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Forex Analysis for 05.06.2012

EUR/USD: Euro is dismal again

The pair EUR/USD traded downward at the Forex currency market on Monday.

By 8.50 Moscow time the Euro is at 1.2400 against closing session level of 1.2435 on Friday.

American statistics released on Friday caused dismal strain, as the data on unemployment rate and number of jobs was below expectations.

This morning, among other things, investors have to deal with the statement of the German Chancellor Angela Merkel that she is not ready to support the idea of Eurobonds.

Therefore, after slight correction in the major pair, investors resumed sales.

Most likely the pair EUR/USD will not go beyond the range of 1.2350-1.2450 at the trading session on Monday.

GBP: British Pound remains in weak position

At the Forex currency market the British Pound Sterling remains in a weak position on Monday due to negative sentiments among investors at the global capital markets.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair GBP/USD has broken through the signal line from top to bottom and is going down, giving a sell signal. Stochastic Oscillator remains in the oversold zone and is giving a similar signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 1.5360 the pair GBP/USD will go to 1.5350 and 1.5330. Consolidation at the level of 1.5420 is possible.

External situation for the Pound remained unchanged at the beginning of the week: investors are still not willing to take risk and the currency tends to go down after a week of growth. However this scenario does not exclude technical rebound.

In addition to external pessimism, comments Mr. Dale, representative of the Bank of England also contributed to the fall of the Pound in the middle of the week. Mr. Dale noted that expansion of QE will be required if external European negative factors continue to put the same amount of pressure on the British economy.

According to the minutes of the last meeting of the Bank of England, Mr. Miles voted for expansion of the QE program for 25 billion pound sterling; as a result the ratio of votes was: 8 to 1. Mr. Bean, representative of the Bank of England believes that in case of deterioration of the global economic situation, launch of another QE program can be required. Most likely dates for shutting down of the current program will be rescheduled for the later time. He also assessed recovery of British economy as "painfully slow".

Mr. Broadbent from the Bank of England said earlier that fears concerning European economy continue to have dramatic impact on British economy, the effect of which will be difficult to eliminate. National Central Bank has scenarios of actions in case of deterioration of macro-economic situation in Eurozone; however the size of internal interventions also has limits.

Unemployment rate in the country amounted to 4.9% in April; number of unemployed unexpectedly decreased by 13.7 thousand on monthly basis. At the same time the data for March has been revised: number of unemployed reduced by 5.4 thousand against primary assessment of growth by 3.6 thousand. It became known earlier that CPI in the UK rose by 0.6% m/m (+3.0% y/y) in April against +3.5% earlier.
Therefore, market has solid base for recovery: earlier, Confederation of British Industry reported that volume of retail trade in the UK has grown in May after decline in April. Balance of sales amounted to 21% versus -6% a month earlier; forecast for June is positive as well.

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CHF: Swiss Franc is ready for correction

At the Forex currency market Swiss Franc rate stands almost still at the Forex currency market at the beginning of the week; however it is obvious that the currency has all grounds for technical correction. It is important for the currency now to obtain similar chance from external background.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair USD/CHF goes up in the positive area and is giving a buy signal. Stochastic Oscillator tends to go out of the overbought zone and started to shape a sell signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 0.9680 the pair USD/CHF will go to 0.9670 and 0.9650.

Important Swiss statistics is scheduled for the release this week; it will give an idea on how the system operates in the conditions when currency is weak.

Global situation for Franc has not changed fundamentally: technical correction in the pair will not start until external background stabilizes.

It became known earlier that trade balance in Switzerland amounted to 1.33 billion francs in April versus forecast of 1.9 billion francs. Most likely it happened because of high price of the currency, along with decline in the buying activity. Consumer confidence index in Switzerland rose to -8 points in April against the level of -19 points in January. This is a good signal especially because economists expected that index would continue to decline.

Business sentiment ZEW in Switzerland fell to 4.0 points in May versus forecast of -8.0 points and level of +2.1 points in April. Most likely this data is based on assessment of external conditions.

PMI in the manufacturing sector of Switzerland fell to 46.9 points in April against the level of 51.1 points in March. Earlier, Ministry of Finance reiterated approval of pegging of the rate of Franc to the Euro. It will mean that the level of 1.20 will be preserved for a long time. Consumption indicator UBS in Switzerland rose to 1.22 points in March against provisional estimate of 0.9 points. Currency reserves rose to 237.5 billion in March against previous level of 224.9 billion francs. PMI SVME in Switzerland increased to 51.1 points in March against the forecast of 49.5 points.

Statistics released earlier showed GDP in Switzerland rose by 0.7% q/q (+2.0% y/y) in Q1 against expectations of growth of 0.5% q/q (+0.7% y/y). It is a good signal which indicates that when positions of Franc go down, national economy is getting steadier. Similar conclusions can be made looking at statistics released in the middle of the week when it became known that leading indicator index KOF rose to 0.81 points in May against expectations of 0.41 points. Unemployment rate dropped to 3.1% in April against 3.2% earlier.

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JPY: Japanese Yen has slightly moved away from lows

The Japanese Yen rate is being slightly corrected at the Forex currency market on Monday after the rise last Friday.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair USD/JPY goes down in the negative area, while volumes ate increasing and is giving a sell signal. Stochastic Oscillator goes slides down in the neutral zone, giving a similar signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 78.10 the pair will go to 78.0 0 and 77.90.

It is too early to say that demand for the JPY as a “safe currency” has declined.

New round of growth at the end of last week was logical for the JPY: amid surge of panic in the market regarding collapse of Spanish economy, investors rush to move to “quiet habours”

Japanese economy in Q1 has grown more rapidly than projected, showing the rise of 4.1% y/y. Strong support to GDP growth was provided by the sector of consumer spending which had been backed up by government subsidy. Given, however that consumer spending increases only temporarily, GDP growth may be temporary as well. As soon as index of consumer spending decreases, pressure on CB will rise too. Meanwhile the head of the Bank of Japan Mr. Shirakawa has stressed that local economy is still in the disastrous situation.

