By: Barbara Zigah Commodity linked currencies, including the common currency Euro and the Australian Dollar, rebounded in Asian trading today with the Euro rising against the U.S. Dollar to $1.4387, a gain of 0.4%. More than any other single factor, the Euro is continuing to gain support from interest rate hike speculation, and recent encouraging business activity data from France and Germany supports that likelihood. Another commodity linked currency, the Australian Dollar, also struck a new 29-year high against the U.S. Dollar, trading at $1.0599.
Analysts say market jitteriness is being soothed by upbeat earnings reports in the U.S. and Europe, and investor sentiment is leaning toward higher risk currencies as the market well absorbed earlier concerns over Greek debt and a U.S. debt downgrade.
One analyst noted that investors are favoring currencies which offer higher yields at the Dollar and Yen’s expense, and a recent rise in the Asian equity market highlights investors’ sentiment toward risk-taking. The U.S. Dollar rose against the Japanese Yen, gaining 0.4% to trade at 82.91 Yen. The Euro also gained against the Japanese currency, climbing nearly 0.8% to trade at 119.27 Yen, well off a 2-week low of 116.49 Yen struck on the EBS trading platform earlier in the week.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Euro-Rebounds-in-Asia-on-Interest-Rate-Hike-Speculation/7726
Ireland Downgrade Only Marginally Affects Euro
By: Barbara Zigah According to some analysts, the divergence of the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy from that of the European Central Bank’s is what is driving the disparity between the U.S. Dollar and the common currency Euro. The Euro’s appreciation against the greenback appears proof of that theory, with the common currency hovering close to a 15-month high against the U.S. Dollar in Asian trading today.
As reported at 2:46 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro is trading against the greenback at $1.4472, edging back 0.1% from late Thursday trading in New York but still within striking distance of the $1.4521 peak struck earlier in the week. Most market players don’t believe the Euro will face difficulty rising above $1.45, especially given the Eurozone’s debt problems and with Irelands’ credit rating being downgraded earlier today.
Recent rhetoric from several Federal Reserve officials has increased investor speculation that the central bank’s ultra loose monetary policy is likely to remain as such for an extended length of time. Collectively, the position of the Fed is that inflation – and the subsequent hikes in the prices of commodities – remains transitory and manageable by the current policy. The European Central Bank, conversely, continues to closely watch inflationary pressures and acknowledges that it is ready to move again with additional interest rate hikes if the situation warrants.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Ireland-Downgrade-Only-Marginally-Affects-Euro/7698
As reported at 2:46 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro is trading against the greenback at $1.4472, edging back 0.1% from late Thursday trading in New York but still within striking distance of the $1.4521 peak struck earlier in the week. Most market players don’t believe the Euro will face difficulty rising above $1.45, especially given the Eurozone’s debt problems and with Irelands’ credit rating being downgraded earlier today.
Recent rhetoric from several Federal Reserve officials has increased investor speculation that the central bank’s ultra loose monetary policy is likely to remain as such for an extended length of time. Collectively, the position of the Fed is that inflation – and the subsequent hikes in the prices of commodities – remains transitory and manageable by the current policy. The European Central Bank, conversely, continues to closely watch inflationary pressures and acknowledges that it is ready to move again with additional interest rate hikes if the situation warrants.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Ireland-Downgrade-Only-Marginally-Affects-Euro/7698
Yen Slips Further while Euro Buoyed by Rate Hike
By: Barbara Zigah A day after a second earthquake struck the beleaguered island nation, the Japanese Yen fell broadly, striking multi-month lows against the U.S. Dollar and the common currency Euro. As reported at 1:22 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Yen slipped against the U.S. Dollar to 85.140 Yen, a 0.3% decline and close to the 6-month low struck earlier in the week. The Yen also fell against the Euro, trading at 122.47 Yen, a decline of 0.7%, off from the 11-month low of 122.630 Yen hit on the EBS trading platform. As desired by the Bank of Japan, the Yen appears on the verge of weakening further says one forex head in Singapore.
The Euro is being buoyed by yesterday’s announcement of an ECB rate hike of 25 basis points. Against the U.S. Dollar the Euro struck a 15-month peak, trading at one point to a high of $1.4405. Investors had been keen to hear the press conference held afterward by Jean-Claude Trichet, the ECB President, but the bank’s direction remains somewhat unclear with the Bank in wait-and-see mode. Some economists are expecting that the ECB will hold the rate in check through July, when rising inflation will likely prompt another hike.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Yen-Slips-Further-while-Euro-Buoyed-by-Rate-Hike/7644
The Euro is being buoyed by yesterday’s announcement of an ECB rate hike of 25 basis points. Against the U.S. Dollar the Euro struck a 15-month peak, trading at one point to a high of $1.4405. Investors had been keen to hear the press conference held afterward by Jean-Claude Trichet, the ECB President, but the bank’s direction remains somewhat unclear with the Bank in wait-and-see mode. Some economists are expecting that the ECB will hold the rate in check through July, when rising inflation will likely prompt another hike.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Yen-Slips-Further-while-Euro-Buoyed-by-Rate-Hike/7644
Japanese Yen Continues Downtrend with G7 Intervention
By: Barbara Zigah The Japanese Yen slipped lower against the common currency and the Australian Dollar in Asian trading today, and analysts expect further weakening as risk appetite increases, generally. As reported at 2:52 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo at one point in the session on the EBS trading platform the Euro traded against the Yen at 123.33 Yen, a 16% gain from the mid-March trough of 106.50 Yen, before trimming gains to 122.62 Yen. The Australian Dollar also struck a 2 ½ year high against the Yen, when it struck 90.04 Yen earlier in the session; later, some of the gains were pared when it traded at 89.64 Yen still higher by 0.1%.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Japanese-Yen-Continues-Downtrend-with-G7-Intervention/7649
According to analysts, the Japanese central bank is likely to lag behind other countries’ central banks in order to give their nation a chance to recover from the tragic earthquake and tsunami which struck last month. The Japanese economy had been in a long period of stagflation, and most analysts agree that this event will likely shift the economy’s direction. The Japanese Yen had been a consistently strong currency prior to the earthquake, and repatriated flows endanger its resumption. The G7 has been collectively and successfully working to suppress the Yen’s rise.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Japanese-Yen-Continues-Downtrend-with-G7-Intervention/7649
Eurozone Debt Worries Resurface to Hold Euro Lower vs Dollar/Yen
By: Barbara Zigah In Asian trading today, as investor focus returns to Eurozone fiscal problems the common currency Euro extended earlier losses against the greenback after failing to break above key resistance. As reported at 2:51 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro slipped against the U.S. Dollar to $1.4377, a 0.4% after another failed attempt to break above $1.45. The Euro also fell against the Japanese Yen, slipping to 118.94 Yen on the EBS trading platform, adding to last week’s losses.
The newest concern among market players is Finland, which last week’s regional elections sent the True Finns political party, considered anti-Euro by many political watchers, to the Finnish Parliament. According to the that government’s constitution, the Finnish parliament has the constitutional right to vote on all European Union requests for bailout assistance, suggesting it could hold up E.U. aid plans for Portugal specifically, as well as create instability, in general.
The only thing propping up the Euro at this point is that prospect that the European Central Bank will move to raise interest rates again following the recent data which showed Eurozone inflation rising higher to 2.7% as compared to the same period a year earlier; economists had expected an increase to 2.6% last month.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Eurozone-Debt-Worries-Resurface-to-Hold-Euro-Lower-vs-Dollar-Yen/7704
The newest concern among market players is Finland, which last week’s regional elections sent the True Finns political party, considered anti-Euro by many political watchers, to the Finnish Parliament. According to the that government’s constitution, the Finnish parliament has the constitutional right to vote on all European Union requests for bailout assistance, suggesting it could hold up E.U. aid plans for Portugal specifically, as well as create instability, in general.
The only thing propping up the Euro at this point is that prospect that the European Central Bank will move to raise interest rates again following the recent data which showed Eurozone inflation rising higher to 2.7% as compared to the same period a year earlier; economists had expected an increase to 2.6% last month.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Eurozone-Debt-Worries-Resurface-to-Hold-Euro-Lower-vs-Dollar-Yen/7704
U.S. Dollar Index Strikes 16-Month Trough in Asia
By: Barbara Zigah The U.S. Dollar Index slipped to a new 16-month low in Asian trading today as investor speculation that the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank might alter its currently loose monetary policy grows more remote. The U.S. Dollar Index, which gauges the greenback’s strength versus a weighted basket of major currencies slipped to 74.676 .DXY, a year to date loss of nearly 5%. Yesterday’s publication of the Federal Reserve Beige Book essentially confirmed the Fed’s view on inflation as temporary, with little to no likelihood that QE3 was in the making.
The common currency Euro, on the other hand, is approaching highs against the U.S. Dollar, as investors speculate that the ECB will continue to tighten monetary policy following the recently implemented interest rate hike. As reported at 2:58 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro gained nearly 0.5% to trade at $1.4508, close to the 15-month peak of $1.4521. The U.S. Dollar also fell lower against the Japanese Yen, trading at one point at 83.20 Yen on the EBS trading platform, and well off the 6½ month peak of 85.55 Yen struck last week. One FX strategist in London pointed out that the U.S. Dollar has no new factors on which to rise, since it appears obvious that the Federal Reserve is not going to change its current stance anytime soon, given lingering high unemployment.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/U.S.-Dollar-Index-Strikes-16-Month-Trough-in-Asia/7684
The common currency Euro, on the other hand, is approaching highs against the U.S. Dollar, as investors speculate that the ECB will continue to tighten monetary policy following the recently implemented interest rate hike. As reported at 2:58 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro gained nearly 0.5% to trade at $1.4508, close to the 15-month peak of $1.4521. The U.S. Dollar also fell lower against the Japanese Yen, trading at one point at 83.20 Yen on the EBS trading platform, and well off the 6½ month peak of 85.55 Yen struck last week. One FX strategist in London pointed out that the U.S. Dollar has no new factors on which to rise, since it appears obvious that the Federal Reserve is not going to change its current stance anytime soon, given lingering high unemployment.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/U.S.-Dollar-Index-Strikes-16-Month-Trough-in-Asia/7684
As ECB Meeting Looms, Euro Falls
By: Barbara Zigah Ahead of the European Central Bank’s policy and rate setting meeting which is set to begin later in the global day, the common currency fell from multi-month peaks against the Japanese Yen and the U.S. Dollar. The ECB has strongly hinted that an interest rate increase would be forthcoming, but now investors are pondering exactly how much of one might be under consideration. Most analysts expect an increase of 25 basis points for this, the first ECB rate hike in nearly three years. There is some speculation that by November the rate could be as much as 100 basis points higher, which the market already appears to be pricing in.
While the interest rate hike is not yet a done deal, many economists are suggesting that given the fiscal state of several of the Eurozone nations, i.e. Portugal, Spain, Greece, etc., an interest rate hike will be more harmful than good.
As reported at 2:57 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro slipped against the U.S. Dollar, trading at $1.4297 following yesterday’s surge to $1.4350. Near term support is pegged around $1.4285 to $1.4250; some currency strategists say that if the Euro can’t rise well above $1.4282, it could retreat to near $1.4160. Against the Yen, the Euro was trading at121.77 Yen following yesterday’s 11-month peak. Most analysts agree that the long-term outlook for the Yen is on a downtrend.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/As-ECB-Meeting-Looms-Euro-Falls/7631
While the interest rate hike is not yet a done deal, many economists are suggesting that given the fiscal state of several of the Eurozone nations, i.e. Portugal, Spain, Greece, etc., an interest rate hike will be more harmful than good.
As reported at 2:57 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro slipped against the U.S. Dollar, trading at $1.4297 following yesterday’s surge to $1.4350. Near term support is pegged around $1.4285 to $1.4250; some currency strategists say that if the Euro can’t rise well above $1.4282, it could retreat to near $1.4160. Against the Yen, the Euro was trading at121.77 Yen following yesterday’s 11-month peak. Most analysts agree that the long-term outlook for the Yen is on a downtrend.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/As-ECB-Meeting-Looms-Euro-Falls/7631
Dollar and Yen Strengthen After New Earthquakes Hit
By: Sara Patterson It’s been a month since the major earthquake that shook Japan, but a recent, smaller earthquake is causing the Yen to strengthen further. The currency was at 120.81 per Euro, up 1.1% from 122.12 in New York at the close of yesterday’s trading day. This is the Yen’s biggest daily gain since March 16. In JPY-USD trading, the Yen increased to 83.88 per dollar, up from 84.60. The US dollar also climbed yesterday, from $1.4436 to $1.44 per Euro.
