Forex analytical forecast for today, October 18, for EUR/USD, GBP/USD, AUD/USD & USD/CHF

EUR/USD: bearish trend remains in forceThe EUR/USD pair is showing a moderate decline during Asian trading, continuing to develop the downward momentum formed earlier: quotes are testing the 1.0400 level again, declining from local highs on December 18. The activity of market participants and transaction volumes are gradually weakening, which is associated with the approach of the Christmas and New Year holidays, against which investors are taking a wait-and-see attitude.Pressure on the euro remains due to the current monetary policy of the European Central Bank (ECB) and recent comments by the head of the regulator, Christine Lagarde, in an interview with the Financial Times. She expressed concern about the continued rise in prices in the service sector, which remains at around 4.0%. Lagarde also spoke out against possible EU retaliatory measures to impose additional duties from the United States, pointing to their potential negative effect on households and businesses. Against the background of such statements, market participants are reviewing expectations for the rate of interest rate cuts in 2025, but questions about the pace of economic recovery remain open. In December, the ECB cut its key interest rate again by 25 basis points. November inflation accelerated from 2.0% to 2.3%, and forecasts suggest it will rise to 2.4% in 2024 and 2.1% in 2025, followed by a decline to 1.9% in 2026, which is below the target level. Additionally, the ECB confirmed its intention to continue reducing its bond portfolio under the PEPP program by 7.5 billion euros per month.Resistance levels: 1.0400, 1.0450, 1.0500, 1.0554.Support levels: 1.0350, 1.0300, 1.0253, 1.0200.GBP/USD: the pair is moving down, reflecting the medium-term bearish dynamicsIn December, the GBP/USD pair resumed its downward movement within the framework of a medium-term downtrend, testing the level of 1.2490, corresponding to a 50.0% Fibonacci retracement. The pressure on the pound increased after the release of macroeconomic data, which reflected a slowdown in economic activity in the UK.In particular, the gross domestic product (GDP) did not change in the third quarter, contrary to analysts' expectations, which assumed an increase of 0.1%. Industrial production also decreased by 0.7% in October, and the aggregate business activity index fell to 50.5 points, due to business concerns about the growing tax burden initiated by the Labor government. As a result, the country's economy may enter a state of technical recession. At the same time, inflation remains at a high level: in November, the consumer price index was 2.6%, and the base index rose to 3.5%. In such a situation, the Bank of England is unable to continue its soft monetary policy, which limits the incentives for economic recovery and increases pressure on the British currency.Resistance levels: 1.2695, 1.2939, 1.3061.Support levels: 1.2490, 1.2300, 1.2095.USD/CHF: Swiss authorities' investigation reveals reasons for Credit Suisse collapseThe USD/CHF pair is showing a steady upward trend in the morning, developing the momentum that began the day before, and is striving to overcome the 0.8990 level. Despite the low activity in the market ahead of the Christmas holidays, the main attention of bidders is focused on the outcome of the US Federal Reserve meeting, where interest rate changes were discussed.Last week, Switzerland presented statistics on foreign economic activity: exports in November decreased from 27.83 billion to 23.68 billion francs, imports — from 19.80 billion to 18.26 billion francs, which led to a decrease in the trade surplus from 8.025 billion to 5.424 billion francs. On Friday, the bankruptcy report of Credit Suisse Group AG, prepared by the parliamentary commission, was published. The 569-page document contains 30 recommendations for preventing similar crises in the future. Among the proposals: expanding the powers of FINMA, tightening capital requirements for systemically important banks, and introducing a resident qualification for members of the board of directors. The Committee noted that the mistakes of the Credit Suisse management were the key cause of the crisis: from 2010 to 2022, top managers were paid 39.8 billion francs in bonuses, despite cumulative losses of 33.7 billion francs. Additionally, it is indicated that the regulator unreasonably provided capital allowances in 2017, which prevented the timely identification of the bank's financial problems. The Government is invited to consider measures aimed at preventing similar situations in the future.Resistance levels: 0.9000, 0.9037, 0.9100, 0.91 30.Support levels: 0.8957, 0.8929, 0.8900, 0.8865.Crude Oil market analysisBrent Crude Oil prices are trading near the level of 72.00, showing sideways dynamics against the background of changes in global demand for energy resources.According to the latest report from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), India will become the leader in hydrocarbon consumption in 2024, overtaking China. Forecasts show that India could reach 220,000 barrels per day next year, increasing it to 330,000 barrels per day in 2025. At the same time, China, against the background of an accelerated transition to renewable energy sources, will reduce the growth rate of demand to 90 thousand and 250 thousand barrels per day for the same periods. If in 2023 China accounted for up to 70% of global oil demand, then in 2024 the figure may fall to 20%, while India's share will grow to 25%. Already this year, India has taken a leading position in the supply of petroleum products to the EU, surpassing even the United States.Resistance levels: 73.50, 77.00.Support levels: 71.60, 68.40.

