USD/CAD keeps bringing joy to range-bound traders while consolidating between the support at 1.35 and the resistance at 1.3630. What may put an end to this peaceful calmness? In fact, there are several main triggers. One of the most obvious is, of course, the rate statement by the Bank of Canada on July 15, at 17:00 MT time. Does it really have anything to offer to the CAD traders, though? Time to find out.
Cautious moods
Analysts expect no changes from the Bank of Canada unless its new Governor Tiff Macklem surprises the markets. Despite improved economic conditions in June with better employment change (952.9K in June) and signs of slow recovery after significant stimulus measures, the risks still remain around the corner. Back in June, Mr. Macklem already highlighted his expectations of inflation pressure. So, it is unlikely for him to show optimism this time. Experts suggest that the regulator may keep its interest rate unchanged at 0.25% for about 2 years and buy more bonds to its balance sheet if needed. At the same time, they see no need for urgent actions during this meeting.
Macro risks
Besides the Bank of Canada, the loonie has more things to worry about. One of them is a non-stop surge of Covid-19 cases in the United States. This risk is worrying for the CAD due to close ties between the two countries and threats of a new prolonged lockdown in the country of maple trees.
Other macro risks are related to China. Of course, one of them is related to the Hong Kong situation, as the United States can, in fact, impose sanctions on China after the new security bill. Secondly, there is still a lot of uncertainties around the next steps of the US-China trade deal. When will they be fulfilled and how? That’s mostly a rhetorical question for now. One thing that we know for sure is that’s a very big issue driving the risk sentiment across the markets right now and the Canadian dollar as well.
Finally, let’s not forget that the CAD is a commodity currency, heavily dependent on the oil prices. While OPEC+ is considering whether or not to keep the output cuts at the same level, the oil prices remain under pressure. That is, if the alliance agrees to increase the production levels, the oil prices will fall dragging the Canadian dollar down as well.