On Tuesday, March 22, USD/JPY is trading higher and trying to stay above the 120 level.
- As the DXY strengthens ahead of six more rate rises in 2022, the USD/JPY has reached a new six-year high of 120.00.
- Yields are rising due to the Fed’s hawkish comments, but the BOJ’s interest rates remain constant, keeping the USD/JPY green.
- The Biden-NATO conference, the Ukrainian-Russian crisis, and Fed policymakers’ statements will be major future direction determinants.
USD/JPY fundamental forecast
Firmer rates and a risk-off mentality propelled the USD/JPY to a six-year high during Tuesday’s London session, piercing the psychological barrier of 120.00.
Hawkish Fed
Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s hawkish remarks yesterday triggered yet another round of re-pricing in the US rates markets.
So, markets expect a lot of debate about whether a plain or inverted US yield curve signals recession – and this energy shock has undoubtedly enhanced the probability of a US recession in late 2023/24.
However, US 10-year Treasury rates have risen to a new high since May 2019, with bids hovering around 2.328 percent.
The benchmark US bond coupon had surged the highest in three weeks the day before after Atlanta Fed President Bostic and Richmond Fed President Barkin praised the US central bank’s capacity to control inflation by implying a quicker rate hike path.
Ukrainian-Russian situation worsens
The Ukraine-Russia conflict has worsened as Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that no rapid decision on occupied Ukrainian territory is feasible. Additionally, US President Joe Biden expressed concern about a cyberattack on the US.
DXY goes green
In the face of a deteriorating market mood, the DXY has surpassed 98.00. As market players continue to adjust to Chief Powell’s recent hawkish remark, the index extends its march north for the third session on Tuesday, trading within hearing distance of the 99.00 level.
Biden-NATO meeting
Following a summit of NATO leaders in Brussels on Thursday to organize a response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, President Joe Biden will go to Poland on Friday in a show of support for the alliance’s eastern flank.
This could lead to more sanctions against Russia’s economy and, as a result, an escalation in tensions between the two countries.
Key data releases from the US
From the US, we have Fed. Chairman Powell’s speech on Wednesday, FOMC Member Waller, and Flash PMIs this week.
Key data releases from Japan
From Japan, we don’t have any significant updates this week other than BOJ Core CPI tomorrow.
What’s next?
Given risk aversion and higher yields, the USD/JPY is likely to rise further. Comments from Fed policymakers and developments from the Ukraine-Russia front, on the other hand, are vital to keeping an eye on new impetus.
USD/JPY technical analysis: potential upside?
USD/JPY is now trying to stay above the 120.80 level. So far, the pair has gained 0.36% during the day.
The pair is above its 100-day moving average on the 4H chart, and the RSI is pointing upwards.
The pair is now hitting the 120.89 level. A fall below 119.21 will bring the pair towards the 118.95 support level. If USD/JPY falls below this level, it will challenge the next support level, at 118.81.
On the upside, the pair can go towards the next resistance level, around 121.00. A break over the resistance level of 121.20 will pave the door for a test of the following resistance level of 121.40.