GBP/USD: the regulator has maintained the current rate of 4.75%The GBP/USD pair is correcting near the 1.2480 mark after the Bank of England expected to keep the key interest rate at 4.75%. The decision was supported by a majority of members of the Monetary Policy Committee - six out of nine participants, while three supported a 25 basis point rate cut, which turned out to be higher than analysts' expectations, assuming only two supporters of such a measure.Analysts note a change in the emphasis in the regulator's rhetoric from "unstable" to "balanced", which indicates a possible continuation of adjustments in 2025. The Bank of England expressed concern about the acceleration of inflation, noting an increase in the consumer price index from 1.7% in September to 2.6% in November, and revised down its GDP forecasts for the fourth quarter from an expected 2.0% to 1.7%. According to experts, the regulator may reduce the rate to 3.50% over the next year in order to adapt to changing economic conditions.The US dollar is showing steady growth, reaching the level of 108.10 in the USDX index. The dynamics are supported by strong macroeconomic statistics: US GDP increased from 3.0% to 3.1% in the third quarter, the number of initial applications for unemployment benefits fell to 220 thousand, exceeding expectations, and repeat applications decreased to 1.874 million. There was also an increase in sales in the secondary housing market in November by 4.8%, to 4.15 million, which almost reached the March peak of 4.19 million, strengthening the position of the US currency.Resistance levels: 1.2530, 1.2700.Support levels: 1.2450, 1.2300.USD/CHF: Swiss economy expects production growth of 1.7% by 2026The USD/CHF pair is trading in a mixed mode, being at 0.8980. After the publication of macroeconomic data from the United States, the instrument shows a moderate decline, retreating from the local peaks recorded in early July.Statistics provided by Switzerland the day before showed a noticeable drop in exports in November from 27.826 billion to 23.682 billion francs, while imports decreased from 19.801 billion to 18.257 billion francs. As a result, the trade surplus decreased from 8.025 billion to 5.424 billion francs. According to the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO), the country's economy was previously forecast to grow by 1.2% in 2024, 1.6% in 2025 and 1.7% in 2026. These figures remain below the average annual growth of the Swiss economy, which is 1.8%. SECO analysts emphasize that next year's economic recovery is likely to depend on domestic demand. This is due to the weakening of interest in Swiss goods from key trading partners such as Germany and China, which limits the prospects for the export sector.Resistance levels: 0.9000, 0.9037, 0.9100, 0.91 30.Support levels: 0.8957, 0.8929, 0.8900, 0.8865.USD/TRY: the rate of the Central Bank of Turkey may fall to 47.50% as early as December 26In the morning, the USD/TRY pair shows active growth, reaching 35.1500 and updating historical highs. The strengthening of the dollar is associated with expectations of a slowdown in the pace of monetary easing by the US Federal Reserve, which supports demand for the US currency.The Turkish lira continues to be under pressure due to internal economic challenges. The Central Bank of Turkey is considering the possibility of further reducing the interest rate, which has been held at 50.00% since March. Despite a slight slowdown, annual inflation in the country remains high, reaching 47.0% in November after peaking at 75.45% in May. The authorities plan to reduce the rate to 35.00% in 2024, which creates the prerequisites for a soft monetary policy. Analysts expect that at the meeting scheduled for December 26, the Turkish regulator may reduce the rate by 250 basis points from the current 50.00% to 47.50%. However, Central Bank Governor Fatih Karahan had previously refrained from making specific statements, saying that the final decision would depend on current economic data and the inflation forecast.Resistance levels: 35.1500, 35.2167, 35.3000, 35.4500.Support levels: 35.1000, 35.0500, 35.0000, 34.9500.NZD/USD: consolidation near minimum levelsThe NZD/USD pair shows mixed dynamics, holding near the 0.5625 level. Market activity remains low after a sharp drop in the instrument on Wednesday, caused by the publication of the minutes of the last meeting of the US Federal Reserve, which put pressure on the mood of traders.Today's data from New Zealand does not provide significant support to the New Zealand dollar. The ANZ consumer confidence index rose slightly from 99.8 to 100.2 points in December, exports rose from $5.61 billion to $6.48 billion in November, and imports declined from $7.27 billion to $6.92 billion. As a result, the trade deficit decreased to -0.437 billion dollars, which turned out to be better than the forecasts of -1.951 billion dollars, but did not give a serious impetus to the instrument. A day earlier, New Zealand's GDP data for the third quarter was published. On an annualized basis, the economic growth rate slowed by 1.5% after a 0.5% decline a month earlier, although analysts' expectations were -0.4%. In quarterly terms, the indicator increased from -1.1% to 1.0%, exceeding the forecasts of experts who expected a decrease to -0.4%. Although these data indicate some recovery, they do not yet have a significant impact on the pair's exchange rate.Resistance levels: 0.5661, 0.5700, 0.5750, 0.5775.Support levels: 0.5607, 0.5563, 0.5511, 0.5467.

