Date: 19th April 2024.

Weekly Commodity Market Update: Oil Prices Correct and Supply Concerns Persist.


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The ongoing developments in the Middle East sparked a wave of risk aversion and fueled supply concerns and investors headed for safety. Hopes for imminent rate cuts from the Federal Reserve diminish while attention is now turning towards the demand outlook.

The Gold price hit a high of $2417.89 per ounce overnight. Sentiment has already calmed down again and bullion is trading at $2376.50 per ounce as haven flows ease. Oil prices initially moved higher as concern over escalating tensions with the WTI contract hit a session high of $85.508 per barrel overnight, before correcting to currently $81.45 per barrel.

Oil Prices Under Pressure Amid Middle East Tensions

Last week, commodity indexes showed little movement, with Oil prices undergoing a slight correction. Meanwhile, Gold reached yet another record high, mirroring the upward trend in cocoa prices.

Once again today, USOil prices experienced a correction and has remained under pressure, retesting the 50-day EMA at $81.00 as we moving into the weekend. Hence, despite the Israel?s retaliatory strike on Iran, sentiments stabilized following reports suggesting a measured response aimed at avoiding further escalation. Brent crude futures witnessed a more than 4% leap, driven by concerns over potential disruptions to oil supplies in the Middle East, only to subsequently erase all gains. Similarly with USOIL, UKOIL hovers just below $87 per barrel, marginally below Thursday?s closing figures.

Nevertheless, volatility is expected to continue in the market as several potential risks loom:

* Disruption to the Strait of Hormuz: The possibility of Iran disrupting navigation through the vital shipping lane, is still in play. The Strait of Hormuz serves as the Persian Gulf?s primary route to international waters, with approximately 21 million barrels of oil passing through daily. Recent events, including Iran?s seizure of an Israel-linked container ship, underscore the geopolitical sensitivity of the region.

* Tougher Sanctions on Iran: Analysts speculate that the US may impose stricter sanctions on Iranian oil exports or intensify enforcement of existing restrictions. With global oil consumption reaching 102 million barrels per day, Iran?s production of 3.3 million barrels remains significant. Recent actions targeting Venezuelan oil highlight the potential for increased pressure on Iranian exports.

* OPEC Output Increases: Despite the desire for higher prices, OPEC members such as Saudi Arabia and Russia have constrained output in recent years. However, sustained crude prices above $100 per barrel could prompt concerns about demand and incentivize increased production. The OPEC may opt to boost oil output should tensions escalate further and prices surge.

* Ukraine Conflict: Amidst the focus on the Middle East, markets overlooking Russia?s actions in Ukraine. Potential retaliatory strikes by Kyiv on Russian oil infrastructure could impact exports, adding further complexity to global oil markets.



Technical Analysis

USOIL is marking one of the steepest weekly declines witnessed this year after a brief period of consolidation. The breach below the pivotal support level of 84.00, coupled with the descent below the mid of the 4-month upchannel,  signals a possible  shift in market sentiment towards a bearish trend reversal.

Adding to the bearish outlook are indications such as the downward slope in the RSI. However, the asset still hold above the 50-day EMA which coincides also with the mid of last year?s downleg, with key support zone at $80.00-$81.00. If it breaks this support zone, the focus may shift towards the 200-day EMA and 38.2% Fib. level at $77.60-$79.00.

Conversely, a rejection of the $81 level and an upside potential could see the price returning back to $84.00. A break of the latter could trigger the attention back to the December?s resistance, situated around $86.60. A breakthrough above this level could ignite a stronger rally towards the $89.20-$90.00 zone.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
Market Analyst
HMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 23rd April 2024.

European PMIs Paint Mixed Picture, ECB advise a June Cut is Certain.


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Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

* The German DAX recorded its highest monthly increase as investors continue to predict a weaker EU monetary policy.
* JP Morgan again advised stocks are overcrowded and may see a stronger downward correction. However, economists advise this is only possible if geo-political tension escalates or companies fail to beat earnings predictions.
* Gold witnesses its strongest decline in 2024 falling 2.64% on Monday and a further 1.32% during this morning?s Asian session.
* The Euro is the best performing currency after the day?s PMI releases. However, investors should note that the US Dollar during the Asian session was performing significantly better.

USA500 ? Visa and Tesla Ready Shareholders For Earnings Release!

The SNP500 rose 0.87% during the US trading session and also broke the previous swing high. However, JP Morgan again told journalists there are signs that the stock market is ?overcrowded?. When institutions are overexposed to certain stocks or industries, it only takes one big fund to start de-levering and then others will follow.

Though, investors should note that this would also depend on three factors. The first is earnings, the second is geo-political tensions and the third is inflation. This week, investors will largely watch earnings, particularly Visa and Tesla. Visa and Tesla currently hold a weight of 2.00% and are two of the most influential stocks. Tesla continues to be one of the worst performing stocks, but Visa?s earnings are less certain.

Visa has beat earnings and revenue expectations over the past 4 occasions but has been struggling over the past 30 days. Analysts expect earnings and revenue to remain at the same level compared to the previous quarter. However, higher earnings can potentially increase demand. Visa stocks have risen 5.20% in 2024 and have a dividend yield of 0.76%.


