

During Friday’s Asian trading session, the yellow metal prices failed to extend their overnight winning streak. They edged lower around the $1,880 level mainly due to the upbeat market sentiment, which tends to undermine the yellow-metal prices as investors continuing a retreat from the safe-haven asset after progress in U.S. stimulus measures and Brexit talks. Elsewhere, the reason behind the risk-on market sentiment could also be associated with the expectations for global economic recovery on potential coronavirus vaccines. 

During Friday’s Asian trading session, the yellow metal prices failed to extend their overnight winning streak. They edged lower around the $1,880 level mainly due to the upbeat market sentiment, which tends to undermine the yellow-metal prices as investors continuing a retreat from the safe-haven asset after progress in U.S. stimulus measures and Brexit talks. Elsewhere, the reason behind the risk-on market sentiment could also be associated with the expectations for global economic recovery on potential coronavirus vaccines. 

During Friday’s Asian trading session, the yellow metal prices failed to extend their overnight winning streak. They edged lower around the $1,880 level mainly due to the upbeat market sentiment, which tends to undermine the yellow-metal prices as investors continuing a retreat from the safe-haven asset after progress in U.S. stimulus measures and Brexit talks. Elsewhere, the reason behind the risk-on market sentiment could also be associated with the expectations for global economic recovery on potential coronavirus vaccines. 

In contrast to this, the widespread rise in the COVID-19 cases from the U.K., U.S., and Europe keeps challenging the market risk-on mood, helping the bullion prices limit their deeper losses. Apart from this, the US-China long-lasting tussle is also questioning the market upside momentum, which also caps further downside for the gold. Besides this, the broad-based U.S. dollar weakness has also played its major role in supporting the gold prices as the price of gold is inversely related to the price of the U.S. dollar. The yellow metal is currently trading at 1,883.14 and consolidating in the range between 1,878.60 – 1,886.06.

The news about vaccine rollouts was supporting the market trading sentiment. In the meantime, the progress on both Brexit trade talks and the latest U.S. stimulus measures also boosted the market trading sentiment, which tends to undermine the safe-haven metal prices. As per the latest report, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said she hopes to receive the final legislative text on the deal later on Thursday. Whereas, President Donald Trump said by a tweet that stimulus talks were looking good. However, the lawmakers are now confident to approve the stimulus before the year-end. Additionally, the market trading sentiment was supported by the on-going hopes of the coronavirus vaccine. Thus the positive tone surrounding the market trading sentiment was seen as one of the key factors that kept the gold prices under pressure. 

At the USD front, the broad-based U.S. dollar failed to stop its long bearish bias and dropped towards its worst week in a month as demand for the safe-haven assets declined amid progress toward agreeing U.S. fiscal stimulus. It is worth mentioning that the U.S. dollar was down 1.2% for the week so far and has dropped by 12.7% from a 3-year peak in March, falling to 89.862, just above a 2-and-a-half-year low seen on the previous day. Besides, the U.S. dollar losses could also be associated with Powell’s dovish comments on inflation. The U.S. Federal Reserve’s promised to keep interest rates low until an economic recovery is secure. However, the U.S. dollar losses helped the yellow-metal prices limit its deeper losses as the price of gold is inversely related to the U.S. dollar price.

In contrast to this, the growing worries over the resurgence of the coronavirus pandemic have been destroying the hopes of the global economic recovery, which keeps challenging the market trading sentiment and help the yellow-metal prices to limit their deeper losses. On the other hand, the long-lasting tussle between the United States and China remains on the cards as the U.S. continuously imposing sanctions on Beijing. This, in turn, added further questions around the market trading sentiment and became the key factor that kept the lid on any additional losses in the safe-haven metal prices.

Looking ahead, the market traders will keep their eyes on U.K. Retail Sales m/m, which are scheduled for publicity later in the day. Meanwhile, the German PPI m/m data will also be key to watch. Apart from this, the updates surrounding the Brexit, virus, and U.S. stimulus package will not lose their importance. 



Daily Support and Resistance

S1 1807.17

S2 1827.65

S3 1840.79

Pivot Point 1848.13

R1 1861.27

R2 1868.61

R3 1889.09

The yellow metal gold is trading in between a tight range of 1,884 – 1,880 mark. Gold retraced downward to complete 38.2% Fibonacci level of 1,876. On the daily timeframe, gold has formed an upward channel supporting gold around 1,874 level along with a resistance level of 1,894 and 1,910 level. The 50 periods EMA holds around 1,864, suggesting an upward trend in gold; however, we are not opening a buying trade yet as the MACD forms histograms below 0, supporting a selling trend. Let’s consider taking a buying trade over the 1,874 level today. Good luck! 

 

Categories
Forex Elliott Wave Forex Technical Analysis

EURJPY Consolidates Expecting Further Upsides

Technical Overview

Technical Overview

Technical Overview

The EURJPY cross consolidates in the extreme bullish sentiment zone, suggesting a bullish continuation of the strong upward movement developed in early December.

The following daily chart exposes the EURJPY cross developing a consolidation pattern, which looks like a flag pattern bounded between 125.77 and 126.70. According to the chartist analysis, the formation suggests the continuation of the previous movement. In this case, the cross could extend its gains surpassing the next resistance corresponding to the 52-week high located at 127.075.

The mid-term overview for the EURJPY cross reveals its primary trend plotted in blue, supporting a rally that remains in progress since the price confirmed its bottom at 114.397 touched on last May 07th. The secondary trend traced in green and minor trend drawn in black supports the price acceleration, which currently consolidates carrying to expect the bullish continuation for the following trading sessions.

Technical Outlook

The big picture for the EURJPY cross under the Elliott wave perspective unfolded in the next 12-hour chart shows the incomplete corrective rally corresponding to wave ((b)) of Minute degree labeled in black. This corrective rally remains in progress since the price found fresh buyers at 121.617 on last October 29th and could reach new yearly highs.

The upper degree structure of the EURJPY cross illustrated in the previous chart exposes the progress in wave B of Minor degree labeled in green, which began when the cross completed its wave A at 127.075 on last September 01st. Currently, the price advances in its wave ((b)) in black. Likewise, its internal structural series shows the development in the wave (c) of Minuette degree labeled in blue, which at the same time, looks starting to develop the wave v of Suminuette degree identified in green.

In this context, the EURJPY cross could extend its gains toward the potential target zone bounded between 126.96 until 128.08, where the cross could find fresh sellers expecting to drag the price to new lows developing the wave ((c)) in black. 

In this regard, if the price confirms its new bearish leg, the cross could complete the third segment of wave B in green. On the other hand, considering both the alternation principle and the wave ((a)) and ((b)) looks extended in terms of time, the wave ((c)) could be a sharp decline.

In conclusion, the EURJPY cross moves mostly upward in a corrective rally that belongs to wave ((b)), corresponding to the second segment of the upper degree wave B. If the price breaks the sideways consolidation structure developed since early December, the cross could strike the potential target zone between 126.96 and 128.08. Likewise, the invalidation level of the bullish scenario locates at 125.130.

Categories
Forex Market Analysis

Daily F.X. Analysis, December 18 – Top Trade Setups In Forex – German IFO Business Climate in Focus! 

On Friday, the fundamental side-eyes will remain on the German Ifo Business Climate figures, which are expected to drop from 90.7 to 90.2 along with the current account data, which is likely to drop from 25.2 B to 22.6B. Both of these figures extend bearish pressure on the Euro. Later, the Canadian retail sales will be in focus as it may drive some price action in the Canadian pairs.

On Friday, the fundamental side-eyes will remain on the German Ifo Business Climate figures, which are expected to drop from 90.7 to 90.2 along with the current account data, which is likely to drop from 25.2 B to 22.6B. Both of these figures extend bearish pressure on the Euro. Later, the Canadian retail sales will be in focus as it may drive some price action in the Canadian pairs.

On Friday, the fundamental side-eyes will remain on the German Ifo Business Climate figures, which are expected to drop from 90.7 to 90.2 along with the current account data, which is likely to drop from 25.2 B to 22.6B. Both of these figures extend bearish pressure on the Euro. Later, the Canadian retail sales will be in focus as it may drive some price action in the Canadian pairs.


 

Economic Events to Watch Today  

 

EUR/USD – Daily Analysis

The EUR/USD pair was closed at 1.22679 after placing a high of 1.22725 and a low of 1.21897. EUR/USD pair extended its gains on Thursday and peaked in April 2018, amid the broad-based U.S. dollar weakness and the rebound of the Eurozone economy. The U.S. dollar weakness was derived from various factors, including rising hopes that the coronavirus relief bill will release soon, the dovish comments from Powell post-meeting, and the soft U.S. labor market data on Thursday. 

The Democrats and Republicans were close to reaching a deal over a new $900 billion proposal, including $600-$700 in paychecks and unemployment benefits. The U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has even said that it might be possible that U.S. lawmakers will have the agreement in writing by the end of Thursday. These rising hopes for the U.S. stimulus bill added pressure on the U.S. dollar that ultimately supported the EUR/USD pair’s upward movement.

Powell emphasized that the Fed was following outcomes-based policies, which means if progress slows toward achieving those outcomes, then-Fed could step up its asset purchases. Powell’s dovish comments weighed on the U.S. dollar and supported rising EUR/USD prices on Thursday. Furthermore, on Thursday, the soft labor market data weighed on the U.S. dollar as the Unemployment Claims from last week surged to 885K. The weak U.S. dollar because of rising unemployment claims also supported the upward momentum in EUR/USD pair on Thursday.

On the data front, at 15:00 GMT, the Final CPI for the year in November remained flat at -0.3%. The Final Core CPI from Eurozone in November also remained as expected at 0.2%. From the U.S. side, at 18:29 GMT, the Philly Fed Manufacturing Index in December declined to 11.1 against the projected 20.1 and weighed on the U.S. dollar and supported EUR/USD prices. At 18:30 GMT, the Unemployment Claims from last week surged to 885K against the projected 817K and weighed on the U.S. dollar. For November, the Building Permits surged to 1.64M against the projected 1.55M and supported the U.S. dollar. The Housing Starts in November remained flat as projected 1.55M.

The Eurozone economy was rebounded as suggested by the December Eurozone’s Composite PMI that rose above 49 levels compared to expected 45.3 and supported the single currency. However, the Eurozone market confidence was tempered by the news that Germany, the largest Eurozone economy, would re-enter lockdown in January to curb coronavirus spread.

Meanwhile, the global economic outlook continued to improve following the news that Europe will be rolling out coronavirus vaccines. The E.U. Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said that the coronavirus vaccination would start from December 27 in Austria, Germany, and Italy. The Health Minister Jens Spahn said that if the approval comes as planned, Germany will start vaccination on December 27. The potential vaccine rollout in Europe raised the Eurozone economy’s outlook and supported the single currency Euro and added the EUR/USD pair’s gains.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.2143      1.2231

1.2090      1.2266

1.2055      1.2320

Pivot point: 1.2178

EUR/USD– Trading Tip

The EUR/USD bullish bias continues to drive an upward movement at 1.2245, and continuing an upward trend is likely to be continued. On the 4 hour timeframe, the EURUSD has entered the overbought zone, and it has completed 23.6% Fibonacci retracement at the 1.2240 level. A bearish breakout of 1.2240 can send the EUR/USD pair towards a 38.2% Fibo level of 1.2214. The odds of buying seems strong over the 1.2214 level today.

GBP/USD – Daily Analysis

 The GBP/USD pair was closed at 1.35833 after placing a high of 1.36244 and a low of 1.34950. GBP/USD pair extended its gains for the third consecutive day on Thursday and peaked since May 2018 due to broad-based U.S. dollar weakness. The British Pound pared some gains on Thursday after the U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that it was likely that a deal would not be reached until the European Union eased its stance over key sticking issues, including fishing rights.

Johnson poured cold water on the deal’s hopes, saying that it looked very likely that the agreement will not be finalized until the European Union shifts its position substantially. This update came in the right after the positive comments from European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, who said that the progress in trade negotiations was seen.


Despite the hints of possible progress on a post-Brexit trade deal, PM Johnson has not shied away from his views that the possible outcome for the U.K. to leave the E.U. was without a deal. In this scenario, the U.K. and E.U. will follow the terms and conditions under the World Trade Organization that would not be good for both nations. The European Parliament has given Brexit negotiators until December 20 to strike a deal to allow enough time to ratify a potential agreement before the end of the U.K.’s transition period to leave the E.U.

Furthermore, on Thursday, the Bank of England kept interest rates at the lowest level on record after warning that rapid growth in coronavirus infections will deliver a bigger hit to the U.K. economy than expected in the final months of 2020. The official interest rate was kept unchanged at 0.1% by BoE, while the bank also left the Q.E. bond-buying program unchanged at 895 billion pounds after pumping an additional 150 billion pounds into the economy last month.

The bank acknowledged that against a backdrop of soaring coronavirus infections amid the second wave of the pandemic has forced the government to launch tier-3 restrictions in England and tighter control over Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland that has put the economy under pressure. The bank projected that the GDP of the U.K. in the final three months of 2020 would contract by a little over 1%, which means that national output for 2020 will be 11% below 2019, and it will be the biggest recession in 300 years. These dovish comments from the Bank of England removed some of the GBP/USD pair’s daily gain on Thursday.

On the data front, at 17:00 GMT, the Asset Purchase Facility from Great Britain in December remained flat at 895B. 

From the U.S. side, at 18:29 GMT, the Philly Fed Manufacturing Index in December fell to 11.1 against the anticipated 20.1 and weighed on the U.S. dollar and supported the GBP/USD pair. At 18:30 GMT, the Unemployment Claims from last week rose to 885K against the anticipated 817K and weighed on the U.S. dollar, and added further gains in GBP/USD pair. For November, the Building Permits rose to 1.64M against the anticipated 1.55M and supported the U.S. dollar. The Housing Starts in November remained flat as anticipated 1.55M.  The U.S. dollar was weak across the board as the hopes for the second round of stimulus bills raised as the Democrats and Republicans were coming closer to reach a $900 billion proposal that would include $600 to $700 paychecks and unemployment benefits. The rising hopes that U.S. stimulus will reach an agreement soon weighed on the U.S. dollar and added in the gains of GBP/USD.

The U.S. dollar was also weak because of the rising number of coronavirus cases in the U.S. despite the vaccine rollout. According to Johns Hopkins University, the U.S. confirmed 247,403 new coronavirus cases on Wednesday, and the number of Americans’ deaths was recorded as 3656 in a single day. Meanwhile, the risk perceived the latest improvement in risk sentiment also supported British Pound after the hopes of another vaccine approval rose. A vaccine by Moderna that will offer about 94% protection against the coronavirus was set to get emergency authorization as early as this week by US FDA. On Thursday, a panel of 22 members of experts met to discuss the efficacy and potential side effects of Moderna’s vaccine. However, the American public will start receiving vaccine shots possibly after months, and in the meantime, the hospitals across the country will be caring for the coronavirus patients. These rising optimism raised the hopes that global economic recovery will reach soon and supported the risk sentiment that added strength in Sterling and helped GBP/USD pair to continue its upward movement.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.3442      1.3562

1.3378      1.3618 

1.3322      1.3683

Pivot point: 1.3498

GBP/USD– Trading Tip

The GBP/USD is trading at 1.3550 level, facing an immediate support level of 1.3518 level. This support level is extended by an upward trendline, which can be seen in the 4-hour timeframe. On the higher side, the pair can extend the buying trend until the 1.3588 level, and the continuation of the buying trend can also lead Sterling towards the 1.3625 level. Support holds around the 1.3518 level, and a breakout can lead the pair towards the 1.3495 area. Bullish bias dominates today.

USD/JPY – Daily Analysis

The USD/JPY pair was closed at 103.074 after placing a high of 103.560 and a low of 102.872. The currency pair USD/JPY fell for the third consecutive day on Thursday amid the U.S. dollar’s broad-based weakness. The U.S. dollar fell significantly against the Japanese Yen, and the USD/JPY pair reached 102 level on Thursday as the U.S. dollar index fell below 90 levels for the first time since April 2018. The U.S. Dollar Index that measures the value of the U.S. dollar against the basket of six currencies fell to 89.7 level on Thursday and dragged the USD/JPY pair further on the downside towards its lowest since March.

On Thursday, the Wall Street main indexes rose modestly, with Dow Jones up by 0.39% and the NASDAQ by 0.42%. Meanwhile, the Japanese Yen performed well against its rivals across the board despite the risk appetite and kept the USD/JPY pair under pressure. The hopes for the second round of U.S. stimulus bill from Congress rose and weighed on the U.S. dollar as the Democrats and Republicans reached a consensus over the proposal of $900 billion stimulus aid that will include $600-$700 in the paychecks and unemployment benefits. Furthermore, the rising number of coronavirus cases in the U.S. were also weighing on the local currency as the cases in total reached about 17M in the U.S. Despite the vaccine rollout in the U.S., the rising number of coronavirus causes added pressure on the U.S. dollar and added further downside on the USD/JPY pair.

