Is Global Oil Demand the Key to Energy Market Stability?In the intricate landscape of global energy markets, the question of oil demand remains a central enigma. Driven by a confluence of geopolitical tensions, OPEC+ production strategies, and economic dynamics, global oil demand is a complex tapestry that shapes the future of energy markets.
Geopolitical events, particularly in the Middle East, have historically been a significant driver of oil price volatility. The recent escalation of tensions has once again underscored the delicate balance between geopolitical stability and global oil supply. As geopolitical risks rise, so too does the price of oil, impacting investors in oil-related securities like the United States Oil Fund (USO).
However, geopolitical factors are just one piece of the puzzle. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, OPEC+, play a crucial role in regulating global oil supply. Their production decisions, often influenced by economic considerations and geopolitical pressures, can significantly impact oil prices and, consequently, global oil demand.
Beyond geopolitical tensions and OPEC+ dynamics, economic factors also play a vital role in shaping global oil demand. The global economy, with its cyclical nature, influences energy consumption. During periods of economic growth, oil demand tends to increase, while economic downturns can lead to reduced consumption.
The interplay between geopolitical risks, OPEC+ strategies, and economic factors creates a complex and dynamic environment for the global oil market. Understanding these intricate relationships is essential for investors seeking to navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by the oil sector.
Opec
GBPUSD: The bullish run continues!The analysis of GBP/USD highlights a strong upward phase, with the pair holding above 1.3300, close to its 31-month high. The pair has extended its positive trend for five consecutive sessions, driven by various technical and economic factors. The current resistance level is around 1.3350, representing the upper boundary of the ascending channel. If this level is breached, the next resistance would be around 1.3400, a significant psychological barrier. Should the pair retreat below 1.3300, it could drop toward 1.3230, the lower limit of the channel. This would signal a possible correction, likely due to overbought conditions.
The Bank of England (BoE) decision to keep interest rates unchanged, with only one policymaker favoring a cut, positively surprised markets. The overall tone was seen as "hawkish," with Governor Bailey expressing optimism that rates could fall but stressing the need for more inflation data. Positive retail sales data (+1% in August vs. a forecast of +0.4%) further supported the British pound, showcasing the UK's economic resilience, a positive factor for the currency. The US dollar, on the other hand, showed signs of weakness, especially following volatility in US equity markets, which could bolster GBP/USD’s rise.
Gold's Surge on Fed Cuts and Geopolitical Tensions!Fundamental Trend and Macroeconomic Factors: Gold is continuing its bullish trend, supported by expectations of further interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve (Fed). Lower rates make gold, a non-yielding asset, more attractive compared to interest-bearing financial instruments.
Geopolitical tensions between Israel and Lebanon are also boosting demand for safe-haven assets like gold, further driving up the precious metal’s price.
Technical Data and Trend Indicators: Gold has risen for the third consecutive day, with the price reaching a new record high of $2,634.74 per ounce.
Daily technical indicators show signs of stabilization, although they remain in overbought territory, indicating that the bullish momentum might start to slow down.
4-Hour Chart Analysis: Technical indicators have begun to pull back from their recent highs with neutral-to-bearish slopes, signaling a potential retracement.
However, gold continues to trade above rising moving averages, with dynamic support around $2,600.
Future Outlook: Upcoming economic data, such as the August PCE Index, could influence the Fed’s future direction, determining whether interest rate cuts will become more aggressive. This factor will be crucial in assessing whether gold can continue its upward trajectory, bolstered by an expansive monetary policy.
EURUSD Analysis after the FED, BOE and BOJ!The analysis of EUR/USD suggests a relatively strong position for the pair, currently stable around 1.1160, with a bullish outlook supported by both technical and fundamental factors.
Technical Factors:
Relative Strength Index (RSI): The RSI indicator on the 4-hour chart is near 70, indicating the pair is in overbought territory, suggesting that a technical pullback or correction could be imminent in the short term. However, the overall bullish trend remains intact for now.
Support and Resistance Levels:
Resistance: The first resistance level is at 1.1200, followed by 1.1275, which represents the July 18, 2023 high.
Support: The first support level is at 1.1135, followed by 1.1100.