In light of the recent disasters in Japan, the International Monetary Fund reduced its forecast for Japanese growth from 1.6 to 1.4. This behavior is typical for the Japanese currency during times of disaster. The IMF’s forecast for 2012 was raised from 1.8 percent to 2.1 percent.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Dollar-and-Yen-Strengthen-After-New-Earthquakes-Hit/7667
In light of the recent disasters in Japan, the International Monetary Fund reduced its forecast for Japanese growth from 1.6 to 1.4. This behavior is typical for the Japanese currency during times of disaster. The IMF’s forecast for 2012 was raised from 1.8 percent to 2.1 percent.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Dollar-and-Yen-Strengthen-After-New-Earthquakes-Hit/7667
U.S. Dollar Lower Against Yen as Investors Reposition for Yen Slide
By: Barbara Zigah
The U.S. Dollar edged slightly lower against the Japanese Yen in Tokyo trading as investors pared away their carry trade positions, but most analysts expect that move will be short-lived with hedge fund operators and Japan-based life insurers positioning themselves ahead of what is likely to be another Yen slide. As reported at 3:13 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the U.S. Dollar slipped against the Yen to 82.42 Yen, off a 3-week trough of 82.19 Yen. Speculation is that Japanese hedge funds and life insurers will buy back the greenback for Treasury and debt purchases as and when it falls nearer to 82 Yen.
The Euro, yesterday, took a hard hit as investors’ fears resurfaced that Greek debt will need restructuring within the next few months, well ahead of the launch of the permanent stability mechanism. Also, the United States has been cautioned with a negative outlook by yet another ratings agency, this time Standard & Poors, that their current AAA credit rating is in jeopardy of being downgraded unless the deficit problem is addressed soon. One analyst said that while the negative outlook might have come as a jolt, it was really no surprise to anyone and that markets should absorb fairly well.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/U.S.-Dollar-Lower-Against-Yen-as-Investors-Reposition-for-Yen-Slide/7720
The U.S. Dollar edged slightly lower against the Japanese Yen in Tokyo trading as investors pared away their carry trade positions, but most analysts expect that move will be short-lived with hedge fund operators and Japan-based life insurers positioning themselves ahead of what is likely to be another Yen slide. As reported at 3:13 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the U.S. Dollar slipped against the Yen to 82.42 Yen, off a 3-week trough of 82.19 Yen. Speculation is that Japanese hedge funds and life insurers will buy back the greenback for Treasury and debt purchases as and when it falls nearer to 82 Yen.
The Euro, yesterday, took a hard hit as investors’ fears resurfaced that Greek debt will need restructuring within the next few months, well ahead of the launch of the permanent stability mechanism. Also, the United States has been cautioned with a negative outlook by yet another ratings agency, this time Standard & Poors, that their current AAA credit rating is in jeopardy of being downgraded unless the deficit problem is addressed soon. One analyst said that while the negative outlook might have come as a jolt, it was really no surprise to anyone and that markets should absorb fairly well.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/U.S.-Dollar-Lower-Against-Yen-as-Investors-Reposition-for-Yen-Slide/7720
Absence of Bad News Sends Yen Lower
By: Barbara Zigah
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Absence-of-Bad-News-Sends-Yen-Lower/7677
The U.S. Dollar rose against the Japanese Yen in Tokyo trading today as pension fund operators in Japan, as well as Japanese importers, bought the greenback heavily. As reported at 3:04 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the U.S. Dollar was trading against the Yen at 84.04 Yen, up from the 83.59 Yen in New York trading late Tuesday. Earlier in the session, the Dollar had slipped close to the 200-month moving average of 83.50 Yen. The Euro was also higher against the Yen, trading at 121.67 Yen on the EBS trading platform, up from the 120.98 Yen trade late in New York yesterday.
The Japanese Yen had been sent soaring in yesterday’s trade as safe haven investors pushed the currency higher following the announcement by the Japan Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency that they had raised the threat rating of the Fukushima nuclear plant accident to a level equivalent to that of Chernobyl.
Today’s absence of bad news, generally, is apparently driving risk appetite higher, sending the Yen lower again. Most analysts agree that the USD/JPY will be testing the upside for the near term.
Later today, focus should shift to the U.S. where retail sales data is expected to be released; further on in the global day, the U.S. Federal Reserve’s Beige Book update will also be released, providing a behind-the-scenes indication of the U.S. economy’s direction. The U.S. Dollar Index, a gauge of the greenback’s value versus other major currencies, was recently at 79.906 .DXY, up from 74.863 .DXY.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Absence-of-Bad-News-Sends-Yen-Lower/7677
Yen Continues to Slip Broadly Lower Under G7 Manipulation
By: Barbara Zigah The Japanese Yen continues to broadly decline following last month’s devastating earthquake and tsunami in Japan, and with the concerted efforts of the G7 to keep the Japanese currency from appreciating during this reconstruction period. In Asian trading, the Yen struck an 11-month low against the common currency Euro, and a 2½ year trough against the Australian Dollar. Versus the U.S. Dollar, the Yen fell to a 6-month low. Most market players expect a prolonged period of weakness in the Yen, not only because of the G7 interventions but because the Bank of Japan is now likely to be among the last of the central banks to consider raising interest rates.
As reported at 3:20 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Yen fell against the Euro to 121.91 Yen on the EBS trading platform, an 11-month low. Against the Aussie, the Yen slipped 0.7%, trading at 88.27 Yen, while against the greenback the Yen slipped 0.5% to 83.50 Yen.
Beginning today through tomorrow, officials from the Bank of Japan will be meeting to discuss policy in the wake of the crisis. Most analysts expect that they will signal their willingness for further easing measures, if necessary.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Yen-Continues-to-Slip-Broadly-Lower-Under-G7-Manipulation/7620
As reported at 3:20 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Yen fell against the Euro to 121.91 Yen on the EBS trading platform, an 11-month low. Against the Aussie, the Yen slipped 0.7%, trading at 88.27 Yen, while against the greenback the Yen slipped 0.5% to 83.50 Yen.
Beginning today through tomorrow, officials from the Bank of Japan will be meeting to discuss policy in the wake of the crisis. Most analysts expect that they will signal their willingness for further easing measures, if necessary.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Yen-Continues-to-Slip-Broadly-Lower-Under-G7-Manipulation/7620
Absence of Bad News Sends Yen Lower
By: Barbara Zigah
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Absence-of-Bad-News-Sends-Yen-Lower/7677
The U.S. Dollar rose against the Japanese Yen in Tokyo trading today as pension fund operators in Japan, as well as Japanese importers, bought the greenback heavily. As reported at 3:04 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the U.S. Dollar was trading against the Yen at 84.04 Yen, up from the 83.59 Yen in New York trading late Tuesday. Earlier in the session, the Dollar had slipped close to the 200-month moving average of 83.50 Yen. The Euro was also higher against the Yen, trading at 121.67 Yen on the EBS trading platform, up from the 120.98 Yen trade late in New York yesterday. The Japanese Yen had been sent soaring in yesterday’s trade as safe haven investors pushed the currency higher following the announcement by the Japan Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency that they had raised the threat rating of the Fukushima nuclear plant accident to a level equivalent to that of Chernobyl. Today’s absence of bad news, generally, is apparently driving risk appetite higher, sending the Yen lower again. Most analysts agree that the USD/JPY will be testing the upside for the near term. Later today, focus should shift to the U.S. where retail sales data is expected to be released; further on in the global day, the U.S. Federal Reserve’s Beige Book update will also be released, providing a behind-the-scenes indication of the U.S. economy’s direction. The U.S. Dollar Index, a gauge of the greenback’s value versus other major currencies, was recently at 79.906 .DXY, up from 74.863 .DXY.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Absence-of-Bad-News-Sends-Yen-Lower/7677
Aussie Dollar Slips Following RBA Rate Decision
By: Barbara Zigah Following the Reserve Bank of Australia’s announcement that their policy and rate setting committee decided to hold key interest rates at 4.75%, the Australian Dollar slipped against the U.S. Dollar; as reported at 2:58 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Aussie dropped to $1.0329, a 0.3% decline. With inflationary pressure not quite the problem in Australia as it is elsewhere in the world, the RBA’s decision ha been widely expected by a consensus of economists.
Elsewhere, the Euro held steady just below a 5-month peak versus the U.S. Dollar, as investors reassess their positions ahead of the ECB policy setting meeting to be held later this week. Most analysts expect that the European Central Bank will hike the current rate by 25 basis points to 1.25% in an attempt to stave off inflationary pressures in the Eurozone, driven primarily by higher commodity prices. Analysts are expecting that before year’s en, the ECB will have raised their benchmark rate to 1.75%. So far this year, the Euro has gained better than 6% against the greenback. Earlier, the Euro was trading against the U.S. Dollar at $1.4192. Further gains in the Euro are likely to be limited, given that rate hikes are already factored in.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Aussie-Dollar-Slips-Following-RBA-Rate-Decision/7613
Elsewhere, the Euro held steady just below a 5-month peak versus the U.S. Dollar, as investors reassess their positions ahead of the ECB policy setting meeting to be held later this week. Most analysts expect that the European Central Bank will hike the current rate by 25 basis points to 1.25% in an attempt to stave off inflationary pressures in the Eurozone, driven primarily by higher commodity prices. Analysts are expecting that before year’s en, the ECB will have raised their benchmark rate to 1.75%. So far this year, the Euro has gained better than 6% against the greenback. Earlier, the Euro was trading against the U.S. Dollar at $1.4192. Further gains in the Euro are likely to be limited, given that rate hikes are already factored in.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Aussie-Dollar-Slips-Following-RBA-Rate-Decision/7613
Dollar and Yen Strengthen After New Earthquakes Hit
By: Sara Patterson It’s been a month since the major earthquake that shook Japan, but a recent, smaller earthquake is causing the Yen to strengthen further. The currency was at 120.81 per Euro, up 1.1% from 122.12 in New York at the close of yesterday’s trading day. This is the Yen’s biggest daily gain since March 16. In JPY-USD trading, the Yen increased to 83.88 per dollar, up from 84.60. The US dollar also climbed yesterday, from $1.4436 to $1.44 per Euro.
In light of the recent disasters in Japan, the International Monetary Fund reduced its forecast for Japanese growth from 1.6 to 1.4. This behavior is typical for the Japanese currency during times of disaster. The IMF’s forecast for 2012 was raised from 1.8 percent to 2.1 percent.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Dollar-and-Yen-Strengthen-After-New-Earthquakes-Hit/7667
In light of the recent disasters in Japan, the International Monetary Fund reduced its forecast for Japanese growth from 1.6 to 1.4. This behavior is typical for the Japanese currency during times of disaster. The IMF’s forecast for 2012 was raised from 1.8 percent to 2.1 percent.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Dollar-and-Yen-Strengthen-After-New-Earthquakes-Hit/7667
As ECB Meeting Looms, Euro Falls
By: Barbara Zigah Ahead of the European Central Bank’s policy and rate setting meeting which is set to begin later in the global day, the common currency fell from multi-month peaks against the Japanese Yen and the U.S. Dollar. The ECB has strongly hinted that an interest rate increase would be forthcoming, but now investors are pondering exactly how much of one might be under consideration. Most analysts expect an increase of 25 basis points for this, the first ECB rate hike in nearly three years. There is some speculation that by November the rate could be as much as 100 basis points higher, which the market already appears to be pricing in.
While the interest rate hike is not yet a done deal, many economists are suggesting that given the fiscal state of several of the Eurozone nations, i.e. Portugal, Spain, Greece, etc., an interest rate hike will be more harmful than good.
