News
New Zealand Q4 terms of trade +3.7% q/q vs -0.7% expected

Posted on: Mar 04 2026

  • Prior was -2.1%
  • Import prices vs +0.8% expected
  • Prior import prices +0.5%
  • Export prices vs +0.5% expected
  • Prior export prices -1.6%

New Zealand's terms of trade measure the ratio of the country's export prices to its import prices, serving as a key indicator of the nation's purchasing power in international markets. This metric is particularly important for New Zealand given its heavy reliance on commodity exports, especially dairy, meat, forestry products, and horticultural goods.

Throughout 2025, New Zealand's terms of trade were shaped by several intersecting forces. Global dairy prices, which represent a significant share of export revenue, experienced fluctuations driven by shifting demand from key markets such as China and Southeast Asia. The performance of Fonterra's Global Dairy Trade auctions remained a closely watched barometer for the country's export outlook.

On the import side, energy costs played a substantial role. Oil price movements, influenced by OPEC+ production decisions and broader geopolitical tensions, affected the cost of fuel and manufactured goods entering the country. A weaker New Zealand dollar relative to the US dollar also tended to push import costs higher, putting downward pressure on the terms of trade even when export volumes held steady.

Structural factors continued to matter as well. New Zealand's shift toward higher-value exports — including premium wine, technology services, and niche agricultural products — offered some insulation against raw commodity price swings. Meanwhile, supply chain adjustments following the disruptions of earlier years contributed to more stable, if elevated, import pricing.

Statistics New Zealand publishes official terms of trade data quarterly, and these releases are closely monitored by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand as an input into monetary policy decisions, given their implications for national income and inflationary pressures.

This article was written by Adam Button at investinglive.com.
Trump: We have hit hundreds of targets

Posted on: Mar 02 2026

Comments from Trump in a newly-released video:

  • On Iran: We have hit hundreds of targets including Revolutionary Guard facilities, air defense systems and nine ships plus naval building

  • On Iran: Combat operations continue

  • On Iran: Military operations will continue until all of our objectives are achieved

  • There will likely be more U.S. casualties

  • Iranian regime armed with long range missiles and nuclear weapons would be a dire threat to every American

  • U.S. will avenge the deaths of Americans

  • US lawmakers see no plan for Iran following strikes

  • Urge Revolutionary Guard, Iranian military and police to lay down arms and receive immunity or face certain death

  • Call on Iranians to seize this moment take back your country

  • To Iranians: America is with you

An important report came out a couple hours ago from the Daily Mail, who spoke to Trump directly:

"It's always been a four-week process. We figured it will be four weeks or so. It's always been about a four-week process so - as strong as it is, it's a big country, it'll take four weeks - or less," the British newspaper quoted Trump as saying.

Trump said he was open to more talks but didn't say they would happen soon:

"I don't know," Trump said, according to the report. "They want to talk, but I said you should have talked last week, not this week," he added.

Weren't there more talks scheduled?

In any case, it's really tough to separate what's true and what isn't right now, that's why comments from Trump himself are critical. For Iran's side, there is no longer anyone to speak. There was a report saying they were shutting the Hormuz Strait but that was later denied by an Iranian official who said they were only targeting US ships.

Trump also told Fox earlier that 48 of Iran's leaders were killed.

This article was written by Adam Button at investinglive.com.
US 30 forecast: the index is poised for trend reversal

Posted on: Feb 26 2026

In the US 30 index, prices are testing the support level and may break below it, which would signal the beginning of a downtrend. The US 30 forecast for today is negative.

US 30 forecast: key takeaways

  • Recent data: US manufacturing PMI came in at 51.2 in February
  • Market impact: the data has a mixed impact on the stock market

US 30 fundamental analysis

The release of the US manufacturing PMI at 51.2 points, below expectations of 52.4 and the previous reading of 52.4, is moderately negative for short-term sentiment, as it indicates a slowdown in the pace of industrial activity growth. However, the indicator remains above the 50-point threshold, meaning the sector is still formally expanding; the issue is more about a loss of momentum than a shift into contraction. Such a combination is typically perceived by the market as a signal of more cautious demand and order dynamics in the manufacturing segment of the economy.

For the US 30, the impact is typically reflected in moderate pressure, as the index has significant exposure to industrial and cyclical companies, for which production rates, orders, and business confidence are key drivers of financial performance. A weaker-than-expected PMI reading may reinforce doubts about companies’ ability to maintain strong revenue growth in the coming quarters, limiting the index’s upside potential. At the same time, the fact that the PMI remains above 50 partially mitigates the negative effect, as it does not confirm a scenario of sharp economic deterioration.

