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The Australian Dollar is trading higher against its weaker U.S. counter-part on Tuesday ahead of U.S. inflation data, but domestic pandemic lockdowns helped cap the Aussies gains.
Traders ignored a measure of Australian business conditions that showed falls from record highs in June as coronavirus lockdowns curbed sales and undermined confidence, though activity was still solid by historical terms.
At 07:08 GMT, the AUD/USD is trading .7490, up 0.0009 or 0.12%.
Australia business confidence weakened in June due to a rising number of infections in New South Wales and subsequent lockdowns, survey results from the National Australia Bank showed on Tuesday.
The business confidence index dropped to 11 from 20 in May. The decline in confidence was led by declines in NSW and Queensland. Confidence weakened in all industries except mining and manufacturing.
The closely watched U.S. consumer price index (CPI) report is due to be released on Tuesday at 12:30 GMT. Economists expected the CPI to have risen by 0.5%, down from the last month’s 0.6%. Core U.S. consumer prices are expected to have risen 0.4% in June, according to a Reuters poll.
If the CPI comes in lower than expected, the Fed would feel slightly less inclined to ease its asset purchases, which could support the Aussie, but if it is concerned about inflation, it is more likely to address tapering stimulus, underpinning the U.S. Dollar.
Daily Swing Chart Technical Analysis
The main trend is down according to the daily swing chart. However, momentum has been trending higher since the formation of a closing price reversal bottom on July 9.
A trade through .7410 will negate the closing price reversal bottom and signal a resumption of the down trend. The main trend will change to up on a move through .7599.
The AUD/USD is currently testing the upper level of a long-term retracement zone at .7499 to .7379. This zone is controlling the near-term direction of the Forex pair.
The minor range is .7599 to .7410. Its retracement zone at .7505 to .7527 is potential resistance.
The short-term range is .7776 to .7410. Its retracement zone at .7593 to .7636 is additional resistance.
Daily Swing Chart Technical Forecast
The direction of the AUD/USD on Tuesday is likely to be determined by trader reaction to .7499.
Bearish Scenario
A sustained move under .7499 will indicate the presence of sellers. The first downside target is .7457. Buyers could come in on the first test of this level. If it fails then look for the selling to possibly extend into .7410, followed closely by .7379.
Bullish Scenario
A sustained move over .7499 will signal the presence of buyers. This could trigger a quick surge into .7505 to .7527. Look for sellers on the first test of this area. They are going to try to form a potentially bearish secondary lower top.