Daily Market Analysis By FXOpen

AUD/USD Analysis: Aussie Weakens After RBA Decision
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Following its decision on 7th May, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) opted to maintain the interest rate at 4.35%, despite inflation continuing to decrease at a slower pace than anticipated by the RBA.

"I think we still think they’re reasonably balanced with perhaps a little bit of a signal that we need to be very watchful on the upside," RBA governor Michele Bullock said.

According to The Guardian, the absence of more aggressive language led to a decline in the Australian dollar.

Specifically, on the morning of 8th May, the AUD/USD rate fell below the 0.657 level, whereas on 7th May, the rate was at 0.664 - a decrease of approximately 1.3% in 30 hours.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT THE FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Rivian Stock Goes High as Q1 Report Anticipation Mounts
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Being a newcomer within a very long-established and somewhat traditional global industry is not easy.

The automotive industry is a case in point. It has been over 139 years since Karl Benz managed to successfully produce the first motorised vehicle, and since then, huge global conglomerates have built economies of scale to compete against each other fiercely in every corner of the world whilst evolving gradually rather than taking a revolutionary position.

Suddenly, in 2014, the now infamous Elon Musk came from outside the traditional manufacturing or automotive sectors and disrupted an age-old, highly polished, and well-established industry to the extent that even Mercedes Benz, the company that invented the car all those years ago, has begun making electric cars to compete with those introduced by Elon Musk's Tesla company.

More recently, some even newer names have entered the electric vehicle arena, some of which listed their stock on public exchanges in North America with high-value listings despite little or no market share, having done so via controversial SPAC 'blank check' companies toward an audience which, for many, would have heard the names of such companies for the first time.

One such firm is Rivian Automotive, which listed its stock on the NASDAQ exchange in November 2021 at a price of $78 per share. Since then, Rivian, whose main product is an electric pickup truck, has been incredibly volatile, trading at a lot less than $10 per share more recently, but had been fluctuating around $25 in December.

As the New York trading session came to a close yesterday, Rivian stock was among the top risers on FXOpen's TickTrader platform, concluding the trading day at $10.31 per share according to FXOpen pricing.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT THE FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

The US Labour Market Is Slowing Down. How Could This Impact Major Currency Pair Pricing?
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

A weak employment report in the US contributed to a sharp pullback in major currency pairs, but it hasn't led to a full change in major trends yet. For instance, nonfarm payroll figures showed that:

• The number of new jobs came in at 173K, compared to the forecast of 238K.
  
• Average monthly wages decreased by 0.2% against an expected 0.3% increase.
  
• Unemployment rose to 3.9% from 3.8%.
  

Following the slowdown in job growth, investors will eagerly await inflation data. If the figures meet or exceed expert forecasts, expectations for a rate cut by the US regulator could increase.

GBP/USD
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]
According to technical analysis of the GBP/USD pair using the "chaos" system, we are seeing a corrective pullback after the formation of a reversal bar on April 22. Attention should be paid to price behaviour around 1.2520-1.2500. If the price rebounds from this range, it could strengthen towards 1.2640-1.2600. A drop below support at the entwined alligator lines may lead to a retest of the recent low around 1.2300.

Key events of the week include:

• Today at 11:30 (GMT +3:00), publication of data on business activity index in the UK construction sector for April.
  
• Thursday at 14:00 (GMT +3:00), Bank of England meeting and decision on the GBP base interest rate.
  

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT THE FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

UK100 Analysis: Stock Market Optimistic Ahead of Bank of England News
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

On Monday, the UK observed a bank holiday for May Day, and on Tuesday, the stock market demonstrated accumulated optimism.

The FTSE index (UK100) today surpassed the 8300 mark. Additionally:
→ The opening occurred with a bullish gap;
→ On the daily chart of UK100, today the RSI indicator is in overbought territory, unseen since the beginning of 2023.

One of the significant drivers of bullish sentiments could be considered events on Thursday – at 14:00 GMT+3, news from the Bank of England is expected: market participants will learn about the decision on the interest rate, followed by a press conference.

As Econoday writes:
→ A decision to cut interest rates is unlikely at Thursday's meeting, with autumn being seen as the most probable period for a 0.25-point rate cut from the current level of 5.25 points.
→ Members of the rate-setting committee are concerned that inflation is slowing down too slowly. However, the trend is in the right direction, and the Bank of England has already stated that the 2 percent target does not necessarily need to be reached before interest rates are lowered.

