FX Analysis – USD pushes above key level, AUD ahead of the the RBA

USD bounced back to start the first full week of December after a horror run in November where the Dollar Index (DXY) fell around 3%. DXY breaking through the 200 Day SMA resistance and printing a high of 103.850. Sour risk sentiment and higher treasury yields (particularly in the short end) helping DXY erase the Powell inspired drop on Friday.  With the Fed having entered their blackout period ahead of next week’s FOMC meeting (meaning no Fed member jawboning) data this week will take on extra importance with USD traders particularly watching Services PMI data today and the NFP jobs report on Friday.

AUD and NZD were the G10 underperformers, a strong USD and a broad risk-off backdrop the main drivers rather than anything specific to the currencies. AUDUSD was looking to test the 0.67 resistance early in the session before reversing course to test the support at 0.66 before finding some buyers. Aussie traders have the December RBA meeting to navigate, with the Central Bank widely expected (95% chance according to futures) to keep rates unchanged. What AUD trader will be watching is for any change of language in the accompanying statement with regards to futures hikes, will the RBA leave the door ajar, wide open or shut it completely? Expect some volatility in the AUD as traders race to work that part out at announcement time.