EUR/USD: the eurozone price index fell below zero for the first time since June
The EUR/USD currency pair is experiencing a moderate decline, correcting after a significant increase a day ago, when new highs were reached on December 15. At the moment, the pair is checking the 1.0970 level for the possibility of overcoming it downwards, while traders are cautious in opening new positions in anticipation of fresh data from the EU and the USA.
The main focus of investors is on the November consumer price indices in the eurozone: the index fell monthly from 0.1% to -0.6%, reaching a negative mark for the first time since June, and the annual indicator fell from 2.9% to 2.4%. The base index also showed a decrease from 0.2% to -0.6% on a monthly basis and from 4.2% to 3.6% on an annual basis. This indicates a weakening of inflationary pressures in the region's economy, but the European Central Bank (ECB) can begin easing its monetary policy only after confirming the sustainability of this trend. Today, investors will follow the statistics of consumer confidence in Germany from Gfk Group with a forecast for January: a slight improvement in the indicator is expected from -27.8 to -27.0 points. It is also expected to publish November data on industrial inflation, where a decrease in the producer price index by 0.3% is forecast after -0.1% in the previous month and an annual correction from -11.0% to -7.5%. Additionally, the German Bundesbank's monthly report will be released today, which can provide more accurate forecasts regarding future economic growth and inflationary trends.
- Resistance levels: 1.1000, 1.1050, 1.1100, 1.1150.
- Support levels: 1.0964, 1.0930, 1.0900, 1.0850.
Gold price Analysis
The precious metal is returning to the significant spring level of 2050.0 and is preparing to exceed it, currently trading around 2040.0.
The increase in the value of gold is taking place against the background of a rapid decline in government bond yields. Experts attribute the recent downward correction in mid-December to a temporary increase in the value of securities, and their subsequent decline led to an increase in interest in metal assets. Currently, the most sought-after 10-year bonds are trading at a yield of 3.911%, whereas on December 10 their yield was 4.239%. During the same period, gold rose from the level of 1970.0 to 2040.0. This trend is likely to continue, which will support gold prices.
- Resistance levels: 2050.0, 2080.0.
- Support levels: 2025.0, 1988.0.
Cryptocurrency Market Overview
This week, the Ripple cryptocurrency experienced a decline within the framework of the general market trend and is currently actively checking the 0.6055 level (38.2% Fibonacci retracement), however, it has not yet managed to gain a foothold below this mark.
The beginning of the Ripple price correction was tracked last week, when the results of the US Federal Reserve meeting were announced. Investors reacted positively to the prospect of a threefold reduction in interest rates in 2024, which contributed to an increase in prices for leading cryptocurrencies. However, subsequent comments on the results of the Fed's decision caused disappointment among market participants and led to a correction. Most members of the American regulator continue to adhere to a cautious position on the issue of changing the current monetary policy, believing that the decision to lower rates will depend on new economic data. Some members of the Federal Reserve System, including New York Fed President John Williams, do not rule out the possibility of raising interest rates if necessary.
- Resistance levels: 0.6348, 0.6890, 0.7324, 0.7812.
- Support levels: 0.5859, 0.5371, 0.4883.
Crude Oil Market Analysis
During the Asian trading session, WTI Crude Oil shows fluctuating dynamics, remaining near the level of $ 74.00 per barrel.
Yesterday's rise in oil prices was caused by the weakening of the US dollar and problems in transporting oil through the Red Sea, through which about 10% of the world's oil supplies pass, as a result of Houthi attacks from Yemen on ships bound for Israel. BP Plc., Frontline Plc., Equinor ASA, MSC SA, A.P. Moller-Maersk AS and Hapag-Lloyd have already abandoned the use of this route, which may lead to higher energy prices and delays in delivery. On Monday, the Pentagon announced the launch of Operation Guardian of Prosperity, in which countries including the United States, Britain, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway and Spain will cooperate to ensure security in the southern Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. However, the likely crisis is expected to be on a local scale, and oil companies are likely to be able to quickly adapt their logistics schemes. The United States and allies also plan to provide safe routes for tankers in the Red Sea.
Meanwhile, in the United States, the number of construction permits issued in November decreased by 2.5%, from 1.498 million to 1.46 million, which was below market forecasts of 1.47 million, while the number of new home construction projects increased by 14.8%, from 1.359 million to 1.56 million, exceeding analysts' expectations of 1.36 a million.
- Resistance levels: 74.00, 75.00, 76.00, 77.00.
- Support levels: 73.00, 71.77, 71.00, 70.00.