Fundamental Factors:
US Dollar: The potential weakness of the US Dollar is a key factor. The likelihood of the Federal Reserve reducing interest rates in 2024 could contribute to a decline in the Dollar, increasing bullish pressure on the EUR/USD pair. Although the data on initial jobless claims (219,000 vs. 231,000) temporarily supported the Dollar, the prevailing risk sentiment in the markets reintroduced bearish pressure on the Dollar later in the week.
European Central Bank (ECB): Comments from ECB members indicate that no significant monetary policy changes are expected until December. However, ECB President Christine Lagarde's speech could have market impacts. If she opens the door to a rate cut as early as October, it could weaken the Euro. However, at this time, such a possibility seems unlikely.
GBPUSD: After the FED, Awaiting the BOE and BOJ!The GBP/USD pair found support near the 1.3150 area on Thursday, temporarily halting the correction from the recent high of 1.3300, the highest level since March 2022. The 4-hour RSI remains close to 70, suggesting that the pair could enter overbought territory in the short term if it continues to rise. The bullish sentiment for GBP/USD has been supported by expectations of an aggressive rate cut from the Fed, which has weakened the US Dollar. This week, markets are awaiting the rate decisions from the Bank of England (BoE) and the Bank of Japan (BOJ). In the short term, GBP/USD could consolidate above 1.3200 before potentially resuming its rise toward 1.3260 and 1.3300. On the downside, a break below 1.3150 would open the door for a drop towards 1.3100, especially if US economic data supports a rebound in the dollar.
Gold Analysis: Waiting for the Fed!Gold prices attracted buying after a brief overnight corrective drop, finding support due to expectations of a 50 basis point rate cut by the Fed. This limits the attempted recovery of the US Dollar (USD) and supports the precious metal, although buyers seem reluctant to place aggressive bets ahead of key central bank events. Immediate resistance is at the all-time high of $2,590, with a test of the psychological level of $2,600 if surpassed. Acceptance above this level could open the door to the next target of $2,650. On the other hand, if the Fed disappoints market expectations for a more accommodative stance, gold could face a fresh wave of selling. In that case, the price could drop towards $2,532 and $2,500. The Fed's decision on Wednesday represents a crucial point for the future direction of gold. Markets currently estimate a 65% probability of a 50 basis point rate cut, and the weakness of the US Dollar could continue to provide fundamental support for gold. However, if the Fed opts for a more moderate 25 basis point cut, the dollar could see an immediate upward reaction. More important than the decision itself will be the Fed’s communication, including Jerome Powell's words and the Dot Plot, which will provide guidance on future policy.
EUR/USD Rally: Weak Fed, Cautious ECBThe EUR/USD pair broke above the 1.1100 level due to weakness in the US dollar, driven by expectations of a rate cut by the Fed. The Dollar Index (DXY) is declining, while US and German yields have dropped. The ECB, on the other hand, has shown caution regarding future rate cuts, supporting the euro. Key resistance levels for EUR/USD are 1.1137, 1.1155, 1.1201, and 1.1275. Support lies at 1.1071, with further levels at 1.1030 and 1.1001. The RSI is near 67, suggesting a potential overbought area, but the bullish trend remains intact as long as the price stays above the 200-day moving average. If the dollar continues to weaken, EUR/USD could target 1.1155 and beyond. Conversely, a break below 1.1071 could indicate a correction toward 1.1030 and 1.1001.
Gold Market Analysis: Fed Speculation and Dollar StrengthFundamental Overview:
US Dollar Strength and Interest Rate Speculations: Gold’s price movement is currently influenced by the strength of the US Dollar, driven by shifting expectations regarding interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve (Fed). Following the release of mixed US labor market data, investor bets on a 50 basis points (bps) rate cut in September have decreased. The probability of such a cut is now seen at 29%, down from 47% before the Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report. This shift in expectations has strengthened the US Dollar, putting pressure on non-yielding assets like gold.
Safe-Haven Demand and Global Concerns: Despite the downward pressure from the stronger dollar, concerns over a slowdown in China’s economy have increased demand for safe-haven assets like gold. The precious metal remains supported as a hedge against risk during times of economic uncertainty. Moreover, rising US Treasury yields contribute to gold’s struggles, as higher yields make other assets more attractive compared to non-yielding gold.
