EUR/USD: the stability of the dollar restrains the strengthening of the euro
As of August 19, 2024, the EUR/USD currency pair is trading near the level of 1.0905, showing weak dynamics against the background of conflicting economic data from the eurozone and the United States. The pair is under pressure, trying to overcome key resistance levels, but has not yet shown steady growth.
The economic situation in the eurozone remains difficult. Recent data indicate a slowdown in economic growth in Germany and France, which raises concerns among investors. The eurozone's GDP is projected to grow by only 0.6% in 2024, which is lower than expected for the United States. The European Central Bank (ECB) is signaling a possible easing of monetary policy, which could lead to lower interest rates in the coming months. This pressure on the euro is due to the fact that inflation in the region is declining slowly, despite the targeted efforts of the central bank.
On the other hand, the US economy is showing more steady growth. Although inflation is slowing, the labor market remains strong, which supports expectations for further tight policy by the Federal Reserve System (FRS). Despite the decline in GDP growth to 1.6%, the Fed still maintains its key rate at 5.25-5.50%, which makes the dollar more attractive to investors. This, in turn, puts pressure on the EUR/USD pair, limiting its growth opportunities.
- Resistance levels: 1.0940, 1.1000.
- Support levels: 1.0850, 1.0800.
GBP/JPY: the pair is growing due to the stability of the pound and the weakness of the yen
As of August 19, 2024, the GBP/JPY currency pair is trading around the 188.50 mark, showing moderate strengthening. The pair is moving up after the publication of employment data in the UK and the continued weakness of the Japanese yen.
The economic situation in the UK remains tense, although it shows some signs of stabilization. Recent data on the UK labor market showed a decrease in the unemployment rate, which caused cautious optimism among investors. At the same time, inflation in the country remained below forecasts, which may limit the Bank of England's ability to further raise interest rates. Nevertheless, the central bank continues to keep rates high to cope with inflationary risks, which supports the British pound.
By contrast, the Japanese yen remains under pressure amid domestic economic problems. The Japanese economy is facing difficulties related to low domestic demand and a weak manufacturing sector. Despite the unexpected rate hike by the Bank of Japan at the beginning of the month, the yen continues to remain under pressure due to global uncertainty and economic weakness. This creates the prerequisites for further growth of the GBP/JPY pair.
- Resistance levels: 189.00, 190.50.
- Support levels: 187.50, 186.00.
AUD/NZD: New Zealand dollar strengthens against the background of RBNZ's tough policy
On August 19, 2024, the AUD/NZD currency pair is trading at 1.1015, showing a moderate decline against the background of various economic factors in Australia and New Zealand. The pair is moving in a downtrend, which is associated with increased economic pressure on the Australian dollar.
The economic situation in Australia remains tense. Recent inflation data show its growth above the expected level, which forces the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) to consider further tightening of monetary policy. Despite this, weak domestic demand and low consumer confidence are putting pressure on the Australian dollar, limiting its potential for growth. Additionally, the slowdown in economic growth in China, which is Australia's key trading partner, also has a negative impact on AUD.
On the other hand, the New Zealand dollar is strengthening thanks to the latest decisions of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ), which kept the rate at 5.25% and expressed its intention to continue to maintain a tight monetary policy in the near future. Stable inflation and GDP growth indicators contribute to the strengthening of the NZD, making it more attractive to investors. The economic situation in New Zealand remains stable, despite the increase in the unemployment rate, which provides additional support to the New Zealand dollar.
- Resistance levels: 1.1050, 1.1100.
- Support levels: 1.0980, 1.0930.
Coffee market overview
As of August 19, 2024, coffee prices continue to fluctuate in a volatile market, reaching $2.15 per pound of Arabica. This movement is linked to a number of key factors, including global climatic conditions and economic changes in coffee-producing countries such as Brazil and Vietnam.
The economic situation in Brazil, the world's largest coffee producer, has a significant impact on prices. The strengthening of the Brazilian real against the US dollar, observed in recent months, is contributing to an increase in coffee prices, as Brazilian exporters prefer to hold stocks in anticipation of more favorable conditions. In addition, unstable weather, including droughts and extreme temperatures, continues to negatively affect crops, further limiting supply on the global market.
On the other hand, the demand for coffee remains steady, especially in the regions of Asia and Europe, where the popularity of organic and certified coffees continues to grow. This trend is supported by changes in consumer preferences towards more environmentally friendly products, which encourages manufacturers to invest in sustainable development and certification.
- Resistance levels: $2.20, $2.30.
- Support levels: $2.10, $2.00.