The Australian Dollar (AUD) persisted in its downward trajectory for the sixth consecutive session on Friday, facing notable pressure against the US Dollar (USD). Despite the lack of a clear direction in the USD and an improvement in China’s Caixin Services PMI for December, the AUD/USD pair continued to experience a decline. Factors such as weakened market sentiment and a widespread reduction in commodity prices have collectively contributed to the Australian Dollar’s ongoing weakness.
Australian PMI Data Reveals Business Contraction
Australia’s recent Judo Bank Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) data unveiled a contraction in business activities across both the services and manufacturing sectors. The Services PMI specifically highlighted the most rapid contraction in services since the third quarter of 2021. Matthew De Pasquale, an Economist at Judo Bank, suggests that while the Australian economy is decelerating, there is no significant momentum in the deceleration.
USD Holds Steady Amidst Positive Employment Data
The US Dollar Index (DXY) maintained a stable course, displaying a slight inclination towards positive sentiment and potential gains. The recent retracement in US Treasury yields, however, might exert some pressure on the Greenback. Positive employment data, including a surge in the US ADP Employment Change for December, has contributed to supporting the US Dollar.
Mixed Economic Indicators in the US
The US ADP Employment Change witnessed a significant increase in December, surpassing both the previous figure and market expectations. Initial Jobless Claims for the week ending December 29 displayed positive signs, beating anticipated figures. However, the S&P Global Composite PMI for December reported a minor dip in business activities.
Australian Economic Indicators Impact AUD
Australia’s Judo Bank Services PMI reported a reading falling short of market expectations. The Composite PMI also decreased, indicating challenges in the economic landscape. Additionally, the Manufacturing PMI pointed to a modest contraction in manufacturing activity.
RBA’s Insights and Australian Government Measures
Internal documents from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) revealed a decline in domestic tourism demand and consumers opting for more affordable products amid cost-of-living pressures. The documents also indicated stabilized private sector wage growth. In response to financial concerns, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese directed Treasury and Finance to explore measures that could alleviate the financial burden on families without exacerbating inflation.
Global Economic Dynamics and Future Policy
China’s Caixin Services PMI exceeded expectations, indicating a positive trend in Chinese economic activities. The December minutes from the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) suggest that participants believe the policy rate has either reached or is close to its highest point in the current tightening cycle. The trajectory of future policy decisions will depend on evolving economic conditions.
Varied Performance in US Economic Indicators
The US ISM Manufacturing PMI increased in December, surpassing market consensus. However, JOLTS Job Openings contracted in November, and the S&P Global Manufacturing PMI posted a lower-than-expected figure.
As the Australian Dollar navigates a challenging landscape influenced by both domestic and global factors, the market remains attuned to economic indicators and policy developments that shape the currency’s trajectory. The intricate interplay of these variables underscores the complexities of the current economic environment.