Upcoming Inflation Data: All eyes are on the upcoming US inflation data, which could significantly impact gold’s price movements. Inflation is a key indicator for the Fed’s future rate decisions, and any surprises in the data could trigger volatility in both the US Dollar and gold. If inflation comes in higher than expected, it could dampen the prospects for aggressive Fed rate cuts, further pressuring gold.
Fed’s Blackout Period: The Fed has entered its “blackout period” ahead of the September 18th policy decision, meaning there will be no further communication from central bankers. This leaves gold trading in a familiar range, awaiting clearer direction from inflation data and the upcoming Fed decision.
Outlook and Key Events:
Bullish Scenario: If gold manages to hold the $2,499 support level and breaks through the $2,532 resistance, it could extend gains towards $2,550.
Bearish Scenario: If gold fails to defend the $2,499 level, it could drop to $2,472 and potentially $2,461. A further strengthening of the dollar and rising yields would exert additional bearish pressure.
EUR/USD Analysis: Fundamental and Technical OutlookFundamental Overview:
Eurozone Inflation: Recent inflation data from the eurozone points toward expectations of an interest rate cut by the European Central Bank (ECB). This could weigh on the euro in the medium term, as lower interest rates generally reduce the currency's appeal by offering lower yields for investors.
US Economic Data: The August jobs report revealed weaker-than-expected growth in the private sector, with only 99,000 jobs added compared to the forecast of 145,000. This contributed to the US dollar’s weakness.
US Monetary Policy: Current market expectations suggest a 43% probability of a 50 basis point rate cut by the Federal Reserve. This factor weakens the dollar further, but a shift in sentiment based on economic data could reverse the trend.
Technical Analysis:
Resistance Levels:
1.1160 serves as the first key resistance level, followed by 1.1200, which marks the endpoint of the latest uptrend. If the rally continues, 1.1250 becomes the next target for buyers.
Support Levels:
If EUR/USD falls below 1.1100, it could trigger bearish pressure. The next significant support lies at 1.1040 .
Spot Crude Oil 30-Minute Chart AnalysisStrategy Overview:
The chart shows Spot Crude Oil on a 30-minute timeframe, where price action is consolidating around the 70.00 USD level. The market is currently trading in a tight range, suggesting the possibility of an upcoming breakout.
Key Levels:
Support Levels:
The price is finding support at 69.871, which acts as a critical level for potential upward movements.
A break below this support could signal further downside momentum, possibly testing lower levels around 69.399.
Resistance Levels:
The nearest resistance sits at 70.431, where the price may face selling pressure if tested.
Further resistance is identified in the 72.00-72.50 zone, marked as a strong supply area. A successful breakout above this resistance could indicate a stronger bullish move in the medium term.
Trading Strategy:
Buying Strategy: A buy entry can be considered near the support level of 69.871, with a stop loss just below this level. The first target would be the 70.431 resistance zone, and the second target can be the 72.00-72.50 range.
Selling Strategy: If the price fails to break above 70.431, a short position can be initiated targeting a pullback towards 69.871. A break below this level would confirm the bearish momentum.
RSI Confirmation:
The RSI indicator is showing neutral momentum, hovering around the middle range. A breakout above 70.431 may be confirmed if the RSI moves into overbought territory, while a drop below 69.871 could push the RSI toward oversold conditions.
Conclusion:
With price consolidating between 69.871 and 70.431, this chart suggests both buying and selling opportunities based on how the market reacts to these key levels. The upcoming sessions could see either a breakout above resistance for bullish continuation or a failure that could result in a bearish correction.
Will the theme of weak demand and oversupply dampen oil prospectMacro theme:
- Oil prices have declined since last week as investors expect an OPEC+ supply increase in Oct and a potential deal in Libya to resume production, possibly adding over 500,000 barrels per day.
- Weak economic data from China, including Tue's ISM Manufacturing PMI, highlighted the country's sluggish recovery, fuelling calls for more stimulus.
