#ECB rate cut

[trendynewsnow]

Global Market Update: Positive Trends in Europe and the US, Mixed Performance in Asia

Market Overview Both European and US markets are poised to conclude the week on a positive note, while Asian markets exhibit a mixed performance due to varying economic conditions across regions. In Europe, the DAX index celebrated a notable high on Thursday, following the European Central Bank’s (ECB) third rate cut of the year. Meanwhile, Wall Street continued its upward trajectory, propelled…

[dostoyevsky-official]

this a view of someone who's ignored european developments since 2007, opting for a rosy, outdated view of european politics, i.e. the exact type of american committing the exact type of mistake i'm warning about.

to address this point by point: not only has inflation been a global issue, but the US has consistently enjoyed the lowest inflation of any developed economy. american CPI has remained below the british, polish, and eurozone average numbers. european economies have to deal with fallout from the russian invasion of ukraine that the us can ignore: notably, in energy prices, as the US became self-sufficient in energy (and never imported any from russia to begin with, something squeezing the german economy). america is also not hosting millions of ukrainian refugees.

when discussing european instutions—and "europe" in general—one has to be more specific. do you mean the overarching institutions of the EU, criticized for a democratic deficit that many have pinpointed as one source for euro-skepticism and the rise of the far right? the EU Council, widely ignored and headed by charles michel, an incompetent, blatant nepobaby appointment whom everyone grinds their teeth over? the EU parliament, recently filled with a fresh batch of far-right hooligans, which functions more or less as a rubber stamp for the commission? the EU commission itself, headed by VdL, the latest in a string of failed local politician commissioners (who remembers the alcoholic swindler juncker?) masquerading as technocrats? the ECB, which smothers the monetary (and through the maastricht criteria, the fiscal) policy of eurozone members, thereby fueling resentment, far-right movements, and economic disparity? and all of this held hostage by the veto of one orban or fico, —or the german supreme court, when it decides it's had enough with public investment. those institutions, which remain so opaque that even educated americans—and europeans—aren't entirely aware of their function?

or do we mean the institutions of individual countries, ranging from undemocratic autocracies like hungary to the fief of the jupiter king, who called elections in june, lost them, refused to nominate a prime minister from the winning coalition, didn't name any for over a month, and then appointed a rightwing politician from a party that scored dead last, sidestepping his own centrist party? the UK, where sir keir is handing out five years in jail time to climate protesters, raising tuition fees, relying on private investment companies, and through rachel reeves' plan to fix the alleged budget hole left by hunt before further investment, again enacting austerity? this is all front-page headline news from the last half year.

european countries indeed have cheaper healthcare costs, better pensions, and other public goods that the united states does not. when considering "quality of life," remember, however, that most european countries have unemployment rates considered astronomic in america, especially for under-35s:

to focus again and again on european social democracy is to ignore that it has been steadily eroded since the end of the cold war and especially since the great recession by neoliberal political forces that crush the left and open the door for the far right. in the most blatant example, beside's macron's legislative politricks, the IMF-ECB-EC troika cut off euro cash liquidity flow to greece when syriza was trying to undo austerity under varoufakis. the greek collapse consigned a generation to economic failure, killed seniors, and curtailed possibilities for the youth. this erosion happened even in the nordic model, long imagined by americans as nothing short of a utopia:

In part due to the scrapping of wealth and inheritance taxes and a lower corporate tax than both the U.S. and European averages, Sweden has one of the most unequal distributions of wealth in the world today: on a level with Bahrain and Oman, and worse than the United States. Perhaps most dispiriting for Sanders, Sweden also now hosts the highest proportion of billionaires per capita in the world. Many of the country’s trademark social services are now provided by private firms. Its private schools even benefit from the same level of state subsidy as public schools—a voucher system far more radical than anything in the United States and that Democratic politicians would be crucified for advocating. Both here and there, right-leaning commentators in 2020 decried Sanders’s portrait as little more than what Johan Norberg, Swedish author of The Capitalist Manifesto, has called a 1970s “pipedream.” On this, Swedish observers on the left gloomily agree: despite official rhetoric, the “Nordic welfare model” is now more nostalgic myth than reality. (x)

to problematize further, there's an unadressed first world perspective: who's getting the good quality of life, why are the main economies of the EU so wealthy, and how does the EU continue to enrich itself? there are certainly many living outdoors today, drowning in the mediterranean, or dying of exposure in białowieża. fortress europe is a crime against humanity—and it doesn't beat back the far right. it weakens civic and human rights, undermines legal oversight, and criminalizes humanitarian engagement, allowing an authoritarian creep.

you shouldn't understand the political and the historical as a snapshot in time, but as a moving train. this is the state of europe today. all of the above is necessarily a simplification and an abbreviation, but there's a trajectory you can begin to trace out: given all of the above, where do you think europe is headed?

