ISM services signals broad improvement in demand conditions

Wells Fargo Research Team Wells Fargo

The February ISM Services Index leaped to its highest level in three and a half years amid improving demand and steady conditions. A build back in inventories and move higher in order backlogs across the sector are additional signs that demand continues to ramp back up after an uncertainty-induced softening in the middle of last year. Some service-sector firms are also adding headcount as a result of an anticipated pickup in activity, and while higher prices remain a burden for most businesses, the ISM suggests cost pressure isn't getting materially worse. The bottom line: service sector conditions are improving as businesses see their way through steep levels of uncertainty.

Download the Full Report!

Author

Wells Fargo Research Team

Wells Fargo

EUR/USD holds losses below 1.1650 on renewed USD uptick

EUR/USD is off the low but remains in the red below 1.1650 in European trading on Thursday. The pair faces headwinds from a renewed uptick in the US Dollar amid a negative shift in risk sentiment. Surging energy prices due to the Middle East war keep the bearish pressure intact on the Euro. The US Jobless Claims data are next of note.

GBP/USD stays weak near 1.3350 amid UK stagflation risks

GBP/USD sticks to losses near 1.3350 in the European session on Thursday. The Pound Sterling loses ground amid fears that the United Kingdom economy could face stagflation risks due to higher energy prices, while the US Dollar attracts fresh havem demand ahead of the US Jobless Claims data.

Gold climbs near $5,200 as Iran war fuels safe-haven demand

Gold price extends its gains for the second successive session on Thursday as traders seek safety amid the ongoing war in the Middle East. US and Israeli strikes across Iranian territory and widespread Iranian missile and drone retaliation across the Middle East, including attacks on regional targets and military sites, prolong the crisis and its impact.

Top Crypto Gainers: Decred, Zcash, and Dogecoin lead recovery as Bitcoin crosses $72,000

Bitcoin trades above $72,500 at press time on Thursday, holding its 6% gain from the previous day, contributing to a broader market recovery. The total cryptocurrency market capitalization stands at over $2.43 trillion as the broader market sentiment improves significantly.

FX alert: When Energy still writes the macro script the Dollar holds the pen

The market is quietly sliding back into the trade nobody wanted to own, but everyone now has to respect again. The no quick off-ramp trade. Yesterday’s bounce in risk assets already looks less like a turning point and more like a classic relief rally in a market that briefly inhaled before realizing the room was still on fire.

Cardano Price Analysis: Approaches key trendline amid bearish sentiment

Cardano (ADA) price is approaching its descending trendline around $0.28 at the time of writing, set to shape the next directional move. The derivatives metrics paint a bearish picture, with ADA’s Open Interest continuing to fall and short bets rising among traders.