- Concerns over China's weak demand and the prospect of increased supply are likely to keep oil prices under pressure in the short term.
Technical theme:
- USOIL tested EMAs' area confluence with 77.00 resistance before breaking below 71.50 support to maintain a bearish structure.
- If USOIL maintains below the 71.50 level, the price may continue to decline to test 67.80 support.
- On the contrary, if USOIL can close above 71.50, the price may retrace to retest its EMA21 along with the upper bound of its descending channel.
Analysis of the Dollar Index (DXY)Overview: On Tuesday, the Dollar Index (DXY) showed weak performance, failing to consolidate the partial recovery seen on Monday after last week's sharp decline. Although the dollar posted gains against major Asian currencies, such as the Japanese Yen (JPY) and the Korean Won (KRW), these gains were quickly erased during the US trading session. The return of a "risk-on" sentiment in the markets, with stock indices rising in Asia, Europe, and US futures, has led investors to move away from safe-haven assets, further weighing on the dollar.
Fundamental Factors:
Market Sentiment: The return of the "risk-on" sentiment has favored riskier assets at the expense of the US dollar. The easing of tensions in the Middle East has helped reduce flows into safe-haven assets, exerting bearish pressure on the DXY.
Economic Data: On Tuesday, attention will be focused on the weekly mortgage applications data published by the MBA and the EIA's report on US crude oil inventories. Additionally, the speech by Federal Reserve's Waller could provide further insight into the direction of US monetary policy.
Currency Performance: The EUR/USD has resumed its bullish trend, partially erasing the weakness seen at the start of the week. The British pound (GBP/USD) reached over two-year highs, supported by expectations that the Bank of England (BoE) will not cut rates as much as the markets anticipated.
Commodities and Precious Metals: WTI saw a sharp decline, breaking a three-day winning streak due to renewed demand concerns and some profit-taking. Gold prices alternated between gains and losses above the $2,500 per ounce mark, while silver prices remained near the $30.00 per ounce level.
USD/JPY: Limited Recovery Below 145.00!General Overview:
USD/JPY remains near 145.00 in the Asian session on Tuesday, despite a cautious market environment. The pair benefits from the recent rebound of the US Dollar and higher US Treasury yields. However, the divergence in monetary policies between the Federal Reserve (Fed) and the Bank of Japan (BoJ) continues to be a key factor that could influence the pair’s movement in the coming days.
Fundamental Factors:
Japanese Macroeconomic Data: Japan's recent GDP growth in the second quarter exceeded expectations, strengthening the case for a possible interest rate hike by the BoJ. This temporarily strengthened the Japanese Yen (JPY), contributing to the downward pressure on USD/JPY.
Monetary Policy and the Fed:
The US Dollar found support from higher US Treasury yields, but expectations of a rate cut by the Fed in September limit the upside potential. Specifically, the debate is focused on a possible 25 basis point cut, with a 60% probability, while there is still a 36% chance of a more significant 50 basis point cut, according to CME FedWatch.
GBP/USD in Rally: Geopolitical Calm Sparks Bullish MomentumThe GBP/USD pair is currently in a bullish phase, trading near its highest level in the past three weeks, just below the 1.2900 mark. This movement followed the easing of concerns about a broader conflict in the Middle East, after recent hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon did not escalate further. The reduction in geopolitical tensions has supported risk sentiment, helping GBP/USD to rise.
Fundamental Analysis
The recent rise in GBP/USD can be attributed to a combination of diminishing geopolitical risks and favorable technical positioning. On Thursday, the pair initially fell towards 1.2800 following positive economic data from the United States. Initial Jobless Claims in the U.S. decreased by 7,000, reaching 227,000, and retail sales for July increased by 1%, well above the expected 0.3%. This positive data temporarily strengthened the U.S. Dollar.
However, with the improvement in risk sentiment throughout the day, GBP/USD regained momentum and closed in positive territory. The resilience of GBP/USD despite the positive U.S. data suggests an underlying bullish momentum driven by risk appetite.
Looking ahead, the U.S. economic calendar includes data on housing starts and building permits for July, along with the preliminary Consumer Sentiment Index from the University of Michigan for August.
