GBP/JPY: the yen weakened due to the soft policy of the Bank of Japan
As of August 13, 2024, the GBP/JPY currency pair is showing steady growth, trading near the level of 189.27, which is 0.80% higher compared to the previous day. This movement is driven by several key factors, including economic and political developments in the UK and Japan.
The economic and political situation in the UK continues to have a significant impact on the pound sterling (GBP). Yesterday's comments from representatives of the Bank of England (BoE) indicate continuing concerns about inflation, which supports expectations of further interest rate hikes. Additionally, the latest data on the UK economy, including a slowdown in GDP growth, are worrying against the background of a possible slowdown in the economy, but at the same time stimulate the BoE's caution in making rate decisions. This creates pressure on the pound, but continued optimism about its future strength supports it against the yen.
On the Japanese side, the yen (JPY) continues to weaken due to the sustained soft monetary policy of the Bank of Japan (BoJ). Despite discussions on the possibility of adjusting interest rates, the BoJ continues to maintain ultra-low rates, which puts pressure on the yen. Additionally, the weakness of the Japanese economy, associated with low domestic demand and slowing exports, also contributes to the weakening of the JPY. As a result, traders prefer to sell the yen, which leads to an increase in the GBP/JPY pair.
- Resistance levels: 190.00, 191.50.
- Support levels: 188.00, 186.50.
AUD/NZD: the pair is declining amid expectations of the RBNZ meeting
As of August 13, 2024, the AUD/NZD currency pair shows a slight decrease, trading around 1.0929, which is 0.05% lower compared to the previous close. The pair's move comes against the backdrop of the upcoming meeting of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ), which will be a key event this week.
The economic situation in Australia remains difficult. Recent data on the consumer price index and retail sales indicate a slowdown in economic activity. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) continues to take a cautious approach to changing interest rates, which puts pressure on the Australian dollar (AUD). It is expected that the published data on consumer confidence and wage growth will also not provide significant support for AUD, given the current economic conditions.
On the other hand, the New Zealand dollar (NZD) remains under market scrutiny ahead of the RBNZ decision. At the moment, the central bank of New Zealand is likely to keep the interest rate at 5.5% for the ninth meeting in a row. However, the ongoing economic uncertainty and the risk of a possible rate cut in the future continue to have an impact on the NZD. Strong labor market indicators and stable inflation play into the hands of the New Zealand dollar, but the market is anxiously awaiting further steps by RBNZ.
- Resistance levels: 1.0975, 1.1028.
- Support levels: 1.0880, 1.0844.
Platinum market analysis
As of August 13, 2024, the price of platinum continues to remain under pressure, trading around the $920 per ounce mark, which is close to the lows recorded since the beginning of April. The decline in platinum prices is due to several key factors, including a decrease in demand from the automotive industry and an increase in the volume of recycling of secondary raw materials.
The economic situation in the world has a negative impact on the demand for platinum, especially in the automotive industry, which is the largest consumer of this metal. Slowing car sales amid global economic problems is reducing demand for platinum, despite stricter environmental regulations. Automakers are switching to using cheaper palladium to meet emissions requirements, which further reduces the need for platinum.
In addition, there is a decrease in investor interest. In recent years, the volume of investments in platinum through exchange-traded funds (ETFs) has decreased by more than 20%, due to rising interest rates and competition from other precious metals such as palladium and rhodium. The strengthening of the US dollar is also putting pressure on platinum prices, making it more expensive for foreign buyers.
- Resistance levels: $950, $1000.
- Support levels: $900, $880.
Coffee market analysis
As of August 13, 2024, coffee prices continue to show increased volatility, trading around $2.33 per pound of Arabica, reflecting a 2.1% increase since the end of July. The main factors influencing the cost of coffee are weather conditions and changes in global supply.
The economic situation in key producing countries such as Brazil and Vietnam has a significant impact on the market. In Brazil, the effects of the dry season in the Minas Gerais region are continuing, which has led to a decrease in crop forecasts for 2024/25. At the same time, Vietnam, the largest producer of robusta, is increasing production volumes, which may ease pressure on robusta prices, but continues to support Arabica prices. Despite the increase in supply, prices remain high due to concerns about the future harvest amid the continuing risk of climatic anomalies such as El Nino.
On the other hand, the demand for coffee is also growing, especially against the background of the trend towards a healthy lifestyle and the preference for natural drinks among consumers. This supports a steady demand for Arabica, despite rising prices. However, a possible global economic downturn could weaken consumption and affect overall demand, which is also an important factor for future prices.
- Resistance levels: $2.40, $2.50.
- Support levels: $2.25, $2.15.