Daily Market Analysis By FXOpen

Market Insights with Gary Thomson: RBA Rates, UK and Canada’s Inflation, Metals, Earnings Reports
In this video, we’ll explore the key economic events, market trends, and corporate news shaping the financial landscape. Get ready for expert insights into forex, commodities, and stocks to help you navigate the week ahead. Let’s dive in!


In this episode:
- RBA Interest Rate Decision
- Canada’s Inflation Rate
- UK Inflation Rate
- Precious Metals Price Fluctuations
- Corporate Earnings Statements

Don’t miss out—gain insights to stay ahead in your trading journey.
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Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

How Can You Use the STRAT Method in Trading?



The STRAT method is a unique trading approach that is supposed to simplify market analysis by breaking price action into clear, actionable scenarios. Developed by Rob Smith, it focuses on candlestick patterns, scenarios, and timeframe alignment to help traders better understand market structure. This article explores the key components of the STRAT method, its practical application, and how it can potentially refine trading strategies.

What Is the STRAT Trading Method?
The STRAT method is a trading strategy created by Rob Smith. It’s designed to simplify technical analysis by focusing on price action and breaking down market movements into clear, actionable steps. At its core, the STRAT strategy categorises price behaviour into three scenarios—inside bars (1), directional bars (2), and outside bars (3)—helping traders identify potential opportunities and understand the market structure.

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Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

AUD/USD Trades Near Year’s High After RBA Decision



Today, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) eased monetary policy, cutting the interest rate from 4.35% to 4.10%, according to Forex Factory.
As reported by Reuters:
→ This marks the first easing since the 2020 pandemic;
→ RBA Governor Michele Bullock stated that market expectations for two more cuts this year are “ambitious”;
→ The bank’s leadership remains cautious about further easing prospects.
While analysts had accurately predicted the February rate cut, AUD/USD saw volatility without a significant move, possibly because market participants are more focused on Trump’s tariff plans, which could impact global trade and Forex markets.



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Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Position Sizing: The Way to Trade Forex Effectively



In forex trading, one strategy stands out for its significant impact on portfolio management — position sizing. Recognised by seasoned traders as a vital element in their toolkit, position sizing is an instrument that traders need to make reasonable trading decisions.
This FXOpen article aims to shed light on the significance of position sizing in forex trading. Here are the rules that traders follow, along with simple yet illustrative examples.

What Is Position Sizing?
Position sizing is a crucial risk management strategy that determines the amount of capital allocated to a particular trade. It goes beyond simply deciding how many lots or units to trade; rather, it involves calculating the appropriate percentage of your trading capital to commit to a specific trade. This approach ensures that no single trade has the potential to excessively impact your overall portfolio.
Position sizing is influenced by portfolio diversification. Traders and investors may allocate different position sizes to various assets in their portfolios to spread risk effectively. Diversification may help reduce the impact of a single losing trade on the overall portfolio.
Asset volatility plays a role in position sizing. More volatile assets may require smaller trades to limit potential losses, while less volatile assets may allow for larger positions.

This strategy can be applied to a long position and short position in forex, cryptocurrencies*, stocks, bonds, commodities, and other financial assets that you can trade.

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Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Market Analysis: EUR/USD Gains Pace While USD/JPY Turns Red



EUR/USD started a decent upward move above the 1.0460 resistance. USD/JPY declined below 153.00 and is currently consolidating losses.
Important Takeaways for EUR/USD and USD/JPY Analysis Today
· The Euro found support and started a recovery wave above the 1.0400 resistance zone.
· There is a connecting bearish trend line forming with resistance at 1.0460 on the hourly chart of EUR/USD at FXOpen.
· USD/JPY is trading in a bearish zone below the 153.00 and 152.50 levels.
· There is a short-term rising channel forming with support near 151.60 on the hourly chart at FXOpen.

EUR/USD Technical Analysis



On the hourly chart of EUR/USD at FXOpen, the pair started a fresh increase from the 1.0290 zone. The Euro climbed above the 1.0400 resistance zone against the US Dollar.
The pair even settled above the 1.0450 resistance and the 50-hour simple moving average. Finally, it tested the 1.0515 resistance. A high is formed near 1.0514 and the pair is now consolidating gains. There was a minor decline below the 23.6% Fib retracement level of the upward move from the 1.0292 swing low to the 1.0514 high.