[beardedmrbean]

Several signs point to a recovery in the housing market, according to Kauppalehti, which examines recent trends in Euribor rates.

The Euribor is short for the Euro Interbank Offered Rate and is based on the average interest rate at which European banks borrow from one another.

The most common reference rate for Finnish housing loans, the 12-month Euribor, fell to 2.548 percent last week. Market forecasts expect it to dip to around two percent by next spring — a trend expected to boost the housing market, which is already seeing signs of revival. Prices of older homes outside urban centres are higher than they were a year ago — something not witnessed in over two years, according to the business daily.

The European Central Bank (ECB) has cut its key interest rates three times this year: in June, September, and October. Danske Bank's chief analyst, Minna Kuusisto, suggests there will be another cut in December, with rate reductions continuing quarterly into next year.

Nato nation

Finns widely support the stationing of Nato troops in the country. A survey by the agricultural paper Maaseudun Tulevaisuus finds that only ten percent of respondents oppose the deployment of these forces on Finnish soil.

"Support for Nato in Finland turned very quickly when Russia invaded Ukraine. Since then, support has remained at 'North Korean' levels in a positive sense," said former commander of the Finnish Defence Forces and current MP Jarmo Lindberg (NCP).

Overall, attitudes toward international defence cooperation in Finland have changed rapidly and permanently—likely as a result of Russia's brutal acts of aggression, MT reports.

Snow season

Winter is on the way, says Iltalehti, claiming that an area stretching from Lahti to Lappeenranta will see up to 15 centimeters of snow on Friday.

Weather service Foreca forecasts snow showers and strong gusts of wind for the weekend.

According to IL, the capital area will see its first snowflakes on Friday, but the white stuff won't cover the ground for long, unlike in Kainuu in the east, where driving conditions will turn wintry on Saturday. More snow is in store for northern Finland on Sunday.

Lapin Kansa meanwhile says Thursday night was the coldest of the season so far, with the temperature dropping to -16.7 degrees Celsius in Savukoski, Lapland, according to the Finnish Meteorological Institute (FMI).

[feedyourmind1031]

 Economic Overview: Key Market Developments

Critical Update

Sudden market shifts may occur due to significant events. Monitor trading positions and implement risk management strategies during these uncertain times.

Economic Overview

As we enter a new quarter, the market faces numerous challenges. Rising war tensions, de-dollarization efforts, and upcoming elections in the U.S., France, and Iran contribute to the uncertainty. Here’s a detailed analysis of these developments and their potential impacts.

Currency Shifts

Russia’s move to use the Chinese Yuan for international trade and the increase in gold reserves by central banks are noteworthy. While the Yuan may not replace the U.S. Dollar soon, these actions indicate strategic shifts. Gold purchases serve as a hedge against potential currency volatility.

Geopolitical Conflicts

Middle East: The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon has intensified, with Iran warning of severe retaliation if Lebanon is attacked. Daily strikes continue, and countries like the U.S. and Germany have advised their citizens to leave Lebanon.

South China Sea: On June 19, 2024, Chinese coast guard officers attacked Philippine military personnel near the Second Thomas Shoal, escalating tensions. The U.S. has reaffirmed its defense treaty with the Philippines, which could lead to military involvement if violence escalates.

Korean Peninsula: North and South Korea are on edge, with Russia signing a defense treaty with North Korea. Border incidents and threats over South Korea’s potential troop deployment to Ukraine have heightened tensions.

Nuclear Brinkmanship: France and Russia’s nuclear brinkmanship is a significant risk, with both countries attempting to establish deterrent boundaries.

Economic and Market Effects

These conflicts could alter monetary power dynamics and supply chains. Expect increased oil demand and gold purchases as safe-haven assets. Silver demand will also rise due to its military applications.

Diplomatic Relations

Zimbabwe and Zambia: Tensions are high as Zimbabwe aligns more closely with Russia, accusing the U.S. of militarizing Zambia.

Election Updates

Iran: Presidential elections are nearing completion as candidates drop out.

France: The first stage of snap parliamentary elections is complete.

U.S.: The first debate between Biden and Trump was contentious, adding to the uncertainty of the upcoming election.

Natural Disaster Considerations

While not detailed here, it’s crucial to consider the impact of natural disasters on economic activities and implement strong risk management.

Key Market Data and Analysis

Final GDP: Increased from 1.3% to 1.4%.

Unemployment: Fell by 3k more than forecasted, indicating a stronger U.S. economy.

