By Areena FxThe Euro-to-US Dollar (EUR/USD) pairing continues to meander within a narrow range, hovering around the 1.08 level. Despite significant macroeconomic announcements unfolding since yesterday, the lack of surprises has left the exchange rate ensnared in a tight fluctuation, seeking a clear direction.
Yesterday’s revelation about the European economy’s growth rate affirmed that the EU teeters on the brink between stagnation and recession. The minimal 0.1% growth in the final quarter of the year failed to dispel concerns about the region’s economic health.
As highlighted in previous discussions, the persistent challenges in the European economy act as a weight on the Euro. Despite occasional positive reactions, the currency struggles to regain a robust upward momentum.
The ongoing speculation regarding the timeframe for interest rate cuts by the two major central banks remains a dominant theme, contributing to market volatility. Investors exercise caution in making substantial bets amidst this uncertainty.
The upcoming three days hold a series of crucial events, commencing with the Federal Reserve’s meeting and Jerome Powell’s remarks tonight and concluding with the release of new US job figures on Friday.
Expectations of a Federal Reserve interest rate cut in March have dwindled to below 50%, and unless President Powell surprises the markets, these expectations are likely to diminish further.
Given the potential for significant deviations from estimates in these tumultuous announcements, maintaining a wait-and-see approach appears prudent.