US manufacturing PMI: https://tradingeconomics.com/united-states/manufacturing-pmi

US 30 technical analysis

The US 30 index has entered an uptrend, with a key support level at 48,790.0 and a resistance level at 50,550.0. The price is currently testing the support level and gearing up to break below it. The nearest downside target is located near 47,900.0.

The US 30 price forecast considers the following scenarios:

  • Pessimistic US 30 scenario: a breakout below the 48,790.0 support level could push the index down to 47,900.0
  • Optimistic US 30 scenario: a breakout above the 50,550.0 resistance level could drive the index to 51,110.0
US 30 technical analysis for 25 February 2026

Summary

The data is moderately unfavourable for the US 30 but does not signal a large-scale downturn, as the PMI remains in expansion territory. The most likely market reaction is restrained price action with increased attention to upcoming data on demand, inflation, and the labour market. The nearest downside target may be 47,900.0.

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Editors’ picks

EURUSD 2026-2027 forecast: key market trends and future predictions

This article provides the EURUSD forecast for 2026 and 2027 and highlights the main factors determining the direction of the pair’s movements. We will apply technical analysis, take into account the opinions of leading experts, large banks, and financial institutions, and study AI-based forecasts. This comprehensive insight into EURUSD predictions should help investors and traders make informed decisions.

Gold (XAUUSD) forecast 2026 and beyond: expert insights, price predictions, and analysis

Dive deep into the Gold (XAUUSD) price outlook for 2026 and beyond, combining technical analysis, expert forecasts, and key macroeconomic factors. It explains the drivers behind gold’s recent surge, explores potential scenarios including a move toward 4,500 to 5,000 USD per ounce, and highlights why the metal remains a strong hedge during global uncertainty.

Weekly technical analysis and forecast (23–27 February 2026)

Posted on: Feb 24 2026

This weekly technical analysis highlights the key chart patterns and levels for EURUSD, USDJPY, GBPUSD, AUDUSD, USDCAD, gold (XAUUSD), and Brent crude oil to forecast market moves for the upcoming week (23–27 February 2026).

Major technical levels to watch this week

  • EURUSD: Support: 1.1715, 1.1645. Resistance: 1.1825, 1.1965
  • USDJPY: Support: 153.95, 152.25. Resistance: 155.85, 157.45
  • GBPUSD: Support: 1.3435, 1.3325. Resistance: 1.3595, 1.3695
  • AUDUSD: Support: 0.6945, 0.6865. Resistance: 0.7125, 0.7275
  • USDCAD: Support: 1.3605, 1.3485. Resistance: 1.3725, 1.3835
  • Gold: Support: 4,815, 4,565. Resistance: 5,105, 5,285
  • Brent: Support: 70.05, 66.85. Resistance: 72.95, 74.95

EURUSD forecast

The EURUSD pair ended the week lower, with prices currently testing the upper boundary of the previously broken Triangle pattern. This technical setup suggests an attempt at recovery and a corrective rise at the start of the trading week if the level is confirmed as support.

The US dollar remains resilient thanks to the Fed’s hawkish commentary and strong US macroeconomic data. The latest meeting minutes showed that disagreements persist within the Federal Reserve regarding the future interest rate path. This increased uncertainty about the timing of any potential policy easing and further bolstered the US dollar.

In the eurozone, by contrast, macroeconomic data improved. Private sector business activity accelerated at the fastest pace since November, industrial production posted the strongest increase since August 2025, and the service sector strengthened its expansion momentum.

EURUSD technical analysis

On the daily EURUSD chart, quotes have moved very close to the EMA-85, increasing the importance of the current resistance area. Despite the recent correction, the current price structure retains upside potential towards 1.1985 as the Triangle pattern begins to play out.

MACD points to a consolidation phase. The histogram continues to decline, reflecting slowing momentum and has nearly approached the zero line, suggesting a balance of power between buyers and sellers. A key condition for the bullish scenario this week is consolidation above 1.1825. This would confirm a breakout above the upper boundary of the descending corrective channel and open the door for further recovery.

The alternative scenario will activate if the 1.1695 support level is broken. In this case, selling pressure will intensify, and prices will return to the Triangle pattern, creating prerequisites for a decline towards 1.1545 and a resumption of a full-fledged downtrend.

EURUSD forecast scenarios

Bullish scenario (baseline): renewed bullish momentum is expected if there is a confident rebound from the upper boundary of the Triangle pattern, followed by growth towards 1.1985.

