Market Watch: Dollar is Softer Ahead of Data

Financial and commodity markets analytics

As we anticipate the release of the US jobs report, the dollar is exhibiting a softer stance against major currencies, with expectations for solid, albeit not extraordinary, job growth. This trend is particularly noticeable against G10 currencies, marking a new low against the yen at JPY152.75, also a three-week low.

Asian Pacific markets
In the realm of equities, Asian Pacific markets show a mixed picture, with Chinese and Japanese markets closed for national holidays. Looking ahead, Japan's economic agenda includes March labor earnings and household spending data, while the Reserve Bank of Australia convenes on May 8, with previous futures market expectations suggesting potential rate cuts.

European markets
Turning to Europe, the eurozone's March unemployment rate remains stable at 6.5%, reflecting the region's persistently weak economy, which contracted in the latter part of last year. Next week, the European Commission will update its economic forecasts.
Meanwhile, the euro has been fluctuating around $1.0730-$1.0735 throughout the week, with today's movement nearing $1.0750.
Sterling has maintained its range between $1.2465 and $1.2570, trending towards the upper boundary.

American markets
In the US, all eyes are on the impending jobs report, with some survey data hinting at a potential loss of momentum in the economy, raising concerns about disappointing employment figures.
Additionally, Canada will release its services and composite PMI data today, following March figures of 46.4 and 47.0, respectively.