As reported at 2:57 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro slipped against the U.S. Dollar, trading at $1.4297 following yesterday’s surge to $1.4350. Near term support is pegged around $1.4285 to $1.4250; some currency strategists say that if the Euro can’t rise well above $1.4282, it could retreat to near $1.4160. Against the Yen, the Euro was trading at121.77 Yen following yesterday’s 11-month peak. Most analysts agree that the long-term outlook for the Yen is on a downtrend.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/As-ECB-Meeting-Looms-Euro-Falls/7631
While the interest rate hike is not yet a done deal, many economists are suggesting that given the fiscal state of several of the Eurozone nations, i.e. Portugal, Spain, Greece, etc., an interest rate hike will be more harmful than good.
As reported at 2:57 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro slipped against the U.S. Dollar, trading at $1.4297 following yesterday’s surge to $1.4350. Near term support is pegged around $1.4285 to $1.4250; some currency strategists say that if the Euro can’t rise well above $1.4282, it could retreat to near $1.4160. Against the Yen, the Euro was trading at121.77 Yen following yesterday’s 11-month peak. Most analysts agree that the long-term outlook for the Yen is on a downtrend.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/As-ECB-Meeting-Looms-Euro-Falls/7631
Euro Momentarily Strikes 10 Month High Against Yen
By: Barbara Zigah The Euro briefly struck a 10-month peak against the Japanese Yen in Asian trading today on raised expectations that the Bank of Japan will not consider an interest rate hike any time soon as the country and economy attempts to recover from the recent earthquake. The U.S. Dollar also struck a 3-week high against the Yen on speculation that the Federal Reserve may soon be reconsidering its ultra loose monetary policy. As reported at 3:36 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro was trading against the Japanese Yen at 117.54 Yen, a price not seen in nearly 10 months; so far this year, the Euro has gained nearly 8% against the Yen. The U.S. Dollar, meanwhile, was trading at 76.25 Yen, a gain of 9% from the 76.25 Yen record low struck less than 2 weeks ago.
According to one analyst in Japan, interest rate differentials are driving the markets right now, especially as the Federal Reserve considers how to withdraw from the quantitative easing program which is scheduled to end in June. The ECB is certainly the front-runner among speculators as to which central bank is likely to first raise interest rates. But the Federal Reserve’s interest rate position is no longer as clear cut against a hike as it once was, and some market players are beginning to consider the possibility, remote as it may be.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/03/Euro-Momentarily-Strikes-10-Month-High-Against-Yen/7587
According to one analyst in Japan, interest rate differentials are driving the markets right now, especially as the Federal Reserve considers how to withdraw from the quantitative easing program which is scheduled to end in June. The ECB is certainly the front-runner among speculators as to which central bank is likely to first raise interest rates. But the Federal Reserve’s interest rate position is no longer as clear cut against a hike as it once was, and some market players are beginning to consider the possibility, remote as it may be.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/03/Euro-Momentarily-Strikes-10-Month-High-Against-Yen/7587
Euro Striking New Multi-Month Highs as ECB Meeting Looms
By: Barbara Zigah With a meeting of the European Central Bank’s policy setting committee looming later in the week, the common currency struck new multi-month peaks in Asian trading today. As reported at 2:34 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Euro was trading against the Japanese Yen at one point as high as 120.00 Yen, a price not seen since May 2010, before slipping back to 119.65 Yen.
Against the U.S. Dollar, the Yen was trading at $1.4269 on the EBS trading platform, a 5-month peak. Most traders expect the Euro to continue to gain broadly until the meeting takes place as speculation becomes reality.
Most analysts see the Dollar’s rise to be limited, and possibly reversing, as the Federal Reserve’s controversial quantitative easing program draws to a close. Some analysts note that the Fed’s stance has become more hawkish in recent days, but one key Fed board member refuted those claims noting that a change to current policy is very far away.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Euro-Striking-New-Multi-Month-Highs-as-ECB-Meeting-Looms/7602
Against the U.S. Dollar, the Yen was trading at $1.4269 on the EBS trading platform, a 5-month peak. Most traders expect the Euro to continue to gain broadly until the meeting takes place as speculation becomes reality.
Market Fluctuations
In spite of repatriation inflows, the Japanese Yen remains under downward pressure as the coordinated efforts of the G7 continue, and from growing speculation that the Japanese central bank may downgrade the country’s economic assessment later in the week. The U.S. Dollar gained slightly against the Yen, trading up 0.1% to 84.11 Yen; on Friday, the greenback struck a 6-month peak of 84.735 Yen on the EBS trading platform.Most analysts see the Dollar’s rise to be limited, and possibly reversing, as the Federal Reserve’s controversial quantitative easing program draws to a close. Some analysts note that the Fed’s stance has become more hawkish in recent days, but one key Fed board member refuted those claims noting that a change to current policy is very far away.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Euro-Striking-New-Multi-Month-Highs-as-ECB-Meeting-Looms/7602
Japanese Yen Continues Downtrend with G7 Intervention
By: Barbara Zigah The Japanese Yen slipped lower against the common currency and the Australian Dollar in Asian trading today, and analysts expect further weakening as risk appetite increases, generally. As reported at 2:52 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo at one point in the session on the EBS trading platform the Euro traded against the Yen at 123.33 Yen, a 16% gain from the mid-March trough of 106.50 Yen, before trimming gains to 122.62 Yen. The Australian Dollar also struck a 2 ½ year high against the Yen, when it struck 90.04 Yen earlier in the session; later, some of the gains were pared when it traded at 89.64 Yen still higher by 0.1%. According to analysts, the Japanese central bank is likely to lag behind other countries’ central banks in order to give their nation a chance to recover from the tragic earthquake and tsunami which struck last month. The Japanese economy had been in a long period of stagflation, and most analysts agree that this event will likely shift the economy’s direction. The Japanese Yen had been a consistently strong currency prior to the earthquake, and repatriated flows endanger its resumption. The G7 has been collectively and successfully working to suppress the Yen’s rise.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Japanese-Yen-Continues-Downtrend-with-G7-Intervention/7649
Yen Slips Further while Euro Buoyed by Rate Hike
By: Barbara Zigah A day after a second earthquake struck the beleaguered island nation, the Japanese Yen fell broadly, striking multi-month lows against the U.S. Dollar and the common currency Euro. As reported at 1:22 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Yen slipped against the U.S. Dollar to 85.140 Yen, a 0.3% decline and close to the 6-month low struck earlier in the week. The Yen also fell against the Euro, trading at 122.47 Yen, a decline of 0.7%, off from the 11-month low of 122.630 Yen hit on the EBS trading platform. As desired by the Bank of Japan, the Yen appears on the verge of weakening further says one forex head in Singapore.
The Euro is being buoyed by yesterday’s announcement of an ECB rate hike of 25 basis points. Against the U.S. Dollar the Euro struck a 15-month peak, trading at one point to a high of $1.4405. Investors had been keen to hear the press conference held afterward by Jean-Claude Trichet, the ECB President, but the bank’s direction remains somewhat unclear with the Bank in wait-and-see mode. Some economists are expecting that the ECB will hold the rate in check through July, when rising inflation will likely prompt another hike.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Yen-Slips-Further-while-Euro-Buoyed-by-Rate-Hike/7644
The Euro is being buoyed by yesterday’s announcement of an ECB rate hike of 25 basis points. Against the U.S. Dollar the Euro struck a 15-month peak, trading at one point to a high of $1.4405. Investors had been keen to hear the press conference held afterward by Jean-Claude Trichet, the ECB President, but the bank’s direction remains somewhat unclear with the Bank in wait-and-see mode. Some economists are expecting that the ECB will hold the rate in check through July, when rising inflation will likely prompt another hike.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Yen-Slips-Further-while-Euro-Buoyed-by-Rate-Hike/7644
Japanese Yen Slips Again versus Euro-USD
By: Barbara Zigah The Japanese Yen continues to weaken versus the majors in midday Asian trading, slipping to a 10-month trough versus the common currency Euro, bolstered by increased risk appetite. As reported at 1:45 p.m. (JST) in Tokyo, the Yen slipped against the Euro, trading at 118.48 Yen, off from the 117.69 struck yesterday in late New York trading; earlier in the session it had slid to 118.67 Yen, the lowest price since May 2010. Against the U.S. Dollar, the Japanese Yen traded at 83.59 Yen, off from 83.74 Yen, the lowest price since mid-February.
One trader in Japan attributed the interest in higher risk currencies to the numerous signs of global economic strengthening. Later in the trading day in the U.S., the U.S. Labor Department will be releasing private sector payroll data, and economists’ consensus is calling for an increase of 190,000 new jobs in March. The U.S. Dollar Index, a measure of the U.S. currency’s strength against a basket of major currencies, has been rising as the Federal Reserve is later today expected to signal their withdrawal from the current ultra loose monetary policy; the U.S. Dollar Index rose 0.1%, to 76.043 .DXY.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Japanese-Yen-Slips-Again-versus-Euro-Greenback/7596
One trader in Japan attributed the interest in higher risk currencies to the numerous signs of global economic strengthening. Later in the trading day in the U.S., the U.S. Labor Department will be releasing private sector payroll data, and economists’ consensus is calling for an increase of 190,000 new jobs in March. The U.S. Dollar Index, a measure of the U.S. currency’s strength against a basket of major currencies, has been rising as the Federal Reserve is later today expected to signal their withdrawal from the current ultra loose monetary policy; the U.S. Dollar Index rose 0.1%, to 76.043 .DXY.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-news/2011/04/Japanese-Yen-Slips-Again-versus-Euro-Greenback/7596
Is Forex Trading for You?
By: Sara Patterson If you’re new to the Forex world you may be wondering what it is all about and what actions you will need to perform during a typical Forex trading day. You may also be wondering whether Forex trading is a truly worthwhile endeavor or whether it’s worthwhile to pursue more money and entertainment elsewhere. This article will give you some important background information relating to the Forex industry so that you can determine whether to try it out.
The Forex Trading Day
Unlike localized markets in which trading takes place in specific times zones and according to a specific national calendar Forex trading can be done around the clock, which means that you’ll have ample opportunities to trade in your spare time – whenever that is. The Forex trading day is a full twenty-four hours and the Forex week starts from 5:00 pm Sunday EST and finishes 4:00 pm EST on Friday. As such, you will have the opportunity to design a trading strategy that best complies with your lifestyle.
Ready to try it out? Why not open a free demo account to see whether you can enjoy and profit from trading Forex.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/Is-Forex-Trading-for-You/7425
The Forex Trading Day
Unlike localized markets in which trading takes place in specific times zones and according to a specific national calendar Forex trading can be done around the clock, which means that you’ll have ample opportunities to trade in your spare time – whenever that is. The Forex trading day is a full twenty-four hours and the Forex week starts from 5:00 pm Sunday EST and finishes 4:00 pm EST on Friday. As such, you will have the opportunity to design a trading strategy that best complies with your lifestyle. High Liquidity and Daily Turnover
The Forex market is highly liquid which essentially means that your currency transactions will be supported because there is a large number of other trading participants. The turnover generated each Forex trading day is much larger than those produced by other markets. For example, the stock market has a daily turnover of just $25 million whereas the Forex market conducts about $3 billion in trades daily.The Importance of Transparency
As the Forex market is completely transparent, you will be able to trade on exactly the same level as big institutions, such as hedge funds and banks. Moreover, because Forex is such a gigantic market, nobody can manipulate its figures. Consequently, you can approach each Forex trading day with the confidence that you will not be subjected to any major sudden adjustments.Major Currencies
You must also realize that the major currencies that are exchanged during each Forex trading day account for about 85% of its volume. They are the US dollar, Euro, British Pound, Swiss Franc, Canadian dollar, Australian dollar, Japanese Yen and New Zealand Dollar. Nevertheless, you needn’t live in a country with one of these currencies to have a profitable Forex trading experience. Instead, you’ll just need to learn how to monitor these currencies over the course of your Forex trading day.Relationship with other Markets
Although Forex is independent of all other markets, you will find that it does have relationships with them, which can be an advantage if you’re familiar with other markets. For instance, Forex is strongly correlated to the stock market. For example, if the Dow Jones Index climbs in value, then so will the higher-yielding currencies such as the Euro and the British Pound. In contrast, the currencies exhibiting low yields will fall in value.Fees and Charges
You will not be charged any fees directly by the Forex market. However, you will accrue costs from spreads and rollover fees, etc. For example, you will either earn or be charged a fee for keeping your positions open from one Forex trading day to the next depending on the comparable interest rates of the currencies involved.Ready to try it out? Why not open a free demo account to see whether you can enjoy and profit from trading Forex.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/Is-Forex-Trading-for-You/7425
Tips on Identifying Forex Trends
By: Christopher Lewis When trading the Forex markets, one of the most important things that you need to know is the direction of the overall trend. While many people will write about the different trends and their time periods, the one that you should be worried about is the overall direction of the currency pair. While you can chart these trends down to 15 minute intervals, it is much simpler to focus on a longer timeframet.