The USD/JPY pair’s downward momentum was the disappointing U.S. jobless claims on Thursday. On the data front, at 18:29 GMT, the Philly Fed Manufacturing Index in December decreased to 11.1 against the estimated 20.1 and weighed on the U.S. dollar that added pressure over the USD/JPY pair. At 18:30 GMT, the Unemployment Claims from last week increased to 885K against the estimated 817K and weighed on the U.S. dollar and dragged the pair USD/JPY further on the downside. Building Permits for November increased to 1.64M against the estimated 1.55M and supported the U.S. dollar. The Housing Starts in November remained flat as estimated at 1.55M.

Since September, the rising number of unemployment claims to the highest level suggested the effect of increasingly restrictive measures in many states due to increased coronavirus cases and people’s loss of confidence. Meanwhile, in Japan, the main upcoming event was the central bank meeting on Friday. The most likely scenario was a no change in the monetary policy setting and keeping the rates at -10bps and the 10-year JGB yield target at 0.00%. The emergency lending facilities are expected to extend beyond the current run-off date of March 31, 2021. There were no macroeconomic figures to be released from Japan on Thursday, so the pair USD/JPY kept following the U.S. dollar movements that were weak across the board on the day.


Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

103.47      104.02

103.25      104.37

102.91      104.58

Pivot point: 103.81

USD/JPY – Trading Tips

The USD/JPY has reversed the selling bias to trade at the 103.550 level. The safe-haven currency pair is trading beneath an immediate support mark of 103.750, and the formation of candles beneath this level will reinforce the bearish breakout. If this happens, we may have an opportunity to short the USD/JPY pair today. Bearish bias looks firm as the MACD is creating histograms underneath 0, and the 50 periods EMA is operating around 103.800 level, suggesting strong probabilities of selling. On the lower side, the USD/JPY pair may find subsequent support at the 102.900 level. It can be a good idea to take a selling position below 103.750 today. Good luck!

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Forex Basic Strategies

The Most Reliable 5-Minute Forex Scalping Strategy

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

Scalping is a type of trading that involves placing many trades in a single day to profit from minor price changes in the Forex market. Traders who use this strategy are known as scalpers. It is crucial to have a robust exit strategy for scalpers to earn large gains from small market moves.

Scalping strategies are mostly applied to the intraday markets, and the trade holding duration can vary from a few seconds to minutes. For novice Forex traders, this type of trading is not recommended as scalping involves a fast-paced activity that requires precision in timing and execution.

We must always use a smaller timeframe such as a 5-min or 1-min for scalping the Forex market. We can use various reliable indicators for scalping, but in this article, we’ll learn how to scalp the 5-minute timeframe using Bollinger Bands.

Why Bollinger Bands?

Bollinger Bands is a technical analysis tool that was developed by John Bollinger. This indicator is composed of three lines as follows – A Simple Moving Average, which is the Middle band, the Upper Band & the Lower Band. The usage of Bollinger Bands indicator goes like this – the closer the price action moves to the upper band, the more overbought the market. Likewise, the closer the price moves to the lower band, the more oversold the market. The bands in this indicator widen and contract based on the market volatility. They expand when the market activity is increased and contract in choppy or less volatile markets. Let’s use this indicator in the 5-min timeframe to identify potential trading opportunities.

Scalp Trading With Bollinger Bands

We must go long when the price hits the lower band and look out for short-selling opportunities when prices hit the upper band. This is the traditional way of trading the market using Bollinger bands which is still being used by scalp traders across the world. The reason why this strategy is famous is because of its ease of usage and its ability to milk quick buck from the market.

Scalping Ranges – Example 1

In the below price chart, you can see that we have taken five buying and four selling trades in the EUR/NZD Forex pair. In this example, we have applied this strategy in a ranging market. When the price approached the support line, and when it also hit the upper Bollinger band, it is an indication for us to go long. Similarly, when the price goes near the resistance line in a range, it is an indication for us to close our long positions and look for selling opportunities.

By doing this, we have been continuously engaged in the market and made some consistent profits overall.

Example 2

Below is another example of scalp trading the Forex market when it is in the consolidation phase. Typically in a range, both the parties have equal strength. Also, it is a known fact that it is comparatively hard to trade the consolidation markets than the ranging markets. However, using this strategy, we have managed to take five buying and three selling trades in the GBPJPY Forex pair.

Scalpers typically go long or short when the price approaches the upper or lower range lines. This is the right approach, but by pairing that strategy with an indicator like Bollinger band can drastically increase the probability of those trades. The USP of the Bollinger band indicator is that it works well in all the types of market situations. It really doesn’t matter whether you scalp the ranges, channels, or even trends; this strategy will always provide reliable trading opportunities.

Example 3

In the below price chart, the price was dragging towards the upside, indicating a buying momentum, but it ended up forming a channel. In a channel, both parties hold equal power and us being scalpers; it is easy to make money from both sides. Below we can notice that if we go either long or short, we can make an equal amount of money if we are right. This is the major benefit of using Bollinger bands in channel conditions.

Scalping Trends – Example 1

Below is the price chart of the AUD/JPY currency pair in an uptrend. As you can see, during the pullback phase, the market gave us the first buy trade. When the price action approached the upper Bollinger band, the price immediately moved in the opposite direction. As a scalper, prepare your mind for these kinds of quick moves. Follow the rules of the strategy to the point, and if any trade goes three to four pips against you, immediately exit and wait for the next opportunity.

Our third buy trade also performed, but it didn’t go for bigger targets. Instead, the price action immediately reversed, which end up generating a sell signal. The next buy trade was also ended u with minor profits. For scalpers, even a profit of 8 to 10 pips can be considered good in a single trade.

Example 2

Below is an example of buying and selling trades in an uptrend in the AUD/JPY pair. We are saying this pair is an uptrend after analyzing its higher time frame. In the lower timeframe, the market may seem to be ranging, but since we know that this pair is up-trending overall, we must consider buying opportunities over sell signals.

The markets gave us five buying and three selling trades in this pair. Even though we have identifies many sell signals, we recommend not to enter those unless you have confirmation. Always remember that trend is your friend and trade according to the trend. This is the essence of scalp trading the trending markets. Therefore, when scalping trends, always go for bigger targets by following the trend. Also, expect less accuracy on counter-trend trades.

Conclusion

It requires a lot of practice to master scalping. Since the time frame is small, you must be quick in everything you do while scalping. Also, talking additional confirmations is not possible in this form of trading because of its swift nature. Please practice these strategies on a demo account before you apply them on the live markets. All the best. Cheers!

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Forex Fundamental Analysis

USD/CHF Global Macro Analysis – Part 3

USD/CHF Exogenous Analysis

USD/CHF Exogenous Analysis

USD/CHF Exogenous Analysis

The exogenous analysis covers fundamental indicators that can compare the performance of the US and Swiss economies. Note that this comparison between the two economies is what drives the exchange rate of USD/CHF. They are:

  • US and Swiss interest rate differential
  • The difference in the GDP growth in the US and Switzerland
  • Balance of trade differential

Balance of trade differential

For each country, the balance of trade shows the demand for the domestic currency in the international market. When a country has a surplus of the balance of trade, it means that its currency is in high demand in international trade. The rationale behind this is that when a country exports more than it imports, other countries will need more of that country’s currency to participate in international trade.

The balance of trade differential measures the difference between the balance of trade in Switzerland and the US. If the Swiss balance of trade is higher than that of the US, the USD/CHF pair will be bearish.

In October 2020, Switzerland had a trade surplus of CHF 2.9 billion while the US a deficit of $63.1 billion. Throughout 2020, the US trade deficit has been widening from $37 billion in January, while the Swiss trade surplus has increased from CHF 2.8 billion.

Based on the correlation with the USD/CHF pair, we assign the balance of trade differential a score of -5.

US and Switzerland interest rate differential

Typically, the country with a higher interest rate attracts more foreign capital seeking superior returns. A higher interest rate increases the domestic currency demand, which makes it appreciate in the forex market. More so, forex traders tend to be bullish on the currency with the higher interest rate.

The interest rate by The Swiss National Bank is -0.75% since January 2015. In the US, the federal funds rate is 0.25%. That makes the interest rate differential 1% for the USD/CHF pair.

Based on the correlation analysis with the USD/CHF pair, we assign the interest rate differential a score of 3.

The difference in the GDP growth in the US and Switzerland

A country’s GDP is primarily driven by domestic consumption. Although the GDP size differs in absolute terms, we can compare the US and Swiss GDP in terms of growth rate. An expanding economy is accompanied by appreciating currency. Therefore, if the US growth rate is higher than Switzerland’s, we can expect a bullish trend for the USD/CHF pair.

In Q3 of 2020, the Swiss economy expanded by 7.2% and the US by 33.1%. It means that the US economy is recovering faster than that of Switzerland. We, therefore, assign a score of 2. This implies that the GDP growth rate differential between the US and Switzerland has led to a bullish USD/CHF.

Conclusion

The USD/CHF pair has an exogenous score of -2. This implies that we can expect the pair to continue with its current bearish trend in the near future.

Note that the USD/CHF pair has breached the lower Bollinger band. Therefore, we can expect the downtrend to continue for a while, which supports our fundamental analysis. All the best.

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Forex Fundamental Analysis

USD/CHF Global Macro Analysis – Part 1 & 2

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

When conducting the global macroeconomic analysis, endogenous and exogenous factors are considered. These analyses can be used to explain the price dynamic of a currency pair. In this case, we will analyze the endogenous factors that drive the economy in the US and Switzerland. We will also analyze the exogenous factors that primarily drives the price of the USD/CHF pair.

Ranking Scale

A sliding scale from -10 to +10 will be sued to ranks the impact of the individual endogenous and exogenous factors on the currency. A negative ranking for the endogenous factors means that they had a depreciating impact on the individual currencies, while a positive ranking means they resulted in currency appreciating.

Similarly, a negative ranking for the exogenous factors implies that they’ve had a bearish impact on the currency pair, while a positive ranking means they’ve had a bullish impact.

Summary of USD Endogenous Analysis

From the above table, we can see a clear deflationary effect on the USD currency and implies that it has depreciated in its value since the beginning of the year. You can find the complete USD Endogenous Analysis here.

Summary of CHF Endogenous Analysis

Overall, the endogenous analysis of CHF has a score of -5. That implies that the CHF is expected to have depreciated marginally in 2020.

  • Switzerland Inflation Rate

The rate of inflation is used to measure the changes in the price of consumer goods in Switzerland over a specified period – usually monthly or yearly. Here are the components of the CPI in Switzerland: Housing and energy, which accounts for 25% of the total CPI weight; 16% for healthcare; Transport accounts for 11%; Food and non-alcoholic drinks 11%; hotel and restaurant services 8%; 4% for Household goods and services; and clothing 3%. Education, communication services, and alcoholic beverages cumulatively account for 7% of the total CPI weight.

In November 2020, the YoY CPI in Switzerland dropped by 0.7%, while the MoM CPI dropped by 0.2%. The fall in prices of the hotel and holiday packages contributed to the drop in the inflation rate. The Switzerland CPI is at the lowest point since January 2018.

Based on our correlation analysis, we assign the Switzerland rate of inflation a score of -3.

  • Switzerland Unemployment Rate

This economic indicator shows the percentage of the total Swiss labor force that is actively seeking a job. Note that not all unemployed portion of the working-age population are seeking employment; so, they are not captured by the unemployment rate.

The unemployment rate can also be used to show the rate at which the economy is adding or cutting job opportunities. This can be used to show economic growth.

In October 2020, the Swiss unemployment rate was 3.2%, down from highs of 3.4% in May, while the employment rate in Q3 2020 was 79.7%. Although it is higher than the 79.1% registered in Q2, it is still significantly lower than the pre-pandemic rate of 80.4%.

The Swiss unemployment rate has a high correlation with the GDP, but since it only increased marginally, we assign it a score of -2.

  • Switzerland Manufacturing PMI

The Swiss procure.ch Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index surveys the executives in the manufacturing sector. The index is a measure of the Swiss manufacturing sector’s performance and serves as a leading indicator for business expectations.

The Manufacturing PMI is an aggregate of five components: new orders, which a weight of  30%, output 25%, employment 20%, supplies 15%, and inventory 10%. The manufacturing sector is expected to expand when the index is above 50 and contract when the index is below 50.

In November 2020, the Swiss procure.ch Manufacturing PMI increased to 55.2, the highest since December 2018. Based on the correlation analysis with the GDP, we assign a score of 7 since it shows a robust expansion.

The Swiss services industry employs over 60% of the working population and accounts for 73% of Switzerland’s GDP. This makes the services PMI a crucial indicator of the overall economy. The Services PMI is obtained through a comprehensive survey of 300 purchasing managers in the services sector to evaluate the changes in business activities.

The survey covers areas such as customer new orders, purchasing, and sales prices, and changes in the employment level.

In November 2020, the Swiss services PMI dropped to 48 from 50.4 in October, primarily attributed to new orders’ contraction. Although it is almost double the 21.4 recorded in April, it is still lower than the 57.3 recorded in January 2020. We, therefore, assign it a score of -4.

  • Switzerland Consumer Confidence

In Switzerland, consumer confidence is used to evaluate households’ opinion on the overall economy and their financial position. Typically, consumer confidence is higher when there is high GDP growth, and the unemployment rate is low.

In the fourth quarter of 2020, the Swiss consumer confidence was -12.8, better than Q2 -39.3. Consumer confidence is used to show the likelihood of how much households will spend in the economy. Hence we assign it a score of -2.

  • Switzerland Government Gross Debt to GDP

The Swiss government debt is the totality of the government’s amount owed to both domestic and foreign lenders. This debt is expressed as a percentage of the GDP o help determine the indebtedness of the economy. Lenders also use this metric to determine if there is a possibility of default by the government. Typically, government debt that is less than 60% of the economy is considered ideal.

In 2019, Switzerland’s government gross debt to GDP was 41%, and it’s projected to hit 49% in 2020 due to increased government expenditure to curb the economic slowdown brought about by the coronavirus pandemic. However, the Swiss government’s gross debt to GDP has been steadily declining since 2004, averaging at around 37%. Based on our correlation analysis and the fact that it has marginally increased in 2020, we assign a score of -1.

Now we know that both USD and CHF have depreciated according to their respective endogenous indicators. Please check our next article to know if this pair is expected to be bullish or bearish in the near future according to their exogenous indicators. Cheers.

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Forex Course

192. Criteria To Carry Trade The Forex Market and Risks Involved

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

In the previous lesson, we discussed instances when a carry can work, and when it’s bound to fail. But, having this knowledge won’t be of much help if you do not know the best criteria for a currency carry trade and the risks involved.

Criteria to Carry Trade

There are two basic criteria to carry trade the Forex market profitably.

① The interest rate differential between two currency pairs needs to be high with no prospects of reducing in the near term.

② The currency pair that we choose has to be on a bullish trend in favor of the currency with the higher interest rate. The reason for this is to ensure you can remain bullish on the high yielding currency and profit from the interest rate differential for the longest possible time.

Let’s take the example of the AUD/JPY pair. Japan’s interest rate has remained at -0.1%, while in Australia was held at 0.25%. That means the interest rate differential between the AUD/JPY pair has been 0.35%. Therefore, if you were to borrow and sell the JPY to buy the AUD, you’d expect a pay-out of 0.35%. Note that this is the same as going long on the AUD/JPY pair.

In this scenario, going long on AUD/JPY from March 2020 to October 2020 would have earned you over 900 pips. At the same time, you’d be earning an interest rate differential of 0.35%.

Risks Involved In Carry Trading

So far, a carry trade sounds like a risk-free strategy. But, like any other investment, the carry trade has its fair amount of risks – especially when leverage is involved.

Remember, in the previous lesson, we mentioned two conditions for a carry trade to thrive. First, there had to be low volatility in the market. The reason for this is to ensure that your open position is not wiped out due to currency fluctuations before you reap the profits of interest rate differential. Note that using trailing stop orders can help mitigate the risk of price fluctuations in the forex market.

The second condition for a carry trade to thrive was the stable economic conditions that might encourage the hiking of interest rates. If the economic climate is full of uncertainties, like with the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, central banks are more likely to cut interest rates than hike them. Therefore, if extreme interest rate cuts occur while you are in a currency carry trade, it could result in losses. 