EUR/USD: the regulator in the USA adjusted the rate by 25 bp.The EUR/USD pair continues to adjust, trading around 1.0375 amid the strengthening of the US dollar and growing expectations of further monetary easing by the European Central Bank (ECB) after the published data on a decrease in inflation.In November, the consumer price index in the eurozone fell from 0.3% to -0.3% on a monthly basis, and increased from 2.0% to 2.2% on an annual basis, which turned out to be lower than forecasts of 2.3%. The basic indicator excluding energy and food products fell from 0.2% to -0.6% on a monthly basis and remained at 2.7% on an annual basis. These results strengthen the case for continued rate cuts, which puts pressure on the euro.The US dollar strengthened to 107.80 on the USDX index after the decision of the US Federal Reserve to cut the rate by 25 basis points to a range of 4.25–4.50%. In addition, the regulator presented revised forecasts: inflation in 2024 is expected to reach 2.4% against 2.3% earlier, in 2025 — 2.5% instead of 2.1%. The GDP growth forecast has been improved to 2.5% in 2024 and 2.0% in 2025. The average rate by the end of 2025 is expected to be 4.4%, and in 2026 it will decrease to 3.9%, which is higher than previous estimates. In his statement, the head of the Fed noted that the US economy remains stable, the labor market is cooling, and inflation has slowed significantly over the past two years, although it exceeds target levels. He also stressed that the risks to inflation are generally balanced, but the current dynamics may include temporary factors.Resistance levels: 1.0410, 1.0580.Support levels: 1.0330, 1.0180.GBP/USD: UK has joined the CPTPP Economic AllianceDuring morning trading, the GBP/USD pair is held at 1.2590, partially recovering the losses incurred the previous day. The increase in quotations is due to technical factors, but traders are taking a wait-and-see position before the announcement of the results of the Bank of England meeting scheduled for 14:00 (GMT+2). According to analysts, the regulator's management will probably decide to leave the key rate at 4.75%, with eight of the nine board members supporting this decision.Wednesday brought disappointment in the form of inflation data: the consumer price index rose from 2.3% to 2.6% in November, and the base indicator increased from 3.3% to 3.5%, which slightly exceeded forecasts. Such dynamics signal the possibility of further revision of monetary policy by the Bank of England if inflationary pressure persists or increases in the coming months.On December 15, the United Kingdom completed the process of joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership, becoming a full participant in it. Within the framework of the alliance, the country waived import duties on palm oil from Malaysia, and also facilitated a number of procedures for trade with other members of the agreement. This step underlines London's desire to strengthen international economic ties and develop partnerships with 11 other member states of the association.Resistance levels: 1.2600, 1.2650, 1.2700, 1.2730.Support levels: 1.2550, 1.2500, 1.2450, 1.2400.Silver market analysisAfter a long period of consolidation above the 30.00 mark, the XAG/USD pair fell below this level, which is due to the strengthening of the US currency.The decline in silver prices is taking place against the background of the "dovish" rhetoric of the US Federal Reserve System. Each step to lower the interest rate, accompanied by statements by Fed Chairman Jerome Powell, puts pressure on the metals market. Powell stressed that the American economy is showing stability, and the forecast for GDP growth at the end of 2024 has been raised to 2.5% against the previously expected 2.0%. Moreover, the regulator is considering the possibility of a temporary pause in the cycle of monetary policy easing in order to strengthen control over inflation and bring it to a level below 2.0%. Such steps reduce the attractiveness of precious metals as a protective asset in conditions of stabilization of the economic situation.On December 18, the volume of silver futures trading decreased to 50.0 thousand, which is significantly lower than the maximum values of December 11 and 12 — 126.0–127.0 thousand. A similar reduction is observed in the option position, which yesterday amounted to 8,145 thousand, down from a peak of 22,706 thousand last week. This may indicate that market participants are not confident that silver prices will continue to rise and prefer to close positions, waiting for clearer signals for further action.Resistance levels: 30.00, 31.40.Support levels: 29.00, 27.40.Crude Oil market analysisBrent Crude Oil prices are showing a sideways trend, remaining slightly above the level of 72.00. The instrument was under pressure due to the growth of the US currency, which reached an annual maximum after the US Federal Reserve lowered the interest rate by 25 basis points and improved forecasts for economic growth by the end of the year.Investors drew attention to the agreement concluded between the Russian company Rosneft and the Indian giant Reliance Industries Ltd. The document provides for the transportation of 500.0 thousand barrels of oil daily to India for ten years, starting in 2025, which makes this deal the largest for the region. The implementation of the project will cover a significant share of Indian demand for hydrocarbons, and processed raw materials will probably be supplied to the countries of the European Union, filling the market deficit caused by sanctions against the Russian energy sector related to the conflict in Ukraine.Support levels: 71.23, 67.61.Resistance levels: 75.38, 79.73.

