USD/CAD Trades at a Flat Level Following Volatile Trading and Rising US Treasury Yields

Insights

• The dollar fell as additional penalties against Russia weighed on the Loonie.

• Benchmark rates increased as the Federal Reserve pursued a more aggressive rate hike strategy.

• Due to the new penalties, gold and silver prices remained rather stable.

• As European countries ponder further measures, oil prices continue to rise.

Despite a volatile trading session, the dollar maintained its strength as higher oil prices bolstered the commodity-linked Loonie. The yield on ten-year government bonds increased to 2.56 percent, the highest level since May 2019. Benchmark rates increased several basis points following Fed Governor Brainard's statement that the Fed must pursue a more aggressive stance to contain inflation. Commodity-linked currencies such as the Loonie increased in value as a result of higher oil prices and good economic indicators. New sanctions against Russia continue to benefit silver and gold prices. On the potential of fresh Russian sanctions, oil prices continued to increase. Investors are awaiting the release of the minutes from the most recent FMOC meeting on Wednesday.

Today, the US released its February trade balance. Actual balance of -$89.2 billion was lower than predicted at -$88.5 billion. The reading stayed relatively stable compared to the previous month, indicating a record deficiency. Exports increased by 1.8%, while imports jumped by 1.3 percent. In the following months, the Russia-Ukraine war may limit demand for US exports.

Technical Evaluation

The USD/CAD exchange rate remained unchanged following a recovery from the downward pressure caused by increased oil prices, which supported the Loonie. However, losses should be contained as a result of the Fed's more aggressive rate hikes. The pair remains below the key level of 1.25 and may be driven lower as additional penalties against Russia increase. Resistance is located near the 10-day moving average, which is now at 1.25. Near today's lows near 1.24, support is seen. A break below support would reveal the daily low of 1.2387 from November 10th, signaling further downward pressure. The short-term momentum shifted to the upside when the fast stochastic crossed above the buy signal.

Although the MACD line generated a crossover sell signal, the medium-term momentum is negative but favorable. When the MACD line (the 12-day moving average minus the 26-day moving average) passes the MACD signal line, this scenario occurs (the 9-day moving average of the MACD line).