Outlook
The short-term direction for GBP/USD will likely be influenced by risk sentiment and potential profit-taking as the week comes to a close. A bullish opening on Wall Street could weaken the U.S. Dollar and support further gains in GBP/USD.
USOIL AnalysisOil prices have surged on Monday, driven by escalating tensions in the Middle East and potential disruptions in Libyan oil production. The recent uptick in violence between Israel and Hezbollah, coupled with ongoing drone attacks and bombings, has severely diminished the prospects of a Gaza ceasefire deal, pushing oil prices higher.
Adding fuel to the fire, Libya is facing a significant disruption in oil production due to an internal political conflict between rival governments vying for control over the central bank. The sudden halt in production exacerbates supply concerns, contributing to the sharp rise in oil prices.
The US Dollar Index (DXY) is struggling after a poor performance last week, influenced by Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's confirmation of an impending interest rate cut in September. However, markets may be overestimating the scale and pace of these cuts, which could have broader implications for the oil market if expectations are not met.
Technical Analysis
Oil is currently in a strong position at the start of the week. Despite fears of a sell-off from hedge funds, oil prices have rallied, potentially inviting more bullish positioning. The violence in the Middle East raises doubts about the feasibility of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, and any further escalation could drive prices even higher.
On the technical front, WTI Crude Oil is trading around $77.07, while Brent Crude is at $80.44. A key resistance level is at $77.65, which aligns with both a descending trendline and the 200-day Simple Moving Average (SMA). A break above this level could see the 100-day SMA at $78.45 act as another potential rejection point.
On the downside, support remains at $71.17, the low from August 5, which has provided a base for the current rebound. Should prices fall below $70.00, the next significant support levels to watch are $68.00 and $67.11, the latter being the lowest point from the triple bottom formation seen in June 2023.
XAU/USD Above $2,500, But Is a Drop Coming?The gold price (XAU/USD) has maintained a solid position above the psychological support level of $2,500 at the start of the week. This increase is supported by growing expectations that the US Federal Reserve will begin lowering borrowing costs in September. From a short-term technical perspective, the gold price still suggests upside risks, especially if buyers maintain control above the triangle support, which was previously resistance, at $2,470.
Technical Analysis
The gold price recently confirmed a bullish breakout from a symmetrical triangle, indicating further gains. Gold buyers need to reclaim the all-time high of $2,532 to face the next key barrier at $2,600.
If the gold price fails to sustain current levels, a correction could occur towards the $2,500 threshold. A sustained break below $2,485 would expose the market to further declines, down to the critical support at $2,470.
Fundamental Factors
The positive tone surrounding the gold price is mainly attributed to the sustained weakness of the US dollar and negative US Treasury yields, following dovish remarks by Fed Chairman Jerome Powell at the Jackson Hole Symposium. Powell clearly confirmed that the Fed's easing cycle will begin in September, signaling a possible rate reduction. The market currently sees a 38% probability of a 50 basis point rate cut and a 62% probability of a 25 basis point cut, as indicated by the CME Group's FedWatch Tool.
In a low-interest-rate environment, gold, which does not yield interest, tends to benefit. Additionally, the precious metal, considered a safe haven, is capitalizing on escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, particularly after Israel's preemptive airstrike on Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and the lack of an agreement in ceasefire talks in Cairo.
Future Outlook
With the support of favorable fundamental factors and a technical setup that favors buyers, the gold price remains exposed to upside risks. The next significant move could be driven by the US Durable Goods Orders data, expected later on Monday.
EUR/USD Key Levels: 1.075 - 1.081 - 1.066 General Overview:
The EUR/USD pair has recently lost ground in a short-term bullish recovery, testing new two-week lows near the 1.0800 level, as the movement's momentum has drained out ahead of updates on EU GDP data. The latest Federal Reserve interest rate decision is expected on Wednesday, with a new round of US Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) scheduled for Friday.
Fundamental Analysis:
The US Dollar (USD) started the week on a positive note, reversing consecutive daily gains in EUR/USD and testing three-day lows near the 1.0800 region. Expectations of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve (Fed) and the European Central Bank (ECB) after the summer break have influenced market dynamics.