Perhaps the anticipation of signals for monetary policy easing instils confidence in the bulls, but how sustainable can the current growth be?

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Japanese Yen Goes on Volatility Drive after US Economic Uncertainty Surfaces
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

The Japanese yen has been notably volatile for a long time now, and today, that dynamic continues as the yen made some tremendous steps forward over the course of the Asia Pacific trading session.

In today's Asia Pacific trading session, the USDJPY pair has become the second most volatile currency on FXOpen's TickTrader platform this morning.

There have been some economic factors surrounding both the Japanese and United States economies that have surfaced during the course of the morning, including some very interesting reports and releases of data from the US government on economic circumstances surrounding the country.

The USDJPY pair was trading at 157.74 on 1st May, according to FXOpen pricing, and began to decline from there, going down to 153.13 by Thursday, 2nd May, followed by a further dip to 151.85 on Friday, settling at 153.787 at 8.15 am UK time today (Monday, 6th May) having continued this level during the Asia Pacific session.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT THE FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

What Did Buffett Say at the Shareholders' Meeting?
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Warren Buffett, aged 93, held his first Berkshire Hathaway shareholders' meeting this weekend without Charlie Munger, his longtime partner at Berkshire Hathaway, who passed away at the age of 99.

Following the meeting, it was revealed that Berkshire Hathaway's cash reserves are at record levels and continuing to grow, reflecting the challenge of finding stocks for the value investing strategy that has defined billionaire Warren Buffett's success.

Cash, cash equivalents, and short-term Treasury bills for Buffett's group totaled $189 billion at the end of March, up 13% from the end of 2023. "It is fair to assume that by the end of this quarter they will probably be around $200 billion," Buffett said.

According to the legendary investor:

• Berkshire sold about 13% of its Apple shares;
  
• reduced its stake in Chevron by approximately 2%;
  
• Coca-Cola and American Express are "wonderful companies";
  
• the Indian stock market may present "untapped opportunities";
  
• "We only pick those areas that we like."
  

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT THE FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

The Price of Silver (XAG/USD) is Falling for the Second Consecutive Week
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Following a surge in the price of silver close to the important psychological level of $30 per ounce on April 12, bearish momentum is now evident - concluding the week may mark the second consecutive week of decline for XAG/USD.

The decline in demand for silver could be linked to the decrease in gold prices.

Conversely, gold is losing its appeal due to:

→ easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East;

→ gold's lack of yield, which is deemed unattractive in a high interest rate environment that may persist due to the Federal Reserve's policy - investors are given reason to favour low-risk bonds in their portfolios.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

AAPL Share Price Soars after Record Buyback Announced
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Yesterday, after the end of the main trading session, Apple published its report on its activities for the 1st quarter:

→ Earnings per share: actual = $1.53; expected = $1.505;

→ Gross income: actual = $90.75; expected = $90.36.

The better-than-expected report came as a relief to investors after reporting lower sales in five of the last six quarters. In addition, the following could give positive feedback to market participants:

→ Apple's forecast is that its iPad manufacturing and services business will grow at double-digit rates;

→ company investments in AI. “We think we're well positioned,” Chief Financial Officer Luca Maestri told Bloomberg Television's Emily Chang. CEO Tim Cook is expected to outline Apple's artificial intelligence strategy at its annual Worldwide Developers Conference in June.

→ Apple Inc.'s big plan to restore investor confidence. It consists of a record $110 billion share buyback and a 4% dividend increase.

As a result, AAPL's price rose nearly 8% in post-market trading, exceeding $185 per share, although yesterday's close was around $173.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Market Analysis: AUD/USD and NZD/USD Attempt Another Recovery
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

AUD/USD is eyeing a steady increase above the 0.6555 resistance. NZD/USD is also rising and could extend its increase above the 0.6000 resistance zone.

Important Takeaways for AUD/USD and NZD/USD Analysis Today

• The Aussie Dollar is moving higher from the 0.6465 zone against the US Dollar.
  
• There is a connecting bullish trend line forming with support at 0.6555 on the hourly chart of AUD/USD at FXOpen.
  
• NZD/USD is showing positive signs above the 0.5925 support.
  
• There is a key bullish trend line forming with support at 0.5940 on the hourly chart of NZD/USD at FXOpen.
  