USD/CHF: the dollar continues to grow, approaching the peaks of NovemberDuring morning trading, the USD/CHF pair continues to build up the bullish momentum achieved last week, rising to a maximum on November 22 at 0.8955. However, market participants remain restrained, awaiting the outcome of the final meeting of the US Federal Reserve System this year, which will be held on Wednesday at 21:00 (GMT+2). Most analysts predict an interest rate cut of -25 basis points to 4.50%, which is already partially embedded in current quotes. The main focus will be on the regulator's forecasts for further changes in the cost of borrowing for the next three years, as well as on the uncertainty about the economic strategy of President-elect Donald Trump, who will take office on January 20.The Swiss National Bank (SNB) put additional pressure on the franc with its unexpected decision to lower the interest rate immediately by -50 basis points, to 0.50%, although the markets expected only -0.25%. In their statement, representatives of the regulator stressed their readiness to respond promptly to the economic situation in order to keep inflation within the target range. In addition, the SNB does not exclude the possibility of currency interventions to maintain the stability of the Swiss franc, which remains an attractive safe haven asset for investors. The updated forecasts suggest a slowdown in inflation to 1.1% in 2024 (1.2% was previously expected) and 0.3% in 2025 (against the previous 0.6%). The GDP growth rate has also been revised: this year the figure will be about 1.0%, and in 2025 it is expected in the range of 1.0–1.5%. Recent statistics put additional pressure on the franc: the consumer price index remained one of the lowest in the eurozone, having been fixed at 0.7% year-on-year in November. The producer and import price index showed a decrease from -0.3% to -0.6% on a monthly basis with a forecast of 0.2%, and the annual indicator changed from -1.8% to -1.5%. The focus of market participants remains the SNB's quarterly report for the fourth quarter, which will be published on Tuesday at 16:00 (GMT+2).Resistance levels: 0.8957, 0.9000, 0.9037, 0.9100.Support levels: 0.8929, 0.8900, 0.8865, 0.8827.USD/JPY: the pair is holding near the upper limit of the rangeThe USD/JPY pair is showing mixed trading, consolidating around 154.20, remaining at local highs from November 25. Buyer activity remains subdued amid expectations of the results of the US Federal Reserve meeting, which will be announced tomorrow at 21:00 (GMT+2). According to the FedWatch Tool of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, the probability of a 25 basis point interest rate cut is estimated at 95.4%, despite the steady recovery of the American economy and inflation, which has stabilized at 3.0%. Additional attention of traders is attracted by the uncertainty of further actions of the Bank of Japan and the possible influence of the political agenda of the new American administration on them.Experts believe that if President-elect Donald Trump fulfills the promise of imposing 25% duties on Chinese imports, the Japanese financial authorities may respond by devaluing the yen to maintain export competitiveness. According to a Bloomberg study, 52% of analysts expect the Bank of Japan's hawkish rate to continue in January, while 44% predict an interest rate hike at the next meeting on December 19. Nevertheless, some economists believe that the regulator will maintain a wait-and-see position, focusing on the dynamics of wages, as the spring wage negotiations will show a clearer picture early next year. The published macroeconomic data from Japan strengthen expectations of a possible tightening of monetary policy. In October, orders for machinery products increased by 5.6% year-on-year after falling by 4.8% a month earlier, ahead of analysts' forecasts of 0.7%. On a monthly basis, the indicator increased by 2.1%, while an increase of 1.2% was expected. Also, the Jibun Bank manufacturing index from S&P Global strengthened from 50.5 to 51.4 points in December, and activity in the service sector showed an increase of 0.3% after a decline of 0.1%.Resistance levels: 154.50, 155.50, 156.50, 157.50.Support levels: 153.87, 153.27, 152.85, 151.50.Gold market analysisThe XAU/USD pair demonstrates multidirectional dynamics, consolidating around the 2655.00 mark. Trading activity remains restrained, as investors refrain from opening large positions in anticipation of the outcome of the US Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for tomorrow at 21:00 (GMT+2). Most experts predict a 25 basis point reduction in the interest rate to 4.50%, which is already reflected in current prices, so sharp fluctuations in the market in the event of such a decision are not expected. However, the attention of the participants will be focused on the updated long-term forecasts of the regulator on rates, especially given the possible strengthening of monetary policy rigidity due to new import duties proposed by President-elect Donald Trump.The day before, traders were evaluating December data on business activity in the United States. The S&P Global manufacturing sector index fell from 49.7 to 48.3 points, turning out to be worse than analysts' expectations of 49.4 points. At the same time, the indicator for the service sector increased from 56.1 to 58.5 points, significantly exceeding the forecast of 55.7 points, which led to the strengthening of the composite index from 54.9 to 56.6 points. The index of business activity in the manufacturing sector from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York in December fell from 31.2 to 0.2 points, noticeably diverging from market expectations at 12.0 points. Today, investors will be watching the November data on retail sales and industrial production in the United States. Retail sales are forecast to accelerate growth from 0.4% to 0.5%, while industrial production may add 0.3% after falling 0.3% in October. These indicators may give the markets additional guidance on the further dynamics of gold before the key decisions of the Fed.Resistance levels: 2655.00, 2670.00, 2685.56, 2700.00.Support levels: 2643.41, 2630.00, 2613.50, 2600.00.Coffee market analysisDuring the morning trading session on Tuesday, December 17, Arabica coffee quotations on the New York ICE exchange traded at 159.2 cents per pound, showing a decrease of 0.65% compared to the previous session. Market pressure continues to be exerted by signals of a possible increase in supply amid improving weather conditions in Brazil and Colombia.The economic situation in Brazil remains the focus of traders' attention. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), the Arabica coffee harvest in 2024 may grow by 6.2% year-on-year to 41.6 million bags, due to an improvement in the precipitation situation in key regions. However, persistent inflation (the CPI consumer price index in November was 4.6% year-on-year against the forecast of 4.4%) and rising logistics costs continue to limit the volume of exports. In November, coffee exports from Brazil decreased by 8.9% compared to the same period last year, amounting to 3.2 million bags.The Colombian National Committee of Coffee Producers reported yesterday that production in November decreased by 3.5% due to prolonged rains and problems with the delivery of fertilizers. At the same time, demand for coffee remains stable: according to the International Coffee Organization (ICO), global coffee imports increased by 2.1% to 11.3 million bags in October, reflecting high purchase volumes from the United States and European Union countries. European traders are also optimistic about German retail sales data for November, which will be published this week, and may show an increase from 0.3% to 0.5%. Today at 17:00 (GMT+2), a report on coffee stocks in ICE exchange certification warehouses is expected: analysts expect a 1.4% reduction in stocks, which may become a supporting factor for prices. Tomorrow at 16:30 (GMT+2), a report from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) on forecasts of global coffee production and stocks for 2025 will be released.Resistance levels: 162.0, 164.5.Support levels: 158.0, 155.5.