Core PCE: Decreased from 0.3% to 0.1%.

Consumer Confidence: Fell but remained above forecasted numbers.

Housing Market: New home sales dropped significantly, while pending home sales improved slightly but missed expectations.

GOLD

Gold prices remain within a range, with resistance at 2431.705 and support at 2295.536. A bullish trend is expected despite fluctuations.

SILVER

Silver prices showed growth, reaching 29.900 before settling at 29.018. Resistance is expected at 29.900, but an overall upward trend is anticipated.

DXY (Dollar Index)

The dollar index showed growth but may face weakness with the anticipated September rate cut. A bearish outlook is expected.

GBPUSD

The pound remains within a range. With potential rate cuts in both the U.K. and the U.S., significant price changes are unlikely in the near term.

AUDUSD

The Aussie dollar shows upward momentum but needs to break above 0.67142 to confirm this trend. Analysts predict rate cuts only in late 2025, potentially benefiting the currency.

NZDUSD

Similar to the Aussie dollar, the New Zealand dollar shows growth and may benefit from delayed rate cuts until late 2025.

EURUSD

The ECB’s cautious rate cut approach has weakened the Euro. Further cuts are expected but at a slower pace, indicating potential continued weakness.

USDJPY

Despite interventions, the USDJPY continues to grow. Watch for further interventions and economic data to gauge future movements.

USDCHF

The Swiss Franc fell after recent rate cuts. Further rate cuts are uncertain, making the USDCHF volatile.

USDCAD

The CAD showed weakness against the dollar, with analysts predicting further rate cuts. Price consolidation is expected as we await more data.

Stay informed and practice diligent risk management as we navigate these challenging market conditions. More updates to come.

[starseedfxofficial]

