HFMarkets (hfm.com): Market analysis services.

Date: 12th June 2024.

Market News – Steady ahead of the Big Day!



Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

• Asian stocks edged up, driven by the technology sector, while the US Dollar remained firm ahead of the US inflation report and Fed policy decision.
• China’s CPI gains held above zero in May while factory-gate prices remained stuck in deflation, signalling ongoing weak demand.
• UK GDP stagnated in April. Monthly GDP numbers came in a tad better than anticipated, with activity stagnating, rather than contracting -0.1% m/m, as Bloomberg consensus forecasts had predicted. The recovery remains uneven though.
• The FOMC began day 1 of its 2-day meeting with the decision and the new quarterly forecasts (SEP) at 21:00 GMT following by Chair Powell’s press conference at 21:30 GMT. The Fed is universally expected to maintain a steady rate stance, leaving all of the focus on the new forecasts, Chair Powell’s press conference, and the policy statement. It is widely expected that the “dovish” dot plot from March that showed three cuts (though it was a close call for two) will be revised toward a more hawkish stance.

Asian & European Open:

• Treasuries steadied after rising on a solid $39 billion sale, which reflected speculation that inflation reading will help make the case for the Fed to cut rates this year.
• The NASDAQ rebounded and advanced 0.88% into the close to another record at 17,343. Similarly the S&P500 rose 0.27% to 5375, also a new record (27th of the year).
• A surge in Apple shares (7%) supported. The Dow slumped -0.3%, hurt by financials and industrials that overshadowed a gain in IT.
• China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group plunged 20% after warning of losing assets.

Financial Markets Performance:

• The USDIndex had a good first half, rising to a high of 105.46 before fading to 105.24. However, it’s above the 105 level for a second straight session (first time since May 13,14) and the highest since early May.
• The EURUSD was down for a fourth session at 1.0737 amid political turmoil in Europe.
• OIL prices extended gains for a third session, with UKOIL futures up 0.5% to $82.36 a barrel and USOIL up 0.7% to $78.45 a barrel. Industry data pointed to shrinking US crude stockpiles ahead of a report from the IEA on the market outlook.
• Gold prices edged 0.1% lower to $2,313.72 per ounce.

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: 24th June 2024.

How Is Politics Trigger a New Wave of Volatility For The Week Ahead?

• Apple confirm they will delay the release of certain features within the EU due to regulations.
• Apple stocks fell 3.00% within the past week applying pressure on the NASDAQ.
• The US Dollar was last week’s best performing currency increasing in value by 0.47%.
• Investors turn to haven assets due to political uncertainty. French elections will take place over the weekend and the first US presidential debate on Thursday.

USDJPY – Dollar Strength Pushes The Exchange Close To All-Time Highs!

The US Dollar has been increasing in value against the Japanese Yen for 7 consecutive days. The US Dollar was the best performing currency of the week, while the Japanese Yen was the worst performing. The Japanese Yen Index fell 1.36% during the previous week and a further 0.13% this morning. The currency pair is witnessing strong buy signals from most indicators but is under psychological pressure as investors fear another Japanese Government currency intervention.

However, even with an intervention, fundamental elements continue to point towards potential Dollar strength. Over the past week investors have turned to the Dollar as a “safe haven” ahead of some political uncertainty. The US will hold their first presidential debate which will grab investors attention. The debate on June 27th, will be the first in-person debate between the two main candidates. In addition to this, the French elections will take place over next weekend and is likely to create volatility across the board, particularly if the outcome is a change in leadership.




In addition to the risk factor, the US Dollar also continues to be supported by economic data. While France, Germany and the UK all failed to beat PMI expectations, the US overachieved. The US Services and Manufacturing PMI beat expectations and also rose from the previous month. The Services PMI rose from 54.8 to 55.1 and Manufacturing from 51.3 to 51.7. The only concern for investors is a possible US interest rate adjustment in September 2024 which according to the CME Group is only 59% priced into the market.

Technical analysis, particularly price action is signalling a renewed long signal if the price rises above 159.80. On a 2-hour chart, the price is of the exchange is trading above the 75-bar SMA and 100-bar EMA signalling buyer strength.