In terms of monetary policy, the Fed is expected to keep rates unchanged at the July 31 meeting, while the easing cycle is anticipated to begin in September. The ECB, according to recent comments from Vice President Luis de Guindos, may also cut rates in September. This policy divergence between the Fed and the ECB could lead to further weakening of the European currency in the medium term.
Key Macroeconomic Data:
Market participants will closely follow the release of preliminary Q2 GDP data from both Germany and the Eurozone, as well as advanced inflation data from Germany, scheduled for July 30. The preliminary Eurozone CPI report will be released on Wednesday, followed by the outcome of the FOMC monetary policy meeting. Finally, key US macroeconomic data, including the Nonfarm Payrolls (NFP) report scheduled for Friday, will be crucial in determining the next moves for the EUR/USD pair.
Technical Outlook:
From a technical perspective, spot prices showed resilience below the 50% Fibonacci retracement level of the June-July rally on Monday, although the lack of significant buying suggests caution for bulls. Oscillators on the daily chart are starting to gain negative traction, suggesting that the path of least resistance for EUR/USD is to the downside.
Spot prices could weaken further below the 61.8% Fibonacci level near the 1.0775 region and test the next relevant support near the 1.0745 horizontal zone. This is closely followed by the 78.6% Fibonacci level near the 1.0730 area, below which EUR/USD could challenge the June monthly low, around the 1.0660 region, with some intermediate support near the psychological 1.0700 mark.
Conversely, any subsequent move up is likely to confront resistance near the 1.0840-1.0845 region or the 38.2% Fibonacci level. Sustained strength beyond this could lift the EUR/USD pair above the 1.0865 horizontal barrier towards the 1.0885-1.0890 region. Continued buying beyond the 1.0900 level should allow bulls to aim back towards retesting the multi-month peak, around the mid-1.0900s.
GBP/USD towards 1.277 before reaching 1.31Current Context
The GBP/USD pair settled at 1.2895 during the Asian trading hours on Thursday. The increasing possibility that the Bank of England (BoE) might start cutting interest rates in August has weakened the British Pound. In the absence of significant economic data releases from the UK, the GBP/USD pair will be influenced by the US Dollar (USD).
Support and Resistance Levels
Support Levels:
1.2875-1.2870: This range is defined by the 38.2% Fibonacci retracement of the latest uptrend.
1.2830: Level corresponding to the 50% Fibonacci retracement.
1.2800: Psychological and static level.
Resistance Levels:
1.2900: Psychological and static level.
1.2940-1.2950: Range defined by the 23.6% Fibonacci retracement.
Economic Data Influence
UK Data:
The S&P Global/CIPS Composite PMI for the UK improved to 52.7 in the flash estimate for July from 52.3 in June, indicating ongoing expansion in private sector business activity.
However, statements from Chris Williamson of S&P Global Market Intelligence highlight caution among policymakers in changing monetary policy due to inflationary pressures and additional costs from shipping delays and rising freight prices.
The risk-averse market context limits the ability of GBP/USD to regain ground despite positive PMI data.
US Data:
S&P Global will release the July PMI data for the United States. If either the Manufacturing or Services PMI unexpectedly falls below 50, the US Dollar could maintain its strength, further capping the upside potential for GBP/USD.
Market Sentiment
The risk-averse market climate is negatively impacting GBP/USD. At the time of writing, the UK's FTSE 100 Index is down nearly 0.5%, and US stock index futures are down between 0.5% and 0.9%. This risk-averse sentiment supports the strength of the US Dollar and exerts bearish pressure on GBP/USD.
Oil Prices Plunge Amid Global UncertaintyCurrent Price Movement:
West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures on the NYMEX have extended their downside, trading below $78.00. This decline is primarily driven by concerns over China's economic outlook and political uncertainty in the United States.
Factors Influencing the Oil Price:
China’s Economic Concerns:
The People's Bank of China (PBoC) unexpectedly reduced its Loan Prime Rate by 10 basis points to 3.35% (one-year) and 3.85% (five-year).
This rate cut follows weaker-than-expected Q2 GDP growth of 0.7%, below estimates of 1.1% and previous figures of 1.5%.
