FOREX Fundamental analysis for EUR/USD on November 19, 2024
Forex currency trading is largely based on history. Investors, after Donald Trump's victory in the presidential election, are actively repeating the 2016 scenario, again betting on the US dollar. As it was 8 years ago, the greenback is rapidly strengthening. However, following the results of Trump's first term, the dollar index fell by 10%, mainly due to the pandemic. But there was another factor – fears that China, protesting against the imposition of customs tariffs, would begin to get rid of American treasury bonds. And so, in the third quarter of 2024, it becomes a reality.
In July-September, the two largest holders of treasuries, Japan and China, significantly reduced their holdings of treasuries. Japan sold securities for a record $61.9 billion, and China for $51.3 billion, which was the second largest reduction in history.
Japan's actions can be explained by currency intervention to support the yen, but China's steps look like a warning signal. In late 2017 and early 2018, the dollar was losing ground, despite the increase in the yield of treasuries. Back then, it was said that China was selling bonds in retaliation for the duties. However, Washington quickly proved that these weapons are not so dangerous. The rising yield of treasuries is hitting the global economy, including China, and the dollar soon regained its position. Its further decline in 2020 was explained by the Fed's monetary incentives.
The return of the old pattern alarmed the EUR/USD bears, prompting them to take profits on short positions. European exports to the United States are likely to grow in anticipation of new duties. In September, exports from the EU to America increased by 8.9%, as companies rushed to strengthen supplies.
Despite the recent EUR/USD rebound, the pair's fundamental problems remain. Even without the new duties, the Eurozone expects GDP growth to slow to 1.45% by 2029 due to an aging population and low productivity. At the same time, US economic growth is projected at 2.29%. American companies continue to outperform European competitors, and Goldman Sachs notes three key factors supporting the dollar: high tariffs, a dynamic economy and strong demand for assets.
Thus, the recent strengthening of the euro is only a short—term correction. If the pair fights off the resistance levels of 1.061–1.0625 or 1.068–1.07, or returns below 1.0545, then we get a good opportunity to form short positions.