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Categories
Forex Market Analysis

Daily F.X. Analysis, December 17 – Top Trade Setups In Forex – BOE Policy In Limelight! 

On the news front, the eyes will remain on the U.K. Monetary Policy reports due during the late European hours. BOE isn’t expected to change the rates, and it may keep them at 0.10%. However, it will be essential to see MPC Official Bank Rate Votes. Besides, the European Final CPI data will remain in focus today. During the U.S. session, the Unemployment Claims and Philly Fed Manufacturing Index will be the main highlight to drive further market movement.

On the news front, the eyes will remain on the U.K. Monetary Policy reports due during the late European hours. BOE isn’t expected to change the rates, and it may keep them at 0.10%. However, it will be essential to see MPC Official Bank Rate Votes. Besides, the European Final CPI data will remain in focus today. During the U.S. session, the Unemployment Claims and Philly Fed Manufacturing Index will be the main highlight to drive further market movement.

On the news front, the eyes will remain on the U.K. Monetary Policy reports due during the late European hours. BOE isn’t expected to change the rates, and it may keep them at 0.10%. However, it will be essential to see MPC Official Bank Rate Votes. Besides, the European Final CPI data will remain in focus today. During the U.S. session, the Unemployment Claims and Philly Fed Manufacturing Index will be the main highlight to drive further market movement.

 

Economic Events to Watch Today  

 

EUR/USD – Daily Analysis

The EUR/USD pair was closed at 1.21988 after placing a high of 1.22121 and a low of 1.21450. EUR/USD pair extended its gains and rose for 3rd consecutive day on Wednesday to reach its highest since April 2018.

EUR/USD pair broke above 1.22 level mainly because of the strong PMIs on Wednesday and the U.S. dollar weakness. On the data front, at 13:15 GMT, the French Flash Services PMI for December raised to 49.2 against the expected 39.9 and supported Euro. The French Flash Manufacturing PMI in December also raised to 51.1 against the estimated 50.0 and supported Euro. 

At 13:30 GMT, the German Flash Manufacturing PMI in December surged to 58.6 against the forecasted 56.4 and supported Euro. The German Flash Services PMI also advanced to 47.7 against the expected 44.1 and supported Euro. At 14:00 GMT, the Flash manufacturing PMI from Eurozone raised to 55.5 against the forecasted 53.0 and supported Euro. The Flash Services PMI in December from the whole bloc also raised to 47.3 from the expected 41.9 and supported Euro. At 15:00 GMT, the Trade Balance from Eurozone for October came in greater than expected 22.1B as 25,9B and supported Euro.

The manufacturing and services sector in Eurozone advanced and showed growth in December that supported the single currency Euro and added in the daily gains of the EUR/USD pair. From the U.S. side, at 18:30 GMT, the Core Retail Sales for November declined to -0.9% against the projected 0.1% and weighed on the U.S. dollar and supported EUR/USD gains. For November, the Retail Sales also declined to -1.1% against the projected -0.3% and weighed on the U.S. dollar and added in the EUR/USD pair. AT 19:45 GMT, the Flash manufacturing PMI for December rose to56.5 against the projected 55.9 and supported the U.S. dollar, and capped further gains in EUR/USD pair. 

The Flash Services PMI for December declined to 55.3 against the projected 55.7 and weighed on the U.S. dollar and supported momentum upward in EUR/USD pair. At 20:00 GMT, the Business Inventories for October rose to 0.7% against the projected 0.6%and weighed on the U.S. dollar. The NAHB Housing Market Index also declined to 86 against the projected 88 and weighed on the U.S. dollar, and added additional EUR/USD pair gains.

Apart from strong PMI figures, the latest news that Moderna’s vaccine was also up to getting emergency use authorization from the US FDA by the end of this week. This vaccine will be the second vaccine after Pfizer’s drug was approved last week and is currently being used on people. This news added in the risk sentiment and supported the risk perceived EUR/USD pair.

Furthermore, the Brexit hopes also raised on Wednesday and supported the single currency Euro after E.U.’s chief negotiator explained that she could not say if there will be a trade deal with Britain, but there had been progressing. The next few days would be critical. These developments also added to the upward trend of the EUR/USD pair on Wednesday.

Moreover, the Federal Reserve concluded its two-day meeting on Wednesday and decided to keep its interest rates at the same level until the inflation reaches its target. However, it decided to extend its Q.E. program that weighed on the U.S. dollar and supported the EUR/USD pair’s upward trend.


Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.2126      1.2175

1.2077      1.2197

1.2099      1.2224

Pivot point: 1.2148

EUR/USD– Trading Tip

The EUR/USD bullish bias continues to dominate the market as it’s trading at 1.2225. On the higher side, the EUR/USD may target the 1.2250 level and 1.2282 resistance areas. The direct currency pair may find support at 1.2175, which is extended by a double top resistance, which now is working as a support. The MACD and RSI are supporting bullish bias along with the 50 periods EMA. We can expect a continuation of a bullish trend in the EUR/USD today.

GBP/USD – Daily Analysis

 The GBP/USD pair was closed at 1.35083 after placing a high of 1.35543 and a low of 1.34340. GBP/USD pair extended its gains on Wednesday and rose to its highest level since May 2018. The British Pound pared gains on Wednesday against the U.S. dollar as reports suggested that U.K. and E.U. were close to a breakthrough on a key sticking point amid the ongoing talks. The President of European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said that there was a narrow path to an agreement on a post-Brexit trade deal with the U.K.

The U.K. acknowledged that some progress had been made but continued to suggest a no-deal was most likely outcome as significant differences remain. Reports suggested that progress has been made over the level playing rules, but differences remain over the fisheries issue, as fishing quotas remain a challenge in negotiations.

However, the U.K. has softened its tone on fisheries in a bid to get a deal over the line. Britain ditched the demands for fishing vessels operating under the U.K. flag to be majority British-owned in the post Brexit era. Whereas PM Boris Johnson remained harsh in his speech on Wednesday and said that the E.U. should realize that the U.K. has a right to take control over its land and waters like every other country.

The hopes for the Brexit trade deal increased as the recent progress on talks came as both sides were coming under increasing pressure to secure a deal before the transition period on December 31. These hopes kept the British Pound supported and GBP/USD pair higher.

On the data front, at 12:00 GMT, the Consumer Price Index from the U.K. for November fell short of expectations of 0.6% and came in as 0.3% that weighed on the British Pound. In November, the Core CPI also fell to 1.1% against the expectations of 1.4% and weighed on Sterling. The RPI of the year from the U.K. for November also declined to 0.9% against the forecasted 1.3% and weighed heavily on GBP. At 12:02 GMT, the PPI Input from the U.K. declined to 0.2% from the expected 0.4% in November and weighed on the British Pound. The PPI Output, however, remained flat with the expectations of 0.2%. At 14:30 GMT, the Flash manufacturing PMI in December from Great Britain raised to 57.3 against the projected 55.9 and supported British Pound and added GBP/USD pair gains. The Flash Services PMI, however, declined to 49.9 against the forecasted 50.5 in December and weighed on Sterling. The Housing Price Index for October advanced to 5.4% against the estimated 5.1% and supported British Pound. 

Most of the data came in against the British Pound; however, the currency pair GBP/USD remains on the upside over the latest Brexit optimism.

From the U.S. side, at 18:30 GMT, the Core Retail Sales for November fell to -0.9% against the anticipated 0.1% and weighed on the U.S. dollar and supported GBP/USD pair. The Retail Sales for November also fell to -1.1% against the anticipated -0.3% and weighed on the U.S. dollar and added gains in GBP/USD pair. 

At 19:45 GMT, the Flash manufacturing PMI for December surged to56.5 against the anticipated 55.9 and supported the U.S. dollar. The Flash Services PMI for December fell to 55.3 against the anticipated 55.7 and weighed on the U.S. dollar. At 20:00 GMT, the Business Inventories for October surged to 0.7% against the anticipated 0.6%and weighed on the U.S. dollar. The NAHB Housing Market Index also fell to 86 against the anticipated 88 and weighed on the U.S. dollar and added further gains in GBP/USD pair.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.3338      1.3258

1.3213      1.3595

1.3147      1.3719

Pivot point: 1.3404

GBP/USD– Trading Tip

Since the Cable is also a direct currency pair and the dollar is getting weaker, we can expect a continuation of an upward trend in the GBP/USD pair. The GBP/USD pair may find resistance at 1.3600 and 1.3706 level, while the support level stays at 1.3470 marks. The MACD and EMA are supporting the bullish trend in the Cable. On the 4 hour timeframe, the GBP/USD pair has formed an upward channel, which may keep pushing the Sterling further higher today. The buying trend can be seen over 1.3470 level until 1.3600 and 1.3706 level.

USD/JPY – Daily Analysis

The USD/JPY pair was closed at 103.419 after placing a high of 103.915 and a low of 103.259. The USD/JPY pair extended its losses on Wednesday and reached its lowest since November 9. The USD/JPY pair dropped on Wednesday amid the U.S. dollar weakness due to rising stimulus hopes and growing vaccine optimism. The U.S. lawmakers made progress toward a coronavirus relief package that added weight on the U.S. dollar and dragged the USD/JPY pair on the downside. The U.S. Dollar Index that tracks the greenback against a basket of six other currencies was down on Wednesday to 0.1% at 90.317. 

The bipartisan group had originally proposed a $908 billion stimulus bill, but it has now been split into two bills. The first bill includes a $748 billion proposal, including aid for vaccine distribution and unemployment benefits. This bill has gained traction and is expected to pass by Congress by the end of the week. The second bill that is worth $160 billion for local and state government support along with the temporary coronavirus liability protection that appears to be having more difficulty in gathering the necessary support from Congress.

On the data front, at 04:50 GMT, the Trade Balance from Japan for November surged to 0.57T against the forecasted 0.54T and supported the Japanese Yen that added further losses in the USD/JPY pair. At 05:30 GMT, the Flash Manufacturing PMI from Japan in December also raised to 49.7 against the forecasted 48.9 and supported the Japanese Yen that added additional losses in USD/JPY pair.

Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve kept its interest rates unchanged on Wednesday and said that they would remain the same until the inflation reaches 2-3%. However, Federal Reserve also announces to purchase at least $120 Billion of U.S. treasuries and mortgage-backed securities each month until employment gets better. This way to support the U.S. economy by increasing bond purchases also weighed on the U.S. dollar and dragged the USD/JPY pair on the downside.

From the U.S. side, at 02:00 GMT, the TIC Long-Term Purchases dropped to 51.9B against the forecasted 75.5 B and weighed on the U.S. dollar, and supported the downside movement in the USD/JPY pair. At 18:30 GMT, the Core Retail Sales for November decreased to -0.9% against the estimated 0.1% and weighed on the U.S. dollar and weighed on the USD/JPY pair. The Retail Sales for November also decreased to -1.1% against the estimated -0.3% and weighed on the U.S. dollar. AT 19:45 GMT, the Flash manufacturing PMI for December advanced to56.5 against the estimated 55.9 and supported the U.S. dollar. 

The Flash Services PMI for December decreased to 55.3 against the estimated 55.7 and weighed on the U.S. dollar and dragged the USD/JPY pair on the downside. At 20:00 GMT, the Business Inventories for October advanced to 0.7% against the estimated 0.6%and weighed on the U.S. dollar. The NAHB Housing Market Index also decreased to 86 against the estimated 88 and weighed on the U.S. dollar and added further losses in the USD/JPY pair.

Another factor included in the losses of the USD/JPY pair was the increasing risk sentiment of the market from another coronavirus vaccine. Moderna has also applied for emergency use authorization of its vaccine from the U.S. regulatory FDA that is expected to approve within a week. Moderna will become the second company to get authorization from the U.S. regulator after Pfizer got approval last week and is currently being roll-out. This latest news added in the risk sentiment and weighed on the safe-haven Japanese Yen that ultimately weighed on the USD/JPY pair.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

103.47      104.02

103.25      104.37

102.91      104.58

Pivot point: 103.81

USD/JPY – Trading Tips

The USD/JPY extends it’s selling trend as the pair trades at 103.250. The safe-haven currency pair is trading below an immediate support level of 103.250, and the closing of candles below this level will confirm the bearish breakout. If this happens, we may have an opportunity to short the USD/JPY pair today. Bearish bias seems solid as the MACD is forming histograms below 0, and the 50 periods EMA is holding around 103.860 level, suggesting strong odds of selling. On the lower side, the USD/JPY pair may find next support at the 102.900 level. Let’s consider taking a selling trade below 103.650 today. Good luck! 

Categories
Forex Basics

What Is the True Difference Between Forex and Binary Options?

Today we will focus on trying to respond to a very frequently asked question in the world of trading: What is the difference between binary options and Forex? In the following article, you will find answers to questions such as: What are binary options? How do binary options work? Can you win in binary options? […]

Today we will focus on trying to respond to a very frequently asked question in the world of trading: What is the difference between binary options and Forex? In the following article, you will find answers to questions such as: What are binary options? How do binary options work? Can you win in binary options? […]

Today we will focus on trying to respond to a very frequently asked question in the world of trading: What is the difference between binary options and Forex? In the following article, you will find answers to questions such as: What are binary options? How do binary options work? Can you win in binary options? In addition, I will also share my opinion about what is better and more profitable, Forex, or binary options.

Novelty Instant Benefit

About 10 years ago, most broker companies specializing in stock markets, suddenly, with a single voice, began to proclaim in every corner a new super service, “binary option”. At that time, very few investors could understand what it was, but the thirst for instant profit made this tool very attractive. In those days, no one had a similar offer, because it was, in fact, a home casino, but with constant access and a wallet with an initial minimum. Now enough time has passed and the consumer began to understand that the binary option is not such a brilliant instrument and that it most often leads not to instant gains, but to instant loss. To give your own opinion of this instrument, you need to understand what it is.

What is a Binary Option?

So what exactly is a binary option? If we want to answer this particular question, we have to look at its structure. The name is made up of two words: binary and option. The word “binary” is derived from the concept of “binary model”, a model that has only two variants of an event, or is “yes” or “no”. This model is one of the main ones of the instrument, or win or lose, there are no other options. Now the word is “option”. Everything is much deeper here, this concept is taken as a derivative of the real stock option. A “stock option” is a derivative financial instrument, which is based on the rule of future performance of the contract in the event that a pre-established condition is met.

Therefore, by putting these two concepts together, we get an instrument that works according to the rules of the stock exchange contract and has only two options for the event. In other words, by concluding such a contract, you have either won or lost.

Let’s look at the working mechanism of the binary option based on the most popular parameter of the contract, “high/low” This type of contract means that you have chosen the target price level and the direction of the agreement. For example, we think the EUR/USD currency pair will fall in the next 5 minutes. We select the level from which the calculation will be performed and put the option down. Therefore, if the price in 5 minutes is lower than this level, we will get a benefit, and if it is higher, we will get a loss. We chose the bet size, for example, $50 and go!

The position of our option will look like this, as shown in the chart above. All that is red below is our benefit and all that is up is loss. The main feature that distinguishes such a contract will be the fact that we do not care how many points the price will be higher or lower: our gains or losses are always fixed.

Therefore, it passed 2 minutes after the conclusion of the options contract, and during this time the price was below our reference level. Therefore, the time of our choice is over, we obtained a profit equal to 80-85% of our bet.

Three minutes later, our option was executed, as time has expired (expiration occurred). But unfortunately, the price shot up at the last minute and went above our benchmark, which caused us a loss in the size of our $50 bet. It’s as simple as that. Of course, there are still many different variations in the binary option, but we will talk about them directly compared to the Forex market.

What Is the Main Difference Between Binary Options and Forex?

The comparison of these two types of trading will occur in a number of the most important parameters:

Variety of Contract Types

In Forex there is only one type of contract. No, of course, you can trade with currency pairs, CFDs, commodities, or securities, but these are only variants of the same type of contract: CFD price difference contract (Contract For Difference). You bought a currency pair and its price has increased, you will get the difference between the sales price and the subsequent purchase price.

There are several types of contracts in binary options: this is the most common “high/ low” that we have already seen, is the “touch option”, where you should wait for it to reach a certain level, the “range option”, where you should specify a target price range, and the “ladder option” of higher performance.

Value of Potential Benefit

In Forex, your performance is not limited. Of course, you can limit it to placing fixed orders, but if you’re talking about a simple managed deal, you can generate your profits until you close it yourself at the price you’re interested in. It’s not uncommon for you to make a deal, and literally within a few minutes, the price flies to a lot of points, giving you a much higher profit than you expected.

When trading with binary options, your earnings are always limited by the type of contract selected. And, most importantly, your win can never be greater than your bet. If you put $100, you’ll get, at best, $90. In case you lose, you lose all $100. Yes, there are different options for all contract types, however, in any case, the success ratio will always tend to loss. But distributors of these options are always in profit.