   
However, as mentioned above, the performance of the stock market will largely depend also on inflation and geo-political tensions. Though these are not likely to change within the upcoming days. In regard to inflation, investors will be eager to see if inflation again rises, in which case, interest rate cuts will likely not be possible for 2024. If this scenario materialises, stocks can decline between 20-30% ($3,700-$4,220).

GER30  ? ECB Ready To Cut Rates In June 2024!

On a 2-hour timeframe the price of the GER30 is trading above the 75-Bar EMA and above the VWAP. In addition to this, the asset is obtaining buy signals also from oscillators and price action. The index has retraced since the release of the European PMI data, but if the price rises above 18,067, without breaking the day?s low price, buy signals will become active.



One of the key drivers, along with this morning?s PMI release for Germany and France, is the latest comments from members of the ECB. According to ECB representative Mr Villeroy, even if oil remains volatile, the regulator will look to cut in June 2024. In addition to Mr Villeroy, Mr De Guindos told journalists that a rate cut in June is ?crystal clear?. The guidance given is increasing the demand for the German DAX as are indications of stronger economic data.

The French PMI data saw the Services index rise above 50.00 for the first time since May 2023 and beat expectations. However, the manufacturing index continues to struggle and fell compared to the previous month. The German PMI was a similar picture. The Services PMI rose to a 10-month high and beat expectations, but the Manufacturing Index read lower than the 42.8 expectations and is at a 6-month low.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 25th April 2024.

Investors Monitor a Potential Japanese Intervention, and upcoming Tech Earnings.


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* Meta stocks top earnings expectations, but revenue guidance for the next 6 months triggers significant selloff. Meta stocks decline 15.00% and the Magnificent Seven also trade lower.
* Japanese Authorities are on watch and most market experts predict the Japanese Federal Government will intervene once again.
* The Japanese Yen is the day?s worst performing currency while the Australian Dollar continues to top the charts.
* The US Dollar trades 0.10% lower, but this afternoon?s performance is likely to be dependent on the US GDP.

USA100 ? Meta Stocks Fall 15% On the Next 6-Months Guidance

The NASDAQ has declined 1.51% over the past 24 hours, unable to maintain momentum from Monday and Tuesday. Technical analysts advise the decline is partially simply a break in the bullish momentum and the asset continues to follow a bullish correction pattern. However, if the decline continues throughout the day, the retracement scenario becomes a lesser possibility.

In terms of indications and technical analysis, most oscillators, and momentum-based signals point to a downward price movement. The USA100 trades below the 75-Bar EMA, below the VWAP and the RSI hovers above 40.00. All these factors point towards a bearish trend. The bearish signals are also likely to strengthen if the price declines below $17,295.11.


   
The stock which is experiencing considerably large volatility is Meta which has fallen more than 15.00%. The past quarter?s earnings beat expectations and according to economists, remain stable and strong. Earnings Per Share beat expectations by 8.10% and revenue was as expected. However, company expenses significantly rose in the past quarter and the guidance for the second half of the year is lower than previous expectations. These two factors have caused investors to consider selling their shares and cashing in their profits.

Meta?s decline is one of the main causes for the USA100?s bearish trend. CFRA Senior Analyst, Angelo Zino, advises the selloff may be a slight over reaction based on earnings data. If Meta stocks rise again, investors can start to evaluate a possible upward correction. However, a concern for investors is that more and more companies are indicating caution for the second half of the year.

The price movements will largely now depend on Microsoft and Alphabet earnings tonight after market close. Microsoft is the most influential stock for the NASDAQ and Alphabet is the third. The two make up 14.25% of the overall index. If the two companies also witness their stocks decline after the earnings reports, the USA100 may struggle to gain upward momentum.

EURJPY ? Will Japan Intervene Again?

In the currency market, the Japanese Yen remains within the spotlight as investors believe the Japanese Federal Government is likely to again intervene. The Federal Government has previously intervened in the past 12 months which caused a sharp rise in the Yen before again declining. The government opted for this option in an attempt to hinder a further decline.

Volatility within the Japanese Yen will also depend on today?s US GDP reading and tomorrow?s Core PCE Price Index. However, investors will more importantly pay close attention to the Bank of Japan?s monetary policy. Investors will be keen to see if the central bank believes it is appropriate to again hike in 2024 as well as comment regarding inflation and the economy.



In terms of technical analysis, breakout levels can be considered as areas where the exchange rate may retrace or correct. Breakout levels can be seen at 166.656 and 166.333. However, the only indicators pointing to a decline are the RSI and similar oscillators which advise the price is at risk of being ?overbought?.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 29th April 2024.