Last week, agency Fitch reported downgrade of the Japanese rating based on the fact that public debt of the country continues to increase.

Statistics released earlier showed that index of manufacturing activity PMI/Nomura amounted to 50.7 points in May, which agreed with preliminary expectations. The figures were neutral, so market did not pay much attention to them, focusing on global performance.

Unemployment rate in Japan increased to 4.6% in April against 4.5% in March; retail sales grew by 5.8% last month versus expectations of +6.0% y/y. In general, statistics was not very impressive and growth in unemployment rate is easy to explain.

Minutes of the meeting of the Bank of Japan of 27 April, which were made public earlier, did not provide a lot of information: the document stated that CB should avoid introduction of policy that can be considered as a sort of monetization. The effect of monetary policy easing in Japan will be clearly traced, as soon as the system demonstrates steady recovery. In general, the document did not provide any information that would be fundamentally new to the market.

We would remind that in the result of two-day meeting of the Bank of Japan the Regulator decided to leave discount rate of the country at the level of 0.1% per annum, as expected. Asset purchase program remained unchanged at the level of 70 billion yen. In the follow-up comments the Bank of Japan noted that anxiety of the world capital market is reflected on the national economy, impeding recovery, while economic system of the country is shifting into the phase of more rapid growth. So, the Bank of Japan refrained from expansion of the stimulus program; however there is every reason to believe that the regulator will make it before July this year.

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AUD Sales of Australian Dollar do not cease

At the Forex currency market the Australian Dollar rate continues to weaken at the beginning of new week under strong pressure from external background.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair AUD/USD descends in the negative area, while volumes are high, and is giving a sell signal. Movement of Stochastic Oscillator is in the neutral zone, it moves indistinctly and it is not giving a clear signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 0.96950 the pair will go back to 0.9640 and 0.9620.

Although levels of the AUD are attractive for purchase, market does not rush to enter long position because, as external background is herky-jerky.

Statistics released this morning showed that inflation has not changed on monthly basis in May, 1.8% y/y, as per estimates of TD Securities and Melbourne University.

The data released earlier showed that lending in the private sector of Australia rose by 0.4% m/m in April against the forecast of growth of 0.3% m/m. Market has not responded to this statistics, as external background acts as more powerful catalyst at the moment. Statistics released in the middle of the week showed that total volume of production in the construction sector of Australia rose by 5.5% q/q in Q1. In addition, retail sales fell by 0.2% m/m in April against the forecast of growth of 0.2% m/m.

Unemployment rate in Australia fell to the lows of the year in April, reaching 4.9% against 5.2% a month earlier. Number of new jobs rose by 15 thousand last month against expectations of decline of 0.5 thousand. Report illustrated that employment increased due to the rise in the part- time jobs (+26 thousand); however number of full time jobs fell by 10.5 thousand. Such strong figures on unemployment rate have reduced chances that interest rate will be lowered in the near future.

We would remind that meeting of the Reserve Bank of Australia, which was held at the beginning of May, had astonishing and alarming effect on the market. Interest rate was reduced by 50 basis points to the level of 3.75% per annum. The head of RBA, Mr. Stevens has referred to inflation in his comments, saying that slowdown in inflation give cause for government’s concern. It is logical that the lending rate has been reduced to 3.75% from 4.25% in order to create more flexible lending conditions. However it is obvious that Australian economic system faces serious growth difficulties.

Sale of houses in the primary housing market HIA grew by 6.9% m/m in April against decline of 9.4% a month earlier. This is a good signal; although it should be regarded as recovery from the previous slump. Leading indicator index CB rose by 0.2% in March against zero change in February. It became known earlier that inflationary expectations MI in Australia rose by 3.1% in May against the level of +3.3% in April. Consumer sentiment index Westpac-MI in Australia rose by 0.8% m/m in May to the level of 95.3 points, which is above forecasts.

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CAD: Demand for Canadian Dollar remains low

At the Forex currency market the Canadian Dollar rate continues to decline on Monday largely due to decreasing oil prices and ongoing risk aversion amongst players.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair USD/CAD continues to go up in the positive area and is giving a buy signal. Stochastic Oscillator ascends in the neutral zone and is ready to enter into overbought area, giving a buy signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 1.0440 the pair will go to 1.0450 and 1.0460 and further on.

Statistics released on Friday showed that GDP in Canada increased by 0.1% m/m (+1.6% y/y) in March against decline of 0.2% m/m in February.

Next meeting of the Bank of Canada is scheduled for 5 June, economists do not expect any fundamental developments: most likely the regulator will leave interest rate unchanged. The Bank of Canada will not make any sharp movements as long as external background remains weak, as well as housing market in the country.

The head of the Bank of Canada Mr. Carney said this month that monetary tightening can be justified only if it progresses gradually. This subject has been raised recently: Mr. Carney said a week earlier that economic recovery would increase chances of monetary policy tightening. Meanwhile stimulation of economic activities will be maintained.

According to projections made by the Bank of Canada, country’s economy will regain maximum performance in the first half of 2013.

The head of the Bank of Canada Mr. Carney said earlier that economic growth in the country is above the forecast and authorities have number of tools in order to protect housing market from overheating. Nevertheless instruments of monetary policy will be applied only in case of emergency.

Statistics released last week showed that leading indicator index rose by 0.3% in April against expectations of growth of 0.4%, which was the tenth factor of growth in a row. At the same time, retail sales in Canada increased by 0.4% in March versus forecast of +0.3% m/m.

PMI fell to 52.7 points in April from 63.5 points a month earlier; thus, the index has been declining for the second consecutive month. According to report two out of 4 components of PMI demonstrated growth last month; however the data on employment rate (decline to 52.2 from 52.7) and price component (60.3 from 63.9) have disappointed investors.