USA100 – Apple Warn The EU, But What Will Be The Outcome For the NASDAQ?

The NASDAQ is trading at the 100-Period EMA for the first time since June 5th as the asset retraces downward. What is pressuring the NASDAQ?




The first catching investors attention is Apple stocks which are the second most influential stock for the index. Apple is warning the EU they will either not release or delay the release of new Apple features within the EU. According to the company, these new features are mainly related to AI which will be released to other regions later in the year.

The DMA is the bloc’s key digital rule book, designed to help local start-ups compete with US-based Big Tech. It requires large digital platforms to share data legally and prohibits them from prioritizing their own services over competitors’. The news is triggering a lack of demand and orders which is causing downward impulse waves.

Another concern for investors is the rise in the US Dollar, the VIX trading 0.70% higher and the lower risk appetite. However, investors will also be keen to see if investors take advantage of the lower price. Analysts continue to believe the longer-term outcome will be a bullish trend as long as market conditions remain strong. A positive aspect for the NASDAQ is that, despite the recent price decline, the High Low Index has rebounded above 60.00%. If the price rises above $19,798.74, a rebound becomes potentially more likely.

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 June 2024.

Kenya in Turmoil: Youth-Led Protests Shake Economy as Shilling Falls



Impact on the Kenyan Shilling (KES)
Earlier today, lawmakers in Kenya passed the bill increasing taxes, which now awaits President William Ruto’s assent. The planned tax increases aim to generate an additional $2.3 billion in revenue in the upcoming fiscal year. Ruto intends to reduce the budget deficit from 5.7% of GDP in the current financial year to 3.3% of GDP in the next, as part of efforts to improve Kenya’s fiscal position and comply with an IMF program that requires Nairobi to increase revenue.

The recent youth-led protests against the Kenyan government’s proposed tax increases have had a notable impact on the Kenyan shilling (KES), which has depreciated against the US Dollar. The Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) previously reported that the shilling had appreciated against the Dollar more than almost any other currency in 2024. However, following the news of police and protester violence, the shilling slipped from trading at approximately $0.0077 to the Dollar.



Background on the Finance Bill
A finance bill is typically presented to parliament before the start of the financial year, which runs from July to June, outlining the government’s fiscal plans. In the 2024/25 bill, the Kenyan government aims to raise $2.7 billion in additional taxes to reduce the budget deficit and state borrowing. Kenya’s public debt currently stands at 68% of GDP, surpassing the 55% of GDP recommended by the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

Facing severe liquidity challenges and uncertainty about its ability to access capital from financial markets, Kenya has turned to the IMF, which has urged the government to meet revenue targets to secure further funding.

Protesters are demanding the government abandon the planned tax hikes, arguing that they will stifle the economy and increase the cost of living for Kenyans already struggling financially. This resistance is not unprecedented; last year, the government of President William Ruto, elected in 2022 on a promise to improve the lives of the poor, introduced a housing tax and raised the top personal income tax rate through the finance bill, triggering anger, street protests, and legal challenges.
Proposed Tax Measures

The proposed tax measures causing unrest include new levies on basic commodities such as bread, vegetable oil, and sugar, and a new motor vehicle circulation tax of 2.5% of a car’s value to be paid annually. An “eco levy” on most manufactured goods, including sanitary towels and diapers, is also proposed. Additionally, the bill seeks to increase existing taxes on financial transactions. The government argues that these tax measures are necessary to fund development programs and reduce public debt.

The government had earlier withdrawn several of the most controversial measures, such as a tax on bread and cooking oil, but this did not assuage people’s anger. The finance ministry has stated that these concessions would create a 200 billion Kenyan shilling ($1.56 billion) shortfall in the 2024/25 budget, necessitating spending cuts. Despite these concessions, protesters and opposition parties argue they are insufficient and call for the entire bill to be abandoned.
The Protests

President Ruto has acknowledged the youth-led protests and pledged to engage in dialogue to address their concerns, though the timing of such discussions remains unclear. It is also uncertain whether the protests will intensify if parliament passes the bill. The social media-driven protests lack clear leadership, but many young people have vowed to continue demonstrating. Some protesters cite the arrest of at least two activists since Ruto’s offer of talks as evidence of the government’s lack of goodwill.