Market News ? Yen spikes after drifting to 1990?s levels.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky

Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

* The Yen recovered sharply following a plunge to its lowest level in 34 years (USDJPY above 160 for the first time since 1990), prompting speculation of potential intervention by authorities. ? The volatility was attributed in part to thin liquidity due to a public holiday in Japan.
* Japan?s Kanda Said: ?No Comment for Now? when asked if intervened.
Note: Japan is closed for holidays ? Showa Day
* European and US stock futures climbed, mirroring a positive trend in Asian markets.
* China industrial profit growth slowed sharply. Data will add to concerns that the government is struggling to maintain growth momentum.
* Chinese stocks led the rally in Asia, supported by increased foreign investment and improved earnings. Property shares surged following positive developments, including major developer CIFI Holdings Group Co. resolving liquidity issues with bondholders.
* US Treasury returns have declined by 2.3% this month ? largest monthly drop since February 2023. Market sentiment now suggests only one Fed rate reduction for 2024.
* Geopolitics: US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is engaged in efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza during meetings in the Middle East today.

Financial Markets Performance:

* USDJPY hit a session high of 160.17 before the sharp bounce in the Yen, not just against the Dollar. Markets saw the bounce as sign of possible government intervention, with Japanese banks reportedly dumping dollars aggressively. USDJPY fell as low at 155.06, but has already inched up to 157.02.
* The USDIndex fell back to 105.30 across all of its G7 peers.
* USOIL steady at $82-60-83.00 per barrel and Gold is also consolidating at $2330 per ounce.



Market Trends:

* Stock markets rallied overnight, with the Nikkei gaining 0.8% as the Yen rallied amid intervention speculation. The Hang Seng jumped 0.98%, the CSI 300 lifted 1.3%.
* The S&P500 rallied 1% to finish its first winning week in the last four. The Dow rose 153 points, or 0.4%, and the Nasdaq composite jumped 2%.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

Date: 1st May 2024.

Understanding the Implications of the FOMC Meeting.


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The FOMC will issue its post-meeting statement at 18:00 GMT tonight. ?High-for-longer? is the expected outcome (but not higher) given more indications that progress on bringing inflation sustainably down to the 2% target has stalled out. With no new quarterly forecasts, it will be all about Chair Powell?s press conference when the Fed announces its policy stance tonight.

The major question at this point will be how hawkish will he be?

It is unlikely to be any more hawkish than what the markets are pricing in. Indeed, Chair Powell will have to acknowledge that the data are going the wrong way and he may even pre-empt the likely first question out of the box, ?is a rate hike in the cards??

Meanwhile, Fed funds futures have not only fully priced out chances for a rate cut for this meeting and for June, but July as well. Risk for a reduction in September fell to below 50-50 on the initial spike in implied rates on the ECI news. The November contract reflects 20 bps in cuts, with a full quarter point easing now not seen until December. The FOMC is also expected to announce a slowing in Treasury runoff for June.

Economic Projections & Market Interpretation:

The March update of the SEP revealed notable adjustments in key economic indicators. GDP forecasts for 2024 experienced a substantial upward revision, reflecting a more optimistic outlook with a growth rate of 2.1%, up from 1.4% in December. Similarly, projections for 2025 saw improvements, with the median jobless rate forecasts showing mixed trends but generally aligning with recent patterns. Expectations for headline and core PCE chain price indices also witnessed slight adjustments, indicating potential shifts in inflation dynamics.

During the March meeting, the ?dot plot? estimates hinted at a dovish stance by Fed members, with no indications of further rate hikes and median estimates suggesting potential rate cuts in 2024. This interpretation led markets to anticipate the initiation of quarterly rate cuts starting in June. As investors await the June SEP update, there is speculation about further adjustments in GDP estimates, PCE chain price indices, and the potential revision of rate cut expectations.   



Analyzing the labor market reveals a complex picture of recovery and ongoing challenges. Payrolls have shown resilience in 2024, surpassing the previous year?s averages, albeit with variations across sectors. Despite improvements, the jobless rate remains a focal point, with fluctuations reflecting broader economic conditions. Additionally, metrics like the U-6 rate and wage growth provide insights into the labor market?s health and potential inflationary pressures.

Inflation Trends and Consumption Patterns:

Inflation dynamics have been closely monitored, particularly amid recent fluctuations in commodity prices and supply chain disruptions. While recent CPI and PCE chain price measures suggest some moderation in inflationary pressures, concerns linger about the sustainability of these trends. The Fed?s attention to inflation remains paramount, shaping expectations for future policy actions.

Consumer spending, a key driver of economic growth, has exhibited resilience despite ongoing uncertainties. Real personal consumption expenditures (PCE) have maintained positive growth rates, contributing to overall GDP expansion. However, shifts in consumption patterns and potential impacts on future economic performance warrant careful observation.

Market Expectations and Implications:

As the FOMC meeting approaches, market participants are closely monitoring economic indicators and policy developments for insights into future market dynamics. The verbiage of the Fed statement and subsequent press briefing will be scrutinized for any hints regarding the timing of potential policy adjustments. Investors should remain vigilant and adaptable, considering the evolving economic landscape and its implications for investment strategies.

The upcoming FOMC meeting holds significant implications for investors and economic stakeholders. Understanding recent economic developments, market expectations, and potential policy shifts is essential for navigating the dynamic financial environment. By staying informed and proactive, investors can position themselves to capitalize on emerging opportunities while managing risks effectively.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding on how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
Market Analyst
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in FX and CFDs products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.