It became known earlier that CPI in Canada rose by 0.4% m/m (+2.0% y/y) in April; inflation, excluding food and energy, rose by 0.4% m/m (+1.9% y/y) last month. Wholesale sales increased by 0.4% in March against forecast of +0.3%. The index looks encouraging.

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Analysis Department of LiteForex
 
Forex Analysis for 06.06.2012

EUR/USD: Euro is recovering at a moderate pace

The pair EUR/USD traded upward at the Forex currency market on Wednesday morning.

By 7.45 Moscow time the Euro is at 1.2505 against yesterday’s closing level of 1.2451.

Investors count on strong statistics on a number of claims for unemployment benefits in the USA. This data will be known tomorrow; the EU banking plan will become be published as well, market will know details of this plan in the middle of the week.

In the meanwhile, the ECB is under pressure from European governments, the bank can use a large range of tools against to combat crisis, however the bank refrains from doing this.

Most likely the pair EUR/USD will not go beyond the range of 1.2420-1.2530 at the trading session on Wednesday.

GBP: British Pound regains from losses

At the Forex currency market the British Pound Sterling traded upward amid tranquil external background.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair GBP/USD goes down into negative area and is giving a sell signal. Stochastic Oscillator has left oversold zone and is going up slowly in the neutral zone, giving a moderate sell signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 1.5490, the pair GBP/USD will go to 1.5410 and 1.5530.

The Pound has received long-expected support from external background and is now being corrected successfully.

It became known this week that agency Egan-Jones has downgraded the UK rating to AA- from AA; rating agency explained that revision of the rating was caused by slowing in GDP growth and the fact that latest data on payment balance is not too positive.
In addition to external pessimism, comments Mr. Dale, representative of the Bank of England also contributed to the fall of the Pound in the middle of the week. Mr. Dale noted that expansion of QE will be required if external European negative factors continue to put the same amount of pressure on the British economy.

According to the minutes of the last meeting of the Bank of England, Mr. Miles voted for expansion of the QE program for 25 billion pound sterling; as a result the ratio of votes was: 8 to 1. Mr. Bean, representative of the Bank of England believes that in case of deterioration of the global economic situation, launch of another QE program can be required. Most likely dates for shutting down of the current program will be rescheduled for the later time. He also assessed recovery of British economy as "painfully slow".

Unemployment rate in the country amounted to 4.9% in April; number of unemployed unexpectedly decreased by 13.7 thousand on monthly basis. At the same time the data for March has been revised: number of unemployed reduced by 5.4 thousand against primary assessment of growth by 3.6 thousand. It became known earlier that CPI in the UK rose by 0.6% m/m (+3.0% y/y) in April against +3.5% earlier.

The following information was positive for the Pound: Confederation of British Industry reported that volume of retail trade in the UK has grown in May after decline in April. Balance of sales amounted to 21% versus -6% a month earlier; forecast for June is positive as well.

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CHF: Swiss Franc is gradually recovering

At the Forex currency market Swiss Franc rate traded upward on Wednesday due to the fact that external conditions are neutral.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair USD/CHF slows down its growth in the positive area, still giving a buy signal. Stochastic Oscillator goes down in the neutral zone and is giving a sell signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 0.9590 the pair USD/CHF will go to 0.9570 and 0.9540.

So, Franc received support from external background which has stabilized and is giving ground for recovery.

No important statistics is scheduled for the release today.

PMI in the manufacturing sector of Switzerland fell to 46.9 points in April against the level of 51.1 points in March. Earlier, Ministry of Finance reiterated approval of pegging of the rate of Franc to the Euro. It will mean that the level of 1.20 will be preserved for a long time. Consumption indicator UBS in Switzerland rose to 1.22 points in March against provisional estimate of 0.9 points. Currency reserves rose to 237.5 billion in March against previous level of 224.9 billion francs. PMI SVME in Switzerland increased to 51.1 points in March against the forecast of 49.5 points.

Statistics released last week showed GDP in Switzerland rose by 0.7% q/q (+2.0% y/y) in Q1 against expectations of growth of 0.5% q/q (+0.7% y/y). It is a good signal which indicates that when positions of Franc go down, national economy is gaining stability.

Similar conclusions can be made from statistics released on Wednesday: when it became known that leading indicator KOF rose to 0.81 points in May against expectations of 0.41 points.

Unemployment rate dropped to 3.1% in April against 3.2% earlier.
It became known earlier that trade balance in Switzerland amounted to 1.33 billion francs in April versus forecast of 1.9 billion francs. Most likely it happened because of high price of the currency, along with decline in the buying activity. Consumer confidence index in Switzerland rose to -8 points in April against the level of -19 points in January. This is a good signal especially because economists expected that index would continue to decline.

Business sentiment ZEW in Switzerland fell to 4.0 points in May versus forecast of -8.0 points and level of +2.1 points in April. Most likely this data is based on assessment of external conditions.

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JPY: Japanese Yen is stepping back

At the Forex currency market the Japanese Yen rate traded downward in the middle of the week, which was caused by decreased investors' interest to safe currency and also in anticipation of intervention of the Bank of Japan.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair USD/JPY goes down in the negative area, while volumes are increasing and is giving a sell signal. Stochastic Oscillator goes up the neutral zone, giving a buy signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 79.30 the pair will go to 79.50 and 79.80.

Discussions about probability of intervention of the Bank of Japan are ongoing in the market for the second day, putting pressure on quotes. Now these rumors have found official confirmation: Japanese regulator now uses the same expressions which previously preceded cash infusions into the market.

Statistics released earlier showed that index of manufacturing activity PMI/Nomura amounted to 50.7 points in May, which agreed with preliminary expectations. The figures were neutral, so market did not pay much attention to them, focusing on global performance.

Unemployment rate in Japan increased to 4.6% in April against 4.5% in March; retail sales grew by 5.8% last month versus expectations of +6.0% y/y. In general, statistics was not very impressive and growth in unemployment rate is easy to explain.