An example of how binary options work cleverly:

-We place a bet, for example on the pair AUD/USD of $1000, at the time of clicking the button “buy” or “sell” instantly the balance deducts the $1000 from the bet.

-If I get the bet right, then I’ll see that the “profit was $1710”, actually it was $710 ($1000, as we remember, was deducted at the time of opening the bet and when I got it right, it came back).

-If I do not get the bet right, then I will see that the “profit was $0”, but the $1000 I have already lost, and in case I fail these funds will be lost.

-It looks great, and in fact, the loss of the same option is always more beneficial.

-In Forex, with the same agreement and the equivalent price movement up or down, the profit/loss will also be the same.

Possibility of Margin Trading

In Forex margin trading has reached perhaps the highest level of development. Forex brokers provide leverage in almost any range, from 1 to 2 to 1 to 1000, and even more. We agree, such a large amount of credit money can provide us almost unlimited opportunities for profit, which is sometimes 1000 times more than our invested capital.

In binary options, there is no such concept as margin trading. Everything is limited only to the notion of bets. If you have $100, then only with this $100 can you trade. This is an absolute disadvantage in modern trading realities.

Easy to Make Deals

Forex is considered the simplest and most modernized trading system among all foreign exchange markets. The transaction system refers to a process that goes from the analysis to the moment your order is placed on the market. There are several trading platforms, some with extended functionality, however, to understand them is not difficult.

In binary options, the settlement system is even easier than in Forex. Essentially, the entire trading agreement is reduced to the choice of a financial instrument, such as an option, run time, and clicking the “buy” or “sell” button. Let us not talk about the effectiveness of such an operation, but about the possibilities that are 50/50.

Duration of Stay in the Agreement

In Forex all contracts are indefinite, and therefore do not have a term of treatment (expiration). This means that when we enter the agreement we can wait the time until the price is not where it was waiting. Yes, there are commissions that can do a lot of damage, but it is no longer in this area.

In binary options all contracts are fixed-term. All options have a very limited lifespan, so, “wait for the storm” as in Forex, will not succeed. This type of contract completely excludes the investment component, leaving us only pure speculation.

Minimum Start-Up Capital

On Forex, this limit is almost erased, and you can start trading, even if you only have $10. But you must understand that the less your initial investment, the more leverage you need to take from your broker, and this increases risks many times over. In binary options, the minimum initial capital is even $1. Then your income will be equal to the minimum. Perhaps, for a person who just wants to get acquainted with these contracts, this is enough.

Conclusion

If we listen to all the questions I’ve told you before, we can make a small summary:

Forex: This is a stock market where, as in the stock market, as in other financial markets, there are laws of supply and demand. Agreements are made at different intervals of time, however, statistics show that transactions at long intervals of time are the most effective and most often yield profits. Forex pays a lot of attention to technical and fundamental analysis. There are a large number of different active transaction management systems, allowing you to benefit even from completely desperate transactions. Competent use of margin trading can increase your investment capital many times, allowing you to make a much greater profit. Of course, success on Forex requires market analysis, trading strategy, expertise, and the use of informational materials. This market cannot be conquered by leaps and bounds. If we want a Forex trader to achieve greed in every trade, you need to train and gain experience.

Binary Options: The binary options market is an over-the-counter market (OTC-market), or rather, it is not a market at all, as binary options brokers are liquidity providers, market makers, and in general, everything they want. In most cases, the quote is only a projection and has nothing to do with the actual price of the asset. And when we talk about “turbo options”, brokers simply draw the quote that is profitable for them in front of the group of their players. In fact, a binary options broker is a bookmaker that spreads what you want to your customers.

The high commission for a profitable transaction makes the popular 50/50 stock ratio absolutely unprofitable, as it will never earn as much as it invested. The benefits of the same option will always be less than a loss. In general, a binary option is a pure casino or addictive gambling that has nothing to do with real trading in the financial markets. Options are a game according to the owner’s rules. You can check the demo account of any binary options broker.

In this article, I have expressed my opinion only, which is supported by the practical experience of developing and implementing various stock exchange contracts. I really like the “real binary option” model, which I consider the best of all stock contracts, but it has nothing to do with the “binary option”. With which instrument to work, the choice is yours. I just want to wish you lots of luck and lots of benefits!

Categories
Forex Technical Analysis

US Dollar Index awaiting FOMC Meeting in the Extreme Bearish Zone

The US Dollar Index (DXY) reached a new yearly low of 90.128, expecting the last FOMC interest rate decision meeting of the year. The analysts’ consensus anticipates the rate unchanged at 0.25% by the FED.

The US Dollar Index (DXY) reached a new yearly low of 90.128, expecting the last FOMC interest rate decision meeting of the year. The analysts’ consensus anticipates the rate unchanged at 0.25% by the FED.

The US Dollar Index (DXY) reached a new yearly low of 90.128, expecting the last FOMC interest rate decision meeting of the year. The analysts’ consensus anticipates the rate unchanged at 0.25% by the FED.

Source: TradingEconomics.com

Technical Overview

The short-term overview for the Greenback illustrated in the following 8-hour chart displays the short-term market participants’ sentiment unfolded by the 90-day high and low range, which shows the price action moving in the extreme bearish sentiment zone. Likewise, the bullish divergence observed on the EMA(60) to Close Index carries to expect a recovery for the following trading sessions.

On the other hand, the short-term primary trend outlined with its trend-line drawn in blue reveals that the bearish bias remains intact since September 25th, when the price topped at 94.742. The secondary trend plotted with the trend-line in green shows the acceleration of the downward movement that began on November 04th at 94.302.

Nevertheless, the breakdown of the last sideways range developed by DXY during the latest trading session, combined with the bullish divergence observed between the price and the EMA to Close indicator, makes us suspect a bounce, which could hit the resistance of the extreme bearish sentiment zone at 91.282.

Short-term Technical Outlook

The short-term Elliott wave view for the US Dollar Index unfolded by the next 4-hour chart exposes the bearish progression of wave ((iii)) of Minute degree labeled in black that belongs to the downward sequence that began on November 04th at 94.302. 

 

According to the textbook, the price action requires to confirm the third wave’s completion before acknowledging the start of the wave ((iv)) in black. In this regard, the internal structure of the wave ((iii)) added to the bullish divergence observed in the MACD oscillator; thus, suggesting the advance in wave (v) of Minuette degree identified in blue.

On the other hand, considering both the alternation principle and that the second wave of the same degree looks simple in terms of price and time, the next corrective structure should be complex in terms of price, time, or both.

In this context, the next DXY path could produce a bounce corresponding to the fourth wave of Minute degree, advancing to the supply zone between 91.014 and 91.200, and even strike the 91.580 level.

In summary, the US Dollar Index looks advancing in the fifth wave of Minuette degree that belongs to the third wave of Minute degree. In this context, the price action could experience a bounce corresponding to the fourth wave of Minute degree, which could move up to 91.850. Nevertheless, if the price surpasses the invalidation level located at 92.107, the Greenback could be showing the start of a reversal of the current bearish trend.

Categories
Forex Videos

Make Money In Forex With Less Risk Counter Trend Trading!

https://youtu.be/vPw5-YPKsaQ

https://youtu.be/vPw5-YPKsaQ

 


How to reduce risk while counter trading a trend

Thank you for joining this Forex Academy educational video.

In this session, we will be looking at how to reduce your risk in a counter-trend set up.

Trading against the trend is inherently risky.  However, as your experience grows as a trader, you will likely start seeing opportunities where trends run out of steam and look right for a reversal.  These kinds of trades can often be extremely profitable if the timing is right. 

Of course, trading any financial asset, but specifically foreign exchange, is almost impossible to correctly find entries and exits which are down to the pip perfect, i.e., identifying an entry or exit of a particular move within a single pip.

This is where it is important to adopt a variable approach to leverage.  Quite often, new traders will simply execute the same amount of leverage per trade, no matter what the circumstances.  So any particular trade, they might open with half a standard lot, or even a full lot, no matter whether they are trading after an economic data release, which might be low impact or a high-impact release such as non-farm payrolls, they keep their trade size the same no matter what, and this can be particularly dangerous and it is a poor aspect of money management.  A variable approach is another string to the bow of becoming a more rounded trader.

This is a 4-hour chart of GBP USD

The majority of the price action as shown during position A in this section from the 24th of November to the 3rd of December has largely been a sideways move while traders wait for the outcome of the Brexit future trade negotiations with the EU. 

Although there was a spike outside of the range at position B, price action reverted back within the original range on the 2nd of December.

There is then a bounce off of the support line and a 200 pip bull run, which breaches the resistance line, and takes price action all the way up to within a pip of the key 1.3500 level.

This is a good opportunity for profit-taking for many traders and a potential double top reversal …….

…from this daily chart of the pair with which was a multi-month as shown during August 2020.

Under these circumstances, we believe there may be a reversal in price action, and we had decided to trade against the trend, believing that it will reverse at this point.  And we initiate a short trade, with reduced leverage than perhaps we might normally use because we are trading against the trend, and then we will layer the trade with market executions or sell limit orders just above our first trade, dependant on risk, and because we cannot predict where the reversal will happen, if at all.

Had this been a real trade, at least two of the orders would have been filled, including the at market order and where there was a reversal of 89 pips, which is a healthy profit.

In this particular instance, we have taken advantage of uncertainty in the market with regard to Brexit, a multi month high, double top scenario, and a key round number 1.3500.  We have reduced our leverage because of uncertainty and the fact that it was a counter-trend reversal trade, which can be inherently risky.  But we have diluted that risk by lowering our leverage and layering the trades over varying exchange rates in close proximity to the key level of 1.3500. Stop losses should be implemented as per your personal risk appetite.    

This style can also be implemented for long trades with similar principles, and the reduced leverage and layering style can be adopted in any trade scenario. 

Categories
Forex Market Analysis

Daily F.X. Analysis, December 16 – Top Trade Setups In Forex – U.K.Manufacturing PMI Figures Ahead! 

On the news front, eyes will remain on the series of Manufacturing PMI figures from the Eurozone, U.K., and the U.S. Although it’s a low impact event, it may help determine the market sentiment today.

On the news front, eyes will remain on the series of Manufacturing PMI figures from the Eurozone, U.K., and the U.S. Although it’s a low impact event, it may help determine the market sentiment today.

On the news front, eyes will remain on the series of Manufacturing PMI figures from the Eurozone, U.K., and the U.S. Although it’s a low impact event, it may help determine the market sentiment today.

 

Economic Events to Watch Today  

 

EUR/USD – Daily Analysis

The EUR/USD pair closed at 1.21522 after placing a high of 1.21687 and a low of 1.21210. Despite the coronavirus related lockdowns, the EUR/USD pair moved higher on Tuesday as the European stock markets traded higher amid the optimism over the ongoing Brexit trade negotiations.

The European Union negotiator Michel Barnier said that securing a trade deal with Britain was still possible. In contrast, European Commission Ursula von der Leyen said that there was some movement over the sticking points.

According to the Times of London, the two sides had made progress on the level playing field, and only the biggest obstacle to a deal has left of differences over fishing rights. However, the hopes increased that some form of a deal could be reached with just days to go before the U.K. leaves the E.U. trading bloc. This optimism kept the single currency Euro higher and supported the upward momentum in EUR/USD pair.

On the data front, at 12:45 GMT, the French Final CPI for November came in line with the expectations of 0.2%. At 15:00 GMT, the Italian Trade Balance for October raised to 7.57B against the forecasted 5.40B and supported Euro and added gains in the EUR/USD pair.

On the U.S. front, at 18:30 GMT, the Empire State Manufacturing Index for December declined to 4.9 against the projected 6.3 and weighed on the U.S. dollar that added further gains in EUR/USD pair. The U.S. Import Prices in November fell to 0.1% against the projected 0.3% and weighed on the U.S. dollar and supported the upward momentum in EUR/USD pair. At 19:15 GMT, the Capacity Utilization Rate from the U.S. for November rose to 73.3% against the projected 73.1% and supported the U.S. dollar. The Industrial Production in November also surged to 0.4%against the projected 0.3% and supported the U.S. dollar and capped further gains in EUR/USD pair.

Meanwhile, the lockdown restrictions increased in Europe, given the region’s rising number of coronavirus cases. On late Monday, the U.K. government imposed tighter restrictions on London amid the increased infection rates. It cited that these may be partly linked to a new variant of the coronavirus. From Wednesday, Germany will also enter a lockdown that will include the closure of non-essential stores. Netherland also announced a new five-week lockdown, while Italy was considering more restrictions over the Christmas holidays.

Throughout the region, these lockdown restrictions added pressure on the single currency Euro and capped further gains in the EUR/USD pair on Tuesday.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.2126       1.2175

1.2099       1.2197

1.2077       1.2224

Pivot point: 1.2148

EUR/USD– Trading Tip

The precious metal gold continues to trade bullish at 1,857, having crossed over double top resistance level of 1,857 level. On the higher side, the metal opens up further room for buying until the next target level of 1,865 and 1,875 level. On the lower side, the precious metal gold may find support at 1,848, and below this level, the metal may drop until the 1,832 level. Let’s consider staying bullish over 1,848 today. The 50 periods EMA supports a bullish bias, keeping the EUR/USD pair in a little bit of buying mode. Simultaneously, the MACD and RSI are also supporting a buying trend; thus, we should look for a buying trade over the 1.2175 level to target the 1.2265 level today. 

GBP/USD – Daily Analysis

 The GBP/USD pair closed at 1.34635 after placing a high of 1.34688 and a low of 1.32800. The GBP/USD pair was among the best performer on the day amid the speculation regarding the prospect of an imminent Brexit deal.

There were speculations mostly amongst Conservative M.P.s that a Brexit deal was close and might be voted in the House of Commons next Monday and Tuesday. This optimism led the GBP/USD pair higher in the market to post gains for the day.

After posting losses for three consecutive days, the currency pair GBP/USD pair rose by nearly 1% on Tuesday after the speculation that there had been progressing on the issue of a level playing field. The European Union negotiator Michel Barnier said that reaching a trade pact with Britain was still possible. At the same time, European Commission Ursula von der Leyen noted that there was some progress made over the sticking points.

British Pound is highly sensitive to Brexit progress, and any news showing optimism regarding the post-Brexit trade deal with the E.U. will have a great impact on the GBP/USD pair. This was the reason behind the sudden surge in GBP/USD currency pair on Tuesday despite the renewed lockdown restrictions by the U.K. government over London.

The Health Secretary of the UK, Matt Hancock, said on Monday that this week London would return to a strict lockdown as the coronavirus cases have soared in the British capital. Hancock said London would move from England’s Tier 2 – high alert local restrictions to Tier 3 – very high alert on Wednesday noon. 

Under the highest restriction level, all hospitality venues, including pubs, restaurants, and cafes, will close except for takeout and delivery. People will avoid unnecessary traveling and reduce the number of journeys. Residents in London will be restricted from meeting in private gardens or outdoor venues.

Meanwhile, on the data front, at 12:00 GMT, the Average Earnings Index from Great Britain raised to 2.7% against the forecasted 2.2% and supported the British Pound that added gains in the GBP/USD pair. The Claimant Count Change from the U.K. raised to 64.3K against the expected 10.5K and weighed on British Pound. The Unemployment Rate from the U.K. dropped to 4.9% from the expected 5.1% and supported the Sterling that added strength to the GBP/USD pair.

From the U.S. side, at 18:30 GMT, the Empire State Manufacturing Index for December fell to 4.9 against the estimated 6.3 and weighed on the U.S. dollar that added further gains in GBP/USD pair. The U.S. Import Prices in November dropped to 0.1% against the estimated 0.3% and weighed on the U.S. dollar and supported the upward momentum in GBP/USD pair. At 19:15 GMT, the Capacity Utilization Rate from the U.S. for November surged to 73.3% against the estimated 73.1% and supported the U.S. dollar. The Industrial Production in November also rose to 0.4% against the estimated 0.3% and supported the U.S. dollar.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.3338       1.3528

1.3218       1.3595

1.3147       1.3719

Pivot point: 1.3404

GBP/USD– Trading Tip

The GBP/USD pair is trading at 1.3460 level, facing immediate resistance at 1.3475 and 1.3538 level. While the support stays at 1.3430 and 1.3401 level. The RSI and MACD support the buying trend in the market, while Cable has the potential to stay bullish over 1.3400 today. A choppy session can be expected until the pair violates the 1.3345 – 1.3309 range.

