EUR/USD: weak German PMI slow down euro growth
On August 27, 2024, the EUR/USD currency pair is trading around 1.1040, which is 0.4% higher compared to the previous trading session. The pair is showing an upward trend against the background of a weakening US dollar and expectations for a reduction in interest rates by the US Federal Reserve.
The economic situation in the eurozone remains ambiguous. In Germany, the region's largest economy, the manufacturing sector continues to slow down. The business activity index (PMI) in the German manufacturing sector fell to 42.1 points, which is the lowest in the last five months. This indicates a further deepening of the recession in the industry. However, despite these negative data, the services sector in the eurozone showed more positive results: the business activity index (PMI) in the services sector rose to 53.3 points, exceeding analysts' forecasts. Meanwhile, producer price growth in the eurozone has also accelerated, raising concerns from the European Central Bank (ECB) and may prompt it to take more decisive action in the future.
On the other hand, the US economy is also showing signs of slowing down. The minutes of the Fed's last meeting point to a possible interest rate cut in September, especially if employment data, which will be published on September 6, continues to show a weakening labor market. Given the continued slowdown in inflation, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell noted that a rate cut is likely if current trends continue. These expectations contribute to the weakening of the dollar and the growth of EUR/USD.
- Resistance levels: 1.1060, 1.1120.
- Support levels: 1.0980, 1.0930.
GBP/TRY: pound strengthens, lira falls amid economic problems
As of August 27, 2024, the GBP/TRY currency pair is trading at 40.93, which is 0.33% higher compared to the previous trading session. The pair is showing strength against the background of expectations for a reduction in interest rates by the Bank of England and continuing economic difficulties in Turkey.
The economic situation in the UK remains unstable. At the last meeting, held on July 31, the Bank of England decided to reduce the interest rate by 0.25%, bringing it to 5%. This decision was made against the background of weakening inflation, which fell to 6.8% in June 2024. Despite this, the growth rate of the economy remains weak, which raises concerns about a further slowdown. The Bank of England also signaled possible further rate cuts depending on economic data, which puts pressure on the pound.
Turkey continues to face serious economic problems, including high inflation and the devaluation of the lira. The latest data showed that inflation reached 47.8% in July 2024, which continues to weaken confidence in the national currency. The Central Bank of Turkey, despite efforts to stabilize the situation, continues to experience difficulties in containing inflation expectations. This leads to a further weakening of the lira, supporting the growth of GBP/TRY.
- Resistance levels: 41.00, 41.50.
- Support levels: 40.50, 40.00.
Platinum market analysis
As of August 27, 2024, the price of platinum is hovering around $980 per ounce, which is 0.67% lower compared to the previous trading session. The decrease in value is due to general concerns about a slowdown in global economic growth, which puts pressure on demand for platinum, especially in the manufacturing sector.
The economic situation on a global scale has a significant impact on the platinum market. Demand for platinum in the automotive industry remains high, reaching a seven-year high in the first quarter of 2024, which supports prices. However, the growth of the commercial transport sector is slowing down, which is causing concern among investors. Platinum shipments are expected to reach near record lows in 2024, which could support prices amid declining demand.
At the same time, the overall shortage of platinum in the market continues to increase. According to the World Platinum Investment Council, the forecast for 2024 assumes a deficit of 476 thousand ounces, reflecting significant supply constraints. Investment demand has also remained positive for the second year in a row, especially in China, where demand for bullion and coins continues to grow. Nevertheless, economic concerns and a possible decrease in demand in production may negatively affect platinum prices in the coming months.
- Resistance levels: $1000, $1020.
- Support levels: $950, $930.
Cocoa market analysis
As of August 27, 2024, the price of cocoa is trading at about $7,811 per ton, which is 0.56% lower compared to the previous trading session. This decrease is due to a weakening demand for chocolate, which puts pressure on prices, especially against the background of a report on a decrease in quarterly sales from the large chocolate manufacturer Hershey. However, despite weak demand, the market is showing signs of recovery, supported by increased demand for ground cocoa and a 2.2% increase in processing volumes in North America in the second quarter of 2024.
The economic and political environment in West Africa, a key cocoa producing region, continues to have a significant impact on the market. In Côte d'Ivoire and Ghana, crop difficulties are observed due to the spread of diseases such as black rot (Black Pod) and adverse weather conditions. These problems have led to a reduction in supplies, which supports high cocoa prices on the world market. At the same time, in Latin America, especially Brazil and Ecuador, cocoa production remains stable due to improved agricultural practices and favorable government policies.
Despite short-term fluctuations, forecasts for 2024 remain favorable for cocoa price growth due to continued supply shortages and sustained demand, especially in the context of high demand for premium and organic products in Europe and North America.
- Resistance levels: $8,100, $8,300.
- Support levels: $7,600, $7,400.