Dollar Index Posts Fresh 2018 Highs on Firmer Treasury Yields

USD

The dollar index climbed to a new 2018 high on Wednesday as the US treasury yields advanced to multi-year highs. The strong economic reports are confirming that the United States economy is resilient and supports the stance of the monetary policy of the Federal Reserve. Treasury yields are bolstered by the expectations that the Federal Reserve will hike interest rates three more times this year. However, the Fed member Bullard declared yesterday that they are close to neutral rates and raising interest rates further could be restrictive. Such statements from the Fed members will suggest that they are weighing the effect of the interest rates on the stock market.

EUR

The Euro traded lower yesterday to find support at the 78.6% Fibonacci retracement of the move from $1.1555 to $ 1.2556, the lowest since December 18th. The Common currency is facing pressures from the rising political uncertainty in Italy. The Consumer Price Index was due yesterday where the YoY readings were unchanged. Additionally, the Euro is under pressure because of the increasing gap between the bond yields of the United States and Eurozone.

CAD

The Canadian Dollar is indecisive ahead of the informal NAFTA talks deadline. The Loonie has been sensitive for this topic, as any press releases or statements regarding NAFTA increased the volatility. President Donald Trump threatened to withdraw from the NAFTA, but on Tuesday, he confirmed that reaching a deal is essential. Trump planned before to rewrite the deal, but according to the negotiators it will be difficult and might exceed the deadline.

Gold

Gold prices are steady near 2018 lows, disregarding some short covering that occurred earlier on Wednesday. The precious metal is facing pressure due to the soaring Treasury yields, that are increasing the opportunity cost of the bullion holders.

Oil

Oil prices rose to the highest levels since Nov 2014 on a decreasing supply and a strong demand. The Energy Information Administration reported that the US crude oil inventories dropped by 1.4 million barrels last week to a total of 432.34 million barrels.

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Disclaimer
The prices and news mentioned in this outlook are absolutely no guarantee of future market performance and do not represent the view of ICM Capital Limited. Financial markets can move in either direction causing profits to be made or complete losses to be incurred by the trader. Each trader must decide for themselves what their risk appetite is and ensure that correct risk management procedures are in place before placing any trades.