Bearish scenario (alternative): a breakout below the 1.1695 support level would signal a return to the Triangle pattern and indicate a downward correction, with a target near 1.1545.

USDJPY forecast

The USDJPY pair posted a sharp and aggressive rise last week after rebounding from the key support level at 152.25. Pressure on the yen intensified amid expectations of Federal Reserve actions, as well as a slowdown in both headline and core inflation in Japan in January, creating favourable conditions for the dollar to strengthen. Headline inflation fell from 2.1% to 1.5%, the lowest since March 2022, while core inflation remained at the Bank of Japan’s 2% target, showing the slowest growth in two years.

These figures give the Bank of Japan more room to manoeuvre and reduce pressure to accelerate rate hikes. Overall, the fundamental backdrop remains bearish for the yen, which continues to support the USDJPY pair in the short term.

USDJPY technical analysis

On the daily USDJPY chart, prices continue to rise, increasing the likelihood of completing a Double Bottom reversal pattern. Buyers have already gained a foothold above the EMA-85, strengthening bullish pressure. If the upward move continues, the advance may develop within the Double Bottom pattern, with a potential target near the key resistance level at 161.05 and above.

MACD confirms reversal signs: the histogram is rising actively, and the signal line has moved out of the histogram area, indicating renewed bullish momentum. A key condition to confirm the bullish scenario this week is consolidation above the 156.15 resistance level, which would signal a breakout above the upper boundary of the descending channel.

The alternative scenario will activate if the 151.65 support level is broken. In this case, prices would move below the lower boundary of the bullish channel, creating conditions for a more aggressive decline.

USDJPY forecast scenarios

Bullish scenario (main): a breakout above the upper boundary of the descending corrective channel would open the way for further growth towards 161.05.

Bearish scenario (alternative): if prices fall and break below the lower boundary of the reversal pattern with consolidation below 152.05, the likelihood of a deeper decline increases.

GBPUSD forecast

The GBPUSD rate continues to decline, with sellers attempting to consolidate below the EMA-85, but so far unsuccessfully. Despite robust UK economic indicators, the pound remains under pressure due to continued USD strength amid the Fed’s hawkish rhetoric.

The latest report showed that private sector activity in February rose at the fastest pace since April 2024, beating expectations thanks to stable growth in manufacturing and services. Retail sales also came in above forecasts: in January, they increased by 1.8% including fuel and by 2% excluding fuel.

Minutes from the latest Federal Reserve meeting showed ongoing disagreements among policymakers regarding the future rate path, which increases uncertainty about potential rate cuts and continues to bolster the US dollar.

GBPUSD technical analysis

On the daily GBPUSD chart, the market continues to hold near the EMA-85 support line while remaining within the long-term bullish channel. This week, bullish momentum could resume with upside potential towards 1.3695 if buyers maintain support.

MACD indicates a correction phase: the histogram is declining and has crossed the zero line, signalling slowing momentum. A key condition for the bullish scenario is consolidation above the local resistance level at 1.3545. This would confirm a recovery by moving beyond the descending corrective channel and increase the likelihood of a move towards the target level at 1.3925.

The alternative scenario will activate if the lower boundary of the channel is broken and the price consolidates below 1.3355. In this case, the risk of an extended decline towards 1.3225 increases after breaking below the lower boundary of the long-term bullish channel.

GBPUSD forecast scenarios

Bullish scenario (main): if the price rebounds from the lower boundary of the bullish channel and consolidates above the EMA-85, renewed bullish momentum is expected with a target at 1.3695.

Bearish scenario (alternative): continued downside with consolidation below 1.3355 would cancel the recovery scenario and indicate the development of a full-fledged downtrend.

AUDUSD forecast

The AUDUSD pair ended a six-week rally and fell under pressure from a stronger US dollar and weak Australian PMI data. February figures showed slowing activity across all sectors, pointing to slower growth while inflation pressure persists. Manufacturing, service, and composite indices declined from January, but each remained above 50, indicating the economy is still expanding.

The US dollar received additional support from strong macroeconomic data and the Federal Reserve’s hawkish commentary, increasing pressure on the Australian currency.

Amid improving domestic indicators and more hawkish signals from policymakers, the probability of a rate hike in Australia as early as March is increasing. Markets are pricing in an 80% likelihood of a key rate hike by May, while the probability of an earlier hike in March is around 30%.

AUDUSD technical analysis

On the daily AUDUSD chart, despite the current correction, prices remain within the bullish channel, with selling pressure preventing the price from breaking below the 0.6965 support level. The price is holding comfortably above the EMA-85, indicating the medium-term bullish momentum remains intact. This week, growth could resume after a rebound from the lower boundary of the bullish channel, followed by a move towards 0.7345.