Consumer Confidence Crashes—How Traders Can Profit Now How Consumer Confidence Took A Nose Dive - But There's A Hidden Opportunity Picture this: You’re walking down the street, feeling confident about buying that new jacket online, only to find it’s two sizes too small and now you look like a fashion disaster. Well, folks, Europe just had one of those moments—except replace the jacket with the economy and imagine everyone’s out there trying to squeeze into it at once. In the latest consumer sentiment readings from Germany and France, it’s as if Europe woke up on the wrong side of bed. Germany's GfK Consumer Sentiment Index for December hit a rather chilly -23.3, missing expectations of -18.6. France wasn’t feeling much better, reporting a drop to 90.0 compared to expectations of 93.0. It's like everyone ordered optimism, but the delivery was late and somehow got lost in the Brexit paperwork. Meanwhile, Swiss investor sentiment also took a nosedive, landing at -12.4 from a previous -7.7, showing that even the land of chocolate and watches isn’t immune to a bit of market pessimism. But, here's where the real magic happens. While consumer confidence appears to be on a slippery slope, there are hidden signals that smart traders can capitalize on. It’s times like these, when the masses are selling jackets that don’t fit, that seasoned traders look at the entire retail outlet for opportunities. The BoE's Tightrope Walk and The "Sneaky" Neutral Rate Let’s talk about the Bank of England’s Lombardelli. Think of the BoE as that slightly over-caffeinated friend who just can’t sit still, trying to balance between inflation, a tight labor market, and the very present threat of US tariffs—which might as well be like ordering a spicy dish without fully knowing just how much your tolerance can handle. Lombardelli mentioned that tariffs could derail UK economic growth, and she’s not too sure what’s going to happen to inflation. Add a tight labor market into the mix, and it’s like spinning plates while balancing on one leg—there’s always a risk something's gonna drop. And while the BoE spins those plates, over in the ECB, Isabel Schnabel chimed in, stating there’s “limited room” for further rate cuts. Translation: We’re close to the “neutral rate,” folks—around 2-3%, which she thinks is like driving with the cruise control on instead of hitting the gas or brakes. That neutral rate is something many overlook—a hidden anchor. By understanding where these rates stabilize, forex traders can anticipate when the central banks will stop adjusting and start coasting—which presents an interesting scenario for euro bulls. Contrarian Play: Stagnation vs Recession Now here’s a juicy nugget you might want to chew on: Schnabel believes the Eurozone economy is stagnating, but she’s not seeing an outright recession risk. Now, what do we know about stagnation? It’s a bit like when your Netflix buffering bar just sits there—not progressing, but not crashing either. For contrarian traders, this could signal a unique opportunity. If the general market sentiment is leaning into stagnation with no recession, there might be more aggressive bets against those fearing worse, such as focusing on currencies sensitive to growth risk. Look out for the currency pairs that typically take a hit during fear-driven selloffs—they could become your best buddies when everyone else is running scared. US: President-elect Trump Makes More Appointments, and the Market Keeps Shrugging Shifting gears to the US, President-elect Trump is busy assembling his team—Jamieson Greer as USTR and Kevin Hassett to head the National Economic Council. And yet, as exciting as it is to hear about cabinet appointments, the market’s response was about as enthusiastic as a dog hearing someone say ‘bath time.’ It’s the kind of news that has potential long-term implications, but right now, traders are focused on more immediate signals, like the upcoming inflation data and wage growth numbers. However, don’t let this news slip off your radar. Changes in the USTR can affect trade policies, which means the dollar’s strength can swing dramatically depending on who’s sitting in those key seats. Keeping a close eye here might just help you forecast what lies ahead for USD pairs. Hidden Patterns That Drive the Market Consumer confidence reports aren’t just boring data points—they’re a hidden compass pointing to potential price swings in the forex market. When sentiment drops as it did in Germany and France, it sends ripples through the market—ripples that you, as a sharp-eyed trader, can ride. When everyone else panics, step back, take a deep breath, and ask yourself: How can I take advantage of this pessimism? Sometimes, the best trades come when you’re willing to zig when everyone else zags. Unveiling Contrarian Opportunities Now, let’s dive into a bit of a contrarian strategy here. When consumer sentiment takes a dive, many traders flee risky assets. But if you’re looking for a long-term play, this might be the time to start plotting your move—specifically, buying into those currencies heavily exposed to risk but at a discount. The trick here is timing and keeping your ear to the ground—listening for when markets start to whisper optimism again, even if only faintly. The reason why contrarian plays work in scenarios like these is that they’re essentially an emotional hedge against the market. Markets are driven by emotions—fear, greed, hope. Understanding that many participants are human—meaning they’re fallible and sometimes a little irrational—can give you the upper hand. When sentiment falls, look for those blue-light specials where value might have been unfairly reduced. A Smarter Way Forward: Learning from the Chaos Navigating through volatile news doesn’t have to feel like walking on a tightrope. It’s all about finding where the hidden opportunities lie, even if they’re cloaked under less-than-rosy news headlines. The beauty here is that there’s always a move to be made, and you don’t need to wait for every indicator to turn green. This is where strategies like buying the dip, trading on overreactions, or taking advantage of other traders’ panic can come into play. And if you’re still feeling unsure, don’t fret. Remember, you’re not just a lone trader trying to make sense of these confusing times—we’ve got your back. Dive into our resources for exclusive insights and little-known strategies that will help you navigate these choppy waters like a pro. Check out our free Forex courses or our trading community for some extra guidance. Be The Trader With an Edge Europe's confidence levels might have slipped, but that doesn't mean you need to be a follower of the general sentiment. Hidden within the news are nuggets of opportunity—nuggets that, when strategically approached, can turn a day of market gloom into a chance for you to get ahead. And hey, if you're feeling like it’s all just too much to absorb—well, that’s where we step in. Join the StarseedFX community, grab a free trading plan, or download our Smart Trading Tool to keep you one step ahead of the market chaos. Let’s embrace the chaos and turn it into the edge that sets you apart. Remember: Sometimes, the best way to navigate through uncertainty is with a bit of wit, a lot of patience, and having a solid plan in place. You’ve got this—and we’re here to make sure of it. Read the full article

[leprivatebanker]

ECB will keep cutting rates and focus shifting to growth, VP says

[scott1984fp2]

ECB cut rates to avoid damage to economy, meeting minutes show

Source: Financial Times

https://search.app/NKHc

[accapitalmarket]

Weekly outlook: Oil, EURUSD crash, eyes on China

China's inflation, released this weekend, rose by just 0.30%, compared to the expected 0.40%. That follows a disappointing market reaction to Friday's RMB10tn package to clean up local government balance sheets. Markets had hoped that the package would involve more direct fiscal stimulus. China will probably keep its powder dry now until President-elect Trump takes office at the end of January.

Investors will closely monitor today's "Singles Day" online shopping frenzy in China for signals about the health of Chinese domestic consumption, the country's Achilles heel for many.

Elsewhere, the “Trump trade” continues in full swing. Bitcoin rose above $80,000 over the weekend, and Wall Street's leading indices posted 4.50+% weekly gains on lower regulation and tax hopes. Wall Street closed higher on Friday. The S&P 500 rose 0.38%, the Dow Jones gained 0.59%, and the Nasdaq edged just 0.07% higher.

Potential Trump tariffs are the other side of the coin, lifting US bond yields despite the Federal Reserve cutting rates by 0.25% last week. That boosted the dollar index (DXY), rising 0.57% to 105.20, closing above resistance at 104.95. Its next target is the 106.00 region.

