EUR/USD Gains Momentum
The EUR/USD pair is on a bullish trajectory at the week’s onset, fueled largely by the steadying of the US Dollar (USD). Rebounding from last week’s low of 1.0656, the pair is currently trading around 1.0690, showcasing a 0.04% gain for the day.
Powell’s Influence on Rate Hike Expectations
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s recent statements have stirred expectations of a potential Fed rate hike. The October Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, if robust, could trigger tightening policies. Current 12-month US inflation expectations stand at 4.4%, with 5-year projections surging to 3.2%.
Consumer Sentiment Index Decline
Concerns arise with the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment index dropping from 60.4 in November to 63.7 in October. The eagerly awaited CPI report might amplify worries, possibly paving the way for a Fed rate hike in December.
European Economic Outlook and ECB Standpoint
On the European front, the European Commission is poised to release Economic Growth Forecasts, anticipating downward revisions to 2024 growth. The preliminary Eurozone Gross Domestic Product for Q3 is projected to contract by 0.1% quarterly, with an annual growth expectation of 0.1%. Key ECB figures emphasize that discussions about rate cuts are premature.
IMF Recommendations and Market Anticipation
The IMF suggests that rapid wage growth in the eurozone may keep inflation elevated. Despite recommendations for the European Central Bank to maintain interest rates at record highs into the next year, the market anticipates a rate cut, possibly as early as April, with 90 basis points (bps) of cuts priced in by the year’s end.
Summing Up the EUR/USD Positive Trend
In summary, the current positive trend in the EUR/USD pair results from a blend of factors—USD consolidation, Powell’s hints at policy tightening, and impending economic data releases in the US and Eurozone. Traders keenly await the CPI report and ECB communications for deeper insights into the currency pair’s future direction.