One of the best ways to identify the trend is the simple trend line on the weekly chart. The reason the weekly chart is so significant, is that it takes much more to break a trend line on that time period than the smaller time periods such as the one hour chart. By following the weekly trend line, you can see where the overall direction of the market tends to be going. If you draw a weekly trend line, you will notice that it doesn't get broken very often. In fact, it isn't that rare for these trend lines to last for years on end. As an example, take a look at what the Euro did versus the Dollar from 2002 to 2006. It was a straight shot up, and a simple trend line analysis would have told you that based upon the weekly chart.
Better yet, an excellent way to determine the trend is by a combination of the two tools mentioned above. A lot of traders will only trade in the direction of the market based upon where a specific moving averages. For example, you may pick the 100 day moving average. If price is above that 100 day moving average, you're only looking to buy. If it is below, you're only looking to sell. If you line up trend lines with the moving average, and both tell you to buy a currency pair, it becomes very clear that the trend is moving in a bullish direction. While this doesn't guarantee a 100% success rate, it certainly can keep you pointed in the right direction and allow the markets momentum to carry you forward.
By staying in the same direction of the trend, you allow the other traders in the market to push your trade forward, and help you we more profits. This is perhaps one of the most basic and fundamental ways to make money in the Forex markets. Sadly, far too many traders don't pay attention to the trend. Don't let yourself make this common mistake.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/04/Tips-on-Identifying-Forex-Trends/7634
One of the best ways to identify the trend is the simple trend line on the weekly chart. The reason the weekly chart is so significant, is that it takes much more to break a trend line on that time period than the smaller time periods such as the one hour chart. By following the weekly trend line, you can see where the overall direction of the market tends to be going. If you draw a weekly trend line, you will notice that it doesn't get broken very often. In fact, it isn't that rare for these trend lines to last for years on end. As an example, take a look at what the Euro did versus the Dollar from 2002 to 2006. It was a straight shot up, and a simple trend line analysis would have told you that based upon the weekly chart.
Moving Averages
Another common way to identify the trend is to use a moving average. While the exact moving average is debatable, some of the more common ones are the 50, 100, and 200 day moving averages. By plotting these on a daily chart, you can see how over time the trend is slowly moves these moving averages in one direction or another. This shows the long-term effects on the trend due to fundamental announcements, and traders stepping in and out of the markets. It should be noted that the higher the number on the moving average, the longer it takes to move it. On the 200 day moving average as an example, it takes a massive swing and direction to change the slope of that moving average. This can help keep you in a trend for a very long time.Better yet, an excellent way to determine the trend is by a combination of the two tools mentioned above. A lot of traders will only trade in the direction of the market based upon where a specific moving averages. For example, you may pick the 100 day moving average. If price is above that 100 day moving average, you're only looking to buy. If it is below, you're only looking to sell. If you line up trend lines with the moving average, and both tell you to buy a currency pair, it becomes very clear that the trend is moving in a bullish direction. While this doesn't guarantee a 100% success rate, it certainly can keep you pointed in the right direction and allow the markets momentum to carry you forward.
By staying in the same direction of the trend, you allow the other traders in the market to push your trade forward, and help you we more profits. This is perhaps one of the most basic and fundamental ways to make money in the Forex markets. Sadly, far too many traders don't pay attention to the trend. Don't let yourself make this common mistake.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/04/Tips-on-Identifying-Forex-Trends/7634
Three Forex Strategies That Sound Good – But Aren’t
By: Christopher Lewis
There are many Forex strategies that sound good on paper, but aren't quite as reliable in practice. While it is possible to make these strategies work, it's often not worth the trouble and risk of loss. Here are three Forex strategies that sound good - but aren't.
One of the most common Forex strategies that sound really good is the moving average crossover strategy. While the strategy certainly can work over time, it is rather counterintuitive when it comes to human psyche. The problem with the moving average crossover system is that they rely on a clear and defined trend. If you've been trading for a while, you know that the market only trends about 20% of the time. Because of this, you have to be able to absorb several losses before you get that one really good trade.
The idea is that one moving average will cross over the other, signaling a change in momentum. Once you take that trade, you do not exit until the moving averages cross back over each other signaling and reverse and the momentum. The problem is that if you are stuck in a sideways move the market, the averages will crisscross quite often leaving you taking one loss after another. On top of that, you have to deal with the human psychological aspect of taking so many losses before finally being rewarded. Very few traders can do this.
Another common Forex strategy that is absolutely toxic is what is known as the "Martingale strategy". While not a trading system in and of itself, the idea of this strategy is to gradually increase your position size under the idea that you will eventually be right. This has been popular lies in places like Las Vegas, and, as they say, things that happen in Vegas should stay in Vegas. The basic premise is that you risk a certain percentage, say 1% of your account on the first trade. The second trade, assuming that you lost on the first trade, will be placed with a 2% risk. This repeats until you eventually win. The biggest problem with this is that you can go on losing streaks. Before you know it, you may have lost half of your account.
Another common Forex strategy that simply isn't a smart one to use is the black box strategy. The black box strategy isn't any one particular strategy at all, rather it is an automated strategy that you pay for and the computer trades for you. While the strategies may mathematically look promising, they cannot react and adjust to so-called "Black Swan events”. What this means is that if the market is presently melting down because of some kind of political event in Asia, the black box system will simply keep trading based upon its mathematical models. One of the largest blowups in history was from a fund called Long-Term Capital Management that practice this exact type of trading. In a nutshell, a bond default in Russia sent the markets into a panic. The LTCM models were not prepared to deal with this type of event, even though they had made astronomical gains before it. The system simply traded itself the way it always did, and loss the firm massive amounts of money and was one of the biggest disasters in the financial world’s history. By the time it was all over, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York had to organize a bailout of $3.625 billion to rescue the find as it was a serious systemic risk to the financial world at large.
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to lose money in Forex trading. The trading business is difficult, and there are no shortcuts, despite what some experts may have you believe. The one thing that these poor Forex strategies all have in common is the attempt to either over-simplify trading or make it completely mechanical. If you're willing to look beyond the easy way out, you'll likely find more realiable Forex strategies that will keep you in the green.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/04/Three-Forex-Strategies-That-Sound-Good-–-But-Aren't/7626
There are many Forex strategies that sound good on paper, but aren't quite as reliable in practice. While it is possible to make these strategies work, it's often not worth the trouble and risk of loss. Here are three Forex strategies that sound good - but aren't.
One of the most common Forex strategies that sound really good is the moving average crossover strategy. While the strategy certainly can work over time, it is rather counterintuitive when it comes to human psyche. The problem with the moving average crossover system is that they rely on a clear and defined trend. If you've been trading for a while, you know that the market only trends about 20% of the time. Because of this, you have to be able to absorb several losses before you get that one really good trade.
The idea is that one moving average will cross over the other, signaling a change in momentum. Once you take that trade, you do not exit until the moving averages cross back over each other signaling and reverse and the momentum. The problem is that if you are stuck in a sideways move the market, the averages will crisscross quite often leaving you taking one loss after another. On top of that, you have to deal with the human psychological aspect of taking so many losses before finally being rewarded. Very few traders can do this.
Another common Forex strategy that is absolutely toxic is what is known as the "Martingale strategy". While not a trading system in and of itself, the idea of this strategy is to gradually increase your position size under the idea that you will eventually be right. This has been popular lies in places like Las Vegas, and, as they say, things that happen in Vegas should stay in Vegas. The basic premise is that you risk a certain percentage, say 1% of your account on the first trade. The second trade, assuming that you lost on the first trade, will be placed with a 2% risk. This repeats until you eventually win. The biggest problem with this is that you can go on losing streaks. Before you know it, you may have lost half of your account.
Another common Forex strategy that simply isn't a smart one to use is the black box strategy. The black box strategy isn't any one particular strategy at all, rather it is an automated strategy that you pay for and the computer trades for you. While the strategies may mathematically look promising, they cannot react and adjust to so-called "Black Swan events”. What this means is that if the market is presently melting down because of some kind of political event in Asia, the black box system will simply keep trading based upon its mathematical models. One of the largest blowups in history was from a fund called Long-Term Capital Management that practice this exact type of trading. In a nutshell, a bond default in Russia sent the markets into a panic. The LTCM models were not prepared to deal with this type of event, even though they had made astronomical gains before it. The system simply traded itself the way it always did, and loss the firm massive amounts of money and was one of the biggest disasters in the financial world’s history. By the time it was all over, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York had to organize a bailout of $3.625 billion to rescue the find as it was a serious systemic risk to the financial world at large.
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to lose money in Forex trading. The trading business is difficult, and there are no shortcuts, despite what some experts may have you believe. The one thing that these poor Forex strategies all have in common is the attempt to either over-simplify trading or make it completely mechanical. If you're willing to look beyond the easy way out, you'll likely find more realiable Forex strategies that will keep you in the green.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/04/Three-Forex-Strategies-That-Sound-Good-–-But-Aren't/7626
Q2 Predictions for EUR-USD
By: Christopher Lewis When looking at the EUR/USD pair, it is quite difficult for analysts to come up with a consensus as to where the pair may be heading. While the multinational European currency has enjoyed resurgence in the first three months of this year, that doesn't necessarily mean that it will in the second three months.
The pair from a technical perspective looks like it is currently stuck towards a massive resistance area. The 1.42500 level slammed this currency pair into a bearish mode when last approached in late October of last year. As we test this area, technically this chart has higher lows as we go along which of course is a very bullish pattern. It appears that the downtrend is about to be tested at the 1.45500 level as a trend line from the very top of the market in 2008 connects to another high in November of 2009 coincide with where the 1.42500 level since right now.
Because of this, the answer to the direction of the pair will probably be answered in the very beginning of the second quarter. It should also be noted that there are plenty of reasons on the fundamental side that could be propelling this pair in one direction or another in March and April.
The Portuguese issue has not gone away, and it appears that a bailout is pretty much imminent. This brings up the question of whether or not some of the other struggling economies will feel the need to pay their debts. Think of it this way: If you are running a country like Spain, why would you bother paying your debt when Portugal doesn't have to? This is the kind of situation that Europeans find themselves in as the debt issues and Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece, and Spain are still there even if the regulators have chose to ignore them.
Meanwhile at The Fed, the United States is currently printing as many dollars as it can possibly manage. There is a running joke right now in some trading rooms that says the surest way to make a buck these days? Sell ink. As QE2 winds down in June, the question will be whether or not the Federal Reserve chooses to expand to a third act, or whether or not they will exit the easing process. If they do exit, this will be very supportive for the dollar and propel this pair to the downside.
At this point in time the forecast for QE2 almost has to be a purely technical one, as a lot of these questions are not answered at the moment. It appears that one of the best indicators as to which direction we are going is going to be a weekly close above 1.42500, or a strong weekly close below 1.40000 which would make this pair look weak. It should be noted that the peak and trough analysis does suggest that we are going upwards. However, we have major technical levels to break in the process. Keep an eye on that trend line, and you'll know which direction to go.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/Q2-Predictions-for-EUR-USD/7577
The pair from a technical perspective looks like it is currently stuck towards a massive resistance area. The 1.42500 level slammed this currency pair into a bearish mode when last approached in late October of last year. As we test this area, technically this chart has higher lows as we go along which of course is a very bullish pattern. It appears that the downtrend is about to be tested at the 1.45500 level as a trend line from the very top of the market in 2008 connects to another high in November of 2009 coincide with where the 1.42500 level since right now.
Because of this, the answer to the direction of the pair will probably be answered in the very beginning of the second quarter. It should also be noted that there are plenty of reasons on the fundamental side that could be propelling this pair in one direction or another in March and April.