EUR/USD: the euro is looking for a boost from the 1.0460 levelDuring the Asian session, the EUR/USD pair strengthened by 0.12%, reaching 1.0515, continuing to develop positive dynamics after the decision of the European Central Bank (ECB) to reduce the interest rate by 25 basis points to 3.15%.ECB President Christine Lagarde stressed that the eurozone economy is facing a slowdown in growth against the backdrop of continuing high inflation. She also said that the regulator's next steps will depend on incoming macroeconomic data. Investors' attention was focused on the data on industrial production in the eurozone published on Friday: the index for October showed zero dynamics on a monthly basis and a decrease of 1.2% year-on-year, indicating a continuation of the negative trend. In addition, Germany presented weak statistics on foreign trade. Exports decreased by 2.8%, which turned out to be worse than the forecast of -2.0%, and imports decreased by 0.1% with an expected -0.6%. Nevertheless, the trade surplus increased to 13.4 billion euros. These data reinforced concerns about a slowdown in the EU's largest economy, which is likely to maintain the ECB's dovish position in the short term.Resistance levels: 1.0630, 1.0720, 1.0825.Support levels: 1.0460, 1.0290.USD/CHF: the pair is testing the resistance of 0.8920 against the background of the NBSH decisionThe USD/CHF pair is holding at 0.8908, trying to overcome the resistance of 0.8920 after the unexpected decision of the Swiss National Bank to reduce the interest rate by 50 basis points at once to 0.50%. Most analysts' forecasts suggested a more modest decrease of 25 basis points.The head of the Swiss National Bank, Martin Schlegel, explained that the slowdown in inflation in November turned out to be higher than experts' expectations, which makes it possible to accelerate the achievement of the regulator's monetary goals. At the same time, the weakening of business activity recorded in recent months required a more significant reduction in the cost of borrowing to stimulate the economy. The regulator also stressed its readiness to carry out currency interventions depending on the market situation, noting that a return to negative rates in the near future is unlikely. Against the background of these statements, the Swiss franc weakened, which supported the growth of the USD/CHF pair. This dynamic is developing within the framework of an uptrend that began back in October, and indicates a possible continuation of the strengthening of the US currency in the short term.Resistance levels: 0.8920, 0.9050.Support levels: 0.8755, 0.8625.USD/CAD: quotes have stabilized at peak valuesDuring morning trading, the USD/CAD pair remains near the 1.4220 mark, not far from the April 2020 highs reached at the end of last week. The market remains low in activity, as traders expect the start of the two-day meeting of the US Federal Reserve System on December 17-18. Most of the participants are confident that the regulator will reduce the interest rate by 25 basis points to 4.5% per annum, and will also provide comments on the further strategy.Today at 16:45 (GMT+2), data on business activity indices in the manufacturing sector and the US service sector from S&P Global will be announced. Analysts predict that the values will remain at the same level: 49.7 points and 56.1 points, respectively. In addition, at 22:45 (GMT+2), the head of the Bank of Canada, Tifa Macklem, is scheduled to speak. Tomorrow, the market's attention will focus on November inflation data in Canada: according to forecasts, the monthly change in the consumer price index will be 0.0% against the previous value of 0.4%, and the annual indicator will remain at 2.0%. Core inflation is likely to remain at 0.4% on a monthly basis and 1.7% on an annual basis.Resistance levels: 1.4250, 1.4300, 1.4350, 1.4400.Support levels: 1.4200, 1.4145, 1.4100, 1.4050.AUD/USD: the decline in business activity in Australia undermines the growth of the pairThe AUD/USD pair is moving in a sideways trend near the 0.6375 level, continuing to show negative dynamics. The slowdown in activity against the background of limited trading in the US dollar could not significantly change the overall picture of the market.The national currency remains under pressure from weak macroeconomic statistics, despite the Reserve Bank of Australia maintaining the interest rate at 4.35%. The December data reflected a decline in business activity: the index in the manufacturing sector fell from 49.4 to 48.2 points, remaining in negative territory for the tenth month in a row, and the indicator in the service sector decreased from 50.5 to 50.4 points. The positive dynamics of the labor market in November somewhat smoothed out the overall negative: employment increased by 35.6 thousand against the forecast of 25.0 thousand, and the unemployment rate fell to 3.9%, exceeding analysts' expectations of 4.2%. However, the weak manufacturing sector and limited support from fundamental factors make it difficult for the Australian dollar to rise. The probability of a strengthening of the national currency remains minimal, as the RBA maintains its current course to keep inflation down, avoiding radical changes in monetary policy.Support levels: 0.6350, 0.6240.Resistance levels: 0.6400, 0.6530.

