02/02/2024  

US dollar update

US dollar summary

In the foreign exchange market, recent developments have significantly impacted the US dollar’s strength against major currencies. Following the latest Nonfarm Payrolls (NFPs) report published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the US saw a substantial increase in employment, with 353,000 jobs added in January. This figure not only exceeded the previous month’s revised increase of 333,000 jobs but also surpassed market expectations significantly, which were set at 180,000. The robust job growth contributed to maintaining the unemployment rate at a steady 3.7%, against a market anticipation of an increase to 3.8%. Additionally, wage inflation witnessed a notable rise, with Average Hourly Earnings growing by 4.5% year-on-year, outpacing the expected 4.1%. The Labor Force Participation rate held constant at 62.5%, while the U6 Underemployment Rate experienced a slight increase to 7.2%.

The Federal Reserve’s monetary policy stance, as articulated by Chair Jerome Powell, further influenced the dollar’s ascent. Powell dismissed the possibility of an early interest rate cut, suggesting any adjustments are more probable later in the year. This position marked a departure from earlier communications, indicating an end to the cycle of rate hikes and signaling a shift in the Fed’s approach to monetary policy.

The dollar index reflected these developments, climbing to 103.62, as the stronger-than-expected jobs report led traders to adjust their expectations regarding the Federal Reserve’s rate cut timeline. The combination of a solid labor market report and the Federal Reserve’s indications of a more cautious approach to rate cuts contributed to the dollar’s strength, demonstrating the intricate relationship between labor market health, monetary policy, and currency valuations.

 

Market Views & Opinions

Commerzbank’s opinion regarding the interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve in a recent report: “We still expect the first rate cut in May. “

Bank of America reported on Friday, referencing EPFR data, that during the week leading up to Wednesday, investors injected $20.1 billion into stocks, concluding a robust month for equities, predominantly fueled by surges in technology shares. Concurrently, U.S. Treasuries experienced their largest weekly withdrawal in seven weeks, amounting to $3.6 billion.

 

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER

The information in this report is of a general nature only. It is not a piece of personal financial advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, and personal needs.

a-Quant is not responsible for your actions and recommends you contact a licensed financial advisor before acting on any information contained in this general information report.

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