EURUSD: Bears Eye 1.0980 as ECB Interest Rate Decision Approaches
EURUSD prints its first daily gain in five days as traders recover from a month-long low, preparing for the European Central Bank's (ECB) upcoming policy announcements. Despite the recent slowing of US inflation and speculation about possible significant rate cuts from the US Federal Reserve in late 2024, the Euro bulls remain cautious due to the ECB's dovish stance and economic concerns in the Eurozone.
EURUSD sellers keep control
Even though the Euro is recovering before the key event, the overall bearish outlook for the pair remains intact. It continues to show weakness with the 20-EMA breakdown early in the week, bearish MACD signals, and a steady RSI (14) line.
Key technical levels to watch
Among the key technical levels, sellers are particularly focused on the convergence of the 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) and a previous resistance line around 1.0980. Following that, an ascending support line from late June near 1.0900 is also important to monitor. If the price remains below 1.0900, it could drop further to the previous monthly low around 1.0790.
On the other hand, for EURUSD buyers to regain control, they need to see the price break above the 21-day EMA at around 1.1050 and a falling resistance line at about 1.1070. Additionally, a hawkish rate cut from the ECB would support this move. If the price manages to rise past 1.1070, it could test the monthly high of 1.1155 and the yearly peak around 1.1200.
Downside bias gains acceptance
Looking ahead, there's uncertainty about the ECB’s upcoming rate decision. Some traders anticipate a 0.50% cut, while most expect a smaller 0.25% reduction. If the ECB surprises the market with a more aggressive or unexpected rate move, it could lead to significant volatility. Therefore, EURUSD traders should hold off on new trades until the ECB's decision is announced. They should set a stop-loss to manage their risk if they are currently holding short positions.