The Portuguese issue has not gone away, and it appears that a bailout is pretty much imminent. This brings up the question of whether or not some of the other struggling economies will feel the need to pay their debts. Think of it this way: If you are running a country like Spain, why would you bother paying your debt when Portugal doesn't have to? This is the kind of situation that Europeans find themselves in as the debt issues and Portugal, Italy, Ireland, Greece, and Spain are still there even if the regulators have chose to ignore them.
Meanwhile at The Fed, the United States is currently printing as many dollars as it can possibly manage. There is a running joke right now in some trading rooms that says the surest way to make a buck these days? Sell ink. As QE2 winds down in June, the question will be whether or not the Federal Reserve chooses to expand to a third act, or whether or not they will exit the easing process. If they do exit, this will be very supportive for the dollar and propel this pair to the downside.
At this point in time the forecast for QE2 almost has to be a purely technical one, as a lot of these questions are not answered at the moment. It appears that one of the best indicators as to which direction we are going is going to be a weekly close above 1.42500, or a strong weekly close below 1.40000 which would make this pair look weak. It should be noted that the peak and trough analysis does suggest that we are going upwards. However, we have major technical levels to break in the process. Keep an eye on that trend line, and you'll know which direction to go.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/Q2-Predictions-for-EUR-USD/7577
Fibonacci – The Leading Marker
By: H. Hamid of SimplyProfit.net
Indicators such as moving averages and stochastics are generally attempting to fit onto a market. They may not necessarily work in all market conditions and they do not have any intrinsic properties that a market has to abide by. However, this is not true of Fibonacci. What I think makes Fibonacci exceptional is that the Fib ratios are inherently part of natural systems, including the markets. Fibonacci ratios do not have biases for certain market conditions or economic cycles. And Fib ratios aren’t trying to fit a certain style or market; rather they are simply a natural part of market movements.
This makes Fibonacci robust, versatile and timeless.
One of my favourite Fibonacci plays is a retracement from the 88.6% level. This level is derived by taking the 61.8% Fib Golden Ratio, square rooting it, and square rooting it again.
A retracement consists of an initial move, a retracement of that first move, and then the subsequent move from the retracement, like so:
Now when I say, “This is an 88.6% Fibonacci retracement”, all that means is that the retracement is 88.6% of the size of the initial move. So if the initial move was 100 pips up, the retracement would be 88.6 pips down. It doesn’t matter if the initial move was up or down.
Here are some examples of the 88.6% Fibonacci retracement.
Firstly, a 5-Minute GBP-USD chart where the initial move was up followed by a downward retracement: Now a weekly USD-CHF chart, where the initial move was down followed by an upward retracement: This is a fantastic example of the accuracy of Fibonacci levels. After the initial move down, the price retraced back up 1,821 pips over 27 weeks, and hit the Fibonacci level within 2 pips! These kinds of setups can allow traders to have single trades that yield over 1,000 pips while still controlling their risk.
And just to showcase the versatility across markets, this is the Daily chart for the NASDAQ stock, Apple (Symbol: AAPL): Here the stock price moved down over $27 in four days, then retraced to within a few cents of the 88.6 level, before moving down again.
When I trade a Fibonacci retracement, I like the price to hit the level and move away within one or two bars of the timeframe I am using, i.e. not hang around the level for several bars. In the three examples above, the price bar hit the 88.6 level once, and once only. Secondly, I like the level to be respected cleanly: the price shouldn’t penetrate the level significantly; rather it should hit the level accurately.
I always trade with a stop, and my profit target is where the retracement started, i.e. the end of the initial move up or down. Often the price will surpass that target but I am happy to take my profit at this point. I will only trade this setup with a good risk/reward ratio, usually 1:2 or greater. If I can’t find a place to keep my stop at a reasonable distance compared to my target, I will pass on the trade.
So what can we learn about Fibonacci?
1. Fibonacci principles are timeless. You won’t find yourself needing to tweak or abandon Fibonacci ideas when markets change.
2. Fibonacci principles can be used from the smallest time frames to the largest.
3. Fibonacci has no biases for certain markets: you can use them on anything that has a chart, from a stock, a currency pair, a metal or even a complex derivative.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/Fibonacci-The-Leading-Marker/7511
Indicators such as moving averages and stochastics are generally attempting to fit onto a market. They may not necessarily work in all market conditions and they do not have any intrinsic properties that a market has to abide by. However, this is not true of Fibonacci. What I think makes Fibonacci exceptional is that the Fib ratios are inherently part of natural systems, including the markets. Fibonacci ratios do not have biases for certain market conditions or economic cycles. And Fib ratios aren’t trying to fit a certain style or market; rather they are simply a natural part of market movements.
This makes Fibonacci robust, versatile and timeless.
One of my favourite Fibonacci plays is a retracement from the 88.6% level. This level is derived by taking the 61.8% Fib Golden Ratio, square rooting it, and square rooting it again.
A retracement consists of an initial move, a retracement of that first move, and then the subsequent move from the retracement, like so:
Now when I say, “This is an 88.6% Fibonacci retracement”, all that means is that the retracement is 88.6% of the size of the initial move. So if the initial move was 100 pips up, the retracement would be 88.6 pips down. It doesn’t matter if the initial move was up or down.Here are some examples of the 88.6% Fibonacci retracement.
Firstly, a 5-Minute GBP-USD chart where the initial move was up followed by a downward retracement:
Now a weekly USD-CHF chart, where the initial move was down followed by an upward retracement: This is a fantastic example of the accuracy of Fibonacci levels. After the initial move down, the price retraced back up 1,821 pips over 27 weeks, and hit the Fibonacci level within 2 pips! These kinds of setups can allow traders to have single trades that yield over 1,000 pips while still controlling their risk.And just to showcase the versatility across markets, this is the Daily chart for the NASDAQ stock, Apple (Symbol: AAPL):
Here the stock price moved down over $27 in four days, then retraced to within a few cents of the 88.6 level, before moving down again.When I trade a Fibonacci retracement, I like the price to hit the level and move away within one or two bars of the timeframe I am using, i.e. not hang around the level for several bars. In the three examples above, the price bar hit the 88.6 level once, and once only. Secondly, I like the level to be respected cleanly: the price shouldn’t penetrate the level significantly; rather it should hit the level accurately.
I always trade with a stop, and my profit target is where the retracement started, i.e. the end of the initial move up or down. Often the price will surpass that target but I am happy to take my profit at this point. I will only trade this setup with a good risk/reward ratio, usually 1:2 or greater. If I can’t find a place to keep my stop at a reasonable distance compared to my target, I will pass on the trade.
So what can we learn about Fibonacci?
1. Fibonacci principles are timeless. You won’t find yourself needing to tweak or abandon Fibonacci ideas when markets change.
2. Fibonacci principles can be used from the smallest time frames to the largest.
3. Fibonacci has no biases for certain markets: you can use them on anything that has a chart, from a stock, a currency pair, a metal or even a complex derivative.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/Fibonacci-The-Leading-Marker/7511
What Influences Drive Daily Forex Rates?
By: Terry Allen The Forex market is a complex mechanism that is based upon various factors that can impact the success or failure of a specific trade. This article will take a look at some of the influences that can affect daily Forex rates. If you’re new to Forex, don’t make another move without understanding these Forex basics. And if you’ve been trading for a while, you may want to remind yourself of what influences are out there in case any of them have fallen off your radar.
Consequently, you may be surprised to find out that the majority of Forex trading is of a speculative nature only. In fact, the currency conversion needs of governments and businesses generate only a small percentage of the overall Forex activity.
The business performance of these organizations can be directly influenced by the oscillating movements of their domestic currency against those of their overseas investment or businesses using the Forex daily rates.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/Factors-that-Influence-Daily-Forex-Rates/7397
Market Differences
Many traders regard Forex as a large melting pot for current international developments because no other institution responds to them so quickly and appropriately as this market does. In addition, Forex exhibits a number of significant differences from other markets, such as the stock market. For instance, Forex trading is not conducted at a centralized exchange that displays daily Forex rates. Instead, all its transactions are undertaken by using either the OTC (over the counter) via phone, electronic networks or the Interbank Market.Speculation Sector
You will find that there are two main sources that produce the gigantic daily Forex turnover of about $3 trillion. The speculation sector accounts for ninety-five 95% of all Forex transactions, which are conducted for pure profit only. This element, which includes investment funds, large banks, corporations and individuals, generates artificial rate exposure using the Forex daily rates in order to produce profits from the movements of price.Consequently, you may be surprised to find out that the majority of Forex trading is of a speculative nature only. In fact, the currency conversion needs of governments and businesses generate only a small percentage of the overall Forex activity.
Foreign Sector
The foreign sector is responsible for the other 5% and is produced by international businesses selling and purchasing their materials and products overseas as well as converting their currency needs. This section of traders includes companies (exporters and importers), governments and other investors who require foreign currency conversions.The business performance of these organizations can be directly influenced by the oscillating movements of their domestic currency against those of their overseas investment or businesses using the Forex daily rates.
Economic Events
Economic factors include economic conditions and policy making. For instance, a government can directly affect the interest rates displayed by its central bank by introducing new financial policies. Such measures can have serious knock-on effects on its currencies because investors tend to follow those currencies offering the highest yields. If such an announcement is made, then you can observe the effects on the applicable currency by studying the daily Forex rates.Political Influences
If political instability and upheaval occur within a country then such events can have a significant negative influence on its economy and again on its currency. As such developments increase risk aversion, you will almost certainly witness the effected currency decline in value against those of others by examining the daily Forex rates.http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/Factors-that-Influence-Daily-Forex-Rates/7397
What to Look For In a Signal Provider
By: Christopher Lewis When using a Forex signal provider, it is important to keep a few things in mind. The fact is that some signal providers are going to be better than others, and as such, diligence is extremely important. The fact is that nobody is going to care about your money more than you – including whatever signal provider you use.
If you live in the United States, one of the most important things that you can do to ensure you are using a reputable signal provider is to discover whether or not the signals are being sent by a CTA, or Commodity Trading Advisor. These individuals are registered with the CFTC in the US, that receive compensation for giving people advice on options, futures, and Forex, as well as actual trading of managed accounts. As such, they are highly trained and can be relied on as people who have completed various trading courses and examinations. While the amount of signal providers that have these people working for them are small – they are head and shoulders above the rest in terms of training and liability.
The second thing you should look for is actual performance. Many of the Forex signal providers out there are advertising results that are based upon hypothetical results. In other words, they are applying their systems to past markets, and can often be doing what is known as curve-fitting. This is when a system is applied in such a way that gives a better result than would occur in real time.
Watch out for performance claims as well. A fund claiming average gains of a few percent every month might not sound exciting, but it is certainly more believable than one claiming 10% ever month. Common sense should be applied. The scammers are counting on your greed to overtake your logic skills.
Another thing that you may want to pay attention to is where the service is actually located. You want the company to be from a country that has a strong rule of law, and as such can be held liable if something goes horribly wrong. Far too many Forex-related companies are located in countries that have a less-than-stellar reputation for business laws. As a simple test, ask yourself if you would drink the local water. If not, you have to think a country that pull it together well enough to have safe drinking water isn’t going to be concerned with a scammer that is selling bad Forex signals.
Even though most of this may seem like common sense, countless people get scammed every year by services claiming to be Forex signal providers who have never traded Forex in their lives. They are simply salesmen that have figured out a way to make a basic Forex system look exciting.
Ready to find reliable Forex signals? Check out our trading signal reviews and make an informed choice between TradeWindowXP, IntelliForex, and other top signal providers.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/What-to-Look-For-In-a-Signal-Provider/7498
If you live in the United States, one of the most important things that you can do to ensure you are using a reputable signal provider is to discover whether or not the signals are being sent by a CTA, or Commodity Trading Advisor. These individuals are registered with the CFTC in the US, that receive compensation for giving people advice on options, futures, and Forex, as well as actual trading of managed accounts. As such, they are highly trained and can be relied on as people who have completed various trading courses and examinations. While the amount of signal providers that have these people working for them are small – they are head and shoulders above the rest in terms of training and liability.
