- The USD/JPY experienced a slight pullback in Thursday's trading session, contributing to the ongoing noise observed in the market. The lack of clear direction has resulted in the currency bouncing within a consolidation range for an extended period.
- The recent decline suggests a test of the ¥139 level, with potential support levels found at ¥130 after that. The ¥130 level assumes significance as it served as the top of the previous ascending triangle pattern.
- The market's current state indicates a high likelihood of continued noise as traders attempt to decipher central banks' actions.
The hesitation in the US dollar's movement arises from higher-than-anticipated unemployment claims data released in the United States. However, this sharp pullback may be short-lived due to the interest rate differential between the two economies. The yield curve control policy maintained by the Bank of Japan also reinforces the expectation of continued buying pressure on the US dollar. Given these factors, it is challenging to envision a scenario where the market undergoes a significant attitude shift. Breaking above the ¥141 level could serve as a catalyst for further upside, potentially propelling the market much higher.
Noise Ahead
A break above ¥141 would open the possibility of a run toward the ¥148 level, which represents the measured move from the underlying ascending triangle pattern. Technical traders are likely to monitor this development, potentially leading to a self-fulfilling prophecy. It is important to acknowledge the market's inherent noise as traders attempt to assess whether sufficient momentum can be generated for an upward move in the short term. Only a breakdown below the 50-Day Exponential Moving Average would raise concerns about the ongoing uptrend.
In the end, the US dollar faces a period of noisy trading and consolidation, characterized by a pullback and hesitation. Support levels at ¥139 and ¥130 assume significance, with the latter representing the top of a previous ascending triangle pattern. The interest rate differential between the economies and the Bank of Japan's yield curve control policy suggest continued buying pressure on the US dollar. Breaking above ¥141 could trigger further upside, potentially leading to a run toward ¥148. The market will continue to exhibit noise as traders grapple with central bank actions and seek clarity on short-term momentum. The ongoing uptrend remains intact unless a breakdown below the 50-Day EMA occurs.
Potential signal: I am still bullish of this pair, and I think the interest rate differential will continue to be important. Breaking back above the 140 level should bring in more buyers. The stop would be at 138, with a potential target of 145 at the least.
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