DXY H1

Trump's victory is priced as a big loss for Europe, with tariffs looming, a potentially fractured NATO, and increased defence spending and support for Ukraine. It follows the collapse of the ruling coalition in Germany, Europe's largest economy. Markets are rightly pricing in a faster pace of easing from the ECB. Unsurprisingly, markets crushed the Euro last week.

EUR/USD fell by 0.78% to 1.0720 on Friday, just above critical technical support at 1.0700. Failure targets the 1.0600 regions, and the single currency must regain 1.0950 to shift the bearish technical picture.

EURUSD H4

The prospect of more US oil and gas supply hitting global markets under a Trump administration saw Brent crude and WTI slump by over 2.0% on Friday. WTI’s technical picture looks particularly bearish, falling out of its rising triangle formation, implying deeper losses towards $66.00 a barrel. OPEC's monthly oil report should be interesting on Tuesday.

USOIL H1

Today's US holiday may mute activity in Asia, with China’s disappointing weekend inflation data potentially weighing on mainland equities.

US inflation data on Wednesday shapes up as the week's main event. President-elect Trump's policies are priced as inflationary, and Wednesday's inflation data is forecast to be sticky. Expected Core Inflation YoY is 3.30%, and Headline Inflation YoY is 2.40%, unchanged from last month. Higher prints could see a higher US dollar and US yields and might take some wind out of the stock market.

Australian employment data on Thursday is always good for some intraday volatility in the currency.

Friday belongs to China, which releases Fixed Asset Investment, Industrial Output, Retail Sales and Unemployment for October. UK GDP data is expected to disappoint and could weigh on GBP/USD.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this market commentary is of general nature only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You are strongly recommended to seek independent financial advice before making any investment decisions. Trading margin forex and CFDs carries a high level of risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Investors could experience losses in excess of total deposits. You do not have ownership of the underlying assets. AC Capital Market (V) Ltd is the product issuer and distributor. Please read and consider our Product Disclosure Statement and Terms and Conditions, and fully understand the risks involved before deciding to acquire any of the financial products provided by us. The content of this market commentary is owned by AC Capital Market (V) Ltd. Any illegal reproduction of this content will result in immediate legal action.

[trendynewsnow]

The Impact of Interest Rate Cuts on European Stocks

Historically, certain European stocks and sectors have flourished during periods of interest rate cuts, particularly when central banks ease monetary policy without the backdrop of a recession. These cycles, often initiated to stimulate growth and manage inflation, have proven advantageous for equities, especially in sectors that are sensitive to lower borrowing costs. Globally, central banks,…

[inkovsky]

The Hang Seng Index opened 26 points higher at 20,525 points and then repeatedly performed well. It rose 443 points to 20,942 points in the afternoon and rose 261 points or 1.27% to 20,760 points throughout the day. The Technology Index rose 83 points or 1.85% to 4,605 ​​points. Main board transaction volume was HK$192.6 billion.

The volatility of Hong Kong stocks has narrowed in recent days, and transactions have also continued to shrink, reflecting that the popularity of capital participation is gradually declining. In addition, the market is experiencing another wave of "water pumping". In addition to Sunac China's earlier rights issue at a large discount, China Resources Power also plans to place shares at a discount of 5.06%, reflecting the lack of confidence in the market outlook and the lack of confidence in the market outlook, and the upward momentum of the market may not be sustainable. If the Hang Seng Index fails to hold the bottom of the rising gap at 19,954 points on September 26, the market outlook will have the opportunity to find a bottom and test the 19,361 points supported by the 0.618 times increase before the correction.

European stock markets came under pressure, with British, French and German stocks closing down 0.58%, 0.5% and 0.23% respectively.

U.S. bond interest rates continued to rise, with the 10-year bond interest rate continuing to rise by up to 5.6 basis points to 4.264%, and the interest rate-sensitive 2-year bond interest rate rising by 5.2 basis points to 4.089%. Coupled with the poor performance of the latest results of giant companies, U.S. stocks came under pressure on Wednesday. After the Dow opened 90 points lower, the decline once expanded to a maximum of 631 points and hit a low of 42,293 points. After falling for three days in a row, the S&P 500 dropped another 1.52% on Wednesday. The technology-heavy Nasdaq fell as much as 2.3%.

At the close of U.S. stocks, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 409 points, or 0.96%, to 42,514 points; the S&P Index fell 53 points, or 0.92%, to 5,797 points; and the Nasdaq Composite fell 296 points, or 1.6%, to 18,276 points.

