The latest report from Rabobank FX analysts reveals some interesting trends in the foreign exchange market. For starters, USD net long positions have increased for the second week in a row. This increase is attributed to a decrease in short positions, with the strong US Q2 personal consumption and GDP estimates driving a 4.75bp increase in the 10-year Treasury bond. Traders are now pricing in a 32bp cut at the upcoming Fed meeting in September.
In addition to the USD, EUR net long positions have also seen a consecutive increase for the third week. The boost in EUR net longs is driven by a decrease in short positions and Eurozone core CPI inflation data registering in line with expectations. Meanwhile, the unemployment rate for July was slightly better than estimated at 6.4%. OIS pricing is suggesting a 25bps cut at the September 12th ECB meeting.
Similarly, GBP net long positions have increased for the third week in a row, with a decrease in short positions fueling this growth. The British pound remains the best-performing G10 currency against the USD year-to-date, boasting a return of 4.09%. On the other hand, JPY net long positions have also seen a steady increase for the third week. JPY long positions are currently at their highest level since February 2021, and USD/JPY is trading near yearly lows at 142.
Overall, the current trends in the foreign exchange market indicate a favorable outlook for certain currencies. With the USD, EUR, GBP, and JPY all showing increased net long positions, traders are likely to monitor these currencies closely in the coming weeks. Factors such as economic data releases, central bank meetings, and geopolitical events will continue to influence the direction of these currencies in the near future.
In conclusion, the recent report from Rabobank FX analysts highlights the positive momentum in the foreign exchange market for key currencies such as USD, EUR, GBP, and JPY. With net long positions increasing for multiple consecutive weeks, traders are likely to keep a close eye on these currencies in anticipation of further price movements. As the market continues to react to economic data and central bank decisions, it will be interesting to see how these trends evolve in the coming weeks.