Market Update: Canadian Dollar Reacts to US Retail Sales and Wholesale Sales Data
On Thursday, the Canadian Dollar (CAD) was influenced by market flows, experiencing fluctuations against various currencies. Despite a slower contraction in Wholesale Sales in June, the CAD struggled to capitalize on the weakening Greenback. The US Retail Sales data for July led to a rise in risk appetite in US markets, causing the Greenback to soften and reducing expectations of a double rate cut from the Federal Reserve in September.
Although Canada reported another decline in Wholesale Sales in June, the figure was an improvement from the previous month. However, the lag in data release makes it challenging for CAD traders to react promptly.
Key Market Movements:
- Canadian Wholesale Sales fell by -0.6% MoM in June, compared to a previous decline of -1.2%.
- Despite the data, the CAD weakened against the USD due to overall market sentiment.
- US Retail Sales surged by 1.0% in July, signaling economic strength and impacting currency movements.
- The Greenback softened as risk appetite increased, affecting the CAD’s performance.
- US Industrial Production contracted by -0.6% in July, influencing market outlooks.
- Rate markets adjusted expectations for Fed rate cuts in September, with a higher likelihood of a quarter-point trim.
- Investors await the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index for further insights.
CAD Price Forecast:
The CAD mirrored global market trends, showing mixed performance against the USD. Despite approaching the 50-day EMA at 1.3730, the USD/CAD pair struggled to gain positive momentum above 1.3750.
USD/CAD Daily Chart:
For more insights on the factors influencing the CAD, refer to the FAQs below:
- Interest Rates: Set by the Bank of Canada, affecting inflation and credit conditions.
- Oil Prices: Impact the CAD due to Canada’s reliance on petroleum exports.
- Inflation: Higher inflation can attract capital inflows, strengthening the CAD.
- Macroeconomic Data: Indicators like GDP and employment influence CAD performance.
Understanding these factors can help investors navigate currency movements and make informed decisions in the financial markets.