Japanese economy in Q1 has grown more rapidly than projected, showing the rise of 4.1% y/y. Strong support to GDP growth was provided by the sector of consumer spending which had been backed up by government subsidy. Given, however that consumer spending increases only temporarily, GDP growth may be temporary as well. As soon as index of consumer spending decreases, pressure on CB will rise too. Meanwhile the head of the Bank of Japan Mr. Shirakawa has stressed that local economy is still in the disastrous situation.

Earlier, agency Fitch reported downgrade of the Japanese rating based on the fact that public debt of the country continues to increase. Minutes of the meeting of the Bank of Japan of 27 April, which were made public earlier, did not provide a lot of information: the document stated that CB should avoid introduction of policy that can be considered as a sort of monetization. The effect of monetary policy easing in Japan will be clearly traced, as soon as the system demonstrates steady recovery. In general, the document did not provide any information that would be fundamentally new to the market.

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AUD: Australian Dollar tends to soar up

At the Forex currency market the Australian Dollar rate traded upward in the middle of the week, as currently investors make use of the quiet external background for rebound.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair AUD/USD begun to go up in the negative zone and is shaping a buy signal. Stochastic Oscillator goes up in the neutral zone and is giving a similar signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 0.9870 the pair will go back to к 0.9890 and 0.9930.

The data released this morning showed that GDP in Australia rose by 1.3% q/q in Q2 against forecast of growth of 0.6% on quarterly basis. This indicator supports recovery of the currency.

According to the decision of the Reserve Bank of Australia, interest rate was lowered by 25 basis points, to the level of 3.5% per annum from the previous level of 3.75% per annum. The AUD leaped up in response to the information; however has been slightly corrected later. Today's statistics showed that current account balance in Australia amounted to -A$14.89 billion in Q1 against forecast of -А$14.56 billion. Statistics released yesterday showed that inflation has not changed on monthly basis in May, 1.8% y/y, as per estimates of TD Securities and Melbourne University.

Unemployment rate in Australia fell to the lows of the year in April, reaching 4.9% against 5.2% a month earlier. Number of new jobs rose by 15 thousand last month against expectations of decline of 0.5 thousand. Report illustrated that employment increased due to the rise in the part- time jobs (+26 thousand); however number of full time jobs fell by 10.5 thousand. Such strong figures on unemployment rate have reduced chances that interest rate will be lowered in the near future.

Lending in the private sector of Australia rose by 0.4% m/m in April against the forecast of growth of 0.3% m/m. Market has not responded to this statistics, as external background acts as more powerful catalyst at the moment. Statistics released in the middle of the week showed that total volume of production in the construction sector of Australia rose by 5.5% q/q in Q1. In addition, retail sales fell by 0.2% m/m in April against the forecast of growth of 0.2% m/m.

Sale of houses in the primary housing market HIA grew by 6.9% m/m in April against decline of 9.4% a month earlier. This is a good signal; although it should be regarded as recovery from the previous slump. Leading indicator index CB rose by 0.2% in March against zero change in February. It became known earlier that inflationary expectations MI in Australia rose by 3.1% in May against the level of +3.3% in April. Consumer sentiment index Westpac-MI in Australia rose by 0.8% m/m in May to the level of 95.3 points, which is above forecasts.

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CAD: Canadian Dollar is setting targets for growth

At the Forex currency market the Canadian Dollar rate traded upward on Wednesday as investors are in favour of risks.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair USD/CAD continues to go up in the positive area while volumes are not large, and is giving a buy signal. Stochastic Oscillator descends in the neutral zone and is shaping a sell signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 1.0305 the pair will go to 1.0290 and 1.0270 and further on.

At the meeting of the Bank of Canada interest rate was left at the level of 1.0% per annum, as expected. Comments of the head of the regulator Mr. Carney were neutral.

Exchange rate of the CAD receives support from oil sector and investors’ interest to oversold currencies.

Statistics released earlier showed that GDP in Canada increased by 0.1% m/m (+1.6% y/y) in March against decline of 0.2% m/m in February.

According to projections made by the Bank of Canada, country’s economy will regain maximum performance in the first half of 2013.

The head of the Bank of Canada Mr. Carney said earlier that economic growth in the country is above the forecast and authorities have number of tools in order to protect housing market from overheating. Nevertheless instruments of monetary policy will be applied only in case of emergency.

PMI fell to 52.7 points in April from 63.5 points a month earlier; thus, the index has been declining for the second consecutive month. According to report two out of 4 components of PMI demonstrated growth last month; however the data on employment rate (decline to 52.2 from 52.7) and price component (60.3 from 63.9) have disappointed investors.

It became known earlier that CPI in Canada rose by 0.4% m/m (+2.0% y/y) in April; inflation, excluding food and energy, rose by 0.4% m/m (+1.9% y/y) last month. Wholesale sales increased by 0.4% in March against forecast of +0.3%. The index looks encouraging.

Statistics released earlier showed that leading indicator index rose by 0.3% in April against expectations of growth of 0.4%, which was the tenth factor of growth in a row. At the same time, retail sales in Canada increased by 0.4% in March versus forecast of +0.3% m/m.

The head of the Bank of Canada Mr. Carney said this month that monetary tightening can be justified only if it progresses gradually. This subject has been raised recently: Mr. Carney said a week earlier that economic recovery would increase chances of monetary policy tightening. In the meanwhile stimulation of economic activities will be maintained.

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Analysis Department of LiteForex
 
Forex Analysis for 08.06.2012

EUR/USD: Euro is falling away due to Spanish news

The pair EUR/USD traded downward at the Forex currency market on Friday morning.

By 8.50 Moscow time the Euro is at 1.2521 against yesterday's closing level of 1.2559.

News, that rating agency Fitch has downgraded rating of Spain for 3 notches to BBB from A with negative forecast, caused a slump.