AUD/USD Technical Analysis
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]
On the hourly chart of AUD/USD at FXOpen, the pair formed a base above 0.6465. The Aussie Dollar started another recovery wave above the 0.6510 resistance against the US Dollar

The bulls pushed the pair above the 0.6525 resistance zone. There was a close above the 0.6555 resistance and the 50-hour simple moving average. Finally, the pair tested the 0.6585 zone. A high is formed at 0.6585 and the pair is now consolidating above 23.6% Fib retracement level of the upward move from the 0.6465 swing low to the 0.6585 high.

On the upside, the AUD/USD chart indicates that the pair is now facing resistance near 0.6585. The first major resistance might be 0.6620. An upside break above the 0.6620 resistance might send the pair further higher.

The next major resistance is near the 0.6665 level. Any more gains could clear the path for a move toward the 0.6720 resistance zone.

If not, the pair might correct lower. Immediate support is near a connecting bullish trend line at 0.6555. The next support could be 0.6525 or the 50% Fib retracement level of the upward move from the 0.6465 swing low to the 0.6585 high.

If there is a downside break below the 0.6525 support, the pair could extend its decline toward the 0.6510 zone. Any more losses might signal a move toward 0.6465.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

April Became the Worst Month for BTC/USD Since November 2022
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

In November 2022, the BTC/USD price dropped by 16.20%. The main driver of this decline was the crash of the FTX exchange.

In April 2024, the price of Bitcoin decreased by 14.77%. Paradoxically, the main news event could be considered the halving, which occurs every 4 years and is considered a bullish factor as it signifies a reduction in supply from miners. So why did the BTC/USD price decrease by the end of April?

Presumably, expectations from the halving could have been excessively optimistic, and after the event occurred, the price declined as emotions subsided – an example of "buy the rumour, sell the fact" situation.

It's worth noting that in the Bitcoin Cash network (a fork of the Bitcoin blockchain from August 2017), the halving took place on April 4, and the BCH/USD price decreased after that day – which could have been a concerning signal.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

USD/JPY Analysis: US Dollar Weakens After Statements from the Federal Reserve Chair
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Last night, the Federal Reserve's decision regarding interest rates was published, which, as expected, remained unchanged at 5.5%. The subsequent press conference by Powell was of particular interest to market participants.

According to CNBC, during the conference, the Fed Chair almost ruled out a rate hike as the next step, emphasizing the monetary policy's independence from the upcoming presidential elections. Additionally, he stated that:

• Concerns regarding stagflation are exaggerated;
  
• The Fed intends to lower rates smoothly and gradually;
  
• The duration of maintaining high rates is increasing indefinitely.
  

The market's reaction to the Fed's news was a weakening of the dollar – apparently, concerns about another rate hike as the next step have diminished.

The dollar weakened significantly against the yen – the USD/JPY rate dropped from 157.50 to 153.10 yen per dollar yesterday evening (approximately -2.7%) in less than an hour, although the rate later recovered. The reason lies in the context, specifically the yen's strong strengthening on Monday, when the rate exceeded 160 yen per dollar, as we wrote on the morning of April 29. Perhaps there was another intervention yesterday?

However, official sources refuse to comment. Tokyo may be adhering to a tactic of keeping investors in the dark about its currency intervention strategy. Although, as reported by the Japan Times, fluctuations of 5 yen per dollar indicate interventions.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

The Dollar is Declining: the Outcome of the Fed Meeting Disappointed Investors
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

The outcome of the two-day meeting of the American regulator was that officials left the base interest rate unchanged in the range of 5.25-5.5%. Also, from the published statement, it follows that the Fed is ready to adjust the direction of current monetary policy in the event of risks that could hinder the achievement of the regulator's key objectives. Judging by the movement of major currency pairs after the rate decision announcement, market participants are hoping for a prompt change in the Fed's monetary policy. For example, the GBP/USD pair held above significant resistance at 1.2500, and the movement of USD/JPY hints at the possibility of hidden intervention by the Bank of Japan.

