FX.co ★ USD/JPY consolidates ahead of breakout

The USD/JPY was trading at 138.42 at the time of writing. After its amazing rally, the price tries to consolidate and attract more buyers before jumping higher. Technically, the bias remains bullish despite temporary drops and or sideways movements.

Fundamentally, the Unemployment Rate came in at 2.6% matching expectations. Later, the US data could be decisive. JOLTS Job Openings indicator is expected at 10.37M while the CB Consumer Confidence could be reported at 97.6 points.

USD/JPY Minor Range!

As you can see on the H1 chart, the price found resistance at the R2 (138.90) and now it moves sideways. In the short term, it's trapped between the R2 and the R1 (138.20) levels. As long as it stays above the R1, USD/JPY could resume its growth.

Technically, the current sideways movement could represent an upside continuation pattern. Better-than-expected US data could push the pair higher.

USD/JPY Forecast!

A valid breakout above the R2 (138.90) and a new higher high could activate further growth at least until the 139.38 key level. This scenario could bring new long opportunities. Also, false breakdowns below the R1 (138.20) could help the buyers to go long.

Still, a broader growth could be confirmed only by a valid breakout above the 139.38 historical level.