The agency stated that credit risks of Spain became the main reason for revision of the rating, which in fact means instability of the entire financial system.

Market has to deal with this information today.

Most likely the pair EUR/USD will not leave the channel of 1.2480-1.2590 at the trading session on Friday.

GBP: British Pound is on sale on Friday

British Pound Sterling traded downward at the Forex currency market on Friday in response to deterioration of the external background.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair GBP/USD goes down in the negative area and is giving a sell signal. Stochastic Oscillator has suspended steady growth in the neutral zone and is moving along the signal line now, not giving a clear signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 1.5430 the pair GBP/USD will go to 1.5420 and 1.5380.

Yesterday's meeting of the Bank of England was rather uneventful: interest rate was left unchanged at the level of 0.50% per annum, volume of assets purchase was also left unchanged.

Therefore, the Bank still adheres to monitoring policy and "wait and see" attitude.

According to the minutes of the last meeting of the Bank of England, Mr. Miles voted for expansion of the QE program for 25 billion pound sterling; as a result the ratio of votes was: 8 to 1. Mr. Bean, representative of the Bank of England believes that in case of deterioration of the global economic situation, launch of another QE program can be required. Most likely dates for shutting down of the current program will be rescheduled for the later time. He also assessed recovery of British economy as "painfully slow".

It became known this week that agency Egan-Jones downgraded the UK rating to AA- from AA; rating agency explained that revision of the rating was caused by slowdown in GDP growth and the fact that latest data on payment balance is not positive.

Unemployment rate in the country amounted to 4.9% in April; number of unemployed unexpectedly decreased by 13.7 thousand on monthly basis. At the same time the data for March has been revised: number of unemployed reduced by 5.4 thousand against primary assessment of growth by 3.6 thousand. It became known earlier that CPI in the UK rose by 0.6% m/m (+3.0% y/y) in April against +3.5% earlier.

The following information was also positive for the Pound: Confederation of British Industry reported that volume of retail trade in the UK has grown in May after decline in April. Balance of sales amounted to 21% versus -6% a month earlier; forecast for June is positive as well.
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CHF: Sellers are back for Swiss Franc

At the Forex currency market Swiss Franc rate goes down on Friday, due to deterioration of the external background. Investors resumed sales after receiving external negative information.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair USD/CHF traded sluggishly. Stochastic Oscillator has come into oversold zone and is giving a sell signal.

Forex recommendations: off the market.

Feasible event scenario at Forex: in case of breakdown at the level of 0.9620, the pair USD/CHF will go to 0.9630 and 0.9640.

Information released yesterday showed that CPI in Switzerland remained unchanged on monthly basis in May and on the annual basis the index has agreed with expectations (-1.0%).

Unemployment rate amounted to 3.0% in May.

It became known earlier that trade balance in Switzerland amounted to 1.33 billion francs in April versus forecast of 1.9 billion francs. Most likely it happened because of high price of the currency, along with decline in the buying activity. Consumer confidence index in Switzerland rose to -8 points in April against the level of -19 points in January. This is a good signal especially because economists expected that index would continue to decline.

Business sentiment ZEW in Switzerland fell to 4.0 points in May versus forecast of -8.0 points and level of +2.1 points in April. Most likely this data is based on assessment of external conditions. PMI in the manufacturing sector of Switzerland fell to 46.9 points in April against the level of 51.1 points in March. Earlier, Ministry of Finance reiterated approval of pegging of the rate of Franc to the Euro. It will mean that the level of 1.20 will be preserved for a long time. Consumption indicator UBS in Switzerland rose to 1.22 points in March against provisional estimate of 0.9 points. Currency reserves rose to 237.5 billion in March against previous level of 224.9 billion francs. PMI SVME in Switzerland increased to 51.1 points in March against the forecast of 49.5 points.

Statistics released last week showed GDP in Switzerland rose by 0.7% q/q (+2.0% y/y) in Q1 against expectations of growth of 0.5% q/q (+0.7% y/y). It is a good signal which indicates that when positions of Franc go down, national economy is gaining stability.
Similar conclusions can be made from statistics released on Wednesday: when it became known that leading indicator KOF rose to 0.81 points in May against expectations of 0.41 points.
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JPY: Interest to Japanese Yen is increasing again

At the Forex currency market the Japanese Yen rate has interrupted its fall and is now in the black again, as investors are back in the price amid of increased risk aversion.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair USD/JPY goes sideways in the negative area, and is not giving a clear signal. Stochastic Oscillator is shifting into sideways movement too in the neutral zone, and is not giving a clear signal.

Forex recommendations: off the market.

Feasible event scenario at Forex: in case of breakdown at the level of 79.20 the pair will go to 79.10 and 78.90. Consolidation near current levels is possible.

Market hardly reacted to morning Japanese statistics, as investors are mainly focused on external fluctuations.
This week, players in the market discuss probability of intervention of the Bank of Japan, which puts pressure on the JPY quotes. Now these rumors have found official confirmation: Japanese regulator now uses the same expressions which previously preceded cash infusions into the market.

Minutes of the meeting of the Bank of Japan of 27 April, which were made public earlier, did not provide a lot of information: the document stated that CB should avoid introduction of policy that can be considered as a sort of monetization. The effect of monetary policy easing in Japan will be clearly traced, as soon as the system demonstrates steady recovery. In general, the document did not provide any information that would be fundamentally new to the market.

Statistics released earlier showed that index of manufacturing activity PMI/Nomura amounted to 50.7 points in May, which agreed with preliminary expectations. The figures were neutral, so market did not pay much attention to them, focusing on global performance.
Unemployment rate in Japan increased to 4.6% in April against 4.5% in March; retail sales grew by 5.8% last month versus expectations of +6.0% y/y. In general, statistics was not very impressive and growth in unemployment rate is easy to explain. Japanese economy in Q1 has grown more rapidly than projected, showing the rise of 4.1% y/y. Strong support to GDP growth was provided by the sector of consumer spending which had been backed up by government subsidy. Given, however that consumer spending increases only temporarily, GDP growth may be temporary as well. As soon as index of consumer spending decreases, pressure on CB will rise too. Meanwhile the head of the Bank of Japan Mr. Shirakawa has stressed that local economy is still in the disastrous situation.