The U.S. dollar index rose as much as 0.48% to 104.57, and the yen fell 1.4% to 153.19 per dollar, hitting a three-month low. An ECB official said that the December meeting may significantly cut interest rates. Money markets are now betting that the bank has a 40% chance of deciding to cut interest rates by 0.5%. The euro fell, falling 0.35% to $1.0761.

[chemanalystdata]

Chequered Plate Price | Prices | Pricing | News | Database | Chart

In the second quarter of 2024, Chequered Plate prices in North America showed a strong upward trend, driven by a combination of factors that bolstered market dynamics. This period saw significant price growth due to supply chain constraints, strong demand from sectors like construction and automotive, and rising raw material costs, particularly for zinc and nickel. Additionally, maintenance outages at major steel mills, including Acerinox and Outokumpu’s Calvert facility, further tightened supply, pushing prices higher. In the U.S., prices saw the most notable increases, fueled by bullish market sentiment. Demand from the automotive and HVAC sectors for galvanized and value-added steel products contributed to the steady rise in prices. Despite a slowdown in overall manufacturing indices, construction and manufacturing activities continued to support the price surge. Compared to the previous quarter, prices rose by 14%, highlighting the strength of the market. By the end of the quarter, the price of SS Chequered Plate (6 mm) in Texas reached USD 4,641/MT, reflecting a period of significant price growth and market resilience in response to both supply constraints and growing demand.

In contrast, the second quarter of 2024 saw a negative pricing environment for Chequered Plates in the APAC region. The market faced a downturn, largely driven by weak demand from the construction and automotive sectors, alongside high raw material costs, particularly for nickel. Despite elevated production costs, market prices failed to rise due to sluggish demand, and seasonal slowdowns further exacerbated the oversupply issue. China, the key player in the region, experienced the sharpest price declines. Weak demand from the property sector and reduced infrastructure investments led to a steady downward trend, especially after the post-Labour Day period when downstream consumption dropped. Despite high production costs, the lack of strong end-user demand resulted in a bearish market. Prices in China fell by 1% compared to the previous quarter, with SS Chequered Plate (304-6 mm) Ex Tangshan closing at USD 2,179/MT. Overall, the market remained weak, marked by excess supply and low demand, with no major plant disruptions reported.

In Q2 2024, the European Chequered Plate market experienced a significant rise in prices, driven by various key factors. Rising alloy surcharges, increasing energy costs, and regulatory impacts from the EU Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA), which focuses on securing strategic raw material supplies, all contributed to the upward price trajectory. Additionally, strong demand from the automotive sector, despite broader manufacturing slowdowns, supported the price increases, while the spring construction season further boosted demand for steel products. Germany saw the most pronounced price changes in the region, with robust demand from the automotive sector and favorable economic conditions, including an ECB interest rate cut. Energy costs, particularly for gas and CO2 emissions, had a strong correlation with metal prices, while geopolitical disruptions around the Suez Canal led to additional shipping surcharges, further driving up prices. Compared to the previous quarter, prices in Germany rose by 14%, with SS Chequered Plate (304-5mm) Ex Ruhr closing at USD 3,847/MT. This period was marked by positive market dynamics, with regulatory, economic, and seasonal factors all contributing to the price surge. No significant plant shutdowns were reported during this time.

Get Real Time Prices for Chequered Plate: https://www.chemanalyst.com/Pricing-data/chequered-plate-1490

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[starseedfxofficial]