EUR/GBP: ECB ended the year by lowering all three key ratesThe EUR/GBP pair is showing smooth growth, continuing to strengthen after the bullish momentum recorded the day before. The quotes have retreated from the minimum values of March 2022 and are trying to break through the 0.8260 mark, showing stable upward dynamics.The British economy did not meet analysts' expectations for gross domestic product (GDP) for October. Instead of the expected growth of 0.1%, the indicator remained at -0.1%. Industrial production volumes also disappointed: in annual terms, the decrease was 0.7%, although growth of 0.2% was predicted, and on a monthly basis, the indicator fell by 0.6% instead of the expected 0.3%. This weak statistic increases the uncertainty surrounding the decisions of the Bank of England, whose next meeting is scheduled for December 19.Investors are analyzing the results of the meeting of the European Central Bank (ECB) held the day before, where rates were reduced by 25 basis points. The key rate is now 3.15%, the margin rate is 3.40%, and the deposit rate is 3.00%. ECB President Christine Lagarde noted that domestic inflation is declining, but remains high, as the adaptation of wages and prices has not yet been completed. Forecasts for economic growth in the region have been revised downward: for 2024, the forecast is 0.7% instead of 0.8%, for 2025 — 1.1% instead of 1.3%, and for 2026 — 1.4% instead of 1.5%. Market participants' expectations are inclined to a more active reduction in ECB rates compared to the US Federal Reserve next year.Resistance levels: 0.8280, 0.8294, 0.8310, 0.8326.Support levels: 0.8259, 0.8238, 0.8223, 0.8200.USD/CHF: restoring the dominance of the American currencyThe USD/CHF pair is consolidating at 0.8927, demonstrating a corrective trend and willingness to continue moving up due to the strengthening of the US dollar.The Swiss National Bank maintains the stability of the franc through a dovish policy. The regulator lowered the interest rate to 0.50%, deviating from forecasts suggesting a decrease to 0.75% by 25 basis points. The regulator's statement emphasizes that the decrease in inflation in November turned out to be better than expected, which accelerates the achievement of monetary policy goals. In addition, the decision is due to low business activity, requiring affordable loans for recovery. Switzerland's economic prospects remain subdued, but analysts predict that GDP growth could reach 1.0–1.5% in 2025. This level will help to stabilize key economic processes and accelerate market recovery.Resistance levels: 0.8960, 0.9100.Support levels: 0.8890, 0.8780.NZD/USD: household spending in New Zealand remains under pressureThe NZD/USD pair is showing growth, reaching the level of 0.5765, despite the continued strengthening of the US currency.The New Zealand dollar continues to move within the downward trend due to signs of slowing economic activity. According to the National Statistical Service of New Zealand (Stats.nz ), the volume of sales of electronic cards, reflecting the level of consumer spending, did not change in monthly terms in November, and the annual indicator deteriorated from -1.1% to -2.3%, remaining in negative territory for nine consecutive months. Among the key categories, spending growth was observed in the hospitality sector (+1.4%) and fuel purchases (+1.3%). At the same time, the largest decrease was recorded in spending on vehicle maintenance (-0.3%), the purchase of clothing and shoes (-1.0%), as well as durable goods (-0.2%).Resistance levels: 0.5800, 0.5920.Support levels: 0.5740, 0.5630.Platinum market analysisThis week, the XPT/USD pair showed diverse dynamics: starting with an increase in the area of 956.55, the quotes could not hold their positions and rolled back to 931.00, remaining under the influence of uncertainty about the upcoming actions of the US Federal Reserve System.The market expects that at the final meeting of the year, the regulator will reduce the interest rate by 25 basis points to 4.50%. However, the further trajectory of monetary policy raises questions. The unemployment rate rose to 4.2% in November, but inflation figures continue to rise. Thus, the consumer price index increased to 2.7%, and the producer price index recorded a third month of growth, reaching 3.0%, which exceeds the target values. Against this background, it is possible to suspend the easing cycle or significantly reduce its pace, which may limit the rate correction to one or two times a year. If, after the US Federal Reserve meeting, signals are heard about the suspension of the "dovish" exchange rate, this will put pressure on safe haven assets, including platinum. On the contrary, statements of readiness to continue lowering rates may help strengthen the position of metals against the dollar.Resistance levels: 968.75, 1000.00, 1031.25.Support levels: 926.70, 906.25, 875.00.