Earlier, agency Fitch reported downgrade of the Japanese rating based on the fact that public debt of the country continues to increase.
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AUD: Australian Dollar goes down because of external background

At the Forex currency market the Australian Dollar rate traded downward because of deterioration of the external conditions and a new wave of risk aversion among investors.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair AUD/USD is in the negative area and is shaping a buy signal. Stochastic Oscillator reverses in the neutral zone and is shaping a sell signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 0.9830 the pair will go back to к 0.9810 and 0.9780.

Investors are selling the AUD amid deterioration of the external conditions.

Employment market pleased investors yesterday: statistics showed that employment rate rose by 38.9 thousand in May; unemployment rate was maintained at the level of 5.1%.

GDP in Australia rose by 1.3% q/q in Q2 against forecast of growth of 0.6% on quarterly basis. This indicator supports recovery of the currency.

According to the decision of the Reserve Bank of Australia, interest rate was lowered by 25 basis points, to the level of 3.5% per annum from the previous level of 3.75% per annum. The AUD leaped up in response to the information; however has been slightly corrected later. Today's statistics showed that current account balance in Australia amounted to -A$14.89 billion in Q1 against forecast of -А$14.56 billion.
Lending in the private sector of Australia rose by 0.4% m/m in April against the forecast of growth of 0.3% m/m. Market has not responded to this statistics, as external background acts as more powerful catalyst at the moment. Statistics released in the middle of the week showed that total volume of production in the construction sector of Australia rose by 5.5% q/q in Q1. In addition, retail sales fell by 0.2% m/m in April against the forecast of growth of 0.2% m/m.

Sale of houses in the primary housing market HIA grew by 6.9% m/m in April against decline of 9.4% a month earlier. This is a good signal; although it should be regarded as recovery from the previous slump. Leading indicator index CB rose by 0.2% in March against zero change in February. It became known earlier that inflationary expectations MI in Australia rose by 3.1% in May against the level of +3.3% in April. Consumer sentiment index Westpac-MI in Australia rose by 0.8% m/m in May to the level of 95.3 points, which is above forecasts.
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CAD: Canadian Dollar afflicts with risk aversion among investors

At the Forex currency market the Canadian Dollar rate goes down at the end of the week- this time because of a new surge of risk aversion among investors.

Forex forecast: MACD indicator for the pair USD/CAD traded along the signal line in the positive area, and is not giving a clear signal. Stochastic Oscillator descends in the neutral zone and is giving a moderate sell signal.

Forex recommendations: in case of breakdown at the level of 1.0345 the pair will go to 1.0350 and 1.0360 and further on.

Statistics released earlier showed that leading indicator index rose by 0.3% in April against expectations of growth of 0.4%, which was the tenth factor of growth in a row. At the same time, retail sales in Canada increased by 0.4% in March versus forecast of +0.3% m/m.

The head of the Bank of Canada Mr. Carney said this month that monetary tightening can be justified only if it progresses gradually. This subject has been raised recently: Mr. Carney said a week earlier that economic recovery would increase chances of monetary policy tightening. In the meanwhile stimulation of economic activities will be maintained.

According to projections made by the Bank of Canada, country's economy will regain maximum performance in the first half of 2013. The head of the Bank of Canada Mr. Carney said earlier that economic growth in the country is above the forecast and authorities have number of tools in order to protect housing market from overheating. Nevertheless instruments of monetary policy will be applied only in case of emergency.

PMI fell to 52.7 points in April from 63.5 points a month earlier; thus, the index has been declining for the second consecutive month. According to report two out of 4 components of PMI demonstrated growth last month; however the data on employment rate (decline to 52.2 from 52.7) and price component (60.3 from 63.9) have disappointed investors. At the meeting of the Bank of Canada earlier interest rate was left at the level of 1.0% per annum, as expected. Comments of the head of the regulator Mr. Carney were neutral.

Statistics released earlier showed that GDP in Canada increased by 0.1% m/m (+1.6% y/y) in March against decline of 0.2% m/m in February.

It became known earlier that CPI in Canada rose by 0.4% m/m (+2.0% y/y) in April; inflation, excluding food and energy, rose by 0.4% m/m (+1.9% y/y) last month. Wholesale sales increased by 0.4% in March against forecast of +0.3%. The index looks encouraging.

Analysis Department of LiteForex
 
03.07.12. GOLD: Analysis and forecast.

1. Current trend of XAU/USD.

Despite acceleration of the crisis in the banking system and investors’ bad sentiment, preliminary results of the EU summit were positive. Spain will receive money from EFFS; it was decided to establish a single mechanism of supervision of banks which will be entitled to directly recapitalize troubled banks.
Amid these developments in Eurozone, gold rose in price before the close of the trading session last week.

2. Key indicators (Support and Resistance).

Currently, gold tries to rise above very important level of 1600.00 (fig.1). If breakdown of this level takes place, the price will continue to go up to the resistance level of 1640.00 further up to 1700.00.
If gold fails to reach this level and rebounds rolls back from the level of 1600.00, the price will decline to the support level of 1530.00 - 1520.00. Breakdown of this level will confirm downtrend (fig.2) at around 1450.00.

3. Best entry/exit points.

As long as positive sentiments prevail in the market, the most feasible scenario is ongoing rise in the gold price. In this case, the best entry points will be 1608.50 and 1633.00, with protective stop orders at 1590.00 and 1625.50.
In case of reversal and reduction in price, the best entry points will be 1580.00 and 1560.00 with protective stops at 1590.00 and 1570.00.

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03.07.12. BRENT. Calm before the storm?