GBP/USD
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]
Technical analysis of the GBP/USD pair indicates the possibility of an upward correction towards 1.2700-1.2620, as a "bullish engulfing" pattern has formed on the weekly timeframe. Breaking below recent lows at 1.2300 would invalidate this pattern, potentially leading to a resumption of downward movement towards the range of 1.2100-1.2070. Factors that could influence the pricing of the pair include:

• Data on the UK's Composite Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for April, scheduled for release tomorrow at 11:30 (GMT +3:00)
  
• US Employment Report, scheduled for release tomorrow at 15:30 (GMT +3:00)
  

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

EUR/USD Dives While USD/CHF Extends Rally
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

EUR/USD started a fresh decline below the 1.0695 support. USD/CHF is rising and might aim a move toward the 0.9250 resistance.

Important Takeaways for EUR/USD and USD/CHF Analysis Today

• The Euro struggled to clear the 1.0750 resistance and declined against the US Dollar.
  
• There was a break below a key bullish trend line with support at 1.0695 on the hourly chart of EUR/USD at FXOpen.
  
• USD/CHF is showing positive signs above the 0.9185 resistance zone.
  
• There was a break above a major bearish trend line with resistance at 0.9130 on the hourly chart at FXOpen.
  

EUR/USD Technical Analysis
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]
On the hourly chart of EUR/USD at FXOpen, the pair failed to clear the 1.0750 resistance. The Euro started a fresh decline below the 1.0700 support against the US Dollar, as mentioned in the previous analysis.

There was a break below a key bullish trend line with support at 1.0695. Besides, the pair declined below the 50-hour simple moving average and 1.0675. The pair traded as low as 1.0654 and is currently correcting losses.

The pair is showing bearish signs, and the upsides might remain capped. Immediate resistance on the upside is near the 23.6% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the 1.0735 swing high to the 1.0654 low at 1.0675.

The next major resistance is near the 1.0695 zone or the 50-hour simple moving average. It is close to the 50% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the 1.0735 swing high to the 1.0654 low.

An upside break above the 1.0695 level might send the pair toward the 1.0735 resistance. Any more gains might open the doors for a move toward the 1.0750 level.

On the downside, immediate support on the EUR/USD chart is seen near 1.0650. The next major support is near the 1.0630 level. A downside break below the 1.0630 support could send the pair toward the 1.0580 level.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

The Dollar Is Losing Some of Its Gains While Awaiting a Verdict from the Fed
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

The American currency continues to trade in different directions relative to leading currencies. Thus, the yen paired with theUS  dollar fell in price to a 34-year low, and in pairs with European and commodity currencies we are seeing a corrective pullback in USD. Whether the main trends will continue, or whether it is worth preparing for a deeper corrective rollback, will be determined by the coming trading sessions:

• Today at 12.00 (GMT +3:00) inflation data in the eurozone for April will be published
  
• Today at 17.00 (GMT +3:00) the US consumer confidence index from CB will be released
  
• Tomorrow at 21.00 (GMT +3:00) a meeting of the Federal Reserve is scheduled, at which the base interest rate on the dollar and the regulator’s further plans for monetary policy will be announced
  

EUR/USD
The single European currency has been holding above the key range of 1.0700-1.0600 for the third week. Technical analysis for EUR/USD indicates the possibility of working out a piercing line combination on the weekly timeframe, which could lead to a test of 1.0900-1.0840. A price move below 1.0600 may contribute to updating last year’s low at 1.0450.

In addition to the already mentioned news, today at 13.00 (GMT +3:00) it is worth paying attention to the speech of the Vice President of the German Federal Bank Claudia Maria Buch.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT THE FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

5 Stocks To Consider For May 2024
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Time flies, especially when things are running smoothly, and this year so far has been a period free of dramatic events across the capital markets.

Suddenly, we are almost halfway through 2024, and the forthcoming month takes us up to that point. During the first part of 2024, scepticism and trepidation gave way to hope and optimism as analysts cast their theories that central banks across the Western world may look toward reducing interest rates a few times. This turned out to have been an incorrect prediction, and rates remain unchanged, meaning companies still need that extra cash flow to grow or show greater revenues, which is currently being used to service monthly commitments at high interest rates.

It has not impeded progress, however. Some of the world's most prestigious indices have been performing outstandingly, giving rise to the notion that large corporations are, in many cases, in good fiscal order. Talk of recession has faded into the background as the FTSE 100 in London (UK 100 on FXOpen) ended April with a massive rally, and across the Atlantic, the S&P500 (US SPX 500 Mini on FXOpen) and NASDAQ (US Tech 100 mini on FXOpen) ended the month in a strong position.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

CRON Stock Price Forms a Bullish Pattern ahead of the Report
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

The Cannabis Stocks market has experienced a significant decline since its peak in the spring of 2019. The share of the Canadian company Cronos (CRON) then formed a high above USD 24, and trading yesterday closed at USD 2.55.