The government claims that the withdrawal of some tax proposals demonstrates its willingness to compromise. Nevertheless, police have attempted to disperse predominantly young protesters chanting “Ruto must go!” amidst growing anger over the government’s plan to raise more than $2 billion in new taxes to address the country’s substantial budget deficit.

The demonstrations began a week ago in Nairobi and have since spread to other cities in the country of 54 million people. They are led mostly by young Kenyans, many of whom organized via social media and livestreamed demonstrations on TikTok, Instagram, and other platforms. The protesters are demanding that the government of Kenyan President William Ruto withdraw the bill that would introduce major tax increases, arguing that the measures are hurting ordinary Kenyans already grappling with rising prices for everyday essentials.

The human rights commission has reported that security forces have “abducted” prominent critics of the tax proposals, seizing many from their homes under cover of darkness. Treasury Secretary Njuguna Ndung’u has warned that failing to implement the tax increases could create a $1.5 billion hole in the budget. The government has indicated it would be forced to cut spending, including slashing support for a school food program and the loss-making flag carrier Kenya Airways if the bill fails.

Following initial protests last Tuesday, when the bill was tabled in parliament for debate, the government promised to withdraw planned taxes on bread, cooking oil, locally made diapers, and other products. However, by Thursday, the protests had spread to almost half of Kenya’s 47 counties. Protesters are calling for a “total shutdown” of the country and demanding that Ruto completely drop the finance bill.

Interest payments on Kenya’s debt consume nearly 38% of revenues, according to the World Bank. In January, the IMF provided Kenya with an additional $941 million loan as part of a $3.9 billion bailout that began in 2021.

Multilateral lenders are willing to continue extending credit to Kenya, provided it maintains fiscal consolidation and increases revenue collection.
What comes next?
With the bill now approved, the president has the option to either enact it within 14 days or return it to parliament with suggested amendments. The government might also consider alternative strategies to alleviate tensions, such as postponing the bill, though this is improbable.

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: 26th June 2024.

Market News – European Stocks Follow US Gains, Inflation Pressures Rise in Australia.


Trading Leveraged Products is risky
Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

• Australia’s CPI surged to 4% in May, up from 3.6% in April, complicating the central bank’s plans for rate cuts. This increase was mainly driven by higher housing and transport costs.
• European stocks followed the upward trend after a volatile Asian session and a rally in US session overnight, with markets awaiting new trading catalysts.
• China’s central bank once again loosened its grip on the Yuan as the currency traded near the lower end of its fixed daily trading band. A Bloomberg survey indicated that China’s export outlook is set to improve, supporting growth in the world’s second-largest economy despite slowing consumer spending.
• Treasuries lost ground with yields ending a few basis points higher as hawkish comments from the Fed’s Bowman combined with risk-on flows into the NASDAQ and a slightly better than expected confidence report weighed on bonds.
• Investors are likely to continue investing in US stocks at any sign of a pullback as the Fed moves closer to reducing interest rates, according to Societe Generale SA, which expects the easing cycle to begin early next year.

Asian & European Open:

• Asia stock indices rose, while Australian stocks declined. US stock futures edged higher in Asia, bolstered by a rebound in Nvidia shares.
• The bounce in Nvidia after its 3-day rout helped lift tech and in turn the NASDAQ and the S&P500. Nvidia climbed 6.8%,following a $430 billion sell-off. The NASDAQ ended with a 1.26% gain, while the S&P 500 was 0.39% in the green. The Dow dropped -0.76% with a -2.67% plunge in materials leading a broadbased decline.
• Rivian Automotive Inc. surged as Volkswagen AG announced a $5 billion investment to form a joint venture with the electric-vehicle maker.

Financial Markets Performance:

• The USDIndex firmed but off its 105.78 peak.
• USDJPY held just below the critical 160 per Dollar level, raising concerns about possible market intervention.
• The AUD strengthened to 0.6688 due to faster-than-expected inflation data.
• USOIL held a decline following an industry report indicating a small increase in US crude inventories ahead of official government data.
• Copper fell to its lowest level in over 2 months due to sustained pressure from weak Chinese demand. Gold remained largely unchanged.

