The U.S. Dollar Index has gained momentum in the currency market as traders react to the positive report on Retail Sales. The report indicated that Retail Sales increased by 0.6% month-over-month in December. This news has boosted the confidence of traders in the US economy, leading to an increase in the value of the dollar. If the U.S. Dollar Index settles above the resistance at 103.50 – 103.75, it is expected to move towards the next resistance level at 104.35 – 104.55.
On the other hand, the Euro has come under pressure after the release of the final reading of Euro Area inflation data. The Inflation Rate increased from 2.4% in November to 2.9% in December, which was in line with analyst expectations. However, this news has caused some concern among traders, leading to a decrease in the value of the Euro. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) has recently moved back into the moderate territory, indicating that there is still room for the Euro to face additional downside momentum if the right catalysts emerge.
In contrast to the Euro, the Pound has gained ground in the currency market as traders focus on UK inflation data. The Inflation Rate increased from 3.9% in November to 4% in December, while the Core Inflation Rate remained unchanged at 5.1%. Both reports exceeded analyst expectations, which has boosted the confidence of traders in the UK economy. If the GBP/USD pair settles back above the 50 MA at 1.2714, it is expected to head towards the next resistance at 1.2820 – 1.2850.
USD/CAD Moves Higher Amid Pressure on Commodity-Related Currencies
The USD/CAD pair has been moving higher as commodity-related currencies remain under pressure in the currency market. If the USD/CAD pair stays above the 1.3500 level, it is expected to head towards the resistance level at 1.3590 – 1.3620. This upward movement is driven by the overall weakness of commodity-related currencies, which has led traders to shift their focus towards the US dollar.
The USD/JPY pair has tested new highs as traders reduce their bets on a dovish Federal Reserve (Fed) after the release of strong Retail Sales data. A move above 148.50 will push the USD/JPY pair towards the next resistance at 149.50 – 150.00. This positive momentum in the USD/JPY pair is a result of the increased confidence of traders in the US economy, leading to a decrease in demand for safe-haven assets like the Japanese yen.
The currency market has witnessed contrasting movements as the U.S. Dollar Index gains ground on positive Retail Sales data, the Euro comes under pressure due to Euro Area inflation, the Pound gains momentum on strong UK inflation, the USD/CAD pair moves higher on pressure on commodity-related currencies, and the USD/JPY pair tests new highs on reduced bets of a dovish Fed. Traders continue to closely monitor these developments and adjust their strategies accordingly.
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