Fri, Jan 24, 2025

AUD Dips Further as USD Strengthens on Global Uncertainty
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AUDUSD is moving in Ascending channel and market has reached higher low area of the channel

The Australian Dollar’s Struggle and Economic Implications

The Australian Dollar (AUD) has been on a downward spiral, marking its fifth consecutive session of decline on Friday. This slump is largely due to the rising strength of the US Dollar (USD), fueled by increased risk aversion in the global market. However, there’s more to the story than just a strong USD. Let’s delve deeper into the factors affecting the AUD and what this means for the future.

The Australian Dollar’s Decline: What’s Happening?

US Dollar’s Strength and Risk Aversion

The AUD/USD pair’s decline is primarily due to the USD’s strength. Increased risk aversion among investors has led to a preference for the more stable USD, putting pressure on the AUD. Risk aversion typically spikes during periods of economic uncertainty or geopolitical tension, prompting investors to seek safer assets like the USD.

good news

Australia’s Employment Data

Interestingly, the decline of the AUD might have been more pronounced if not for Australia’s recent employment data. On Thursday, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported a significant increase in Employment Change, with 50,200 new jobs added in June, far exceeding the market forecast of 20,000. This strong job growth suggests a resilient labor market, which could imply future interest rate hikes by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA).

Unemployment Rate Concerns

However, it’s not all good news. The Unemployment Rate rose to 4.1% from 4.0%, contrary to expectations of a steady outcome. This uptick in unemployment adds a layer of complexity to the economic outlook, balancing out the positive employment change figures.

AUDUSD is moving in Descending channel and market has fallen from the lower high area of the channel

AUDUSD is moving in Descending channel and market has fallen from the lower high area of the channel

Implications for Interest Rates

The robust employment figures have shifted investor expectations slightly towards a potential rate hike from the RBA in August. Swaps now imply a 20% probability of a rate hike, up from 12% previously. This shift, while modest, indicates that the market is beginning to consider the possibility of tighter monetary policy if the labor market continues to show strength.

Global Influences: The Role of China and the US

China’s Economic Outlook

The Third Plenum of the Chinese Communist Party’s 20th National Congress concluded on Thursday without introducing concrete measures to rejuvenate China’s slowing economy. A senior Chinese official highlighted that the economic recovery is still fragile, emphasizing the need for more effective macroeconomic policies. This lack of decisive action has contributed to global economic uncertainties, affecting currencies like the AUD that are sensitive to China’s economic performance.

US Treasury Yields and Labor Data

In the US, rising Treasury yields have supported the USD, but the impact may be tempered by softer labor data. Recent figures showed an increase in Initial Jobless Claims, with 243,000 new claims reported, higher than the expected 230,000. This rise in jobless claims suggests some weakness in the US labor market, which could influence the Federal Reserve’s decisions on interest rates.

AUDUSD has broken Descending channel in upside

AUDUSD has broken Descending channel in upside

Fed’s Rate Cut Expectations

According to CME Group’s FedWatch Tool, there’s now a 93.5% probability of a 25-basis point rate cut at the September Fed meeting, up from 85.1% a week earlier. This expectation of a rate cut is fueled by the soft labor data and ongoing concerns about economic growth.

Market Sentiment and Expert Opinions

Market Reactions to Global Events

The financial markets have been reacting to these developments with caution. Investors are weighing the mixed signals from employment data and central bank communications, leading to increased volatility in currency markets.

Expert Insights

Sean Langcake, head of macroeconomic forecasting for Oxford Economics Australia, commented on the current economic scenario, noting that the pace of employment growth suggests demand is resilient, and cost pressures may persist. He indicated that while the RBA might hold rates steady, the possibility of a rate hike in August remains open.

Inflation and the RBA’s Stance

Westpac’s analysis suggests that Australia is likely to follow a similar disinflation trend as other countries, facing comparable economic shocks. This perspective aligns with the broader market view that while inflationary pressures exist, they are being managed effectively by the RBA.

Final Summary

The Australian Dollar’s recent decline is a multifaceted issue influenced by global risk aversion, strong US Dollar, mixed employment data from Australia, and broader economic signals from China and the US. While the AUD faces downward pressure, strong employment figures in Australia and the potential for future interest rate hikes by the RBA provide some support.

broader market

The global economic landscape, including China’s economic policies and the US Federal Reserve’s actions, will continue to play a significant role in shaping the AUD’s future trajectory. Investors and market watchers should stay tuned to these developments, as they will undoubtedly impact currency markets and broader economic conditions in the coming months.

In the ever-evolving world of global finance, staying informed and adaptable is key. The interplay between different economic indicators and policy decisions creates a dynamic environment where the fortunes of currencies like the AUD can change rapidly. Keep an eye on the data, listen to expert opinions, and be prepared for the unexpected in these turbulent times.


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