The USD/JPY pair is strengthening after last week's decline, as a result of which it reached its minimum values on October 21. At the moment, quotes are rising above the level of 150.65, which is facilitated by the factors of technical analysis by John Murphy and the expectation of the publication of key US statistics this week.
In the United States labor market in November, economists forecast an increase in the number of new jobs to 183 thousand, and average hourly earnings may slow growth from 0.4% to 0.3%. The unemployment rate is projected to remain at 4.1%. The University of Michigan consumer confidence index is also expected to rise to 72.9 points. On Wednesday, the market's attention will be focused on data from ADP on private sector employment. It is expected to decrease to 165 thousand. Also on this day, the Fed's Beige Book will be released, which will provide a fresh overview of the economic situation.
Factors supporting the yen
Against the background of statements by the head of the Bank of Japan, Kazuo Ueda, commenting on a possible interest rate hike at a meeting in December, the Japanese yen is strengthening its position. Positive data on inflation in Tokyo (growth to 2.6%) and growth in retail sales, despite less optimistic indicators, also confirm steady domestic demand. The recovery in industrial production (3.0% growth) and an increase in corporate spending (up to 8.1% year-on-year) indicate a gradual economic recovery, which strengthens the arguments for tightening monetary policy.
USD/JPY Technical Analysis for today
On the daily chart, the Bollinger Band indicator shows a downtrend with an expansion of the range, which indicates the likelihood of a further decline in the pair. The MACD indicator is below the zero level, maintaining a sell signal. Stochastic, approaching the minimum values, indicates the possibility of short-term growth.
- We will open long positions: when the level 151.50 breaks up with a target of 153.18. We will set a stop loss at 150.50.
- We consider sales when the price rebounds from the resistance of 151.50 and breaks down the level of 150.50. The nearest target will be 148.24. We will place the stop loss at 151.50.
Conclusion
The current dynamics of USD/JPY remains dependent on data on the US economy and decisions of the Bank of Japan. Traders are advised to monitor key resistance and support levels to select optimal entry points.