1. Current trend of BRENT oil.

The exchange rate of Brent crude oil rose sharply at the end of last week, due to the positive news from the EU summit in Brussels. Reaching the highs of 98.23 last Friday, the rate had been slightly corrected. On Monday, downward correction continued. The main driver of the downward trend in Brent was the data on the growth of unemployment in Eurozone up to 11.1% and decline in business activity index in the countries of Eurozone. Nevertheless, the news from Iran about the plans of the country’s authorities to block the Strait of Hormuz in response to the EU and U.S embargo, have dramatically changed the situation in the market. Exchange rate of oil regained from the fall of 200 points and has stabilized at the levels of 97.02 - 97.40.

2.Key indications (Support and Resistance).

There is sideways movement in the exchange rate of Brent at the moment, as it glides up to the level of 98.07. There could be two scenarios in the exchange rate of oil. They both are associated with the world political and economic news. In the first scenario, exchange rate of Brent will glide down to the support level of 96.62, and if this level is broken down, to the level of 94.82. This decline will be triggered by the data on deterioration in economic situation of China and investors’ comprehension that real outcome of the EU summit would not as bright as it seemed at the beginning. However, in case of the second scenario that is if Iran implements the threat and blocks the Strait of Hormuz, oil price will go up rapidly, breaking through resistance level of 99.18 and probably 102.39.

2. Best entry/exit points.

In case of the first scenario it is advisable to enter the market at the level of 96.98 with protective stop at 97.38. If the situation develops in accordance with the second scenario, recommended entry points is 98.31 with stop order at 97.97.

3. Supporting facts.

As already noted, investors are in anticipation of the further developments. In the one hand, concerns are caused by the slowdown in Chinese economy and decline in the business activity index in the manufacturing sector, which fell to 50.2 points in June against 50.4 points in May. Decline in demand for fuel and energy may take place as the consequence, and hence reduction in the oil exchange rate. On the other hand, if Iran government implements its threat and blocks the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial transportation artery which helps to transfer 17 million barrels of oil every day, it will be a serious blow for the exporters of Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Iraq. Possibility of exacerbation of the political and military situation in the Middle East will trigger the rise in oil price.

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03.07.12. Weak “bullish” sentiments are shifting into downtrend in the pair USD/CHF.

1. Current trend of USD/CHF.

News from the summit had led to the significant fall in the pair USD/CHF at the beginning of the trading session last Friday. Later in the afternoon, the pair declined by 200 points and reached the level of 0.9460. At the opening session on Monday, the price fell to the level of 0.9540. Up to date, weak “bullish” sentiments prevail in the pair for the second consecutive day. We can expect another downward wave, following slight rollback.

2. Important levels (Resistance and Support).

After yesterday’s session, the price has almost reached the first support level of 0.9568. If the price breaks through this resistance level, short-term rise to the next important level of 0.9591 will be possible, as well as the further rise up to the key resistance level of 0.9650. However, it is more likely that the price will push away from one of the resistance levels and resume downward trend, going down through several insignificant support levels of 0.9530, 0.9500 and 0.9450. In the future, one of the key support levels at 0.9420 can be reached. If this level is also broken down, the pair USD/CHF can continue to go down.

3. Best entry/exit points.

To date, the main scenario is as follows: short-term rise to one of the resistance levels of 0.9568 and 0.9591. After that we expect rebound from one of these levels and decline in price to the key support level of 0.9420. Local correction will probably take place at the less important levels of support at 0.9530, 0.9500 and 0.9450.
Based on this forecast, we recommend to place sell limit orders slightly above resistance levels 0.9568 and 0.9591 and fix profit at the level of 0.9435.

4. Supporting factors.

MACD indicator for the pair USDCHF is in the negative area and is reversing downward, shaping a sell signal. Stochastic Oscillator remains in the oversold zone and is giving a sell signal.

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Analysis and forecast of the pair EUR/USD.

1. Current trend of EUR/USD.

The currency pair EUR/USD has declined at the trading session on Monday despite the positive outcome of the EU summit. The fall was driven by the poor macro-economic indexes of Eurozone. Business activity index started to decline back in June. High unemployment rate is another acute problem in the EU. This index rose to 11.1%. Optimism, associated with decisions on Eurozone is gradually going down. This is not surprising, as efficient means to resist crisis were not found. It seems that at the moment EU leaders just gained time.

2. Important levels (Resistance and Support).

Presently, the pair has chances to uptrend. Resistance level will be at 1.2613. The next target will be at the level of 1.2678. Support levels are 1.2550 and 1.2441.

3. Best entry/exit points.

At the moment, the best entry point for buying is the level of 1.2620 with protective stop orders below the level of 1.2580.

4. Supporting facts.

Although statistics is unfavourable, the Euro still has chances to strengthen its position against the USD. Positive expectations are based on the fact that the ECB will change the key interest rate on Thursday. Investors assume that the rate will be reduced, which will have a positive impact on the dynamics in the pair EUR/USD.

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NZDUSD. Analysis of dynamics and forecast

06.07.2012
NZDUSD. Analysis of dynamics and forecast


1. Current trend of the currency pair NZD/USD

The NZD/USD rate had maintained uptrend throughout all June. However at the beginning of July it has shifted into horizontal movement. Strengthening in the NZD was driven by good economic performance and GDP growth in New Zealand in Q1 this year. Now, investors are cautious in anticipation of the time when EU leaders will put their decisions into practice. The price will not go beyond the range of 0.8010 - 0.8065 this week.

2. Important levels (Support and Resistance)

It is most likely, that the price will be in the sideways trend at the beginning of the next week. Initial resistance level will be at the level of 0.8065. Last Thursday, the NZD managed to break through this level; however it was not able to maintain the achieved position. The next support level is 0.8010. However, we cannot rule out that development can take a bad turn, which is possible considering slowdown in the world economy, which significantly affects all high yield trading currencies, including the NZD. In case of negative news from Europe and China, breakdown may take place at the level of 0.8010, the price will go to the support level of 0.7961 and then, to the three-week lows of 0.7839.
In case of unfavourable scenario for the NZD, breakdown of the initial support level at 0.8010 can become the signal for opening short positions. In this case, recommended level to enter the market is 0.8001, with protective stops at 0.8048.