JPY Steals the Show as USD Stumbles - Trader Insights How the Yen Became the Star Player: A Trader’s Insider Take The markets are abuzz, and for good reason—JPY has been flexing some serious muscle lately. If you’re wondering why, sit back with a cup of robusta (or whatever gives you a buzz), because I’m about to break down the latest moves in the Forex arena in a way that’ll make you chuckle, nod, and possibly even rethink a few strategies. The BoJ, Rate Hikes, and JPY's Victory Lap If JPY were a person, it’d be that overachieving student who’s always one step ahead of the game. This time around, the yen’s outperformance can be linked to traders positioning themselves for a potential Bank of Japan rate hike next month. After all, nothing spells market excitement quite like fiscal stimulus and rate hike speculation—they’re like the mystery sauce that makes everyone suddenly pay attention to the quiet kid (JPY) at the party. USD/JPY has dropped to a 151.23 trough, and the USD is left feeling, well, not quite so dominant. The DXY (that’s the Dollar Index for those new here) is taking a hit too, sliding further below 106.00, resting now at a 106.33 base. You’d think the holidays would mean some respite, but with Thanksgiving data adjustments, traders can expect a jam-packed docket ahead. EUR and GBP: The Sidekicks Making Their Moves Ah, the euro—forever the ambitious sidekick to the dollar—is seizing the opportunity, climbing as high as 1.0540. A little hawkish cheer from ECB’s Schnabel and the general dollar weakness has given EUR a bit of an extra bounce. Think of it as that extra shot of espresso in your morning coffee; it’s making everything a bit more zippy. Across the Channel, the British pound is more or less holding its ground, benefiting from the same USD downside action. The fundamentals out of the UK are light, but let’s face it, sometimes you don’t need big fireworks to get people to notice you—sometimes it’s enough just to show up while everyone else fumbles. NZD: The Overachieving Runner-Up Right behind JPY in the winner’s circle, we’ve got the New Zealand dollar. The RBNZ went ahead with a 50 basis point cut, which was pretty much expected. But here’s where it gets interesting—the NZD managed to shrug off some of the pessimism, probably because a chunk of the market had been betting on an even bigger 75 bps cut. Instead of drowning in gloom, the kiwi flew up, topping out at 0.59 against the USD. It’s kind of like realizing you didn’t fail that test after all—relief can be a powerful motivator. The Hidden Lessons for Traders Now, here’s where the real magic happens—you might be wondering what this all means for your trading game. If you’re the type who likes to position ahead of big moves, keep your eyes on the yen. Rate hikes tend to do funny things to currencies—especially when it involves Japan, where such a move would be quite the market shocker. Meanwhile, the NZD story is a great reminder that expectation versus reality plays a big part in the currency world. When the majority expects doom, even a slightly less doomy outcome can feel like a win. This is where contrarian perspectives can come in handy; sometimes the best trades are the ones that go against the grain. The dollar’s stumble today offers a nice little insight into how fundamentals and sentiment dance together. Sentiment can lead the way even before data drops—kind of like knowing the ending of a movie before watching the first scene. And the euro? Well, it’s showing that sometimes you just need a well-timed comment from a central banker to give you that push forward. So what’s the takeaway? Well, if you’re positioning yourself in these markets, don’t just watch the headlines—read between the lines, and maybe even flip them on their head. Look for what’s unsaid, the quiet whispers that precede major announcements. With JPY, EUR, GBP, and NZD all taking unique stances against a softer USD, the opportunity for those willing to think outside the box is massive. Oh, and if you’re ever feeling a little overwhelmed by the details, remember that it’s not about predicting every market move perfectly—it’s about positioning yourself to take advantage when the stars align. Or, as I like to say, when the Bank of Japan decides it’s time to shake things up a bit. Need to stay informed, keep learning, or join a community of like-minded traders? Check out our services at StarseedFX—we’ve got exclusive economic indicators, free resources, community insights, and even a smart trading tool to help you navigate the waves. —————– Image Credits: Cover image at the top is AI-generated   Read the full article

[leprivatebanker]

No reason not to cut rates in Dec as of now, ECB's Holzmann tells paper

[usnewsrank]

Monetary stimuli could cause the economic cycle to enter reflation mode

  The expected and desired interest rate cut by the US Federal Reserve (Fed) is now a reality. The primary US monetary authority reduced rates by 50 basis points, catching much of the market off guard, as analysts had anticipated a cut of only 25 basis points – by Alberto Matellán   The European Central Bank (ECB) also reduced official interest rates as planned. We are in a market environment…

[googleblogs123]

Strengthening Forex Trading Approaches in a Volatile Market

Geopolitical and Economic Drivers

As we prepare for a period marked by heightened market volatility, it is essential for traders to remain vigilant against potential lags or discrepancies in order placements, especially with the upcoming Presidential Elections expected to influence the market significantly.

This week, traders can expect major data releases, including the RBA Rate Statement, U.S. ISM Services PMI, and key employment figures for the Kiwi on Wednesday. Thursday will feature the Pound’s Monetary Policy Reports and U.S. Unemployment Claims, while Friday will bring the FED’s rate cut announcement and CAD employment reports.

Record highs in net shorts on U.S. Treasury two-year note futures indicate growing expectations of price declines from both leveraged funds and non-commercial accounts, as reported last week by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. The US10Y yield rose to 4.386% as of Saturday morning, with US30 and US500 indices trending lower ahead of the elections.

Developments in Ukraine and West Asia are set to influence price strength and market expectations, significantly affecting Oil and Metals movements this week.

Market Analysis

GOLD Gold is maintaining a bullish outlook, with RSI and MACD indicators suggesting a continuation of upward movement. The price action shows a failure to reach previous swing lows, signaling robust bullish potential. Uncertainties around the elections and possible ceasefire in West Asia further support GOLD’s investment prospects.