As the world's largest oil importer, China’s economic slowdown raises concerns about future oil demand, exerting downward pressure on prices.
Supply Outlook:
Morgan Stanley forecasts an increase in oil supply by 2.5 million barrels per day by 2025 from OPEC and non-OPEC producers.
The anticipated supply growth exceeds demand growth projections, contributing to the easing of tight market fears and further weakening oil prices.
US Political Uncertainty:
The potential nomination of Kamala Harris as the Democratic leader and speculation about Donald Trump’s potential victory in the upcoming presidential election have created political uncertainty.
Trump’s promise to increase US oil production if elected could lead to a future increase in supply, adding downward pressure on oil prices.
The US Dollar Index (DXY) has edged lower amidst this political uncertainty, affecting oil prices inversely.
Global Economic Indicators:
Preliminary S&P Global Manufacturing PMI data from various nations are expected to provide insights into the global demand outlook, which will further influence oil prices.
Canadian Dollar (CAD) Dynamics:
The USD/CAD pair has risen to near 1.3750, influenced by the sharp correction in oil prices.
Canada, being a leading oil supplier to the US, sees its currency affected by oil price movements. The weakening CAD amidst declining oil prices reflects this relationship.
Expectations of the Bank of Canada (BoC) cutting interest rates by 25 basis points to 4.5% due to easing price pressures and a cooling labor market also impact the CAD.
US Economic Data:
The trajectory of the US Dollar will be influenced by upcoming US economic data, providing clues about the Federal Reserve's interest rate decisions.
Political developments, such as the withdrawal of Joe Biden's re-election bid, have added to the uncertainty, impacting the DXY and, consequently, oil prices.
EUR/USD: will it reach the level of 1.11?EUR/USD stays below 1.0900:
The pair has defended gains in a context of a weak US Dollar (USD), despite risk aversion, which has supported the EUR/USD exchange rate.
Focus on Political and Macroeconomic Data: Attention remains on US political updates and mid-tier economic data from both the EU and the US for fresh trading impetus.
Key Technical Levels
Resistances:
First resistance at 1.0950.
Followed by the March high at 1.0980.
Psychological level at 1.1000.
Supports:
June low at 1.0668.
May low at 1.0650.
2024 annual low at 1.0600.
Fundamental Factors
Factors Affecting the US Dollar:
The USD regained momentum on Thursday, pushing the USD Index (DXY) above the 104.00 level, thanks to a rebound in US yields.
Prospects of Fed rate cuts, with the CME Group's FedWatch Tool indicating a nearly 98% probability of lower rates at the September 18 meeting and another cut expected in December.
Factors Affecting the Euro:
The ECB maintained a dovish stance at Thursday's meeting, with a slight uptick in German 10-year Bund yields.
Christine Lagarde highlighted expectations of a recovery supported by consumption, with a resilient labor market and high domestic inflation.
The ECB projects that the Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) will reach the target in the second half of 2025.
Monetary Policy Outlook:
Ongoing debate about how many times the Fed will cut rates this year, despite the current projection of a single cut.
Prospects of Fed rate cuts occasionally support EUR/USD, reducing the gap between the Fed's and the ECB's monetary policies.
Outlook and Prospects
Short-Term Prospects: The trading dynamics for the EUR/USD pair will likely be influenced by upcoming Fed speeches and economic updates from both the US and the Eurozone. The loss of bullish momentum indicated by the 4-hour chart suggests caution, but defending key levels like the 200-SMA and the indicated supports could provide further bullish impetus.
Medium-Long Term Prospects: If the EUR/USD convincingly surpasses the 200-SMA, further gains may be on the horizon. However, failure to do so could lead to a test of lower support levels.
WTI Oil Price Analysis: Market Dynamics and Global ChallengesCurrent Situation:
The price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) has experienced a slight decline due to the strengthening of the US dollar (USD), supported by rising yields. Currently, the price of WTI is around $81.20 per barrel during European hours on Thursday, after gaining ground in the Asian session due to a larger-than-expected drop in US crude oil inventories.
