The forecast for an increase in the Consumer Confidence Index from -16.1 to -15.6 shows a slight improvement in the economic outlook. However, the focus will be on the Preliminary private sector PMIs for France, Germany, and the Eurozone, especially the Services PMIs, which account for more than 60% of the Eurozone economy. The services sector is crucial for inflation, making the prices sub-component a focal point. Any pickup in price pressures could impact the ECB’s interest rate decisions.
Economists expect the February Services PMI for the Eurozone to increase from 48.4 to 48.7. Additionally, finalized Eurozone inflation numbers for January may influence the ECB rate path. Any upward revisions to preliminary figures could drive demand for the EUR/USD. On the other hand, the focus will also be on the German economy, with finalized Q4 GDP and business sentiment numbers being closely watched. A downward revision to GDP numbers could overshadow any positive sentiment indicators.
The ECB Monetary Policy Meeting Minutes will be crucial in determining the future rate decisions. A consensus to delay interest rate discussions could support the EUR. Additionally, the FOMC Meeting Minutes will influence near-term trends in the EUR/USD pair. Recent inflation figures have reduced expectations of Fed rate cuts, making it important to monitor speeches from FOMC members. Any dovish tones could lead to a weaker US dollar.
On Thursday, market projections for the Fed interest rate path will be influenced by jobless claims and US private-sector PMIs. With the services sector accounting for over 70% of the US economy, sub-components like prices and employment will be crucial. Higher prices and job creation rates could reduce bets on a Fed rate cut. Economists forecast a decrease in Services PMI from 52.5 to 52.0 in February, with initial jobless claims also expected to increase.
The EUR/USD pair is currently below the 50-day and 200-day EMAs, indicating a bearish sentiment. A breakout from the $1.07838 resistance level and the 200-day EMA could signal a potential bullish move. However, falling below the $1.07000 handle could bring the $1.06342 support level into view. The 14-period Daily RSI at 43.81 suggests a potential drop to the support level before entering oversold territory.
Economic indicators like the Consumer Confidence Index, Services PMIs, inflation numbers, and GDP figures will shape the monetary policy decisions of central banks like the ECB and FOMC. It is essential to watch out for any surprises in the data releases and central bank commentary to assess the future direction of currency pairs like the EUR/USD.
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