USD/JPY – Daily Analysis

The USD/JPY pair closed at 103.647 after placing a high of 104.150 and a low of 103.604. The USD/JPY pair failed to capitalize on its previous daily gains and dropped on Tuesday over the fears of a new variant of coronavirus and the increased lockdown restrictions over the globe.

The safe-haven appeal in the market returned after the U.K. Health Minister Matt Hancock told parliament that a new variant of the coronavirus associated with faster spread had been identified in southeast England. This led to widespread concern as headlines in the newspaper called this new variant “Super covid” and “mutant covid.”

Matt Hancock added that about 60 different local authorities had recorded coronavirus infections caused by the new variant. He also said that the World Health Organization had been notified, and a detailed study by U.K. scientists has started.

The fear of new and improved disease raised the market’s safe-haven appeal as London went into renewed lockdown restriction of Tier-3 level. Along with London, Germany and Netherland also extended their lockdown restrictions. The rising demand for safe-haven assets added strength to the Japanese Yen that ultimately weighed on the USD/JPY pair.

Meanwhile, on the data front, at 18:30 GMT, the Empire State Manufacturing Index for December declined to 4.9 against the anticipated 6.3. It weighed on the U.S. dollar that added further losses in the USD/JPY pair. The U.S. Import Prices in November fell to 0.1% against the anticipated 0.3% and weighed on the U.S. dollar and added further in the losses of the USD/JPY pair. At 19:15 GMT, the Capacity Utilization Rate from the U.S. for November rose to 73.3% against the anticipated 73.1% and supported the U.S. dollar. The Industrial Production in November also surged to 0.4% against the anticipated 0.3% and supported the U.S. dollar and capped further losses in the USD/JPY pair.

Furthermore, on Tuesday, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the U.S. senior official for infectious diseases, predicted that the U.S. could begin to achieve early stages of herd immunity against the deadly coronavirus by late Spring or Summer. 

Fauci said that to see an impact of the vaccine over the coronavirus spread, almost 50% of people would have to get vaccinated. To achieve herd immunity, 75 to 85% of people would have to get vaccinated. 

Herd immunity occurs when enough people become immune to the disease that the spread of the virus from one person to another person becomes unlikely. Fauci pointed to polio and measles as examples of herd immunity. Despite these positive statements from the top health official from the U.S., the USD/JPY pair failed to reverse its direction upward because of traders’ focus on the new variant of coronavirus.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

103.47       104.02

103.25       104.37

102.91       104.58

Pivot Point: 103.81

USD/JPY – Trading Tips

The USD/JPY is trading dramatically bearish, falling below 103.700. This resistance area is extended by a double bottom pattern, which later was violated on the 2-hour timeframe. Below this level, the USD/JPY pair has odds of extending a sell trade until the next support level of 103.211. The 50 EMA and MACD are supporting selling bias. Thus we can expect to sell below 103.700, to target the 103.200 mark. Good luck! 

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Forex Course

191. Carry Trading Doesn’t Work All The Time!

Introduction 

Introduction 

Introduction 

Now that you understand what a carry trade is in the forex market, the next logical step is to show you when this strategy works and when it fails. We already know that the carry trade entirely depends on interest rates between two countries.

Let’s take the USD/JPY pair. The interest rate in Japan is -0.1%, and that in the US it is 0.25%. So, if you were to borrow and sell the JPY to buy the USD, your interest rate differential would be = 0.25 – (-0.1) = 0.35%.

In this case, you’d expect profits of 0.35%. By now, we already know that forex traders always anticipate the monetary policy actions of central banks.

When do Carry Trades Work?

There two main instances when carry trades become popular:

Firstly, it is during periods of low volatility. When there are minimal price fluctuations, traders may be induced to take on more risks to increase their profits – carry trade. In this case, provided the value of the currency doesn’t fall, the rollover earned is a good incentive.

Secondly, it’s when traders anticipate that central banks will raise interest rates. In this instance, traders will anticipate that the interest rate differential will increase, as will the pay-out.

When Do Carry Trades Not Work?

We’ve already established that for a carry trade to be effective, the interest rate differential needs to be high or increasing. That means that one country should be increasing its interest rate while another decreasing.

Similarly, the country with the lower interest rate should be decreasing while the one with the higher interest rate remains constant. Another scenario could be if the country with the lower interest rate remains constant while the one with the higher interest rate increases. If you find all this confusing, let’s explain using an example.

Economic indicators in the US points towards higher possibilities of a recession. Say the unemployment levels are increasing, manufacturing is falling, GDP is contracting, and retail sales are nose-diving.

Forex traders can anticipate that the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates to stimulate the economy. In this case, the USD will be considered a high-risk currency since investors will have a higher aversion towards it. Now, instead of purchasing the USD, investors will opt for other currencies with a more stable outlook.  The logic behind this is that the interest rate differential has reduced or is expected to reduce vis-a-vis USD/JPY.

[wp_quiz id=”99265″]
Categories
Forex Market

What is the Best Trading Position? Part I – Risk

Let’s say you are interested in starting to trade for the first time but you are not sure what exactly you need to do so as not to mess up all your entire investment; or, alternatively, you could have already tried trading, but all your results are far from satisfying. In any scenario you might […]

Let’s say you are interested in starting to trade for the first time but you are not sure what exactly you need to do so as not to mess up all your entire investment; or, alternatively, you could have already tried trading, but all your results are far from satisfying. In any scenario you might […]

Let’s say you are interested in starting to trade for the first time but you are not sure what exactly you need to do so as not to mess up all your entire investment; or, alternatively, you could have already tried trading, but all your results are far from satisfying. In any scenario you might be living at the moment, you need those key tips to make a real difference in your life. You feel tired of vague ideas, failed attempts, and hours spent on futile research. If you are that practical type of person who wants to grow his/her experience, we are offering you a never-seen-before series of educational texts that will provide you with constructive and applicable advice you can immediately start applying as you read. Whether you are an absolute beginner, a demo trader, or a professional one, you will finally know what position to take in trading currencies to see actual benefits from investing your time and money. 

Why should I care about risk management?

Risk management is a topic that we use for so many different areas of life and work, but you may be wondering why and how you should use it in trading. First of all, you must know that it’s the one thing where you must start – it’s your foundation and the basis of any success you may have in the future. The way you manage your risk is equivalent to how likely you are to succeed in forex. Without proper risk management, you are setting yourself up for a big failure, and while there may be thousands of articles that may scare you to death with their lists of dos and don’ts, we actually really want you to get it right from the very beginning. That is why your number one lesson is to start with risk management and slowly build your position along with learning how to protect your assets.

Where do I stand with my risk management skills?

Let’s say that you have 50,000 USD in your (demo or real) trading account. You start trading with whatever skills and knowledge you have obtained so far but, unfortunately, take a loss. Your account suffers tremendously, and it is only expected that this one loss should turn into a series of misfortunes. Now, individual storylines may differ quite a bit, but we know that forex is primarily about preventing losses, even more so than winning. Whether you experienced one severe loss or taken several ones in a row, you are now in a desperate situation, as you are left with 40,000 USD in your account. You are now impatient to fix the mistake you made, so you start behaving recklessly and invest even more, hoping that you will somehow make up for the previously lost 20% of your account. This way, unfortunately, you are only pushing yourself further down in that hole, still hoping for an extraordinary return that will miraculously get you out of that rut.

As a result of your lack of education on risk management, your account decreased to 25,000 USD, and you are officially missing 50% just to get back to where you started. However, this would require skills that not even the most successful forex traders have, and even if you did somehow master forex trading skills all of a sudden, you would still need years to make up for the loss you took before. If your stream of thoughts resembles what we wrote here, you should truly use this opportunity to the best of your abilities to learn everything you can about forex risk management.

What should I do if I take a major loss?

Well, since we have already established what impact one bad decision can have on your account, what do you believe the best strategy here is – a) invest more immediately, b) wait for a lucrative opportunity and then enter a new trade, or c) stop and learn how to trade? If you chose the last option, you guessed it right. Your money is much better off stashed somewhere safe until you learn what we are going to share in this article. Whether you are demo trading or trading real money, you absolutely must understand where the glitch occurred and why you lost a portion of your account like that before you proceed with another trade.

If you, however, find this approach to be silly or cannot see its purpose, please read the previous paragraph again. Although many successful forex traders admit to having lost everything they had before finally learning how to trade safely, there is no need for you to go all the way down to zero. All wealthy people first think about minimizing their risk regardless of their market of choice, so why should anyone else with an average income even consider rushing in before securing their position? Now is the time to take a pen and paper, and start taking notes.

What is my risk? 

It is now a well-known fact that 90% of traders lose their accounts within the first several months of trading, and the only way for you to avoid that fate is (prepare your pen) to write down this number – 2%. This number translates as the entire percentage of your account that you can let yourself lose at any moment. Therefore, with a 50,000 USD account, your 2% risk amounts to 1000 USD. Next time when you wonder what your risk is, just do the math and calculate what 2% means in relation to the amount of money you have in your account at that particular moment. 

Luckily, if everything else is done correctly, your losses should rarely come close to the 2% risk anyway. Still, we would like to make sure that you understood the importance of learning about risk, so we invite you to complete the following exercise.

Well done! Your first lesson is over! Know you know where to start, but be mindful of the fact that this is only the beginning. The best position you can take in trading currencies is a complex topic but, at the same time, it is not something that you will not be able to manage. Stay tuned because next time we will be explaining how you can secure your position following other important tips and figures that must always be incorporated in your trading to see the best results. 

P.S. You can check your answers in the next article about the best trading position. Watch for part two to be posted tomorrow! 

Categories
Forex Elliott Wave Forex Market Analysis

EURAUD Advances Supported by the RBA Minutes

Technical Overview

Technical Overview

Technical Overview

The EURAUD cross advanced on the overnight trading session, expecting the minutes from the last Reserve Australia Bank (RBA) interest rate decision meeting, where policymakers decided to keep unchanged the rate at 0.1% for the second month in a row.

Source: TradingEconomics.com

On the technical side, the following 12-hour chart shows the short-term market sentiment unfolded by the 90-day high and low range, which illustrates the cross consolidating in the extreme bearish sentiment zone. 

The bullish candlestick formation developed during the recent trading sessions carries to suspect the possibility of a short-term bounce. This bounce could find strike the level 1.62374 that corresponds to the resistance of the extreme bearish zone.

On the other hand, the short-term primary trend plotted in blue shows the bearish bias that remains in progress. The secondary trend also shows the intraday downward acceleration, which dragged the price until 1.60408, where the cross found support. Likewise, the bounce observed on the EMA(60) to Close Index carries to support the possibility of a limited recovery.

Technical Outlook

The short-term Elliott wave view for the EURAUD cross shows the downward progress of the incomplete five-wave sequence of Minute degree labeled in black, suggesting a limited recovery in the following trading sessions.

The next 4-hour chart shows the bearish movement subdivided into a five-wave sequence of Minute degree identified in black. It began on October 20th at 1.68273 and found its temporary bottom at 1.60408 on December 11th.

The previous figure illustrates the price looks advancing in its fifth wave in black, which after the bottom reached on the last Friday 11 session completed its wave (iii) of Minuette degree labeled in blue. In this context, according to the Elliott wave theory, the price action should start to develop a corrective formation, which could find resistance in the supply zone between 1.61786 and 1.62271.

On the other hand, considering that the wave ((iii)) in black looks like the extended wave, the fifth wave could have a limited extension. In this context, the lesser degree structure of the wave ((v)) could pierce slightly below the end of wave (iii) in blue.

In conclusion, the EURAUD cross shows the possibility of a limited recovery, which could strike the supply zone between 1.61786 and 1.62271, where the price could start to consolidate in a sideways range with support at the end of wave (iii) at 1.60408. On the other hand, if the cross surpasses the supply zone, it would indicate further recoveries, and the price could start a bullish rally. Finally, the invalidation level of the current bearish scenario locates at 1.62872.

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Forex Videos

Forex For Beginners – How To Trade EURGBP! Buying The Euro With A No Brexit Trade Deal!

https://youtu.be/Um4A8P5sDyo

https://youtu.be/Um4A8P5sDyo

For beginners – How to trade the EURGBP with no trade deal Brexit 

Thank you for joining this forex academy educational video.

Great Britain voted in a national referendum to leave the European Union June 2016.  The  United Kingdom officially left the EU you in January 2020 with a one-year transition period which ends on the 31st of December 2020.

This was to allow the EU and the United Kingdom four years to come up with a future trading solution with regard to laws and arrangements which would allow the United Kingdom to take back its sovereignty, which is what the people of Great Britain wanted.

However, unravelling the years of business ties between the two areas, including laws,  fishing rights,  humanitarian issues,  worker’s rights,  competitive fairness,  financial regulatory alignment, including a whole myriad of rules and regulations has been one of the most complicated issues in modern times.  The affair is turning into an acrimonious divorcAfter the transition period, theThe two sides agreed thod they would work towards having a free trade agreem,ent which would lead to an almost seamless continuation of business.

But the United Kingdom claims that many of the terms and conditions as set out by the European Union in order to grant a free trade agreement to the United Kingdom are seen as not acceptable to the British government.  Some of these conditions are centred around fishing, where the EU wants to continue fishing in British sovereign waters, a so-called level playing field,  where the United Kingdom cannot go out and sign up other trade agreements around the world by undercutting EU member states.  And where the EU has said that any breach by the UK of such a future agreement, or where the EU changes regulations, and the UK does not fall into line, would be penalised by tariffs and which the UK has said this is totally unacceptable.  Ten deadlines have come and passed between the two sides regarding reaching an agreement,  and where currently, at the time of writing,  there are just a few days left to instigate and agreement,  and where both sides are saying this is now very unlikely to happen.

This is a daily chart of the euro to Great British pound pair ,or EURGBP,  and where we can clearly by the blue candlesticks that since the latter part of November 2020, the Euro is gaining in value on the exchange rate.  

Investors believe that the sentiment has changed in the latter stages of November and certainly since the 7th of December, and  where they believe that in the current state there will likely be no deal and therefore because the European Union is economy is much greater than that of the United Kingdom that the Euro will fare better than the pound in the event of a no tariff-free arrangement being reached.

In in the same chart we have highlighted a section A,  where the pound was gaining against the euro since August,  because the market considered that an agreement would be reached.

 

 So how can investors get in on the action and ride the pair hire based on current sentiment?

Firstly, we need to bring the chart down to a smaller time frame, such as the one hour.  Here we can see a defined bull channel, with areas of support at two points and areas of resistance at two points as show by the exchange rate touching the two purple lines, and where we might consider going long at a pull-back to the support line, perhaps somewhere around the X mark.  

By reverting back to our daily chart we can see some potential targets, or areas of resistance, the closest is 0.9294  which was reached in September 2020 and way back in  the middle of March this year, where we have a target/resistance level of 0.9500.

Of course the exchange rate might be a little different by the time you get to view this video, however, should there be a no tariff deal agreement and where the United Kingdom crashes out of the EU on world trade organisation rules, where tariffs will be imposed by either side,  but most likely to be more detrimental to the UK than the EU, you should then be looking for setups such as we have shown today to buy the pair.

Categories
Forex Market Analysis

Daily F.X. Analysis, December 15 – Top Trade Setups In Forex – U.K. Labor Market Figures! 

Investor’s eyes will stay on the French Final CPI and Italian Trade Balance due from the European Economy. Economists are expecting no major changes in these inflation and trade balance data. Thus it may go muted. However, the Claimant Count Change and Unemployment Rate data from the U.K. is likely to drive market movements. Let’s keep an eye on U.K. labor market figures today.

Investor’s eyes will stay on the French Final CPI and Italian Trade Balance due from the European Economy. Economists are expecting no major changes in these inflation and trade balance data. Thus it may go muted. However, the Claimant Count Change and Unemployment Rate data from the U.K. is likely to drive market movements. Let’s keep an eye on U.K. labor market figures today.

Investor’s eyes will stay on the French Final CPI and Italian Trade Balance due from the European Economy. Economists are expecting no major changes in these inflation and trade balance data. Thus it may go muted. However, the Claimant Count Change and Unemployment Rate data from the U.K. is likely to drive market movements. Let’s keep an eye on U.K. labor market figures today.

Economic Events to Watch Today  

 

EUR/USD – Daily Analysis

During Tuesday’s Asian trading session, the EUR/USD currency pair managed to extend its overnight winning streak and sidelined near above the 1.2150 level mainly due to the risk-on market sentiment. That was supported by the upbeat China data and optimism over treatment for the highly infectious coronavirus, which weakens the safe-haven U.S. dollar and contributes to the currency pair gains. Moreover, the upbeat market tone was further boosted by the further U.S. stimulus package’s rising expectations, which add further burden around the U.S. dollar and boost the currency pair. 