The second thing you should look for is actual performance. Many of the Forex signal providers out there are advertising results that are based upon hypothetical results. In other words, they are applying their systems to past markets, and can often be doing what is known as curve-fitting. This is when a system is applied in such a way that gives a better result than would occur in real time.
Watch out for performance claims as well. A fund claiming average gains of a few percent every month might not sound exciting, but it is certainly more believable than one claiming 10% ever month. Common sense should be applied. The scammers are counting on your greed to overtake your logic skills.
Another thing that you may want to pay attention to is where the service is actually located. You want the company to be from a country that has a strong rule of law, and as such can be held liable if something goes horribly wrong. Far too many Forex-related companies are located in countries that have a less-than-stellar reputation for business laws. As a simple test, ask yourself if you would drink the local water. If not, you have to think a country that pull it together well enough to have safe drinking water isn’t going to be concerned with a scammer that is selling bad Forex signals.
Even though most of this may seem like common sense, countless people get scammed every year by services claiming to be Forex signal providers who have never traded Forex in their lives. They are simply salesmen that have figured out a way to make a basic Forex system look exciting.
Ready to find reliable Forex signals? Check out our trading signal reviews and make an informed choice between TradeWindowXP, IntelliForex, and other top signal providers.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/What-to-Look-For-In-a-Signal-Provider/7498
Forex Social Platforms - an Opposing View
By: Christopher Lewis Over the last couple of years, there has been a push in the Forex world towards social media. Many traders find themselves attracted to websites such as Currensee and eToro as possible places for trading ideas. Most of these places will give you an opportunity to follow a particular trader, some for free and some for a small cost. The ability to see what other traders are thinking is in theory a huge advantage. But the question remains whether or not these websites can prove to be helpful for the new trader.
In order to fully understand the concept, let's take a look at some of the potential advantages of social Forex trading platforms. It is by breaking down the advantages into small pieces that we will begin to understand the worthiness of these websites.
One of the first things Forex social trading platforms tout is the ability to follow winning traders. The truth of the matter is that winning traders on social platforms tend to be new traders themselves. It is ridiculous to think that somebody who just started trading is somebody you should follow. While it is true they may be on a hot streak and up 317% over the last three weeks, the reality is that sooner or later they are going to start taking losses. A trader like this is undoubtedly leveraging their account way too high. While he gives them great looking gains, the losses when they start taking them are going to be absolutely disastrous. It is because of this that you see a revolving door of "winning traders".
The other big thing that Forex social trading platforms promote is the ability to see what other traders are thinking. While in theory this sounds like a good idea, the reality is that the average trader on these platforms hasn't been trading very long. Because of this, their opinion may or may not be founded on reasonable analysis. Quite often you will see large amounts of these traders buying at the absolute top, or selling at the absolute bottom. You must know that even the most experienced professionals are taking losses, and as such you should be careful following their thought process. So when it comes to the thought process of somebody who's only been trading Forex for three months, the odds of it being a winning thought process diminish greatly.
Many of these social platforms are simply ways to make money for the owners. It might be through advertising, it can also be through referrals to brokers, or possibly even a situation where the broker actually owns the social platform. It is in the broker's best interest to have you trading is much as possible, and with as much leverage as possible in order to separate you from your money as quickly as possible.
*The opinion presented in the article is that of the author alone, and does not represent the opinion of DailyForex.com
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/Forex-Social-Platforms--an-Opposing-View/7445
In order to fully understand the concept, let's take a look at some of the potential advantages of social Forex trading platforms. It is by breaking down the advantages into small pieces that we will begin to understand the worthiness of these websites.
One of the first things Forex social trading platforms tout is the ability to follow winning traders. The truth of the matter is that winning traders on social platforms tend to be new traders themselves. It is ridiculous to think that somebody who just started trading is somebody you should follow. While it is true they may be on a hot streak and up 317% over the last three weeks, the reality is that sooner or later they are going to start taking losses. A trader like this is undoubtedly leveraging their account way too high. While he gives them great looking gains, the losses when they start taking them are going to be absolutely disastrous. It is because of this that you see a revolving door of "winning traders".
The other big thing that Forex social trading platforms promote is the ability to see what other traders are thinking. While in theory this sounds like a good idea, the reality is that the average trader on these platforms hasn't been trading very long. Because of this, their opinion may or may not be founded on reasonable analysis. Quite often you will see large amounts of these traders buying at the absolute top, or selling at the absolute bottom. You must know that even the most experienced professionals are taking losses, and as such you should be careful following their thought process. So when it comes to the thought process of somebody who's only been trading Forex for three months, the odds of it being a winning thought process diminish greatly.
Many of these social platforms are simply ways to make money for the owners. It might be through advertising, it can also be through referrals to brokers, or possibly even a situation where the broker actually owns the social platform. It is in the broker's best interest to have you trading is much as possible, and with as much leverage as possible in order to separate you from your money as quickly as possible.
*The opinion presented in the article is that of the author alone, and does not represent the opinion of DailyForex.com
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/Forex-Social-Platforms--an-Opposing-View/7445
Does a Scalping Forex Strategy Work?
By: Terry Allen
Consider that your scalping Forex strategy produces a 98:2 win-to-loss ratio. Now, although your risk-to-reward ratio will be extremely bad at 100:5, you would still achieve a profit that would be equal to (98*5)-(2*100) equaling 290 pips. However, although this sounds impressive you must also realize that you only need two additional losses to completely reverse this result practically wiping out all your profits in the process.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/02/Does-a-Scalping-Forex-Strategy-Work/7352
What is a Scalping Forex Strategy?
A scalping Forex strategy is a trading methodology that utilizes the shortest time frames available (known as a tick) for 1 minute, 3 minute and 5 minute periods. Forex scalpers focus on very small price movements and evade volatility as a primary consideration. They seek trading positions which allow them to perform multiple trades in very short periods of time whilst targeting small profits of 1 to 5 pips each time.Forex Scalping Compared to Traditional Strategies
For example, whereas the primary aim of a more traditional strategy may be to undertake three trades per day with 100 plus pip targets each, a scalping Forex strategy would attempt to fully action hundreds of trades within similar time periods whilst targeting only 5 pips each time. As you can verify, the former strategy could produce a maximum profit in excess of 300 pips compared to that of the scalping Forex strategy which would be in the region of 500 pips.Larger Risks Involved
However, in order to obtain the optimum results for a scalping Forex strategy implies that its users will need to risk more per pip than other strategies so that worthwhile profits can be produced. As such, as this requirement means that operators must risk a good deal more than 2% of their total equity per trade then this action violates the main concepts of most risk and money management strategies.When to Scalp?
A scalping Forex strategy will normally advise that you should attempt to trade Forex during its quitter periods when trading patterns tend to be more predictable and the levels of volatility are much lower. As such, the time period that is normally chosen for this type of trading is between 5.00pm and 9.00am EST during which time major countries, such as the US, UK and the Eurozone, do not normally release important economic data.Important Components to Consider
In order to attain consistent profits, a scalping Forex strategy needs to possess both a high win-to- loss ratio and a well-tested stop-loss strategy. As such, many scalping proponents utilize very small pip profit-targets together with relatively large stops and a high win-to-loss ratio. However, the utilization of such parameters normally means that the applicable scalping Forex strategy will also possess very poor risk-to-reward ratios.Justification for a Scalping Forex Strategy
Is it still worth developing or designing a scalping Forex strategy if it will only eventually possess a very poor risk-to-reward ratio? Yes it is, if you consider the following example. For instance, assume that you have selected a profit-target of 5 pips and a stop-loss of 100 pips per trade.Consider that your scalping Forex strategy produces a 98:2 win-to-loss ratio. Now, although your risk-to-reward ratio will be extremely bad at 100:5, you would still achieve a profit that would be equal to (98*5)-(2*100) equaling 290 pips. However, although this sounds impressive you must also realize that you only need two additional losses to completely reverse this result practically wiping out all your profits in the process.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/02/Does-a-Scalping-Forex-Strategy-Work/7352
5 Critical Features for Any Forex Broker
By: Christopher Lewis When trading the Forex market, there are certain features that you will want to be aware of when it comes to your broker. Below is a short list of some of the most important criteria when choosing a Forex broker:
One of the most popular places to regulate is Cyprus. This is because the Cypriot authority is a little more lax on its Forex trading laws. By regulating there, you can claim that you are “regulated in an EU country”, which is technically true. But having said that, you could claim to be “regulated in North America” by being registered in Mexico. This implies the same stringent protections you get in the US or Canada. Common sense sees the folly in that argument.
By 700-1, this means that you can control $700 for every $1 you deposit. Because of this, it can supercharge your returns, as well as losses. Leverage is something that should be used sparingly.
It should also be noted that the United States regulatory authorities recently cut the amount of leverage that Americans can use down to 50-1 for major pairs, and 20-1 for crosses.
When you are looking to do business with a broker, don’t forget that they are there to serve the customer, and it pays to shop around – just like any other purchase. Forex brokers tend to be very competitive on various features and with a little bit of research you can get a lot more than you realize.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/5-Critical-Features-for-Any-Forex-Broker/7448
Regulation
While this seems like a no-brainer, many new traders do not know about the various regulatory bodies that are out there. If you are using a Forex broker, it needs to be regulated. Also, you should be aware of where it is regulated. This is one of the things most people overlook. As a general rule, you will want to see a country that is known for being business-friendly (at least in terms of the rule of law) as being the country of registration.One of the most popular places to regulate is Cyprus. This is because the Cypriot authority is a little more lax on its Forex trading laws. By regulating there, you can claim that you are “regulated in an EU country”, which is technically true. But having said that, you could claim to be “regulated in North America” by being registered in Mexico. This implies the same stringent protections you get in the US or Canada. Common sense sees the folly in that argument.
Charting
Believe it or not, not all Forex brokers offer charting. This is becoming less and less of a problem, but there are some that don’t. They generally will offer an ECN, or Electronic Communication Network, and sell an add-on for charting such as NinjaTrader. Provision of proper charting is a sign of a broker's integrity - failure to provide this is a sign that they may be less-than-honest.Pairs
Not all brokers offer the same currency pairs. Some will offer over 100, while others will only offer the 20 most common pairs as an example. One of the pairs that surprises people the most in this regard is CAD/JPY. Since the Canadian dollar and Japanese yen are both major currencies, most traders assume that the cross pair would be offered. All brokers are going to be different, and a diligent review of available trading pairs is essential. The last thing you want to do is turn around and close out an account right away because of an errant mistake.Leverage
Depending on what part of the world you live in, leverage can vary. Leverage gives you the ability to trade large amounts of currency with a small deposit. Some broker out there now offer as much as 700-1 leverage, and depending on your trading style, leverage can be good or bad.By 700-1, this means that you can control $700 for every $1 you deposit. Because of this, it can supercharge your returns, as well as losses. Leverage is something that should be used sparingly.
It should also be noted that the United States regulatory authorities recently cut the amount of leverage that Americans can use down to 50-1 for major pairs, and 20-1 for crosses.
Analysis
When you are learning to trade, it is always helpful to have a technical analyst available to read. Some brokers are very generous with their offerings when it comes to this kind of thing, and many are now employing professional technical analysts that post newsletters every day. This can be very helpful for the new trader.When you are looking to do business with a broker, don’t forget that they are there to serve the customer, and it pays to shop around – just like any other purchase. Forex brokers tend to be very competitive on various features and with a little bit of research you can get a lot more than you realize.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-articles/2011/03/5-Critical-Features-for-Any-Forex-Broker/7448
Bank Of Japan Considers Its Options
By: Dr. Mike Campbell With the costs of reconstruction after the March 11th earthquake and tsunami put at $309 billion, an on-going crisis at the Fukushima nuclear power plant and rolling power cuts still hindering industrial output, the Bank of Japan has a lot to think about as it meets today.
The bank has already injected the equivalent of 10% of the nation’s GDP ($439 billion) into the financial markets since the crisis struck. The move was sufficient to restore confidence to the markets in Japan and around the world and, after an intervention from other G7 members, ward off a bull-run on the Yen. In recent days, the Yen has weakened against other major currencies and is currently trading at 121.4747 against the Euro, its weakest level since May last year.
