On Friday, the US dollar weakened against a basket of major currencies after the publication of mixed economic statistics. Thus, the indexes of consumer expectations and sentiment counted to 85.8 and 96.9 in April, respectively, and were worse than the expected values of 88.5 and 98.1. Export and import price indexes rose by 0.7% and 0.6% in March, respectively, while investors expected growth by 0.2% and 0.4%. The dollar index (#DX) closed in the negative zone (-0.26%). At the moment, the indicator is consolidating near monthly lows.
Demand for risky assets is still at a fairly high level. Investors were pleased with the recovery in exports in China, which rose by 14.2% in March instead of the expected growth by 7.3%.
This week, investors expect news on the development of trade relations between the US and China, as well as the Brexit process. The US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin announced that countries were close to embarking upon the final part of the negotiations on a trade agreement. Also, this week important economic data will be published that may have a significant impact on the dynamics of the currency majors in the short term.
The “black gold” prices are moderately decreasing after a continuous rally. At the moment, futures for the WTI crude oil are testing the mark of $63.60 per barrel.
Market Indicators
- On Friday, the bullish sentiment was observed in the US stock market: #SPY (+0.68%), #DIA (+1.02%), #QQQ (+0.43%).
- The 10-year US government bonds yield is recovering. Currently, the indicator is at the level of 2.55-2.56%.
The news feed for 2019.04.15:
- Today, the publication of important economic news is not expected.