SILVER Silver has breached its previous swing low, indicating a shift from buying to selling momentum. Current chart conditions point to a potential shift, with RSI and MACD suggesting a bullish run. The price currently hovers at a key support level of 32.518, aligning with a favorable outlook supported by fundamental factors.

DXY The Dollar has weakened ahead of the elections and the FED’s expected rate cuts, breaking its previous swing low and exhibiting bearish momentum according to MACD and RSI indicators. Further selling pressure is likely as the market opened with a gap and 10-Year Yields continue to rise.

GBPUSD The Pound has rebounded following a gap due to Dollar weakness, but price action has yet to confirm a momentum shift. The MACD and RSI indicate a recent rise after crossing from oversold levels. A breakout above the previous swing high at 1.29966 could signal a bullish trend, particularly with the upcoming FED rate cut announcement.

AUDUSD The Aussie Dollar has shifted to bullish momentum after breaking the previous swing high. Both MACD cross and RSI divergence indicate continued bullish potential following the Dollar's weakness. However, a correction may occur before any significant rise due to gaps in order placement, with current price movements suggesting increased buying potential.

NZDUSD The Kiwi has not yet breached its previous swing high. The MACD cross upward and RSI show divergence favoring a buying movement, although recent gaps suggest a fill-in order similar to the AUD. Current price action does not yet indicate a market shift, as the previous swing high remains unbroken.

EURUSD The Euro continues to follow expected trends with ongoing buying momentum, driven by decreased rate-cut expectations for the December ECB meeting. RSI divergence and MACD’s recent cross further support this bullish trend.

USDJPY The Yen regained strength amidst Dollar weakness, with MACD crossing and RSI divergence signaling recovery. Current market conditions suggest continued short-term Dollar selling until Friday’s announcements.

USDCHF The Franc shows sustained consolidation. Recent price moves indicate a continuation to the downside, supported by the RSI and MACD, although confirmation awaits a break below the previous swing low.

USDCAD The CAD has followed previous expectations in recent trading. The market opened with bearish momentum, as evidenced by the MACD cross and RSI divergence. Provided the price remains above the prior swing low, buying momentum may persist, reinforced by steady oil prices amid rising geopolitical tensions.

Strengthening Forex Trading Methods for Volatility

In an environment characterized by heightened market volatility, employing robust forex trading methods is essential. Utilizing forex scalping strategies can help traders capitalize on short-term price movements.

A solid understanding of forex market trends and the use of reliable forex signal trading tools are crucial for informed decision-making. Effective risk management measures can mitigate potential losses, enhancing overall trading performance. By remaining informed and adopting effective strategies, traders can successfully navigate unpredictable market conditions.

[accapitalmarket]

Central bank speakers and mid-week PMIs dominate the discourse

US stock markets finished quietly Friday, but the modest gains were still enough to lift the Dow Jones and S&P 500 to record highs. Oil prices continued sinking, Brent and US crude futures falling by 2.0% for the session as fears receded that Israel would strike back at Iran's oil infrastructure.

Gold powered through $2700.00 an ounce, rising 1.0% to $2720.00 as traders hedge the Middle East and US election geopolitical risk. After a stellar week, profit-taking weakened the US Dollar slightly, with the dollar index (DXY) falling slightly to 103.284.

The week will likely start quietly for Asian markets after a modest US session and a lack of weekend headline risk from the media. China kicks the week off once again by announcing its one- and five-year Loan Prime Rates (LPR), with markets pricing in 20 basis point cuts to keep the stimulus train rolling.

China's calendar is then quiet until Friday's decision on the 1-year Medium-term Lending Facility (MLF). Markets are pricing in no change at 2.0%, which leaves Chinese markets at the mercy of short-term headline risk this week.

The global calendar is also much quieter this week, dominated by the release of national PMI data across Asia, Europe and the Fed Beige Book on Thursday. A weak reading from the Beige Book could see traders piling back into the Fed mega-ease trading again, boosting stocks but potentially weakening the US Dollar.

We have a flurry of central bank officials speaking from the Fed, BOE, and ECB. Keep an eye on the BOE Bailey on Tuesday and Wednesday. Dovish noises from the UK last week sent the pound sharply lower, and more dovish chirping this week could see the medicine repeated.

GBPUSD Chart

Over in Japan, Friday's Tokyo CPI release will have traders assessing the BOJ rate hike outlook, something Japan stocks have been sensitive to lately. If the PMI and Tokyo CPI data are soft, the yen may err to the weaker side as well, but Japan's general election this coming weekend will probably cap any currency gains anyway.

USDJPY chart

Geopolitical surprises in the Middle East can never be discounted, but oil's technical picture continues deteriorating. Gold remains a momentum play; nobody is a hero standing in front of a moving train.

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