3. Supporting facts

Presently, the NZD is supported by the positive macro-economic indicators in New Zealand. GDP in the country rose by 1.1% in Q1 2012; agricultural sector- by 2.3% and manufacturing sector by 1.8%. Stock index NZX 50 is also growing since beginning of July. The rise in the CRB (Commodity Research Bureau Index) adds more confidence in the stability of the New Zealand currency. This index correlates with the exchange rate of the NZD. On the other hand, slowdown in the world economy and of China in particular (one of the major consumer of the New Zealand exports), puts additional pressure on the NZD.

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06.07.2012
GOLD: Analysis and forecast


1. Current trend for gold

Yesterday, the world financial markets had an eventful day. Three Central Banks eased their monetary policy. The European Central Bank reduced interest rate for 25 basis points: from1% to 0.75%. Central Bank of China lowered interest rate by 31 points to 6% and the Bank of England reported the increase of the assets purchase program by 50 billion pounds. Nevertheless, these measures were not able to upraise sentiments among investors, as the speech of the head of the ECB was not inspiring. Decline in the European economy is projected in Q2. America did not show good statistics either. ISM in the service sector declined lower than expected. Due to all these facts, gold fell in price from $1620 to $1600.

2. Important levels (Support and Resistance)

Investors are waiting for the release of important information from the U.S. Therefore, gold has prospects of growth and decline. Important resistance levels are: 1611.25 and 1624.40. Support levels are: 1587.10 and 1577.10.

3. Best entry/exit points

In the current situation gold is still under pressure that can intensify. The best entry point for the sale orders are 1586.00 and 1576.00 with stop orders at the levels of 1600.00 and 1590.00.

4. Supporting facts

The most anticipated news today is the statistics of the labor market in the U.S. This is the case when the negative statistics could be favorable for the market. The negative data will increase chances to introduce quantitative easing policy by Federal Reserves. Investors have serious concerns that the data on jobs could be above market expectations.

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09.07.2012
FOREX: Analysis and forecast of the pair EUR/USD

1. Current trend of EUR/USD

The European currency continues to demonstrate weakness against the American currency, following the trend of last trading week. On Friday, EUR/USD fell below the important support level of 1.2288, which had been formed on 2012.06.01. Presently, this is the strong resistance level. There are a lot of buying orders above this level.

2. Fundamental data


The meeting of the European Central Bank and its decision to reduce the key refinancing rate up to the level of 0.75% was the main macro-economic news. According to the leading economic experts, this decision had been predictable. EU economy is on the brink of recession and needs “soft” monetary policy to support all sectors of production and stimulate domestic demand. The increase of 10-year Spanish bonds, the yield of which amounted to 7% was another blow for the European currency.

If the growth continues, Spain will not be able to finance budget deficit on the debt market and will be forced to seek external financial assistance. This factor can cause the decline in the Euro and revision of the ratings of the EU countries by the Moody’ and other ratings agencies. If we add to this list Greece, Portugal, Italy and Ireland, we will get a full complex picture of problems that can become unbearable burden for European Union and this fact is a matter of concern of local politicians and leading economic experts. Today’s summit in Brussels will be devoted to development of rescue plans for Spain, Greece and Cypress and allocation of financial help to these countries. Worth noting information, which will be released today, is as follows: the data on industrial output in France and Italy.

3. Important levels (Support and Resistance)


The most important resistance levels: 1.2288, 1.2347 and 1.2377.
The most important support levels: 1.2203, 1.2173 and1.2142.

4. Best entry/exit points

Best target for buying is the level above 1.2288 with protective stops at 1.2256.
For the sale we recommend the level above support line of 1.2203 with protective stops at 1.2235.

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09.07.2012
BRENT. Oil price tends to decline

1. Current trend of the crude oil BRENT

Last week, the rate of crude oil BRENT had resumed its decline, so that downtrend continued until closing trades last Friday. There is slight upward correction in the rates on Monday, caused by the ongoing strike of the workers of Norwegian oil industry. Further correction is possible in case of positive economic news from Europe and China, favourable corporate reporting from the US or aggravation of political situation in Iran.

2. Important levels (Support and Resistance)

Currently, initial support level is at 98.19 and resistance level is at 99.12. The most feasible scenario for today: price for oil will reverse not reaching the level of 99.12 and after breaking down support level of 98.19 will rush to a new target level of 97.33 and further up to 95.42. However, we cannot exclude another scenario, when after several favourable signals from China and Eurozone, rates of oil will shift into upward trend and will try to regain from last week’s losses, trying to reach the level of 102.28.

3. Best entry/exit points

In case of the first scenario it is recommended to enter the market at the level of 98.08, with protective stops at the level of 98.85. If the situation develops according to the second scenario, breakdown of the level 99.12 will be the signal for opening long positions; recommended level for entering the market is 99.22, with protective order at the level of 98.43.

4. Supporting factors

Currently, news for Europe puts pressure on the rate of BRENT. Investors had a negative reaction to the information that the launch of the European stabilization mechanism (ESM) will be probably postponed because several suits were filed in Germany against its establishment. Investors are also concerned about continuing slowdown in the European economy. In 17 countries of Eurozone, index of industrial production declined by 0.8%, in 27 EU countries –by 0.4%. Industrial production in Germany fell by 2%. Decline in the industrial production in Europe will mean the reduction in demand for energy resources and in particular for oil. Nevertheless, support came from the news that Saudi Arabia started to purchase fuel to meet its domestic demand, provided some support to the market. Fuel consumption has increased considerably this summer; the government had difficulties with fuel supply to the domestic market and was forced to import it.

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