A test of the 1.0648 level coincided with the MACD indicator rising significantly above the zero mark, which limited the pair's upward potential. For this reason, I refrained from buying the euro.
Despite lackluster services sector data from the eurozone, the euro continued its upward movement, reinforcing the bullish trend. The possibility of financial policy easing in Germany is encouraging investors to bet on improved economic conditions and euro appreciation in the longer term. Meanwhile, discussions about potential Fed rate cuts, which were subtly hinted at by U.S. Treasury Secretary Bessent, are weighing on the dollar.
However, risks remain. Eurozone inflation remains stubbornly high, which may force the ECB to adopt a cautious approach to rate cuts, dampening investor enthusiasm. Additionally, geopolitical tensions, particularly in Eastern Europe, continue to act as a restraining factor for the euro.
In the second half of the day, ADP employment data for February will be released, along with the ISM Services PMI and the Composite PMI index. These figures will be crucial for assessing the state of the U.S. economy. Investors will closely analyze the ADP employment report, which serves as a leading indicator for the official nonfarm payrolls (NFP) data. Strong figures may strengthen the dollar and put pressure on the euro.
The ISM Services PMI will provide insights into service sector performance, which constitutes a significant portion of the U.S. economy. A higher index reading signals expansion, which is typically a positive economic indicator. The Composite PMI combines both manufacturing and services sector data, offering a broader picture of economic activity and serving as a key indicator for growth trends and forecasts.
For today's intraday trading strategy, I will primarily rely on Scenario #1 and Scenario #2.
Scenario #2: Another selling opportunity will emerge if the price tests 1.0733 twice, while the MACD indicator is in overbought territory. This would limit the pair's upward potential and trigger a bearish reversal, with a downward move expected toward 1.0685 and 1.0623.
For beginner traders in the Forex market, making careful entry decisions is crucial. It is advisable to stay out of the market before major economic reports to avoid sharp price swings. If you choose to trade during high-impact news releases, always use stop-loss orders to minimize potential losses. Failing to set stop-losses can result in rapid account depletion, especially when trading large volumes without proper risk management.
Lastly, a well-defined trading plan is essential for successful trading, as demonstrated in the strategy outlined above. Making impulsive trading decisions based on real-time market fluctuations is a losing approach for intraday traders.