Supply and Demand:
The reduction in US crude oil inventories has been significant. The Energy Information Administration (EIA) reported a decrease of 4.87 million barrels for the week ending July 12, a figure much higher than the expected drop of 0.80 million barrels and the previous decrease of 3.443 million barrels. This decline in inventories may suggest robust domestic demand, which can have a positive effect on oil prices.
Impact of Monetary Policies:
Expectations that the Federal Reserve (Fed) will reduce interest rates in September could improve economic conditions in the United States. With lower borrowing costs, economic activity could increase, which in turn could support oil demand. Statements by Fed Governor Christopher Waller and Richmond Fed President Thomas Barkin indicate a possible rate cut, which could further incentivize oil demand.
Market Pressures:
Despite some positive signs, the overall decline in commodity demand expectations continues to threaten the energy complex. According to Daniel Ghali, senior commodity strategist at TDS, the absence of an increase in supply risk premia could continue to exert downward pressure on prices. However, Commodity Trading Advisors (CTAs) still have substantial resources to deploy in the market, which could limit price declines in the short term, barring a significant downturn.
Global Challenges:
Another challenge for WTI oil prices is the economic slowdown in China in the second quarter, which reduces demand from the world's largest oil-importing country. Increasing trade tensions, with new tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles imposed by the United States and the European Union, contribute to an uncertain global economic outlook, negatively impacting oil demand.
USOIL Slides to Crucial Support Region on Demand JittersThe commodity staged a four-week relief rally recently and the longest profitable streak of the year, helped by OPEC+ supply curbs extension and summer travel demand. At the same time, soft US inflation and dovish Fed commentary have boosted market pricing for multiple cuts, which can provide another tailwind. Above the EMA200 bulls have the ability to set higher highs (84.54), but don’t inspire yet confidence for new 2024 highs (87.66).
Despite the near-term favorable supply-demand dynamics, longer-term prospects are gloomy, as OPEC+ will start returning oil to the market and usage is likely to decelerate substantially this year. This week’s data from China (the world’s largest importer) aggravated demand concerns, as the economy grew by 4.7% y/y in Q2 and the slowest pace in more than a year.
USOil faces pressure as a result and threatens a key support region, provided by the 200Days EMA (blue line), the 38.2% Fibonacci of the last leg up and the upper border of the daily Ichimoku Cloud. Although this cluster has the potential to contain the fall, a breach would shift bias to the downside. This would expose WTI to 76.13 and bring the June lows to the spotlight (72.40), although sustained weakness is not easy under current conditions.
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USOIL | The Sell Off is nearWTI crude oil prices have shown a downward trend in recent sessions, falling for three consecutive days. Currently, WTI stands around the $80.70 region, recording a daily loss of about 0.40%. Despite this decline, the price remains above the overnight swing low, suggesting a lack of conviction among sellers.
Factors Influencing Prices
Chinese Economy:
Economic Growth Data: Official data released on Monday showed that China's economy grew by 4.7% in the second quarter of 2024, down from 5.3% in the first quarter. This has fueled concerns about a slowdown in the Chinese economy, the world's largest oil importer, and a consequent decrease in fuel demand.
Impact on the Oil Market: Concerns about Chinese demand are a key factor exerting downward pressure on crude oil prices.
Strength of the US Dollar (USD):
Dollar Recovery: The US dollar has gained traction, recovering from a more than three-month low touched on Monday. A stronger dollar makes USD-denominated oil more expensive for buyers using other currencies, thereby reducing demand.
Monetary Policy Outlook: The growing acceptance that the Federal Reserve might start a rate-cutting cycle as early as September could limit further dollar gains, partially mitigating the negative effect on oil prices.
Supply Concerns:
Middle East Conflicts: Concerns about potential supply disruptions due to ongoing conflicts in the Middle East continue to support oil prices. This factor could limit further losses in the short term.
Forecasts and Expectations
Price Range: WTI seems to remain confined within a familiar range maintained over the past two weeks, with prices oscillating around the $80.70-$81.30 region.
Awaiting External Impulses: Market participants are now waiting for US retail sales data to find new drivers that could influence prices.
Need for Confirmation: To position for a further extension of the recent pullback from levels near $84.00, it would be prudent to wait for more convincing selling signals.