On the contrary, the ongoing concerns about increasing COVID-19 deaths and the possibility of economically-painful hard lockdowns become the key factor that kept the lid on any additional gains in the currency pair. As of writing, the EUR/USD currency pair is currently trading at 1.2149 and consolidating in the range between 1.2143 – 1.2165.

As we already mentioned, the market trading sentiment succeeded in extending its previous day bullish bias and still representing positive performance on the day as the bullish appearance of Asia-Pacific stocks and the gains of the U.S. stocks futures tends to highlight the risk-on mood. However, the risk-on market sentiment could be attributed to the vaccine optimism and upbeat China data, which showed the economic recovery increased in November. On the data front, China’s Retail Sales increased by 5.0% year-on-year in November, marking the 4th-successive month of growth. Industrial Production, a gauge of manufacturing, mining, and utility output, rose 7% year-on-year versus October’s 5.9% growth. 

On the other hand, the renewed optimism over a possible vaccine for the highly infectious coronavirus disease also keeps supporting the market trading sentiment. It is worth recalling that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted permission for emergency use to BNT162b2, the COVID-19 vaccine co-developed by Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) and BioNTech SE (F:22UAy) on December 11. The approval will see the first U.S. deliveries of BNT162b2 later in the day, which lifted hopes that the world’s largest economy will likely see a reduction in the COVID-19 cases. However, the positive developments over the covid vaccine keep favoring the market risk-on mood and undermine the safe-haven U.S. dollar.

As in result, the broad-based U.S. dollar failed to stop its previous day bearish bias and drew further offers on the day as demand for the safe-haven assets decreased amid progress toward agreeing on U.S. fiscal stimulus and optimism for a Brexit deal. On the other hand, the U.S. dollar losses were further bolstered by the Fed’s expectations to keep interest rates low for an extended period at its last policy meeting of 2020. However, the U.S. dollar losses helped the gold prices to deeper its losses as the gold price is inversely related to the U.S. dollar price. The U.S. Dollar Index Futures that tracks the greenback against a bucket of other currencies dropped to 90.642.

On the contrary, the concerns about rising COVID-19 deaths and the possibility of economically-painful hard lockdowns keep challenging the upbeat market performance, which becomes the key factor that kept the lid on any additional gains currency pair. As per the latest report, the growing virus cases recall the local lockdowns in the U.K. and the U.S. After New York, that was witnessed readiness to enter a second full lockdown as the number of COVID-19 cases surge. In addition to this, Germany also extended national activity restrictions. Across the ocean, the fears of a full-fledged trade/political war between the West and China also challenge the market’s upbeat mood. The tension between the two biggest economies in the world was fueled after the U.S. imposed back to back travel restrictions over the Chinese Communist Party members and their families.

In the absence of the major data/events on the day, the market traders will keep their eyes on the continuous drama surrounding the U.S. stimulus package. In the meantime, the risk catalyst like geopolitics and the virus woes, not to forget the Brexit, will also be key to watch for a fresh direction. 

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.2044       1.2133

1.2006       1.2186

1.1954       1.2223

Pivot point: 1.2096

EUR/USD– Trading Tip

The technical side of the EUR/USD is still unchanged as it trades at the 1.2131 level, facing immediate resistance at 1.2160 and 1.2196 level along with a support level of 1.2085. Closing of candles below the 1.2103 level can send the EUR/USD pair further lower until 1.2080 and 1.2040. The 50 periods EMA supports a bullish bias, keeping the EUR/USD pair in a little bit of buying mode. Simultaneously, the MACD and RSI are also in support of a buying trend; thus, we should look for a buying trade over the 1.2175 level to target the 1.2265 level today. 

GBP/USD – Daily Analysis

During Tuesday’s Asian trading session, the GBP/USD currency pair maintained its strong bid tone through the first half of the Asian session and remained positive around the 1.3335 level mainly due to the reports suggesting that the U.K. and the E.U. agreed to extend Brexit talks. Furthermore, the bid tone surrounding the British pound was further bolstered after the E.U.’s chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, said that they could face every hurdle to reach a post-Brexit trade deal. 

Across the ocean, the broad-based U.S. dollar fresh weakness, backed by the market risk-on mood, also played its major role in underpinning the currency pair. At a particular time, the GBP/USD currency pair is currently trading at 1.3333 and consolidating in the range between 1.3312 – 1.3348. Moving on, the traders seem cautious to place any strong position ahead of the U.K. jobs data, which is due to release later in the day.

It is worth recalling that the U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President announced that they discussed the key issues and decided to go for another round of discussions to reach a historic trade deal, which in turn, raised expectations for a free trade agreement before the end of Brexit transition period on December 31. However, these hopes were further fueled after the E.U.’s chief Brexit negotiator, Michel Barnier, told them to use every way to reach a post-Brexit trade deal.

Despite the prevalent doubts over the global economic recovery from coronavirus (COVID-19), the market trading sentiment managed to extend its previous day’s positive performance. It remained supportive by optimism over a potential vaccine/treatment for the highly infectious coronavirus. Let me remind you that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted permission for emergency use to BNT162b2, the COVID-19 vaccine co-developed by Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) and BioNTech SE (F:22UAy) on December 11. However, the positive developments over the covid vaccine keep favoring the market risk-on mood and undermine the safe-haven U.S. dollar.

As in result, the broad-based U.S. dollar failed to stop its previous day bearish bias and drew further offers on the day as demand for the safe-haven assets decreased amid progress toward agreeing on U.S. fiscal stimulus and optimism for a Brexit deal. On the other hand, the U.S. dollar losses were further bolstered by the Fed’s expectations to keep interest rates low for an extended period at its last policy meeting of 2020. However, the U.S. dollar losses provided an additional boost to the GBP/USD currency pair and remained supportive of the strong intraday positive move. The U.S. Dollar Index Futures that tracks the greenback against a bucket of other currencies dropped to 90.642.

On the bearish side, the concerns about rising COVID-19 deaths and the possibilities of the economically-painful hard lockdowns keep challenging the upbeat market performance, which becomes the key factor that kept the lid on any additional gains in the currency pair. As per the latest report, the growing virus cases recall the local lockdowns in the U.K. and the U.S. After New York, that was witnessed readiness to enter a second full lockdown as the number of COVID-19 cases surge. In addition to this, Germany also extended national activity restrictions. 

Moving on, the traders seem cautious to place any strong position ahead of the U.K. jobs data, which is due to release later in the day. From the projected view, the U.K. labor market report is anticipated to show that the average weekly earnings, including bonuses, in the 3-months to October, to increase from the previous 1.3% to 2.2%, while ex-bonuses, the wages are seen improving from 1.9% to 2.6% during the stated period. 

In addition to this, the number of people asking for jobless benefits is expected to rise from -29.8K previous to +50K in November. Moreover, the ILO Unemployment Rate may rise from 4.8% to 5.1% during the 3- months ending in October. However, the positive earnings growth tends to underpin the GBP; conversely, the low figures would be seen as negative for the GBP currency.

In the absence of the major data/events on the day, the market traders will keep their eyes on the continuous drama surrounding the U.S. stimulus package. In the meantime, the risk catalyst like geopolitics and the virus woes, not to forget the Brexit, will also be key to watch for a fresh direction. 

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.3338       1.3466

1.3280       1.3536

1.3209       1.3594

Pivot point: 1.3408

GBP/USD– Trading Tip

The GBP/USD is trading at the 1.3330 level, maintaining a narrow trading range of 1.3345 – 1.3309. A lack of high-impact economic data drives the choppy session; however, the market will be offering us labor market figures, which are expected to be worse than before, and it may drive selling in the Sterling. Technically, the bearish breakout of the 1.3309 level can extend the selling trend until the 1.3265 level, whereas a bullish breakout can lead it towards the 1.3409 mark. A choppy session can be expected until the pair violates the 1.3345 – 1.3309 range.

USD/JPY – Daily Analysis

During Tuesday’s Asian trading session, the USD/JPY currency pair managed to stop its previous day losing streak and drew some modest bids around well above the 104.00 level. However, the bullish sentiment around the currency pair was supported by the upbeat market mood, which undermined the safe-haven Japanese yen and contributed to the currency pair gains. Apart from this, the latest local lockdowns in the northern hemispheres and the surge in Tokyo’s virus figures added further pressure on the Japanese yen and boosted the currency pair. On the contrary, the broad-based U.S. dollar, triggered by the upbeat market mood, has become the key factor that capped further upside momentum for the currency pair. Currently, the USD/JPY currency pair is currently trading at 104.09 and consolidating in the range between 103.98 – 104.15. 

As we already mentioned, market trading sentiment has been gaining positive traction since the day started and supported by the optimism over the U.S. President-elect Joe Biden’s victory in the Electoral College. As per the latest report, the U.S. President-elect Joe Biden recently won Electoral College and claimed his victory over President Donald Trump by achieving over 270 votes needed. In addition to this, the intensifying hopes of the U.S. covid stimulus also positively impacted the market trading sentiment. These hopes were triggered after Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi urged policymakers toward an early aid package while also indicating good progress in the discussions. 

Across the ocean, the reason behind the risk-on market sentiment could also be attributed to the upbeat China data, which showed the economic recovery improved in November. On the data front, China’s Retail Sales increased by 5.0% year-on-year in November, marking the 4th-successive month of growth. Industrial Production, a gauge of manufacturing, mining, and utility output, rose 7% year-on-year versus October’s 5.9% growth. 

On the other hand, the renewed optimism over a possible vaccine for the highly infectious coronavirus disease also keeps supporting the market trading sentiment. It is worth recalling that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted permission for emergency use to BNT162b2, the COVID-19 vaccine co-developed by Pfizer (NYSE: PFE) and BioNTech SE (F:22UAy) on December 11. The approval will see the first U.S. deliveries of BNT162b2 later in the day, which lifted hopes that the world’s largest economy will likely see a reduction in the COVID-19 cases. However, the positive developments over the covid vaccine keep favoring the market risk-on mood and undermined the safe-haven assets like the Japanese yen and U.S. dollar.

At the USD front, the broad-based U.S. dollar extended its previous session bearish bias. It failed to gain any positive traction during the Asian trading hours amid risk-on market sentiment. Apart from this, the greenback losses could also be associated with the Fed’s expectations to keep interest rates low for an extended period at its last policy meeting of 2020. However, the U.S. dollar losses might stop bulls from placing any strong position and keep a lid on any further gains for the USD/JPY currency pair. The U.S. Dollar Index Futures that tracks the greenback against a bucket of other currencies dropped to 90.642.

However, the market trading sentiment was rather unaffected by the fresh lockdown restrictions in Britain and Europe. As per the latest report, the growing virus numbers recall the local lockdowns in the U.K. and the U.S. After New York, a willingness to enter a second full lockdown as the number of COVID-19 cases surge. In addition to this, Germany also extended national activity restrictions. 

In the absence of the major data/events on the day, the market traders will keep their eyes on the ongoing drama surrounding the U.S. stimulus package. In the meantime, the risk catalyst like geopolitics and the virus woes, not to forget the Brexit, will also be key to watch for a fresh direction. 

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

104.04       104.41

103.86       104.60

103.67       104.78

Pivot Point: 104.23

USD/JPY – Trading Tips

The USD/JPY is hardly moving as it continues to trade sideways below the 104.150 resistance area. This resistance area is extended by a double top level on the 2-hour timeframe. Bullish crossover of 104.156 level can open buying until 104.590 level. Conversely, the support holds around 103.910 level. A bearish breakout of this support can drive the selling trend until the next support area of 103.700 and 103.500. Let’s keep an eye on a breakout before placing any bullish or bearish bets. Good luck! 

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Forex Fundamental Analysis

AUD/USD Global Macro Analysis – Part 3

AUD/USD Exogenous Analysis

AUD/USD Exogenous Analysis

AUD/USD Exogenous Analysis

In the exogenous analysis, we will compare the differentials in the US and the Australian economies at an international level. We will use:

  • The differential in GDP growth in the US and Australia
  • The US and Australian interest rate differential
  • The differential in the US and Australian balance of trade

The differential in GDP growth in the US and Australia

Domestically, the value of USD and AUD are pushed by the changes in the macroeconomic factors that drive GDP growth. The dynamic of the AUD/USD exchange rate is affected by the difference in the GDP growth rate. The country with a faster GDP growth will see its currency appreciate more than the one with slower growth.

In Q3 of 2020, the Australian GDP increased by 3.3% compared to the 7% drop in Q2. The US economy expanded by 33.1% in Q3 2020 compared to a 31.4% drop in Q2. In the first three quarters, the US economy has contracted by 3.3% while the Australian economy has contracted by 4%. Therefore, the GDP growth differential between Australia and the US is -0.7%. Based on the correlation analysis with the AUD/USD pair, we assign a score of -2.

The US and Australian interest rate differential

This measures the difference between the interest rate set by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and the US Federal Reserve. In the forex market, carry traders tend to be bullish when a currency pair has a positive interest rate differential and bearish when it is negative. That is because more investor funds flow towards the country with a higher interest rate.

At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the RBA cut interest rates from 0.75% to 0.1%, while the Federal Reserve cut interest rates from 1.75% to 0.25%. That makes the interest rate differential for the AUD/USD pair -0.15%. Based on correlation analysis with the exchange rate for the AUD/USD pair, we assign a score of -2.

The differential in the US and Australian balance of trade

The difference between the balance of trade for Australia and the US will help determine which currency is in higher demand in international trade. Note that increased demand in the forex market also increases the value of that currency.

In October 2020, Australia’s trade surplus increased to AUD 7.46 billion compared to 5.82 billion in September. However, it is still lower than the highest recorded AUD 9.62 billion surpluses in March. The US had a trade deficit of $63.1 billion in October, which has been expanding since January. The balance of trade differential is $68.633 billion between Australia and the US. Based on the correlation with the AUD/USD exchange rate, we assign a score of 6.

Conclusion

The exogenous score for the AUD/USD pair is 2. It means that we can expect that the pair will be on a bullish trend in the short-term.

In technical analysis, the short-term bullish trend is supported by the fact that the pair is trading above the 200-period MA and breaching the upper Bollinger Band. Cheers!

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Forex Fundamental Analysis

AUD/USD Global Macro Analysis – Part 1 & 2

Introduction

Introduction

Introduction

In the global macro analysis of the AUD/USD pair, we will look at the endogenous economic factors that drive GDP growth in both Australia and the US. We’ll also analyze the exogenous factors that affect the exchange rate dynamic between the AUD and the USD.

Ranking Scale

We will use a sliding scale from -10 to +10 to rank the impact of the endogenous and exogenous factors. When the endogenous factors are negative, it means that they resulted in the depreciation of either the USD or the AUD. When positive, it implies they resulted in the appreciation of the individual currencies. Similarly, negative endogenous factors result in a bearish trend for the AUD/USD and a bullish trend for when they are positive.

USD Endogenous Analysis – Summary

A -19.1 score on Endogenous analysis on USD implies a deflationary effect on this currency. It means that the US Dollar has lost its value since the starting of 2020.

You can find the complete USD Endogenous Analysis here.

AUD Endogenous Analysis – Summary

The endogenous factors have an overall score of 3, implying that the AUD has appreciated in 2020.

  1. Australia Inflation Rate

The consumer price index in Australia is calculated quarterly. Housing accounts for 22.3% of the total CPI weight, food and non–alcoholic drinks 16.8%, recreation 12.6%, transportation 11.6%, household goods and services 9.1%, alcohol and tobacco 7.1%, healthcare 5.3%, financial service 5.1%, clothing, education and communication 10.2%.

In Q3 of 2020, the YoY Australian CPI increased by 0.7% from a drop of 0.3% in Q2. The QoQ CPI rose by 1.6% compared to 1.9$ in Q2. Note that the Q3 CPI is marginally lower than in the pre-pandemic levels in Q1. Based on inflation’s correlation with GDP growth, we assign a score of -1.

  1. Australia Unemployment Rate

The unemployment rate is the percentage of the labor force that is actively looking for employment opportunities. The unemployment rate can be used to show the state of the economy. When high, it means that the economy is shedding jobs faster and can be said to be contracting.

In October 2020, the Australian unemployment rate was 7% up from 6.9% in September. The increase in the Australian unemployment rate can be attributed to the prolonged COVID-19 crisis. Note that during the period, the employment rate increased to 61.2% from 60.4% in September. This was mainly driven by the surge in full-time, part-time job numbers coupled with a drop in the underemployment rate to 10.4% from 11.4% in September.

From January to date, the unemployment rate has increased by 1.7% while the employment rate has dropped by 1.4%. Based on its correlation with GDP, we assign a score of -5.