However, even after the CRON share price fell 10 times, there are still reasons for optimism:

→ Cronos recently announced its first entry into the edible chocolate category with the introduction of Chocolate Fusions. Cronos' newest edible innovation was developed by an expert team of culinary experts, nutritional scientists and leaders in cannabis product development.

→ InvestorPlace named CRON to its list of top Cannabis Stocks to Consider Buying in Spring 2024. The argument is a reminder that Altria invested USD 1.8 billion in Cronos.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

London Calling! FTSE 100 Stocks Flying High Once Again
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Back in 2021, which when looking at a physical calendar does not seem such a long time ago yet feels an epoch ago when considering the changes in global economies and the capital markets since then, the FTSE 100 index was making headlines full of superlatives and enthusiasm as it pushed its way through the 7,000 point mark for the first time ever.

As that happened, investors and analysts alike were experiencing something of a sensory overload with so many exciting dynamics having taken place around the same time, including the notorious meme stock frenzy led by Reddit board groups, which dramatically affected the prices of certain entertainment stocks in the US and a deluge of relatively unheard of firms suddenly listing their stock on the NASDAQ exchange for multi-billion dollar valuations via SPAC entities.

Alongside these headline grabbers was London's FTSE 100 rallying like never before, which was an interesting backdrop because London listed firms are often traditional, long-established bricks-and-mortar entities with decades of institutional stability behind them as opposed to the disruptors of the NASDAQ, and not susceptible to volatility caused by the self-styled market makers of the Reddit boards.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

USD/JPY: Rate Falls Rapidly after Exceeding Psychological Mark of 160 Yen Per Dollar
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Despite the fact that today is a holiday in Japan, the foreign exchange market is experiencing extreme volatility — wide candles are forming on the USD/JPY chart, and the rate briefly exceeded the psychological level of 160 yen per dollar, reaching a new high in 34 years.

The weakening of the yen in the first hours of trading occurred against the background of the fact that:
→ On Friday, the Bank of Japan decided to leave interest rates at the same level = 0.1%.
→ At the same time, market participants did not hear clear signals from the Bank of Japan that the weakening yen would be supported.
→ On Wednesday, May 1, the Fed will announce its decision on the interest rate. It is also expected to remain unchanged at 5.5%, highlighting the difference in monetary policy between Japan and the United States.

However, shortly after the yen surpassed the psychological level of 160.00, USD/JPY fell sharply to 155.50 and below — traders, according to Reuters, saw signs of intervention from Japanese financial authorities after a 13% increase since the beginning of the year.

Let us recall that Tokyo previously intervened in the foreign exchange market in September and October 2022, when the US dollar exchange rate was about 146.00 and 152.00 yen, respectively.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Google Share Price Rose Post-market to a New All-time Record
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Yesterday, after the close of the main trading session, a report on activities for the 1st quarter of Alphabet Inc. (Google's parent company) was published. The report was strong, exceeding investors' expectations.

→ Quarterly EPS = USD 1.89 (expected = USD 1.51), which represents a 15% increase year-over-year;
→ gross revenue = USD 80.539 billion (expected = USD 78.73 billion).

It was the fifth straight quarter in which Alphabet beat analysts' expectations on both revenue and profit. But the main surprise was the company’s decision to start paying dividends and increase the amount allocated for share buybacks to USD 70 billion.

According to Benzinga, Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai made a number of important announcements about the future:
→ The company's combined YouTube and Cloud business revenues will be USD 100 billion in 2024, indicating a growth rate of 25% in each of the next three quarters.
→ Pichai also expressed confidence in Alphabet's ability to manage investments in AI, announcing capital expenditures of USD 12 billion.

As a result, the share price of Alphabet Inc. Class A (GOOGL) surpassed USD 180 in post-market trading, setting a new all-time record. In premarket trading today, GOOGL is trading around USD 176.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

S&P 500 Rebounds after Negative GDP News
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Data released yesterday showed US GDP growth slowed to 1.6% in the first quarter of the year. According to ForexFactory: forecast = 2.2%, past value = 2.4%.