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Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Alibaba Shares (BABA) Hit 12-Month High Ahead of Earnings Report



Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba is set to release its quarterly earnings report on 20 February. The Wall Street Journal cites optimistic analyst estimates, projecting gross revenue of 279.03 billion yuan (approximately $38 billion), up from 260.35 billion yuan a year ago and 236.50 billion yuan in the previous quarter.
Investor sentiment has been buoyed by Alibaba co-founder Jack Ma’s presence at an event with Chinese President Xi Jinping. According to Barron’s, this signals government efforts to restore confidence in the private sector, particularly in technology. At present, such factors may be having a greater impact on the stock market than geopolitical headlines or Trump’s tariff policies.

These and other drivers—including a recent partnership between Alibaba and Apple to integrate AI features into the iPhone 16 series—have fuelled bullish momentum. As a result, Alibaba shares (BABA) have surged nearly 20% in February, reaching their highest level since February last year.



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Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Natural Gas Price Hits Highest Level Since January 2023



The XNG/USD chart today shows that natural gas prices have surpassed the December 2024 peak, breaking through the key psychological level of $4.000/MMBtu. Since early February, prices have surged by over 20%.
Why Is Natural Gas Price Rising?
According to The Wall Street Journal, the bullish sentiment is driven by:
→ Weather models confirming forecasts of a significant cold spell.
→ LNG exports remaining at record highs.
Additionally, US gas exports may increase further after President Trump lifted the pause imposed by the Biden administration on new LNG export projects. Bloomberg reports that Trump’s administration is close to approving its first LNG export project.



TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

DAX Stock Index Plunges



As we noted six days ago, European stock markets were showing optimism amid expectations that the armed conflict in Ukraine—now approaching its third year—would be resolved. During this period, the DAX 40 (Germany 40 mini on FXOpen) gained approximately 1.6%, setting a historic record.
However, sentiment appears to be shifting in the opposite direction. According to the Germany 40 mini chart on FXOpen, the German stock index DAX 40 experienced a sharp decline yesterday, losing around 2%. This drop is partly driven by Trump's latest tariff statements. According to Trading Economics:
→ The US President is considering imposing new 25% tariffs on automobile, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical imports, with an official announcement expected in early April.
→ Market sentiment deteriorated after ECB Executive Board member Isabel Schnabel tempered expectations of a more expansionary monetary policy.



TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

How to Build a Forex Trading Model


Forex, also known as FX, is the global marketplace for trading currencies. It is one of the most liquid and accessible financial markets out there, and it attracts traders with various levels of expertise. Some of them prefer to rely on trading models, which offer a systematic approach to analysing and executing trades.
This FXOpen article focuses on the process of building a forex trading model. You will learn how to create a model in five steps and look at examples that might help you better understand this complex topic.

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RISK WARNING: Trading on the Forex market involves substantial risks, including complete possible loss of funds and other losses and is not suitable for all members. Clients should make an independent judgement as to whether trading is appropriate for them in the light of their financial condition, investment experience, risk tolerance and other factors.

Share Price of Analog Devices (ADI) Soars by Approximately 10% in a Day



The S&P 500 Index (US SPX 500 mini on FXOpen) set a new record yesterday, following the release of minutes from the latest Federal Reserve monetary policy meeting. As it became known, committee members would like to see inflation decline further; however, in their view, potential changes in trade and immigration policies could "complicate" the disinflation process.
Analog Devices (ADI) Shares Among Top Gainers
Amid predominantly bullish sentiment in the current US stock market, Analog Devices (ADI) shares surged by approximately 10% in a single day following the release of quarterly results. The company exceeded analysts' expectations on earnings per share by 5.5%, while gross revenue came in 2.68% above forecasts.
According to MarketWatch:
→ Analog Devices has increased its dividend by 8% and expanded its share buyback programme by $10 billion.
→ CEO Vincent Roche stated that "we have moved past the cyclical downturn, and the situation has turned in our favour," giving an optimistic outlook for the second half of 2025.




TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

How to Trade on the Nonfarm Payroll Report



Navigating the complex waves of the forex market requires an astute understanding of various economic indicators. Among them, the nonfarm payroll report stands out as a pivotal monthly metric that can significantly sway currency values. This article demystifies the intricacies of this influential report, walking through what to know before trading it.