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: 26th June 2024.

Market News – European Stocks Follow US Gains, Inflation Pressures Rise in Australia.



Trading Leveraged Products is risky
Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

• Australia’s CPI surged to 4% in May, up from 3.6% in April, complicating the central bank’s plans for rate cuts. This increase was mainly driven by higher housing and transport costs.
• European stocks followed the upward trend after a volatile Asian session and a rally in US session overnight, with markets awaiting new trading catalysts.
• China’s central bank once again loosened its grip on the Yuan as the currency traded near the lower end of its fixed daily trading band. A Bloomberg survey indicated that China’s export outlook is set to improve, supporting growth in the world’s second-largest economy despite slowing consumer spending.
• Treasuries lost ground with yields ending a few basis points higher as hawkish comments from the Fed’s Bowman combined with risk-on flows into the NASDAQ and a slightly better than expected confidence report weighed on bonds.
• Investors are likely to continue investing in US stocks at any sign of a pullback as the Fed moves closer to reducing interest rates, according to Societe Generale SA, which expects the easing cycle to begin early next year.

Asian & European Open:

• Asia stock indices rose, while Australian stocks declined. US stock futures edged higher in Asia, bolstered by a rebound in Nvidia shares.
• The bounce in Nvidia after its 3-day rout helped lift tech and in turn the NASDAQ and the S&P500. Nvidia climbed 6.8%,following a $430 billion sell-off. The NASDAQ ended with a 1.26% gain, while the S&P 500 was 0.39% in the green. The Dow dropped -0.76% with a -2.67% plunge in materials leading a broadbased decline.
• Rivian Automotive Inc. surged as Volkswagen AG announced a $5 billion investment to form a joint venture with the electric-vehicle maker.

Financial Markets Performance:

• The USDIndex firmed but off its 105.78 peak.
• USDJPY held just below the critical 160 per Dollar level, raising concerns about possible market intervention.
• The AUD strengthened to 0.6688 due to faster-than-expected inflation data.
• USOIL held a decline following an industry report indicating a small increase in US crude inventories ahead of official government data.
• Copper fell to its lowest level in over 2 months due to sustained pressure from weak Chinese demand. Gold remained largely unchanged.

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: 27th June 2024.

Market News – Asian Declines, Tech Sector Losses and Anticipation for PCE.



Economic Indicators & Central Banks:

Several events are on the calendar which are keeping a cautious tone in the markets:

• Although tonight’s presidential debate is much anticipated, it’s unlikely to impact the markets as it won’t provide any real clues on fiscal or monetary policy.
• Asian shares decline, with US futures amid ongoing losses in the tech sector. Friday’s PCE chain price report has Treasury bulls sidelined for now and the run up in yields is tempering activity on Wall Street. Though expectations are for a benign report, upside surprises in Australia and Canadian CPI are generating some concerns.
• Chinese stocks are headed for a technical correction. The earlier rally that pushed Chinese equities into bull markets this year has been losing momentum due to ongoing concerns about an uneven economic recovery. Investors are now focusing on the Third Plenum, the July meeting historically known for significant economic policy announcements by the Communist Party.

Asian & European Open:

• Wall Street rallied with all three major indexes finishing in the green. A bounce in tech boosted the NASDAQ 0.49%, back to 17,805. The S&P500 was up 0.16% and the Dow edged up 0.04%.
• Micron Technology Inc.’s sales outlook fell short of the highest forecasts, denting giant tech companies in late Wall Street trading.
• Asian equities declined on Thursday, with Hong Kong experiencing the largest losses as Chinese tech companies and property developers listed in the city fell. Significant contributors to the drop included electric vehicle maker BYD, travel agency Trip.com, and Tencent.

Financial Markets Performance:

• The USDIndex was a big winner, climbing to a session peak of 106.130 before closing at 106.079, the highest since late April.
• A surge in USDJPY to 160.79, the highest since 1986, supported. Today the Yen recovered by 0.3% against the Dollar, to 160.29.
• Gold and USOIL prices declined, in part on the firmer Dollar. Bullion fell -0.49% to $2298 per ounce and USOIL slipped -0.2% to $80.36 per barrel.

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.