Reaction to the news sent the S&P 500 mini stock index (US SPX 500 mini on FXOpen) sharply lower as market participants may fear a period of stagflation — a period when economic growth slows and inflation remains stubbornly high.

Speaking at the Economic Club of New York on Tuesday, JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon warned investors: “Stagflation has the negative effect of lack of growth and inflation. It hurts profits, consumers and jobs. And yes, I think there is a chance it could happen again,” he said.

However, this morning the 4-hour chart of the US SPX 500 mini shows that the stock market is recovering thanks to gains in Google and Microsoft, which reported strongly after the close of the main trading session.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

GBP/USD And USD/CAD Daily Chart Outlook
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

GBP/USD is attempting a recovery wave from 1.2300. USD/CAD is consolidating and might aim for a move above the 1.3760 resistance zone.

Important Takeaways for GBP/USD and USD/CAD Analysis Today

• The British Pound started a recovery wave above the 1.2400 resistance.
  
• There is a key bearish trend line forming with resistance near 1.2520 on the daily chart of GBP/USD at FXOpen.
  
• USD/CAD is showing positive signs above the 1.3660 support zone.
  
• There is a major bullish trend line forming with support at 1.3620 on the daily chart at FXOpen.
  

GBP/USD Technical Analysis
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]
On the daily chart of GBP/USD at FXOpen, the pair started a fresh decline from the 1.2900 zone. The British Pound traded below the 1.2600 support to move into a bearish zone against the US Dollar.

The pair even traded below 1.2400 and the 50-day simple moving average. Finally, the bulls appeared near the 1.2300 level. A low was formed near 1.2299 and the pair is now attempting a recovery wave. There was a fresh upside above the 1.2400 level.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

META Share Price Collapses after Publication of Quarterly Report
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

Just yesterday, META's stock price closed at USD 493.50, up approximately 40% since the start of 2024 and up nearly 300% since the start of 2023.

However, following the release of Meta's quarterly report, its shares plummeted to USD 400 in post-market trading, representing a decline of more than -15%.

It is noteworthy that the report exceeded expectations in some of the main indicators:
→ earnings per share: actual = USD 4.70, forecast = USD 4.32;
→ revenue: actual = USD 36.4 billion, forecast = USD 36.1 billion.

However, investors were disappointed by plans for the coming months, as Meta said second-quarter revenue would be between USD 36.5 billion and USD 39 billion, below the average estimate of USD 38.24 billion. This could be due to increased investment in developing AI-based products , which do not yet generate income.

At pre-market today, the META share price is around USD 418.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Yen in Search of New Lows, Commodity Currencies at a low Start
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

In recent trading sessions, the dollar has been trading quite differently to leading currencies. Thus, the yen is reaching historical lows, European currencies have managed to correct, and the Australian and Canadian dollars are testing strategic supports.

USD/JPY
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]
The absence of currency interventions from the Bank of Japan and strong macroeconomic data from the United States are pushing the USD/JPY pair to new levels, above which the price has not risen since 1990. However, in the coming trading sessions the situation may change dramatically:

• Today at 15.30 (GMT +3:00) US GDP data for the first quarter will be published
  
• Tomorrow at 5.30 (GMT +3:00) a meeting of the Bank of Japan will take place, at which a decision on the base interest rate will be announced.
  

This week, Japanese Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki issued what is now the strongest possible warning about the possibility of intervention. "I will not deny that these events have laid the groundwork for Japan to take appropriate action (in the foreign exchange market), although I will not say what those actions might be," the official said.

According to technical analysis of USD/JPY, the pair is in a phase of exponential growth, which can be interrupted at any significant resistance. If a downward pullback begins, the price may drop to 154.70-1.53.60.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

AUD/USD Rises Sharply on Inflation News
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

The Consumer Price Index for Australia was released this morning. According to ForexFactory:

→ CPI in quarterly terms: actual = 1.0%, expected = 0.8%, previous value = 0.6%;
→ CPI in annual terms: actual = 3.5%, expected = 3.4%, previous value = 3.4%.

Rising inflation figures suggest that the Reserve Bank of Australia's tight monetary policy may continue beyond expectations - which is why the Australian dollar has jumped higher relative to other currencies.

Thus, from the minimum of the year against the US dollar, recorded on April 19, the Ausssie rose in price by more than 2%.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the FXOpen INT company only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the the FXOpen INT, nor is it to be considered financial advice.