  1. Australia Mining Production

The Australian economy significantly relies on mining, which accounts for up to 11% of the GDP. Australia is among the top producers of precious metals in the world. Therefore, a significant portion of the labor market is dependent on the mining sector.

The YoY mining production increased by 1.2% in the second quarter of 2020, down from a 5.1% increase in Q1. In Q3, it is projected to increase by at least 2.5% and 5% by the end of 2020. This would mean that the end of year levels would be equivalent to the pre-pandemic levels.

Based on our correlation analysis, we assign Australia mining production a score of -3.

  1. Australia Business Confidence

The National Australia Bank (NAB) surveys about 350 leading companies in Australia to establish the prevailing business conditions. Typically, the present business sentiment can be used as a leading indicator of future business activities such as hiring, spending, and investments. We can say that business confidence is a leading indicator of GDP change.

Reading above 0 shows that business conditions are improving, while below 0 shows that business conditions are worsening.

In October 2020, Australian business conditions improved to 5 from -4 in September. The October reading is the highest since August 2019. The increase was primarily driven by improvement in sentiment profitability and employment in the mining and transportation sectors.

Based on correlation with GDP, we assign a score of 8.

  1. Australia Consumer Confidence

The Melbourne Institute and Westpac Bank aggregate consumer confidence in Australia. The survey 1200 households representative of the entire households in Australia. The index is based on the five year average of these components: anticipated economic conditions, personal finances, and purchase of essential household goods. Consumer confidence is a leading indicator of consumer expenditure, which is a significant driver of the GDP.

In November 2020, the Australian consumer confidence increased to 107.7 from 105 in October. This is the highest level in 7 years, indicating that consumers are highly optimistic about the future despite the COVID-19 challenges.

Based on correlation analysis with the Australian GDP, we assign it a score of 5.

  1. Australia Government Debt to GDP

This measures the levels of indebtedness of the Australian government. Domestic and foreign lenders use this ratio to estimate the ability of the government to service its debts without straining the growth of the economy. Generally, a ratio of below 60% is considered to be ideal.

In 2019, the government debt to GDP in Australia jumped to 45.1% from 41.5% in 2018. In 2020, it is projected to reach 50%. Therefore, we assign a score of -3.

  1. Australia Retail Sales

The change in retail sales shows the trend in household expenditure on final goods and services in the economy. An increased expenditure corresponds to an increase in GDP levels.

In October 2020, the MoM retail sales increased by 1.4% compared to a 1.1% drop in September. Based on the correlation with the GDP growth rate, we assign a score of 2.

Now we know that USD has depreciated and AUD has appreciated according to their respective endogenous indicators. In the very next article, let’s see if this pair is bullish or bearish according to the exogenous indicators.

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Forex Course

190 – Introduction To Carry Trading The Forex Market

Introduction 

Introduction 

Introduction 

When it comes to forex trading, we have so far covered how you can make money by taking advantage of price fluctuations. What, then, do you do when the price of a currency pair remains relatively stable for extended periods? Certainly not nothing! You carry trade.

In the financial market, carry trade means borrowing a financial asset with a low-interest rate, sell it, and purchase another one that pays a higher interest rate. That means the cost of borrowing (lower interest rate) is lower than the proceeds (higher interest rate). In this case, the profits you earn is the difference between the two interest rates, also known as interest rate differential.

For us to explain how the carry trade works, we first need to explain how the interest rate in the financial market works.

Carry Trade Example

Say you go to a bank and take a loan at an interest rate of 2% per annum. If the loan amount is, say, $2000, the interest charged per year would be:

= 2/100 * 20000 = $400

Now, instead of putting the money under a mattress, you decide to buy a corporate bond, which in total, pays a yearly interest rate of 10%. This means that at the end of one year, you should expect interest income of:

= 10/100 * 20000 = $2000

In this scenario, you have earned $2000. Remember, the borrowing cost was $400, which means you have a profit of $1600. In other words, you have earned an 8% in terms of interest rate differential.

If that doesn’t sound like much money, let’s see how you feel when we apply leverage to the borrowing.

Leveraged Carry Trade Example

Say you have a stock portfolio worth $20,000 and put this up collateral for a $2,000,000 loan with an annual interest rate of 2%.

You take this money and invest in another financial asset that pays an annual interest rate of 10%. In this scenario, the interest rate differential is still 8%. How about your profit?

= 8/100 * 2,000,000 = $160,000

With collateral of $20,000, you have made a profit of $160,000. That is an equivalent of 800% return.

Currency Carry Trade

In the forex market, if you let your position stay overnight, you will be charged a rollover fee. The rollover fee is the interest rate differential between the two currencies in the currency pair. Your account will be debited or credited accordingly, depending on whether the interest rate differential is positive or negative.

Stay tuned to learn more about Carry Trading in our upcoming articles.

[wp_quiz id=”99174″]
Categories
Forex Elliott Wave Forex Market Analysis

NZDUSD Could Reach a New Yearly High

The NZDUSD pair continues extending its gains, testing the psychological barrier of 0.71, helped by the US Dollar weakness. The Oceanic currency outperforms over 5.4% during the current year. Also, the pair advances over 27% since it confirmed its bottom on March 22nd at 0.55862.

The NZDUSD pair continues extending its gains, testing the psychological barrier of 0.71, helped by the US Dollar weakness. The Oceanic currency outperforms over 5.4% during the current year. Also, the pair advances over 27% since it confirmed its bottom on March 22nd at 0.55862.

The NZDUSD pair continues extending its gains, testing the psychological barrier of 0.71, helped by the US Dollar weakness. The Oceanic currency outperforms over 5.4% during the current year. Also, the pair advances over 27% since it confirmed its bottom on March 22nd at 0.55862.

Technical Overview

The big picture of the NZDUSD illustrated in the following 12-hour chart shows the primary upward trend, its trendline plotted in blue, intact since March 22nd when the price confirmed its bottom at 0.55862 and began the rally that remains in progress to date. Likewise, the secondary trend and its green trendline reveal the acceleration of the price testing by the third time the psychological barrier of 0.71.

Considering that the NZDUSD pair currently re-tests the 0.71 level, the price could extend its gains, reaching a new yearly high, to find resistance in the next psychological resistance of 0.72.

Short-term Technical Outlook

The short-term Elliott wave view for the NZDUSD pair unfolded by its 4-hour chart led us to observe an incomplete impulsive sequence of Minute degree labeled in black, which began on October 22nd price found fresh buyers at 0.65529.

The previous chart illustrates the impulsive structure that continues progressing and looks to develop its fourth wave of Minute degree labeled in black. Moreover, in the chart, we should remark that the third wave, which looks like the extended wave of the incomplete impulsive sequence identified in black, has found resistance at 0.71043 on December 03rd. 

Once the price topped the yearly high at 0.71043, the pair began to develop a sideways corrective formation, still progressing. In this regard, considering both the alternation principle stated by the Elliott Wave Theory and that wave ((ii)) in black looks like a simple corrective pattern, the current wave ((iv)) of the same degree should be complex in terms of price, time, or both.

In this scenario, the price action might retrace until the demand zone bounded between 0.69462 and 0.68970, where the Kiwi could find fresh buyers expecting to boost the pair toward a new yearly high. This high could strike the potential target zone between 0.71618 and 0.7260.

In summary, the short-term Elliott wave perspective for the NZDUSD pair reveals the advance in a bullish trend that currently moves mostly sideways in an incomplete corrective formation. The fourth wave in progress could find support in the demand zone bounded between 0.69462 and 0.68970. Likewise, fresh buyers could boost the price toward 0.71618 and extend its gains until 0.7260. Finally, the invalidation level of the current bullish scenario is located at 0.68106.

Categories
Forex Market Analysis

Daily F.X. Analysis, December 14 – Top Trade Setups In Forex – European Events in Highlights!  

On the news side, the market is expected to report a low impact on economic events, which may have a very slight or no effect on the market. The German WPI m/m, Industrial Production, and German Buba Monthly Report will be released from the European economy. Still, I suspect there’s not going to be any significant movement in the market.

On the news side, the market is expected to report a low impact on economic events, which may have a very slight or no effect on the market. The German WPI m/m, Industrial Production, and German Buba Monthly Report will be released from the European economy. Still, I suspect there’s not going to be any significant movement in the market.

On the news side, the market is expected to report a low impact on economic events, which may have a very slight or no effect on the market. The German WPI m/m, Industrial Production, and German Buba Monthly Report will be released from the European economy. Still, I suspect there’s not going to be any significant movement in the market.

Economic Events to Watch Today  

  

EUR/USD – Daily Analysis

During Monday’s Asian trading session, the EUR/USD currency pair succeeded in extending its overnight winning streak and remained well bid around the 1.2140 level mainly due to the risk-on market sentiment. That was supported by the optimism over treatment for the highly infectious coronavirus, which tends to weaken the safe-haven U.S. dollar and contributes to the currency pair gains. 

Moreover, the upbeat market tone was further boosted by the increasing expectations of a further U.S. stimulus package, which boosted the currency pair. On the contrary, the fresh jump in infections and death toll in Europe keeps fueling the doubts over the Eurozone economic recovery, which becomes the key factor that kept the lid on any additional currency pair gains. The EUR/USD is trading at 1.2134 and consolidating between 1.2116 and 1.2145.

The global equity market has been flashing green since the day started and is supported by the further stimulus package’s renewed possibilities. As per the latest report, the U.S. Congress members are still progressing over the much-awaited stimulus talks. In that way, the latest talks suggest the partition of over $900 billion of aid package with $748 billion and $160 billion likely figures for each bill. Across the pond, the optimism over treatment for the highly infectious coronavirus has also been favoring the market trading sentiment. These hopes were sparked after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) officially authorized the Pfizer-BioNTech covid vaccine for emergency use. Thereby, the upbeat market mood has been playing its major role in underpinning the currency pair.

The broad-based U.S. dollar declined to obtain any positive traction and drew an offer on the day as doubts persist over the global economic recovery from COVID-19. That was witnessed by the U.S. previous week’s downbeat U.S. data. Meanwhile, the risk-on market sentiment also weighed on the U.S. currency. On the other hand, the U.S. dollar losses were further bolstered by the Fed’s expectations to keep interest rates low for an extended period at its last policy meeting of 2020. However, the losses in the U.S. dollar becomes the key factor that kept the currency pair higher. The U.S. Dollar Index Futures that tracks the greenback against a bucket of other currencies dropped by 0.17% to 90.773 by 9:48 PM ET (1:48 AM GMT).

On the contrary, the intensifying coronavirus woes across the globe and intensifying lockdowns restrictions in Europe and the U.S. keep challenging the upbeat market performance and become the key factor that kept the lid on any additional gains in the currency pair. As per the latest report, the growing virus cases recall the local lockdowns in the U.K. and the U.S. In the meantime, Germany also extended national activity restrictions. Meanwhile, the fears of a full-fledged trade/political war between the West and China also challenge the market’s upbeat mood. The tension between the two largest markets in the world was fueled after the U.S. imposed back to back travel restrictions over the Chinese Communist Party members and their families.

Looking forward, the traders will keep their eyes on the U.S. employment data for November along with Euro German Factory Orders data, which will likely entertain market players amid a light calendar. All in all, the updates surrounding the Brexit, virus, and U.S. stimulus package will not lose their importance. 

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.2044       1.2133

1.2006       1.2186

1.1954       1.2223

Pivot point: 1.2096

EUR/USD– Trading Tip

The technical side of the EUR/USD is trading choppy at the 1.2131 mark, meeting immediate resistance at 1.2160 and 1.2196 marks along with a support mark of 1.2085. Formation of candles beneath the 1.2103 level can send the EUR/USD pair further lower until 1.2080 and 1.2040. Industrial Production and German Buba Monthly Report will remain in highlights. Let’s wait to trade a breakout setup during the European or the U.S. session today. 

GBP/USD – Daily Analysis

During Monday’s Asian trading session, the GBP/USD currency pair managed to stop its previous week’s bearish bias and refresh the intra-day high around above the mid-1.3300 level, mainly due to reports suggesting that the UK PM. Boris Johnson and the European Commission (E.C.) President Ursula von der Leyen agreed to extend the Brexit talks for one more week, which eased fears of a no-deal Brexit and contributed to the currency pair gains. On the other hand, the broad-based U.S. dollar fresh weakness, backed by the market risk-on mood, also played its major role in underpinning the currency pair. At a particular time, the GBP/USD currency pair is currently trading at 1.3325 and consolidating in the range between 1.3291 – 1.3354.

It is worth recalling that the U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson and European Commission President announced that they discussed the key issues and decided to go for another round of discussions to reach a historic trade deal, which in turn, boosted the sentiment around the British Pound and contributed to the currency pair gans. In contrast, the British PM Johnson repeats, “I’m afraid we’re still very far apart on some issues.” However, this negative statement failed to leave any meaningful impact on the Pound. 

Despite the lingering doubts about global economic recovery and the intensifying tension between the world’s two biggest economies, the market players continue to cheering the optimism over a possible vaccine for the highly infectious coronavirus disease. These hopes were fueled after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) officially approved the Pfizer-BioNTech covid vaccine for emergency use. However, the positive developments over the covid vaccine keep favoring the market risk-on mood. Apart from this, the global equity market was further supported by the further stimulus package’s renewed possibilities. As per the latest report, the U.S. Congress members keep working to give the much-awaited stimulus package ahead of this Friday’s deadline. In that way, the latest talks suggest the partition of over $900 billion of aid package with $748 billion and $160 billion likely figures for each bill. 

As in result, the broad-based U.S. dollar failed to stop its bearish bias and remained depressed on the day. Moreover, the doubts over the global economic recovery from COVID-19 remains on the card. That was witnessed by the U.S. previous week’s downbeat U.S. data. On the other hand, the U.S. dollar losses were further bolstered by the Fed’s expectations to keep interest rates low for an extended period at its last policy meeting of 2020. However, the losses in the U.S. dollar becomes the key factor that kept the currency pair higher. The U.S. Dollar Index Futures that tracks the greenback against a bucket of other currencies dropped by 0.17% to 90.773 by 9:48 PM ET (1:48 AM GMT).

Conversely, the intensifying coronavirus woes in the U.K. and the U.S. and intensifying lockdown restrictions keep challenging the upbeat market performance and become the key factor that kept the lid on any additional gains in the currency pair. As per the latest report, the U.S. and U.K. policymakers were forced to impose the local lockdowns once again. In the meantime, Germany also extended national activity restrictions. 

Looking forward, the market traders will keep their eyes on the developments surrounding the Brexit story for some significant direction in the pair. Furthermore, the updates covering the virus and the US-China tussle will also be key to watch.

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

1.3338       1.3466

1.3280       1.3536

1.3209       1.3594

Pivot point: 1.3408

GBP/USD– Trading Tip

The GBP/USD is trading at the 1.3313 level, holding below an immediate resistance level of 1.3322. On the upper side, the GBP/USD pair can lead to a 1.3390 level, and support stays at 1.3269, which is extended by a double bottom level. Selling bias seems dominant; therefore, we should be looking for a sell trade only upon the violation of the 1.3265 level. The lagging technical indicators like 50 EMA suggest selling bias. Thus we should look for selling trades below 1.3400 and upon breakout 1.3265 level too.   

USD/JPY – Daily Analysis

During Monday’s Asian trading session, the USD/JPY currency pair failed to gain any positive traction. They witnessed some modest selling moves near below the 104.00 level, mainly due to the upbeat market sentiment, which tends to undermine the safe-haven U.S. dollar and contributes to the currency pair losses. However, the market trading sentiment was supported by the optimism about the coronavirus treatment and progress in the U.S. stimulus talks. Simultaneously, the market’s upbeat mood weakens the safe-haven Japanese yen, which could be considered one of the key factors that help the currency pair limit its deeper losses. In contrast, Japan’s Tankan data for the 4th-quarter (Q4) marked upbeat figures, which boosted the Japanese yen’s sentiment and contributed to the currency pair losses.  

At the data front, Tankan Large Manufacturing Index for Q4 grew from -27 to -10, against expectations of -15, while the Non-Manufacturing Index increased from -6 market consensus to -5 during the stated period. Moreover, Tankan Large Manufacturing Outlook and Non-Manufacturing Outlook also recorded upbeat numbers of -8 and -6 respectively, against -11 and -7 forecasts in that order.

Despite the lingering doubts over the U.S. economic recovery and the escalating tension between the world’s two biggest economies, the market players continue to cheer the optimism over a potential vaccine for the highly dangerous coronavirus infection. These hopes were fueled after the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) officially approved the Pfizer-BioNTech covid vaccine for emergency use. In turn, the New York Times got help to say that the White House staff members will be among the first to be vaccinated. However, the positive developments over the covid vaccine keep favoring the market risk-on mood and contributed to the currency losses by undermining the safe-haven U.S. dollar.