Revised survey data shows that business sentiment has fallen from a value of plus six before the crisis, to minus two in its aftermath. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Bank-Of-Japan-Considers-Its-Options/7627
The bank has already injected the equivalent of 10% of the nation’s GDP ($439 billion) into the financial markets since the crisis struck. The move was sufficient to restore confidence to the markets in Japan and around the world and, after an intervention from other G7 members, ward off a bull-run on the Yen. In recent days, the Yen has weakened against other major currencies and is currently trading at 121.4747 against the Euro, its weakest level since May last year.
Things to Expect Looking Forward
Given the magnitude of the problems facing Japan (and the Japanese recovery was considered fragile even before the disaster struck), the Bank cannot solve the problems on its own. Analysts suggest that the government may take steps to ensure that reconstruction efforts move ahead as swiftly as possible which would help macroeconomic conditions. The wisdom of the Bank underwriting a government bond issue to fund reconstruction activities has been questioned since it could undermine confidence in its monetary policy. It is anticipated that the Bank will announce measures to assist businesses affected by the crisis with fast-tracked, cheap credit. The Bank has also made it clear that its quantitative easing activities will continue as a a mechanism to ensure greater liquidity in Japanese financial markets.Revised survey data shows that business sentiment has fallen from a value of plus six before the crisis, to minus two in its aftermath. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Bank-Of-Japan-Considers-Its-Options/7627
China Posts Rare Trade Deficit
By: Dr. Mike Campbell The world’s second largest economy has published its first quarterly trade deficit in seven years. Figures for Q1 2011 show that the trade deficit stood at $1.02 billion, according to the Chinese General Administration of Customs.
Demand in Europe and the USA, critical Chinese export markets, continues to be sluggish as the regions slowly emerge from the financial crisis. China is hoping to stimulate domestic demand and be less reliant on its exports, but it is also having to take steps to rein-in inflation and prevent a property bubble from bursting.
The consequences of the recent Japanese natural disaster are also likely to have an impact on China since Japan is China’s largest importing partner. It remains difficult to determine the knock-on effect of the Japanese earthquake in her trading partner’s economies and the picture will only emerge after the full extent of catastrophe on Japan’s own economy becomes clearer.
China remains under criticism for keeping its currency artificially low. Whilst some movement has been seen over the past twelve months, the appreciation of some 4% against the US Dollar needs to be put in context. The Dollar is coming off historic lows against the Yen and has depreciated by 7.8% against the Euro since this time last year. If the effects of the sovereign debt crisis in Europe are taken into account, it becomes clear that the Yuan is being manipulated. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/China-Posts-Rare-Trade-Deficit/7675
Demand in Europe and the USA, critical Chinese export markets, continues to be sluggish as the regions slowly emerge from the financial crisis. China is hoping to stimulate domestic demand and be less reliant on its exports, but it is also having to take steps to rein-in inflation and prevent a property bubble from bursting.
The consequences of the recent Japanese natural disaster are also likely to have an impact on China since Japan is China’s largest importing partner. It remains difficult to determine the knock-on effect of the Japanese earthquake in her trading partner’s economies and the picture will only emerge after the full extent of catastrophe on Japan’s own economy becomes clearer.
A Look at China's Recent Past
China was quick to emerge from the global recession and has produced spectacular growth in comparison with the world’s other leading economies. The rise of China as a major economic power has been export-led. It remains to be seen whether the Q1 figures will be just a blip, or if there has been a more fundamental readjustment of her trading balance over the shorter term.China remains under criticism for keeping its currency artificially low. Whilst some movement has been seen over the past twelve months, the appreciation of some 4% against the US Dollar needs to be put in context. The Dollar is coming off historic lows against the Yen and has depreciated by 7.8% against the Euro since this time last year. If the effects of the sovereign debt crisis in Europe are taken into account, it becomes clear that the Yuan is being manipulated. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/China-Posts-Rare-Trade-Deficit/7675
Unemployment Rates Fall In Europe and USA
By: Dr. Mike Campbell Re-employment always lags behind the economic recovery since businesses need to be sure that they need additional staff over the longer term once their order books begin to fill. The recent global financial recession was the deepest since the Great Depression of the inter war years. Typically, in an economic cycle following a recession, growth and re-employment are much stronger than has been the case this time, however, some good news does seem to be on the horizon.
According to Eurostat, the level of unemployment within the 17 countries which use the Euro has fallen to below 10% for the first time in more than a year. The figure for February came in just below the 10% mark at 9.9%. A closer analysis of the data shows that the unemployment picture within the Eurozone is very heterogeneous. In the Netherlands, just 4.3% of the workforce is unemployed whereas in Spain 20.5% of the population of working age are looking for work. In Germany, the powerhouse economy of the Eurozone region, unemployment stands at 6.3%. Across the Eurozone as a whole, some 15.8 million citizens are currently without work.
Data released in the USA last week shows that unemployment there has fallen for the second consecutive month. The figure is the best seen in America for two years and reveals that 8.8% of the workforce is currently unemployed (March data). The figure has eased from 8.9% in February and has improved by more than one percent over the last four month period. The private sector was responsible for the creation of most of the new jobs, a situation which is likely to continue as America tries to reduce its deficit.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Unemployment-Rates-Fall-In-Europe-and-USA/7616
According to Eurostat, the level of unemployment within the 17 countries which use the Euro has fallen to below 10% for the first time in more than a year. The figure for February came in just below the 10% mark at 9.9%. A closer analysis of the data shows that the unemployment picture within the Eurozone is very heterogeneous. In the Netherlands, just 4.3% of the workforce is unemployed whereas in Spain 20.5% of the population of working age are looking for work. In Germany, the powerhouse economy of the Eurozone region, unemployment stands at 6.3%. Across the Eurozone as a whole, some 15.8 million citizens are currently without work.
Data released in the USA last week shows that unemployment there has fallen for the second consecutive month. The figure is the best seen in America for two years and reveals that 8.8% of the workforce is currently unemployed (March data). The figure has eased from 8.9% in February and has improved by more than one percent over the last four month period. The private sector was responsible for the creation of most of the new jobs, a situation which is likely to continue as America tries to reduce its deficit.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Unemployment-Rates-Fall-In-Europe-and-USA/7616
Icelandic Referendum Invites Dutch and British Court Action
By: Dr. Mike Campbell Iceland was hard hit by the financial crisis. The Icelandic banks had cumulative debts totalling six times the nation’s GDP in the autumn of 2008 and, in the gathering financial storm, no means of refinancing the debt. The three major Icelandic banks collapsed within days of one another in October 2008 and the ensuing political crisis brought down the government.
The Icelandic authorities were unable to guarantee the investments of British and Dutch savers and so the British and Dutch governments stepped in to underwrite the debt, totalling some €4 billion, when the Icesave bank went bust. Icesave was the foreign arm of the Lansbanki bank and had attracted 400000 savers in the Netherlands and Britain. Whilst the British and Dutch governments stepped in to the breech, it was always understood that the Icelandic authorities would pick up the pieces.
This leaves the British and Dutch governments with little option other than taking Iceland to court to recover the money. Iceland is keen to join the EU and both Britain and the Netherlands have the power to veto accession. Iceland will need to resolve the matter before it is able to fully access financial markets to fund its borrowing needs – the will of the people notwithstanding. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Icelandic-Referendum-Invites-Dutch-and-British-Court-Action/7663
The Icelandic authorities were unable to guarantee the investments of British and Dutch savers and so the British and Dutch governments stepped in to underwrite the debt, totalling some €4 billion, when the Icesave bank went bust. Icesave was the foreign arm of the Lansbanki bank and had attracted 400000 savers in the Netherlands and Britain. Whilst the British and Dutch governments stepped in to the breech, it was always understood that the Icelandic authorities would pick up the pieces.
Possible Options
A deal to repay the funds was put together by parliament, but was vetoed by the Icelandic president, triggering a referendum that the government lost. A second deal was put together, but again, the Icelandic people have rejected it (this weekend) on the grounds that they should not be asked to pay for a private bank’s debts. The margin was 61% to 49% and it is highly unlikely that it will be put to the people a third time.This leaves the British and Dutch governments with little option other than taking Iceland to court to recover the money. Iceland is keen to join the EU and both Britain and the Netherlands have the power to veto accession. Iceland will need to resolve the matter before it is able to fully access financial markets to fund its borrowing needs – the will of the people notwithstanding. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Icelandic-Referendum-Invites-Dutch-and-British-Court-Action/7663
Portugal Asks For An EU Bailout
By: Dr. Mike Campbell In a move that has come as a shock to nobody, the Portuguese caretaker prime minister, Jose Socrates, approached the EU yesterday with a request for discussions about financial assistance. The out-going prime minister had done all in his power to pass a fourth austerity budget which might have avoided the need for Portugal to ask for help, but the bill was defeated and the PM resigned, calling elections for June.
The Portuguese needed to raise money to service its existing debts, coming to the market to raise €1 billion. However, although the bond issue was successful, Portugal had to pay higher interest following the decision last week by ratings agency Moody’s to downgrade the nation’s credit rating from A3 to Baa1. The lower the rating of a bond (or nation) the greater the perceived risk of a default on the debt in question; consequently, investors demand greater interest rate to compensate them for the higher risk associated with the bond issue. Before the downgrade, last month, Portugal had to pay interest of 3% and 4% to borrow money for six and 12 months, but these rates had increased to 5.1% and 5.9% in yesterday’s bond auction respectively.
European Commission President, Jose Manuel Barosso, promised that the Portuguese request would be dealt with as swiftly as possible. There has been little reaction to the Portuguese request on the currency markets although the Euro is marginally lower against the other majors, because the bailout request was seen as being inevitable and has already been priced in. The size of the Portuguese bailout request has not yet been announced, but there is speculation that it will be of the order of €80 billion. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Portugal-Asks-For-An-EU-Bailout/7633
The Portuguese needed to raise money to service its existing debts, coming to the market to raise €1 billion. However, although the bond issue was successful, Portugal had to pay higher interest following the decision last week by ratings agency Moody’s to downgrade the nation’s credit rating from A3 to Baa1. The lower the rating of a bond (or nation) the greater the perceived risk of a default on the debt in question; consequently, investors demand greater interest rate to compensate them for the higher risk associated with the bond issue. Before the downgrade, last month, Portugal had to pay interest of 3% and 4% to borrow money for six and 12 months, but these rates had increased to 5.1% and 5.9% in yesterday’s bond auction respectively.
European Commission President, Jose Manuel Barosso, promised that the Portuguese request would be dealt with as swiftly as possible. There has been little reaction to the Portuguese request on the currency markets although the Euro is marginally lower against the other majors, because the bailout request was seen as being inevitable and has already been priced in. The size of the Portuguese bailout request has not yet been announced, but there is speculation that it will be of the order of €80 billion. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Portugal-Asks-For-An-EU-Bailout/7633
Forex Week in Review
By: Dr. Mike Campbell All of the major markets managed to close higher last week and, with the exception of the Nikkei, have recovered the losses made in the wake of the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. In Europe over the course of the week, the FTSE made 1.9%, closing at 6009.9; the Dax gained 3.4% to close at 7179.81; the CAC put on 2.1% to end the session at 4054.76.
The Dow ended the week stronger to the tune of 1.3%, finishing the trading session at 12376.7 The Nasdaq ended the week higher by 1.7% to close at 2789.6.
The Nikkei restored a further 1.9% of its value to end the trading session at 9718.9.
The Euro closed higher against the Yen ending at 118.56, making 3.5% over the course of the week. The Euro strengthened against Sterling over the course of the week by 0.42%. The close saw one £ buying 1.1344.
The Dow ended the week stronger to the tune of 1.3%, finishing the trading session at 12376.7 The Nasdaq ended the week higher by 1.7% to close at 2789.6.
The Nikkei restored a further 1.9% of its value to end the trading session at 9718.9.
Currency Markets Review
On the currency markets last week, the Euro had the best of the trading. The Dollar was stronger against Sterling, making 0.24% and closing at 1.6042 to the Pound. The Greenback lost ground against the Euro last week, shedding 0.18% to close at 1.4141. The Dollar was substantially stronger against the Japanese currency, closing at 83.8413 to the Yen, a gain of 3.3%.The Euro closed higher against the Yen ending at 118.56, making 3.5% over the course of the week. The Euro strengthened against Sterling over the course of the week by 0.42%. The close saw one £ buying 1.1344.
