NZD/USD: RBNZ considers measures to combat inflation effective
The NZD/USD pair is recovering its positions after two days of decline, when quotes reached local lows since August 7. The exchange rate is currently testing the 0.6015 level for a possible upward breakout.
The New Zealand dollar was supported by the statements of Adrian Orr, head of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ). He noted that the economic situation both in the country and abroad remains uncertain, despite efforts to keep inflation in the target range of 1.0–3.0%. Orr stressed that the current measures taken by RBNZ are sufficient to control price dynamics. The markets took these words as a signal to maintain a neutral monetary policy in the near future. Earlier, the RBNZ lowered the base rate to 5.25% for the first time since March 2020, with the possibility of further adjustments.
Today, data on business activity in New Zealand were published: the index of activity in the manufacturing sector increased from 41.1 to 44.0 points in July. The indices of purchasing and selling prices of producers in the second quarter also showed an acceleration, exceeding analysts' expectations, which reduces the likelihood of further easing of monetary policy in the country.
- Resistance levels: 0.6030, 0.6047, 0.6068, 0.6085.
- Support levels: 0.6000, 0.5975, 0.5950, 0.5920.
AUD/CHF: pair strengthens against the background of AUD weakness and CHF strength
As of August 16, 2024, the AUD/CHF currency pair is showing strengthening, trading at 0.5731, which is 0.42% higher compared to the previous trading day. The pair shows steady upward movement despite the ongoing economic challenges in Australia and the strengthening of the Swiss franc.
The economic situation in Australia remains difficult. Recent data showed a decline in export performance and a continued slowdown in economic growth, which puts pressure on the Australian dollar (AUD). The Reserve Bank of Australia maintains a loose monetary policy, keeping interest rates low to support economic growth. However, despite these measures, economic weakness and declining demand for key export commodities such as iron ore continue to keep AUD under pressure.
On the other hand, the Swiss franc (CHF) remains strong due to the stable Swiss economy and continued low inflation. The Swiss National Bank (SNB) continues to adhere to an interventionist policy, supporting the franc exchange rate in the face of global uncertainty and increased demand for safe assets. These factors contribute to the strengthening of the CHF, making it attractive to investors, which puts pressure on the AUD/CHF currency pair.
- Resistance levels: 0.5800, 0.5900.
- Support levels: 0.5700, 0.5650.
EUR/CAD: lower rates in Canada support euro growth
On August 16, 2024, the EUR/CAD currency pair shows moderate growth, trading at 1.5072, which is 0.07% higher compared to the previous day. This move reflects the advantage of the euro over the Canadian dollar against the background of recent economic news and market expectations.
The economic situation in the eurozone continues to influence the euro exchange rate. Recent data indicate a slowdown in economic activity in Germany, which creates certain risks for the euro. Nevertheless, expectations of monetary easing in the US are supporting the euro as investors look for more stable assets. In addition, inflation rates in the eurozone remain within the expected values, which also helps to keep the euro at current levels.
The Canadian dollar, on the other hand, is weakened by the actions of the Bank of Canada, which has cut its key interest rate twice in recent months, which was a reaction to the stabilization of inflation in the range of 2.5% - 2.7%. It is expected that in September 2024, the Bank of Canada may take additional measures to reduce rates if the economic situation does not improve. These expectations add pressure on the Canadian currency, which contributes to the growth of the EUR/CAD pair.
- Resistance levels: 1.5118, 1.5200.
- Support levels: 1.4896, 1.4800.
Silver market analysis
As of August 16, 2024, silver prices are showing moderate strengthening, trading around $27.90 per ounce, which represents an increase of 1.65% over the past day. The silver price movement is related to the current geopolitical tensions, in particular, with the intensification of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia, which traditionally increases the demand for safe assets, including precious metals.
The economic situation and expectations regarding the policy of the US Federal Reserve System also play an important role in shaping silver prices. Investors are closely monitoring US inflation data and expected changes in interest rates. It is assumed that the Fed's rate cuts may support demand for silver, especially in the face of weak industrial demand from the United States and China. At the same time, ongoing concerns about declining industrial demand from these key consumers limit the potential for price increases.
In the long term, analysts predict a possible increase in silver prices due to the expected increase in demand for the metal in the green energy sector, especially in the solar energy sector, as well as a possible shortage of supply amid restrictions in silver mining.
- Resistance levels: $29.41, $30.00.
- Support levels: $26.10, $25.50.