Crude oil futures surged on Monday due to disruptions in Russian refining capacity caused by Ukrainian drone strikes and Moscow's decision to cut output to comply with OPEC+ targets. The West Texas Intermediate (WTI) contract for May settled at $81.95 a barrel, up $1.32, while the Brent contract for May settled at $86.57 a barrel, also up $1.32. Russia instructed...
South Africa’s GDP and vaccine hopes drove ZAR up
2020-12-08 • Updated
USD/ZAR dropped to the low levels unseen since February as investors foresee the soon global recovery.
What happened?
Some countries such as the UK started massive vaccinations, while others are already in the final steps. Therefore, investors streamed their capital to riskier assets like emerging market currencies on prospects for a global economic recovery. Indeed, the virus will be taken under control soon and the world economy will be boosted. According to Credit Suisse, “EM [emerging market] also looks well positioned to outperform whether there is a value- or growth-driven rally in 2021”.
Why specifically emerging markets?
It was necessary to impose record low interest rates in the world’s largest economies to stimulate economic activity. These countries won’t increase rates anytime soon. Whereas emerging markets have significantly higher rates and therefore higher yields. That’s why it’s beneficial to invest money in emerging markets.
Market reaction
USD/ZAR fell due to the optimistic vaccine news and the weak US dollar. Elsewhere, South Africa’s GDP recovered by 66.1% in the third quarter, showing the steady economic rebound of the country. However, it is still far away from the pre-pandemic levels.
Technical tips
Traders should closely observe this pair now as it has approached the key support of 15.0000. The price isn’t likely to break this level for the first attempt and we might see the retracement. If it manages to cross this level, the way down to February lows of 14.7250 will be clear. On the flip side, the move above the 50-period moving average of 15.2500 will drive the pair to the high of November 30 at 15.4500.
Similar
Bearish scenario: Sales below 80.00 with TP1: 79.60... Anticipated bullish scenario: Intraday purchases above 80.70 with TP: 81.50...
Brent oil is currently on a bullish trend, facing resistance near $84 and supported by the 200-day EMA. Breaking above this level could lead to a climb towards $90. Short-term support is observed around $80, backed by the 50-day EMA. As summer approaches and travel increases, crude oil tends to benefit from seasonal patterns. Despite temporary setbacks, buying...
Latest news
Jerome H. Powell, the Federal Reserve chair, stated that the central bank can afford to be patient in deciding when to cut interest rates, citing easing inflation and stable economic growth. Powell emphasized the Fed's independence from political influences, particularly relevant as the election season nears. The Fed had raised interest rates to 5.3 ...
Hello again my friends, it’s time for another episode of “What to Trade,” this time, for the month of April. As usual, I present to you some of my most anticipated trade ideas for the month of April, according to my technical analysis style. I therefore encourage you to do your due diligence, as always, and manage your risks appropriately.
Bearish scenario: Sell below 1.0820 / 1.0841... Bullish scenario: Buy above 1.0827...