EUR/USD: slowing inflation has increased pressure on the euroThe EUR/USD pair is trading near the 1.0505 level in morning trading on December 12, showing a moderate decrease of 0.23% from the level of the previous session. The pressure on the European currency remains against the background of ambiguous macroeconomic data from the eurozone and expectations of further comments from the European Central Bank (ECB).Last week, preliminary GDP data for the third quarter were published in the eurozone. Growth was 0.1% on a quarterly basis, which coincided with analysts' expectations, but indicated a slowdown in growth compared with 0.2% in the second quarter. Also, the consumer price index (CPI) in November increased by 0.5% on a monthly basis and 2.4% on an annual basis, which is slightly higher than forecasts of 2.3%. However, Core inflation (Core CPI) slowed from 4.2% to 4.0%, indicating a weakening of inflationary pressures in the eurozone.In the eurozone labor market, the unemployment rate remained at 6.4% in October, which corresponds to historically low values, but the rate of employment growth slowed to 0.1%. The business activity index (PMI) in the services sector, published by S&P Global, amounted to 50.7 points, indicating the stagnation of the sector. Today at 12:00 (GMT+2), the index of business sentiment from the ZEW Institute will be published, where analysts expect a decrease from -5.0 to -7.3 points. Attention will also be focused on the ECB meeting on Thursday, December 14, where the policy on rates may be clarified.Resistance levels: 1.0800, 1.0850.GBP/USD: stability of consumer confidence constrains growthThe GBP/USD pair shows an upward trend, trading near the 1.2240 mark on Thursday, December 12. The exchange rate added 0.42% compared to the level of the previous session, due to the weakening of economic pressure on the pound against the background of published data.Thus, the index of business activity in the UK construction sector (PMI) rose to 52.6 points in November, exceeding analysts' expectations at 51.0 points. Similarly, retail sales in the country showed improvement, increasing by 1.2% on a monthly basis, which exceeded forecasts of 0.8%. Experts attribute the growth to a seasonal increase in demand and the adaptation of the market to current inflationary conditions. However, the GfK consumer confidence index remained unchanged at -28 points, indicating continued consumer caution.In addition, British Finance Minister Jeremy Hunt said that the government will continue to support small businesses in the face of high interest rates, emphasizing the importance of investments in infrastructure and education. At the upcoming meeting of the Bank of England on December 14, investors expect a decision on the key rate, the current level of which is 5.25%. Analysts predict that the rate will remain unchanged, which should stabilize the market. A report on changes in employment in the UK will be published today at 12:30 (GMT+2): analysts expect a decrease in the number of employed by 21.0 thousand, which may put pressure on the pound. In addition, at 16:00 (GMT+2), industrial production data for November will be released, with a projected decrease of 0.2%.Resistance levels: 1.2280, 1.2350.Silver market analysisDuring the Asian session on Thursday, December 12, silver quotations show an upward trend, trading around the level of 32.07 US dollars per troy ounce, which is 0.75% higher than the level of the previous session.The rise in silver prices is supported by the weakening of the US dollar and expectations of changes in the monetary policy of the Federal Reserve System (Fed). Recent data showed a slowdown in inflation in the United States: the consumer price index (CPI) increased by 0.2% month-on-month and 3.1% year-on-year in November, which is lower than the October figures of 0.3% and 3.5%, respectively. In addition, the unemployment rate remained at 3.8%, which is in line with analysts' expectations. In such circumstances, investors assume that the Fed may refrain from further raising interest rates in the near future, which puts pressure on the dollar and contributes to higher prices for precious metals.Industrial demand for silver is also influenced by the economic performance of China, one of the largest consumers of this metal. In November, the business activity index (PMI) in the Chinese manufacturing sector amounted to 50.5 points, exceeding analysts' forecasts of 50.2 points and the October figure of 50.1 points. The improvement in business activity in China contributes to an increase in demand for silver used in various industries, which supports the growth of its value.Resistance levels: 32.50, 33.00.Coffee market analysisDuring the morning trading session on Thursday, December 12, quotations of coffee (Arabica) on the New York ICE exchange showed growth, reaching 162.5 cents per pound, which is 0.88% higher than the closing level of the previous session. Investors are reacting to news about declining yields in major producing countries amid adverse weather conditions.Weather conditions in Brazil, the largest coffee producer, remain a key factor in supply pressures. According to the latest data, precipitation in key arabica growing regions has been 15-20% below normal over the past two months, which may reduce the total harvest by 7%. Additionally, experts note an increase in the cost of fertilizers and fuel, which increases the cost of production. In turn, November's export figures decreased by 12.4% year-on-year, to 2.67 million bags. The Brazilian Association of Coffee Exporters (CECAFE) predicts a further decline in exports in December due to logistical difficulties and limited stocks.Data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) on global coffee production and stocks will be published today at 17:30 (GMT+2). Global production is expected to decrease by 4.7% to 167.2 million bags, which may support the current upward trend in the market. Inflation data in Brazil will also be released at 15:00 (GMT+2): analysts predict an increase from 4.8% to 5.1% year-on-year, which may affect coffee export prices.Resistance levels: 165.0, 168.5.