Commodities Market Review
On the commodities market, the price for Brent crude ended higher due to continuing volatility in the markets caused by the situation in Libya, closing at $118.7 per barrel (for May delivery); a gain of 2.7% over the course of the week’s trading. The value of gold slipped last week, closing at 1418 per ounce; representing a loss of 1.3% over last week’s value. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Forex-Week-in-Review-April-4-2011/7603Forex Week in Review
By: Dr. Mike Campbell Last week was a mixed affair for the world’s major stock exchanges. In Europe over the course of the week, the FTSE made 0.76%, closing at 6055.8; the Dax gained 0.52% to close at 7217.02; the CAC put on 0.18% to end the session at 4061.91.
The Dow ended the week essentially unchanged, gaining 0.03%, finishing the trading session at 12380. The Nasdaq ended the week down by 0.33% to close at 2780.4.
The Nikkei regained a further 0.51% of its value to end the trading session at 9768.1.
The Euro closed higher against the Yen ending at 122.8, making 3.6% over the course of the week. The Euro strengthened marginally against Sterling over the course of the week by 0.06%. The close saw one £ buying 1.1351.
The Dow ended the week essentially unchanged, gaining 0.03%, finishing the trading session at 12380. The Nasdaq ended the week down by 0.33% to close at 2780.4.
The Nikkei regained a further 0.51% of its value to end the trading session at 9768.1.
Currency Markets Review
On the currency markets last week, the Euro again had the best of the trading; despite the Portuguese bailout. The Dollar was weaker against Sterling, losing 1.7% and closing at 1.6347 to the Pound. The Greenback lost ground against the Euro last week, shedding 1.8% to close at 1.4401. The Dollar was stronger against the Japanese currency, closing at 85.2719 to the Yen, a gain of 1.7%.The Euro closed higher against the Yen ending at 122.8, making 3.6% over the course of the week. The Euro strengthened marginally against Sterling over the course of the week by 0.06%. The close saw one £ buying 1.1351.
Commodities Market Review
On the commodities market, the price for Brent crude ended higher due to continuing volatility in the markets caused by the situation in Libya, closing at $126.7 per barrel (for May delivery); a gain of 6.7% over the course of the week’s trading. The value of gold recovered last week, closing at 1469.5 per ounce; representing a gain of 3.6% over last week’s value. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Forex-Week-in-Review-April-11-2011/7657US Government Narrowly Avoids a Shutdown
By: Saxo Bank The dollar continued to slide on Friday though a last minute deal on the U.S. budget preventing a U.S. government shutdown slowed the fall. Earlier, EURUSD was encouraged through 1.44 as Spain’s economics minister said a bailout was out of the question, while ECB’s Bonello commented that last Thursday’s rate hike would not make a great difference to Portugal. There was also talk that higher crude prices were leading to some petro-states recycling some of their USD income into EURs. GBP firmed as U.K. PPI came in dramatically above forecast (not what the Bank of England wants to hear) but gains were curtailed as a U.K. bank scaled back rate hike expectations.
For the North American session, eyes were all on budget negotiations and data releases were only second tier so relative yields played a large part in cementing direction. For the record, U.S. wholesale inventories came in as expected, up 1.0% and unchanged from a revised previous figure. Wall St finished the week on a soft note resulting in an almost flat performance on the week. Canada’s employment data was mixed with a drop in unemployment mostly as a result of a fall in the participation rate while headline employment change looked on the soft side but masked a strong increase in full-time jobs.
It is a slow start to the week on the data front in Asia and the session was spent consolidating the gains made against the U.S. dollar on Friday. News that the U.S. government narrowly avoided a shutdown had little noticeable effect. In weekend events, we have seen an escalation in tensions in the Middle East with protestors killed in Yemen, Syria and Egypt but the only impact was felt in oil markets.
China released trade data for March during the weekend and printed a small trade surplus, +$0.14 bln, which was a big surprise considering consensus was for a deficit of $3.35 bln. While March data shows a strong rebound from February’s $7.3 bln deficit, it still meant that in Q1 China recorded its first quarterly deficit in 7 years (-$1.02 bln). Has it helped global imbalances?
The European session is also relatively mundane on the data front with CPI data from Denmark and Norway and industrial production from France and Italy featured. There are no data releases for North America but we have speeches from the Federal Reserve’s Dudley and Yellen and the European Central Bank’s Weber. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/US-Government-Narrowly-Avoids-a-Shutdown/7656
For the North American session, eyes were all on budget negotiations and data releases were only second tier so relative yields played a large part in cementing direction. For the record, U.S. wholesale inventories came in as expected, up 1.0% and unchanged from a revised previous figure. Wall St finished the week on a soft note resulting in an almost flat performance on the week. Canada’s employment data was mixed with a drop in unemployment mostly as a result of a fall in the participation rate while headline employment change looked on the soft side but masked a strong increase in full-time jobs.
It is a slow start to the week on the data front in Asia and the session was spent consolidating the gains made against the U.S. dollar on Friday. News that the U.S. government narrowly avoided a shutdown had little noticeable effect. In weekend events, we have seen an escalation in tensions in the Middle East with protestors killed in Yemen, Syria and Egypt but the only impact was felt in oil markets.
China released trade data for March during the weekend and printed a small trade surplus, +$0.14 bln, which was a big surprise considering consensus was for a deficit of $3.35 bln. While March data shows a strong rebound from February’s $7.3 bln deficit, it still meant that in Q1 China recorded its first quarterly deficit in 7 years (-$1.02 bln). Has it helped global imbalances?
The European session is also relatively mundane on the data front with CPI data from Denmark and Norway and industrial production from France and Italy featured. There are no data releases for North America but we have speeches from the Federal Reserve’s Dudley and Yellen and the European Central Bank’s Weber. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/US-Government-Narrowly-Avoids-a-Shutdown/7656
European Central Bank Raises Rates
By: Dr. Mike Campbell Hot on the heels of the news that Portugal has made a formal approach to the EU for a financial bailout (a move actively encouraged by the ECB President, Jean-Claude Trichet), the European Central Bank has raised its interest rate by 0.25% to 1.25%. The rate hike is the first increase that the ECB has made in almost three years since July 2008.
All of the world’s major central banks adopted a policy of reducing interest rates to stimulate growth during the worst of the global financial recession. The ECB move is the first by a major central bank to increase rates. The reason behind the move is to counter inflationary pressure – without choking off economic growth. The Eurozone consists of 17 member states all using the single currency, so it is not possible to please all members simultaneously. This point was underlined in comments made by Trichet: "The hike is unwelcome for peripheral countries, but arguably the core member states were in need of this move already some time ago. In that sense, the timing of the increase is a balancing act, which is part and parcel of the one-size-fits-all monetary policy."
In a parallel meeting, the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of England voted to leave its interest rate untouched at 0.5%. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/European-Central-Bank-Raises-Rates/7643
All of the world’s major central banks adopted a policy of reducing interest rates to stimulate growth during the worst of the global financial recession. The ECB move is the first by a major central bank to increase rates. The reason behind the move is to counter inflationary pressure – without choking off economic growth. The Eurozone consists of 17 member states all using the single currency, so it is not possible to please all members simultaneously. This point was underlined in comments made by Trichet: "The hike is unwelcome for peripheral countries, but arguably the core member states were in need of this move already some time ago. In that sense, the timing of the increase is a balancing act, which is part and parcel of the one-size-fits-all monetary policy."
Trichet's Vague Strategy
Mr Trichet would not be drawn on whether this was the first in a series of rate hikes which would take interest rates up to their more traditional levels. He remarked that the ECB viewed inflationary risk as being on the upside, but pointed out that the bank would be following an accommodative strategy. The EC recently updated its assessment of inflation to 2.2% above the ECB target value.In a parallel meeting, the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of England voted to leave its interest rate untouched at 0.5%. http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/European-Central-Bank-Raises-Rates/7643
Japan Reassesses Business Sentiment In The Light Of March 11th
By: Dr. Mike Campbell The Bank of Japan sponsors the Tankan survey of business sentiment which measures the optimism or pessimism of key market sectors. A value above zero indicates an optimistic outlook within a sector whereas a negative value denotes pessimism. The current survey was largely (72%) concluded prior to the devastating earthquake and tsunami which hit north eastern Japan on 11th March. Consequently, the report doesn’t reflect the ramifications of the disaster and therefore, the Bank has decided to reissue the report to identify which responses were received before the disaster struck.
The report initially showed that optimism had increased by a point from the previous month’s reading of 5, but the impact of the quake will surely lead to a decline in this evaluation when the consequences of the disaster and lingering problems at the Fukushima nuclear power plant are fully taken into consideration in the next report. The disaster left severe damage to the nation’s infrastructure and rolling power-cuts, to say nothing of the cost in human lives.
As if to endorse the pessimism, sales of new vehicles have plummeted, falling by 37% against the same mark in 2010. Toyota’s sales fell by 46%; Nissan’s fell by 38% whilst Honda’s sales saw a 28% decline. The decline is partly due to halts in production in the immediate aftermath of the disaster, but it has been compounded by on-going power cuts and shortages of parts. The effects of component shortages may hit Japanese car production in other countries once stocks held in the production facilities have been depleted.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Japan-Reassesses-Business-Sentiment-In-The-Light-Of-March-11/7597
The report initially showed that optimism had increased by a point from the previous month’s reading of 5, but the impact of the quake will surely lead to a decline in this evaluation when the consequences of the disaster and lingering problems at the Fukushima nuclear power plant are fully taken into consideration in the next report. The disaster left severe damage to the nation’s infrastructure and rolling power-cuts, to say nothing of the cost in human lives.
As if to endorse the pessimism, sales of new vehicles have plummeted, falling by 37% against the same mark in 2010. Toyota’s sales fell by 46%; Nissan’s fell by 38% whilst Honda’s sales saw a 28% decline. The decline is partly due to halts in production in the immediate aftermath of the disaster, but it has been compounded by on-going power cuts and shortages of parts. The effects of component shortages may hit Japanese car production in other countries once stocks held in the production facilities have been depleted.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-fundamental-analysis/2011/04/Japan-Reassesses-Business-Sentiment-In-The-Light-Of-March-11/7597
EUR-CHF Poised to Go Higher
By: Mike Kulej The Japanese Yen has not been the only currency getting significantly weaker since the G7 central banks intervention few weeks ago. Another “safe haven” currency, the Swiss Franc has also been on defensive during the same time, falling broadly. 
This is particularly visible against the currencies where the CHF reached all time extremes, such as the US Dollar, the British Pound and the Euro. On the daily chart of the EUR-CHF, we can see the rally from 1.2409 to the current 1.3220. This happens to be a very important resistance level tested twice before.
A breakout above this level would signal a continuation in this rally, suggesting the next objective at 1.3675 or so. Perhaps more importantly, though, it would complete the double bottom reversal pattern in the EUR-CHF, likely reversing the long-term bear market in this pair.
For that, we must see a daily close above the resistance, which has not happened yet. In addition, one should be mindful about the ECB rate decision on Thursday. Markets are clearly expecting a hike in rates, something that the central bank hinted at before. If there is no action, the Euro could suffer for a while. In the long run, though, the EUR-CHF is poised to move higher.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-technical-analysis/2011/04/EUR-CHF-Poised-to-Go-Higher/7624
This is particularly visible against the currencies where the CHF reached all time extremes, such as the US Dollar, the British Pound and the Euro. On the daily chart of the EUR-CHF, we can see the rally from 1.2409 to the current 1.3220. This happens to be a very important resistance level tested twice before.A breakout above this level would signal a continuation in this rally, suggesting the next objective at 1.3675 or so. Perhaps more importantly, though, it would complete the double bottom reversal pattern in the EUR-CHF, likely reversing the long-term bear market in this pair.
For that, we must see a daily close above the resistance, which has not happened yet. In addition, one should be mindful about the ECB rate decision on Thursday. Markets are clearly expecting a hike in rates, something that the central bank hinted at before. If there is no action, the Euro could suffer for a while. In the long run, though, the EUR-CHF is poised to move higher.
http://www.dailyforex.com/forex-technical-analysis/2011/04/EUR-CHF-Poised-to-Go-Higher/7624