Nonfarm Payroll Definition
The nonfarm payroll (NFP) is a key economic barometer that tallies the number of employed individuals in the US, not counting farm, government, private household, and nonprofit organisation workers. Essentially, it's a comprehensive accounting of the nation's employment, excluding the agricultural sector.
This nonfarm payroll, meaning the workforce in industries like manufacturing, services, construction, and goods, reflects the health of corporate America and, by extension, the US economy. The Employment Situation report is released on the first Friday of every month by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and includes key figures like the nonfarm payrolls, unemployment rate, and average hourly earnings.

Given its encompassing nature, the NFP and its importance to economic vitality makes it a beacon for investors and traders, who see the data as a forecast of economic trends and an influencer of the Federal Reserve's monetary policy. Fluctuations in NFP numbers can cause significant movements in currency, bond, and stock markets.
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Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

USD/JPY Recovers After Dropping Below 150 Yen per Dollar



As the USD/JPY chart shows:
→ Yesterday, the pair fell below the psychological level of 150 yen per dollar.
→ However, today it staged a strong recovery, rising back above this level.
The yen weakened following the release of Japan's inflation data. According to Forex Factory, the National Core CPI increased by 3.2% year-over-year (forecast: 3.1%, previous: 3.0%).

According to Reuters:
→ The 19-month high in CPI strengthens expectations of further interest rate hikes in Japan.
→ The yen is weakening as Bank of Japan Governor Kazuo Ueda stated that the central bank may step up government bond purchases if long-term interest rates rise.
Can USD/JPY Continue to Rise?



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Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Walmart (WMT) Stock Drops Over 6%



As shown in the Walmart (WMT) stock chart, trading on 20th February closed at $97.26, whereas the previous day, the stock was trading around $103. The decline of over 6% marks the largest drop in Walmart (WMT) stock price in 15 months.

Why Did Walmart (WMT) Stock Drop?
The bearish momentum emerged after Walmart’s earnings report, which was actually quite strong, as:
→ Sales growth reached 5.2%;
→ The company exceeded analysts' expectations (earnings per share were 2% higher than forecasts);
→ Walmart announced a 13% dividend increase.
However, WMT stock fell because the retail giant released a profit forecast for 2025 that came in below market expectations. This was attributed to uncertain consumer behaviour and geopolitical conditions. Additionally, investors may have been dissatisfied with increased executive compensation.



TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

What Is a Balanced Price Range and How To Use It in Trading?



Balanced Price Ranges (BPRs) offer traders insight into areas where market forces temporarily balance. Understanding how BPRs form and how to use them can help traders identify key zones of interest on the chart. This article explores the details of BPRs, their applications in trading, and how combining them with other tools can refine your market analysis.

A Balanced Price Range (BPR) is an Inner Circle Trader (ICT) concept used to pinpoint areas on a price chart where market activity reflects a temporary equilibrium between buyers and sellers. These zones, often identified through overlapping Fair Value Gaps (FVGs), highlight price levels where buying and selling pressures have offset each other, creating a balance.

Here’s how it works in a bullish scenario: a rapid price move downward leaves a bearish Fair Value Gap—a price range the market skips over due to strong selling momentum. If the price rises with equal intensity shortly, creating a bullish Fair Value Gap in the opposite direction, the overlapping region between these gaps becomes the BPR. This overlap represents a zone of temporary balance, where the market has effectively “corrected” the earlier imbalance.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Market Analysis: AUD/USD and NZD/USD Hold Strong—Are More Gains Ahead?



AUD/USD is attempting a fresh increase from the 0.6350 support. NZD/USD is also rising and could aim for a move above the 0.5800 resistance.
Important Takeaways for AUD/USD and NZD/USD Analysis Today
· The Aussie Dollar found support at 0.6300 and recovered higher against the US Dollar.
· There is a connecting bullish trend line forming with support at 0.6365 on the hourly chart of AUD/USD at FXOpen.
· NZD/USD is consolidating above the 0.5720 support.
· There is a key bullish trend line forming with support at 0.5735 on the hourly chart of NZD/USD at FXOpen.

