USD/JPY – Flat Ahead of US Key Data

USD/JPY is listless in Thursday trade, as the pair continues to trade in the mid-102 range early in the North American session. On the release front, Japanese Corporate Services Price Index met expectations. We'll get a look at the most primary gauge of Japanese inflation, Tokyo Core CPI, later in the day. In the US, there are two major events on the schedule - US Unemployment Claims and Core Durable Goods Orders.

Japan's trade deficit ballooned in March, jumping to -1.71 trillion yen, well above the estimate of -1.27 trillion. Besides weighing on the yen, the weak figure has raised speculation that the Bank of Japan may have to step in with further easing, as the economy has softened. Consumer consumption could drop as the recent sales tax hike weighs on consumers, and the BOJ could be forced into action as early as June or July. As well, China has been experiencing a slowdown, which bodes poorly for Japanese exports.

US Existing Home Sales edged lower in March, dropping to 4.59 million, down from 4.60 million a month earlier. However, it did beat the estimate of 4.57 million, marking the first time that the indicator has beaten the forecast since August. There was also good news form the manufacturing sector, as the Richmond Manufacturing Index jumped to 7 points, crushing the estimate of 0 points.

The markets haven't reacted to events in Ukraine so far, but that could change if the violence in the east of the country worsens. Russian President Vladimir Putin has threatened to act on his "right" to invade Ukraine, and has also given the country an ultimatum regarding its gas debt. The gas supply from Russia to western Europe is in danger, and if the situation spills out of control, we could see a sharp response from the markets. US Vice-President Joe Biden is in Kiev for a symbolic visit. The West doesn't have many cards to play against Russia, so every move by Putin will be scrutinized and could impact on the markets.

USD/JPY 102.42 H: 102.55 L: 102.25