EUR/USD: the market is preparing for the ECB's decision to lower key ratesThe EUR/USD pair shows a multidirectional movement, trading around the 1.0520 mark. Market activity remains low, as traders are waiting for the publication of key data on inflation in the United States, which may set the tone for further dynamics of the instrument.Tomorrow at 15:15 (GMT+2), the European Central Bank (ECB) plans to announce a reduction in three main interest rates — key, margin and deposit — by 25 basis points, bringing them to 3.15%, 3.00% and 3.40%, respectively. These measures are due to a slowdown in growth in major eurozone economies such as Germany and France, where business sentiment continues to remain low. The problems are most acute in the manufacturing and service sectors. However, experts emphasize that the current monetary policy of the ECB has an impact: inflation in the eurozone remains controlled. In November, the consumer price index rose from 2.0% to 2.3% in annual terms, in line with forecasts, and on a monthly basis it decreased by 0.3% after a similar increase a month earlier. The underlying indicator also strengthened to 2.8% year-on-year, despite a decrease in monthly terms. ECB President Christine Lagarde will hold a press conference at 17:15 (GMT+2), where she will announce the results of the meeting and, possibly, share forecasts for the further development of the region's economy. Market participants are waiting for her comments on the strategy of the financial authorities against the background of continuing global uncertainty and prospects for subsequent easing of monetary policy.Resistance levels: 1.0554, 1.0600, 1.0629, 1.0665.Support levels: 1.0500, 1.0450, 1.0400, 1.0350.USD/CHF: November inflation in the United States may become a driver for the pairThe USD/CHF pair continues to adjust, trading near the 0.8836 mark, against the background of the publication of neutral macroeconomic data.The Swiss consumer price index in November decreased by 0.1% month-on-month and rose from 0.6% to 0.7% year-on-year, remaining at minimum levels among the G10 countries. This is significantly below the target range of 0.0–2.0% indicated by the Swiss National Bank. As a result, experts are increasingly confident in the continuation of monetary policy easing: at the December 12 meeting, the interest rate is expected to decrease by 25 basis points to 0.75%. Forecasts suggest that by the end of 2025, the rate may drop to the range of 0.00–0.25%.The US dollar remains stable, trading around the 106.00 mark in USDX, in anticipation of November inflation data, which will be released today at 15:30 (GMT+2). The general consumer price index is expected to grow from 2.6% to 2.7% in annual terms and from 0.2% to 0.3% on a monthly basis. Core inflation, excluding food and energy prices, is likely to remain at 3.3% year-on-year and 0.3% month-on-month. Such data may support further Fed rate cuts of 25 basis points in December, however, the regulator may consider the possibility of a pause in policy easing early next year, given the risk of accelerating inflation under the influence of economic reforms of the administration of President-elect Donald Trump.Resistance levels: 0.8860, 0.9000.Support levels: 0.8800, 0.8680.USD/JPY: the pair maintains positions below the key zone of 157.70–152.00The USD/JPY pair shows sideways dynamics in the area of 151.54, where the yen is trying to strengthen its position against the background of a neutral movement of the US currency and expectations of a tightening policy by the Bank of Japan at the upcoming meeting.After the publication of key macroeconomic indicators, including data on the labor market and inflation, Japan's gross domestic product (GDP) in the third quarter reduced its growth rate from 0.5% to 0.3%, which coincided with analysts' expectations and confirmed the stability of the economy. Judging by the latest comments, the Bank of Japan may raise the interest rate at its meeting on December 19. Additionally, the price index for corporate goods in November remained at 0.3% month-on-month, while the annual rate increased from 3.6% to 3.7%. However, preliminary statistics on orders in mechanical engineering showed a sharp slowdown from 9.3% to 3.0%, reflecting the pressure of geopolitical factors and a decrease in foreign demand. The decision of the Bank of Japan will largely depend on the results of the meeting of the US Federal Reserve System scheduled for December 17-18. If the US regulator leaves the rate unchanged or reduces it by 25 basis points, the probability of raising the Japanese rate by a similar amount will increase significantly.Resistance levels: 152.40, 155.40.Support levels: 150.60, 146.90.Oil market analysisDuring morning trading, WTI Crude Oil demonstrates the strengthening of the "bullish" momentum that began at the beginning of the week. Quotes reached the level of 68.70, trying to overcome it against the background of stabilization of the situation in Syria, which previously could have caused disruptions in the supply of raw materials. At the same time, the projected growth in fuel demand in China next year has a restraining effect on the downward trend. Meanwhile, representatives of Saudi Aramco, the largest oil exporter, reported a decrease in supply prices for Asian countries in January 2025 to the lowest values since the beginning of 2021, due to weakening demand from China.Today at 15:30 (GMT+2), the market expects the publication of inflation data in the United States. Forecasts suggest an increase in the consumer price index in annual terms from 2.6% to 2.7% and on a monthly basis from 0.2% to 0.3%. The basic indicator, excluding volatile categories of goods, may remain at the level of 3.3% year—on-year and 0.3% month-on-month. Analysts believe that these data are unlikely to change current expectations for a 25 basis point interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve at its December 17-18 meeting. According to the FedWatch Tool, the probability of such an outcome is estimated at 90.0%.Additionally, the attention of market participants is focused on data from the American Petroleum Institute (API), which recorded an increase in oil reserves for the week from 1,232 million to 0.499 million barrels, with a forecast decrease of 1.3 million barrels. Today at 17:30 (GMT+2), the Energy Information Administration (EIA) will publish its report: reserves are projected to decrease by 1.3 million barrels after falling by 5.073 million barrels earlier. The EIA also adjusted production forecasts: for 2023, the value was increased by 10 thousand barrels per day to 13.24 million, and for 2025, it was reduced by the same amount to 13.52 million barrels per day. The demand for oil, according to the ministry, this year decreased by 100 thousand barrels per day to 103.03 million, and the forecast for 2025 was reduced by 30 thousand barrels per day to 104.32 million.Resistance levels: 69.06, 69.47, 70.00, 71.00.Support levels: 68.30, 67.53, 67.00, 66.48.