Apart from this, the global equity market upticks were further fueled by the further stimulus package’s renewed possibilities. As per the latest report, the U.S. Congress members keep working to give the much-awaited stimulus package ahead of this Friday’s deadline. In that way, the latest talks suggest the partition of over $900 billion of aid package with $748 billion and $160 billion likely figures for each bill. 

This, in turn, the broad-based U.S. dollar failed to stop its bearish traction and edged lower on the day. Moreover, the doubts over the U.S. economic recovery from COVID-19 remains on the card, as witnessed by the U.S. previous week’s downbeat U.S. data. On the other hand, the U.S. dollar losses were further bolstered by the Fed’s expectations to keep interest rates low for an extended period at its last policy meeting of 2020. However, the losses in the U.S. dollar becomes the key factor that kept the currency pair lower. The U.S. Dollar Index Futures that tracks the greenback against a bucket of other currencies dropped by 0.17% to 90.773 by 9:48 PM ET (1:48 AM GMT).

The rising tensions between the United States and China keep challenging the market risk-on tone and might suffer the currency pair into deeper losses. It’s also questioning the market risk-on mood could be the intensifying coronavirus woes in the U.K. and U.S., which leads to the intensifying lockdown restrictions. 

Daily Technical Levels

Support   Resistance

104.04       104.41

103.86       104.60

103.67       104.78

Pivot Point: 104.23

USD/JPY – Trading Tips

During the previous week, the USD/JPY violation of the symmetric triangle pattern at 104.346 faked out as the safe-haven currency pair reversed trade within the same triangle pattern. The current trading range of the USD/JPY pair remains 104.375 – 103.650, and violation of this range can extend the selling trend until the next support area of 103.200 level. Typically, such a triangle pattern can breakout on either side; this, we should be careful before opening any trade. The market is neutral as investors seem to wind up their positions ahead of the December holidays. Good luck

Categories
Forex Technical Analysis

Prop Trader’s Use of Moving Averages

Moving Averages are very versatile in ways how you can interpret them for signals. Whatsmore, adding more than one creates a plethora of ideas as many patterns and shapes emerge in conjunction with the chart. Therefore, traders can make complete systems out of these indicators and all of them are unique in their way. Some […]

Moving Averages are very versatile in ways how you can interpret them for signals. Whatsmore, adding more than one creates a plethora of ideas as many patterns and shapes emerge in conjunction with the chart. Therefore, traders can make complete systems out of these indicators and all of them are unique in their way. Some […]

Moving Averages are very versatile in ways how you can interpret them for signals. Whatsmore, adding more than one creates a plethora of ideas as many patterns and shapes emerge in conjunction with the chart. Therefore, traders can make complete systems out of these indicators and all of them are unique in their way.

Some MAs are used more often, such as 100-period MA, 20-period Exponential MA, or 9-period EMA, still, signal interpretations are subjective and MAs are used with other indicators and analysis. This article will address how one professional prop trader uses MAs as an element in their trading system and it should give you an idea of what other uses MAs have aside from traditional trading signal generation. We will present opinions that should not be considered as a fact or trading advice, just as an example of how it is used for technical trend-following systems. 

A trader who wants to have a robust and universal system looks to implement measurements of different factor types on the market, covering areas of importance on their trades. According to one such system structure example used by professionals, MA is one element of 6 others. Other elements or tools focus on volume indicators, two trend confirmation indicators, a trade exit indicator, flat markets filter, and volatility measurement for risk management purposes (ATR indicator). Moving Average can double as an Exit indicator when the price cross-closes it but for our example, it is used as a higher probability direction filter. We will go more into this function later, let’s first address the use of the MA as a Trailing Stop.

Trailing Stops

Trailing Stop can be regarded as a trade Exit function with adaptive movement to the price, it will follow the price in real-time and automatically move the level at which a position will be closed if that price level is hit. Most trading platforms or clients like the MT4 have this implemented. Although, Trailing Stops can be calculated based on the moving averages rather than just using the points distance trailing which is a basic Trailing Stop calculation. Now, as there are many types of MAs it means Trailing Stops can also be customized in various ways.

Such tools exist for MT4 and MT5, most of them are a form of Expert Advisor script that expands the way you can use real-time trailing stops for your exits, and more often than not it is more effective than the standard, distance-based trailing stop. Of course, you do not have to use such tools if you do not need real-time custom trailing stops, instead you can just add MA of your choice to your chart and move the Stop Loss order level to it. This is very easy to do if you are on the daily timeframe but gets very demanding if your target timeframe is below M30, especially once you have multiple positions to trail. 

The way we can trail on the daily chart is simple. Once our Take Profit target is hit, we move the Stop Loss to the moving average of choice. Or, we can just wait for the price to cross the MA and close the order manually. There are differences here, the first way is more aggressive because if the currency pair becomes more volatile it is likely your stop loss level will be triggered even though the close price has not crossed the MA. So the second method will not “accidentally” close the position prematurely because of the volatility increase, still, it leaves room for flash crashes or other sudden moves to negate gains we might have got from the trend.

In this case, MA has a trade exit function, while trailing the MA with the stop loss order will ensure our profits from the trend. You should pay attention to the MA period settings and set to single-digit numbers as this is what prop traders recommend for the daily chart systems. Trailing stop or exit function MA should not follow the price to the point it is almost the same, the moving average should average the price value and absorb price volatility to some degree but not lag too much. 

MA Lagging

Talking about the MA lag, it leads us to mention why some technical prop traders are not fans of MA crossovers. You probably know that MA crossovers are very common signal generators unless you are just starting to trade. Moving Averages absorb volatility so we have a cleaner insight where the trend is emerging, ending, stalling, and so on. When we use MA crossover as trend confirmation indicators, the signal they generate is not optimal. It either lags or if we set low periods – fake signals are overwhelming. No matter what type of MA you use, they seem to always be late to the party. Using popular MAs mentioned above, you may have heard about the Golden Cross and the Death Cross.

200 EMA (red line) and the 50 EMA (blue line) on the EUR/USD chart

It is obvious from the picture above that these MAs do not cross often on the daily chart our system is using. Golden Cross is a signal when the 50 EMA crosses the 200 EMA and Death Cross is the opposite, short trade signal. These are used often in stocks trading, creating a kind of uniform traders’ behavior once the crossovers happen, putting more pressure on the price momentum. This phenomenon is waited for by investor traders and the strategy has some success because of this coordinated move to dump or hype a stock. Unfortunately, forex is not a good market for these strategies. You may notice trends once the crosses happen but it is not related to the trader sentiment. Whatsmore, the signals are so spread apart you may have to wait for years to happen. If we zoom out the EUR/USD chart you can notice this, meaning even investor-type forex traders will use other trading options for trend confirmations. 

Daily EUR/USD with EMAs zoomed out

Now we need something that moves faster so we can have signals in a more reasonable time span. We can also use the popular 20 and 50 period EMAs. 

NZD currency basket with the 20/50 period EMAs

The trend confirmation signals on the MA cross are now more frequent and can be applied to a currency basket, for example, for currency strength analysis. This setup can be used on a currency pair too, however, for a professional, these signals are not good enough. Notice that the cross signals lag to the point they are too late for the bigger trends on the NZD basket picture, entering almost in the middle of the 4 visible confirmations. Smaller trends at the end of the chart are completely off, giving you signals when the trend is over.

Moving averages have this flaw when facing a directionless market, but your system should have a volume or volatility indicator/filter that should save you from these losses by giving you a signal to stop trading. Sticking to the MAs subject, a better option is a very simple adjustment on how we interpret the signal to enter. Let’s just focus on the 50 EMA and delete the other. The trend confirmation signal is when the price cross-closes the 50 EMA. Now we have a very different and much better entry point, capturing most of the 4 trends in the picture.

NZD basket with only 50 EMA

Notice that during the periods of trend exhaustion the signals are not always perfect. If we consider you have an indicator that filters flat periods, each trend entry is at an optimal point, providing you with profits even during smaller trends at the chart end. 

When you find an MA that does a great job crossing the price when the trends emerge, that one is absolute gold. Finding one needs a lot of searching and testing, and the MA element plays an important role in the prop trader systems. They also call it the Baseline. 

The Baseline Concept

The Baseline concept takes your signals from the first and second confirmation indicators and filters any that are not in line with the MA signal. By doing this, small corrections on the major trends are filtered in case your confirmation indicators are wrong. Once the corrections are exhausted, the major trend continues where you again reenter. This major trend is considered exhausted once the price cross-closes the Baseline and a new one emerges or a period of calm, trendless action is about. Moving Averages are very bad in these flat conditions, so is your baseline, therefore volume or volatility tools need to step in. 

By going short only if the major trend is going down, and vice versa, you add up your odds of having a winning trade. Now, this is only one of the baseline functions. In your quest of finding a good MA as a baseline element in your system, you will find so many options and so many settings you can change you might not be sure it is the right one as something better is just around the corner. If you are not sure, take a zoomed-out approach. Your MA of choice should cross the price action at points where new trends emerge but allow smaller corrections of the major trend without fake cross signals.

It should be sensitive enough to give you optimal signals once a new trend starts, unlike 200 EMA for example, which is just too slow for our trading way on a daily chart. Some traders like MAs that are calculated in a way so they represent an average and signals you cannot see with eyes only by just looking at price action. A number of these MAs are developed by John Ehlers but you should aim for an MA that fits your system and take a holistic approach to it. 

The Baseline serves as a major trend filter but prop traders understand other concepts to it. Price actions always tend to return to the average value, once it deviates. Unless there is a strong driver (news event) to push the price out of the normal deviation range, the correction towards the baseline is likely. Technical Prop traders measure this distance the price has moved away from the baseline. According to it, they create a rule – if the price has moved too far away from the baseline once it crossed it, they will not make a trade. This signal to enter (if other indicators confirm) will not be optimal, the odds are not very good now. Now, how to measure and find out if the price has moved too far? One of the easiest ways is by looking at the ATR indicator. Measuring the price level pip range from the baseline and comparing it to the ATR (14) gives you an estimate if it is too far.

ATR

ATR measures the volatility of the currency pair and it will give you a measure of how much the price can move away from your baseline daily. If the price is above the daily ATR value, it is a mark it deviated from the normal ranges. This point is also where technical traders put their first Take Profit and move Stop Loss to breakeven. Another important baseline role is also measuring the distance where to put your initial Stop Loss when you enter a trade. According to some testing done by prop traders, the 1.5xATR range is most optimal on a daily chart, but this setting should be adjusted to your system as it may be more or less sensitive.

Of course, only back and forward testing can give you an answer to where the best point is for your system and 1.5xATR can serve as a starting setting. To make your testing process faster, there are tools (for MT4 and MT5) that plot ATR lines above and below the price levels so you can easily see if a trade can be made, if it hit the TP or SL, etc. These tools are not available by default in the MT4 so you will need to find one.

As we can see, the baseline is an important element not just for major trend gauging but also a base for your risk management. A combination of these creates a complete solution to your trading, excluding your guesses that are more often than not bad in terms of probability calculations. As MAs are abundant on the internet, the search for them will likely be easier than for the volume tools, for example. The much harder part is the long testing phase with different settings and calculation types.

Know there are interesting solutions on some specialized forum/websites where one tool can hold several MA calculations, such as TEMA, ADX, Athens MA, SineWave MA, DEMA, Jurik MA, many smoothing options, filtering, and other settings that make an incredible array of how you define your baseline. In conclusion, know MA crossover signals are not a very good option as trade entry signals, MAs are not very good in ranging markets and that there are multiple uses for them, you just need to test a lot. 

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Forex Chart Basics

Pivot Points in Forex Trading: What You Need to Know NOW

When you study Forex trading you may have discovered the term, pivot points. This is a collection of supports and resistors that are previously calculated to give you ideas about where to buy and sell a couple of currencies. Pivot points are not just used in Forex and in fact, have a history in futures […]

When you study Forex trading you may have discovered the term, pivot points. This is a collection of supports and resistors that are previously calculated to give you ideas about where to buy and sell a couple of currencies. Pivot points are not just used in Forex and in fact, have a history in futures […]

When you study Forex trading you may have discovered the term, pivot points. This is a collection of supports and resistors that are previously calculated to give you ideas about where to buy and sell a couple of currencies. Pivot points are not just used in Forex and in fact, have a history in futures exchanges in the United States. This brings us to the days of voice trading and before computers existed.

Unlike many other indicators you might find, pivot points are, because of their nature, predictable. Essentially, what you’re doing is seeing where the overall pivot in the market can be, and then the next three levels of support and the three levels of resistance. This indicator is quite powerful, but the same as other indicators, it must be confirmed either by the action of prices or other factors such as the previous support level.

The analysis of pivot points focuses on the relationship between the maximum point, the minimum, and the starting prices between each day of operation. In other words, the prices of the previous day are used to calculate the pivot point of the current day. The pivot point, the central axis of the indicator, is considered as “fair value” for the market. Remember, if the price is rising and is returned, it is said to have resisted. Alternatively, if the price is falling and is returned, it is said to have found support. This indicator will show what is the “fair value” of the market, and three potential areas in both directions, which are called support one, support two, support three and also resistance one, resistance two, and resistance three to make the role of guidelines.

The Calculations

The turning point of the day is exactly equal to the maximum price of the previous session plus the minimum price of the previous session and the price of the previous session’s departure. The division of these three numbers by three gives you the pivot point. Once you know the turning point then you can extrapolate the resistors and supports. S1, S2, S3, R1, R2, and R3.

Pivot point of the current session = High (previous session) + Low (previous) + Close (previous)

The other pivot points can be calculated as follows:

  • Resistance 1 = (2 x pivot point) – Minimum (previous session)
  • Support nº 1 = (2 x pivot point) – Maximum (previous session)
  • Resistance nº 2 = (pivot point – support 1) + Resistance 1
  • Support nº 2 = Pivot point -(Resistance 1 – Support 1)
  • Resistance nº 3 = (Pivot point – Support 2)+Resistance 3
  • Support nº 3 = Pivot point – (Resistance 2 – Support 2)

Statistical Probabilities

One of the main reasons why traders use pivot points is that they work statistically. For example, the EUR/USD pair has given results below support 1 almost 44% of the time. The maximum of the day has been over Resistance 1 almost 42% of the time, while the minimum has been under Support 2 17% of the time. Continuing with this, resistance 2 has been exceeded by day maxima only 17% of the time, while minima and maxima exceeding or being below support 3 and resistance 3 only occurs 3% of the time. Because of this, you may perceive how likely it is that the price will go to any of those areas. Think of it as a Gauss bell, and the standard deviation equations you learned in school. When you are beyond two standard deviations it is very rare to stay there, you can think about our three and support 3 in the same way.

Think about it this way; if the resistance level 1 is only exceeded 42% of the time, in this way that means that if you are on the market for a short term, the odds are in your favor if you put the loss cut over the resistance 1. Obviously, there are many possible combinations here. Luckily, most trading platforms now include pivot points, so you won’t need to know how to calculate them.

An Example in Action

Have a look at any graph of the AUD/USD pair with an hourly timeframe that has the pivot point indicator built-in. At this point, I would like to point out that not all Metatrader platforms come with it, but there are free downloads available online on a multitude of schemes. In this particular situation, the pivot point of the previous day is the yellow line while the support levels are blue and the resistance levels are red. As you look at this chart, notice that the market started the day at a point much lower than the pivot. The central pivot line, the yellow one, should be considered as a potential “fair value” for the market. Instead of starting there, we started at $1, and we started seeing support. You can clearly see that initially, we moved towards the pivot point but then you overcame it. You’ll notice we stopped at Resistance 1, which is where we closed the day.

You can see the importance of those levels in this table because even when they are surpassed the next level will begin to show its influence. What I have not pointed out in this graph is that the central pivot is at the level of 0.73, an area that has been in support and resistance more than once. It is therefore not a great surprise to see that the market suddenly closed at that level and did not deviate from it. If you decided to stay in the market above $1 you would probably have made a profit near the pivot point. Beyond that, if we deviate outward as it happened, then I could well see the area below the pivot point to put a stop loss. While it is not itself a trading system, the pivot points are based on statistical probability, something on which much quantitative trading is based. Keep in mind that many machines sell and buy currencies today, so those ratios and formulas can be relevant. Then using pivot points and Forex trading you add some quantitative trading to your strategy.

Pivot points are typically used for short-term trading, however, there are pivot points that are used in monthly installments in the same way. When calculating these, simply replace the maximum, the minimum, closing values of the previous sessions with one of the previous month. It works the same way, any time frame.