AUD/USD Technical Analysis



On the hourly chart of AUD/USD at FXOpen, the pair formed a base above 0.6300. The Aussie Dollar started a decent increase above the 0.6350 resistance against the US Dollar, as mentioned in the previous analysis.
The pair even cleared 0.6400 before there was a minor pullback. The recent low was formed at 0.6351 and the pair is again rising. The bulls pushed the pair above the 50% Fib retracement level of the downward move from the 0.6408 swing high to the 0.6351 low.

TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

EUR/USD Chart Analysis: Exchange Rate Hits Highest Level Since Early February



The EUR/USD chart shows the euro rising above its previous February peak of 1.05155, set on the 14th.
On one hand, the euro's strength is driven by Germany’s national elections over the weekend, where the opposition conservatives, led by Friedrich Merz, secured victory as expected. Investors are now focused on how quickly Merz’s party can form a coalition government to implement much-needed economic reforms.
On the other hand, the US dollar index has fallen to its lowest level since mid-December.
According to Reuters, the dollar’s weakness is influenced by:
→ Shifting market perceptions of its value amid Trump’s tariff policies in global trade.
→ Declining US Treasury yields due to expectations of further Fed rate cuts in 2025.



TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Market Insights with Gary Thomson: Canada’s GDP Growth, US PCE Price Index, Gold, Earnings Reports


In this video, we’ll explore the key economic events, market trends, and corporate news shaping the financial landscape. Get ready for expert insights into forex, commodities, and stocks to help you navigate the week ahead. Let’s dive in!
In this episode:
- Canada’s GDP Growth
- US PCE Price Index
- Gold
- Corporate Earnings Statements
Don’t miss out—gain insights to stay ahead in your trading journey.

Watch YOUTUBE VIDEO

Watch it now and stay updated with FXOpen.

Don't miss out on this invaluable opportunity to sharpen your trading skills and make informed decisions.

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Strategies for Those Who Trade the Euro



Navigating the currency markets can be complex, but arming oneself with simple euro trading strategies can provide a clear path through the volatility. This article unpacks straightforward methods designed specifically for trading the euro, offering clarity and practical steps for both novice and seasoned traders looking to refine their approach to this currency.

Understanding the Euro Market
The euro occupies a central role in the global financial system, functioning as the primary currency for the Eurozone – an economic region encompassing numerous European countries. For those aiming to learn forex trading strategies, grasping the dynamics of the euro market is pivotal.

The EUR/USD pair, particularly, is a favourite among traders due to its liquidity and the volume of economic data available for analysis. Trading this pair requires an understanding of the broader economic indicators that influence its volatility, such as interest rate decisions, employment statistics, and political events within Europe. EUR/USD trading strategies often hinge on these indicators, guiding traders to forecast potential price movements.
To gain the best understanding of the strategies below, consider following along in FXOpen’s free TickTrader platform. There, you’ll find all of the tools and charts necessary to put these strategies to the test.

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Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

Nike (NKE) Shares Surge 5%



The sportswear giant was among the top performers in the US stock market yesterday after Jefferies analysts raised their outlook:
→ Upgraded NKE stock from “Hold” to “Buy”
→ Increased the price target from $75 to $115
Amid fierce competition, NKE shares had been in a downtrend throughout 2023-2024, but a leadership change (which we covered in September 2024) may have acted as a catalyst for a turnaround.



TO VIEW THE FULL ANALYSIS, VISIT FXOPEN BLOG

Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.

The Canadian Dollar: What Every Forex Trader Needs To Know



Among the major currencies covering the largest part of forex trading volume is the Canadian dollar (CAD), colloquially known as the "Loonie" due to the image of a loon bird on the back of the C$1 coin. This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the CAD, a brief overview of its historical journey, and the factors driving it in the forex market today.

Understanding the Canadian Dollar
Over the years, the CAD has weathered fluctuations and policy shifts, impacting not only its value but also its influence in the world of finance.
Originally, Canada used the British pound as its official currency, but it was gradually replaced by the Canadian dollar, which has been the country’s official currency since 1858.

Following the establishment of the Bretton Woods system, Canada allowed its currency to fluctuate freely between 1950 and 1962, a period that culminated in a significant devaluation event. Subsequently, Canada adopted a fixed exchange rate until 1970, at which point mounting inflation pressures prompted the government to return to a floating currency system.

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Disclaimer: This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only (excluding FXOpen EU). It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.