DXY Rising on Friday

The Dollar is firming up again midweek following comments from Fed chair Powell last night which seemed to dilute near-term easing prospects. Powell reiterated his view that the Fed must proceed with caution in any further rate cuts given the fine balance between downside labour market risks and upside inflation risks. Elaborating on this situation, Powell explained that cutting rates too quickly would leave the economy vulnerable to a fresh surge in inflation. However, cutting rates too slowly might see the jobs market weaken further. As such, Powell signalled that incoming data will be closely scrutinised ahead of each meeting decision.

Market Expectations & US Data

Despite these warnings from Powell yesterday, the market is still pricing in a further .25% cut next month with pricing for an additional cut by year end around 70%. Given this dovish view, there is room for USD bears to be unseated if inflation continues to rise and the Fed delays the next rate cut. Looking ahead, incoming data tomorrow and Friday will be key for how DXY ends the week. In particular, the weekly jobless figure tomorrow and core PCE on Friday will be the main focus for traders. Yesterday, a fresh drop in US PMIs served as further evidence of economic weakening, endorsing bears’ dovish expectations for now.

Technical Views

DXY

With the index back in the green today, focus is on a continued bounce of the 96.63-level support with 98.24 the initial resistance for bulls to face. Above there, a retest of the broken bull channel and the 99.15 level will be next. While price holds below the broken channel, risks of an eventual break lower remain seen.