MACD confirms the correction phase: the histogram is declining after a local peak, reflecting slowing momentum, while the signal line has moved out of the histogram area. During the subsequent rise, buyers will likely have to overcome a bearish divergence. A key condition for the bullish scenario is consolidation above 0.7145. A breakout of this level would confirm the market’s readiness to continue its upward movement.

The alternative scenario will come into play if the 0.6905 support level is broken. Consolidation below the lower boundary of the bullish channel would create conditions for a decline towards 0.6745 as part of a Double Top reversal pattern.

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Bullish scenario (baseline): a rebound from the lower boundary of the bullish channel at current levels would indicate a continued upward move towards 0.7345, while a breakout above the local resistance level would only strengthen this scenario.

Bearish scenario (alternative): a breakout below the support level with consolidation below 0.6905 would signal a bearish correction in the pair and may indicate a reversal pattern with the prospect of further decline towards deeper target levels.

USDCAD forecast

The USDCAD pair ended the week higher, but prices remain within a consolidation channel with an upper boundary at 1.3715 and a lower boundary at 1.3495. The Canadian dollar came under pressure due to slowing domestic inflation: the CPI fell to 2.3% in January, while cooling housing inflation confirms easing price pressure and reduces the likelihood of renewed monetary tightening.

With the policy rate at current levels and Bank of Canada officials stating that policy settings remain appropriate, the market is adjusting expectations for further rate hikes, which reduces the Canadian dollar’s attractiveness relative to other currencies.

USDCAD technical analysis

On the daily USDCAD chart, prices continue to correct within a Triangle pattern. Buying pressure weakened after the price tested the upper boundary of the pattern. The weekly outlook suggests a pullback from the Triangle’s upper boundary, followed by a decline towards 1.3445.

MACD confirms the dominance of buying pressure and points to the likelihood of another test of the Triangle’s upper boundary before the decline resumes. The histogram continues to rise, supporting expectations of a temporary strengthening of the US dollar. A key condition for the downside scenario is consolidation below 1.3505. Such a breakout would confirm a move below the pattern’s lower boundary and strengthen the signal for continued decline towards lower targets.

The alternative scenario will activate if the 1.3715 resistance level is broken. This would signal a breakout above the Triangle’s upper boundary and point to a bullish scenario with upside potential towards higher targets.

USDCAD forecast scenarios

Bearish scenario (main): if the price rebounds from the upper boundary of the Triangle pattern, the pair is expected to resume its downward movement, with a target at 1.3445.

Bullish scenario (alternative): if the price rises decisively, breaks above the upper boundary of the Triangle pattern, and consolidates above 1.3715, the market will receive a signal to continue its upward momentum.

XAUUSD forecast

While XAUUSD has been rising for the third consecutive week, buyers have yet to break the strong resistance level at 5,105. The situation remains uncertain amid a mix of geopolitical risks and the outlook for the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy.

The minutes of the January FOMC meeting showed a split among policymakers: some participants pointed to the possibility of further rate hikes if inflation remains high, limiting demand for gold. Fed Governor Stephen Miran also lowered expectations for rate cuts this year, citing stronger-than-expected economic performance.

Despite the current uncertainty, the bullish trend remains in place, and gold still has good chances to continue moving higher.

XAUUSD technical analysis

On the daily XAUUSD chart, prices continue to correct, but buying pressure is gradually increasing, and buyers still have a chance to test the key 5,105 USD resistance level. Renewed growth remains likely at the start of the week, with a potential target at 5,575 USD.

MACD confirms the correction phase: the histogram continues to decline, reflecting slowing momentum and pointing to continued consolidation. A key condition for the bullish scenario is consolidation above the nearest resistance level at 5,105 USD. A breakout above this level would open the door for a full-fledged bullish momentum.

The alternative scenario will activate if the price breaks below the lower boundary of the bullish channel and consolidates below 4,805 USD. Such a signal would indicate a move outside the long-term channel and a test of the EMA-85, while the decline could lead to a deeper correction.

XAUUSD forecast scenarios

Bullish scenario (main): there is still the potential for prices to resume growth after rebounding from the lower boundary of the bullish channel, with a target at 5,575 USD; however, a breakout above the key resistance level is required to confirm this scenario.

Bearish scenario (alternative): if prices drop sharply and consolidate below 4,805 USD, this would open the way for a deeper correction.

Brent forecast

Brent prices are rising actively, attempting to consolidate above the key resistance level at 70.00 USD per barrel.

The market is supported by geopolitical factors: the US president set a strict deadline for progress in nuclear talks with Iran – substantial results must be achieved within a few days. At the same time, the US has deployed its largest military grouping in the Middle East, increasing fears of potential supply disruptions.

A conflict with Iran could restrict movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a key transport corridor for oil exports from the region. An additional boost to bullish sentiment came from data showing a drop in US oil inventories, the largest draw since early September.

Brent technical analysis

On the daily Brent chart, prices have consolidated above the upper boundary of a Triangle pattern, which may indicate continued growth this week. The outlook suggests a rebound from the support level, followed by a move towards 76.95 USD.

MACD confirms the growth phase: the histogram is rising actively, although buyers may face the formation of a bearish divergence. A key condition for the bullish scenario this week is consolidation above 72.90 USD.

The bullish scenario will be cancelled if the support level is broken and prices consolidate below 68.05 USD. This would confirm a return to the descending channel and a breakout of the Triangle pattern’s upper boundary.

Brent forecast scenarios

Bullish scenario (main): a rebound from the upper boundary of the Triangle pattern within the bullish channel would open the potential for continued growth with a target at 76.95 USD.

Bearish scenario (alternative): if prices fall sharply and consolidate below 68.05 USD, the downward movement in the oil market is expected to continue.

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Editors’ picks

EURUSD 2026-2027 forecast: key market trends and future predictions

This article provides the EURUSD forecast for 2026 and 2027 and highlights the main factors determining the direction of the pair’s movements. We will apply technical analysis, take into account the opinions of leading experts, large banks, and financial institutions, and study AI-based forecasts. This comprehensive insight into EURUSD predictions should help investors and traders make informed decisions.

Gold (XAUUSD) forecast 2026 and beyond: expert insights, price predictions, and analysis

Dive deep into the Gold (XAUUSD) price outlook for 2026 and beyond, combining technical analysis, expert forecasts, and key macroeconomic factors. It explains the drivers behind gold’s recent surge, explores potential scenarios including a move toward 4,500 to 5,000 USD per ounce, and highlights why the metal remains a strong hedge during global uncertainty.

investingLive Americas market news wrap: Supreme Court strikes down Trump tariffs

Posted on: Feb 21 2026

  • Supreme Court rules against Trump tariffs
  • US Q4 advance GDP +1.4% vs +3.0% expected
  • US December PCE inflation +2.9% vs +2.8% expected
  • Trump says he will invoke 10% Section 122 global tariff
  • Atlanta Fed GDP now growth estimate for the 1st quarter 3.1%
  • University of Michigan sentiment index 56.6 versus 57.3 estimate
  • Manufacturing PMI for February 51.2 vs 52.6 estimate
  • Canada retail sales for December -0.4% versus -0.5% expected
  • Fed's Logan: There is now more inflation uncertainty due to tariff decision

Markets:

  • Gold up $87 to $5085
  • WTI crude oil flat at $66.39
  • US 10-year yields up 0.8 bps to 4.08%
  • S&P 500 up 0.5%
  • AUD leads, CAD lags

It was a news-filled day that started with a big miss on GDP. You could sniff that downside surprise out (and we did) after yesterday's trade data miss and this morning's comments from Trump lamenting the drag from the government shutdown. The dollar was choppy afterwards, in part because the lower GDP came with higher PCE inflation numbers, leaving the Fed in a tough predicament that argues for more time on the sidelines.

As a result, the July Fed meeting has now fallen below 100% pricing.

Late came the tariff decision and the kneejerk reaction saw the US dollar sell off as it reopens the window to firm up the dollar-based system. It also leaves Europe less vulnerable to a trade escalation. The euro rose above 1.1800 but failed to stay there in large part because of great confusion about Trump would do next.

We got a sense of that when he announced Section 122 global tariffs of 10%. That statute has never been used before an will invite fresh court challenges. In any case, it's limited to 150 days and in that time the Trump admin will start other trade investigations that generally take six months.

For now, the market is struggling to take it all in and figure out what it means. The Fed's Logan argued the tariff removal should be dovish but we're all going to wait and see what comes next.

And not just on tariffs but eyes remain on Iran with a $6-7 premium in the oil market around a potential attack. I would bet against it occurring during the Olympics but they end on Sunday so that will change things.

Finally, Treasuries are a consensus loser on the fiscal side on the tariff decision as it looks like somewhere around $200b in payments will need to be eventually refunded, though that timelines is uncertain. However that impulse could be blunted if tariffs fall and that opens the window for the FOMC to cut rates.

Have a great weekend.

This article was written by Adam Button at investinglive.com.