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EUR/USD: Trading the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index

The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index surveys consumer attitudes and expectations about the US economy. An increase in consumer confidence is a positive sign about the health of the economy and is bullish for the US dollar.

Here are all the details, and 5 possible outcomes for EUR/USD.

Published on  Friday at 14:00 GMT.

Indicator Background

The  UoM Consumer Sentiment Index, which is released monthly, is an important leading economic indicator. It helps measure future spending behavior, and provides an indication of consumer confidence in the economy. Analysts look to the index to help answer that all-important question of “is the US consumer optimistic or pessimistic about the economy”?

The  index dipped to 94.3 points in June, within expectations. The downward trend is expected to continue in July, with an estimate of 93.7 points.

Sentiments and levels

Brexit aftershocks are likely to continue weighing on the euro. In addition, the low bond yields in the euro-zone could force the ECB to make a move and adopt further monetary measures such as expanding the QE scheme. So, the overall sentiment is bearish on EUR/USD towards this release.

Technical levels, from top to bottom: 1.3426, 1.3276, 1.3142, 1.3064 and  1.2840

5 Scenarios

  1. Within expectations: 90.0 to 98.0: In such a case, EUR/USD is likely to rise within range, with a small chance of breaking higher.
  2. Above expectations: 98.1 to 101.0: An unexpected higher reading can send the pair below one support level.
  3. Well above expectations: Above 101.0: The chances of such a scenario are low.  Two or more  support lines  could be broken on such an outcome.
  4. Below expectations: 86.0 to 89.9: A poor reading could push the pair upwards, and one resistance level could be broken.
  5. Well below  expectations:  Below 86.0: A sharp  drop in consumer confidence would likely  hurt the dollar, and EUR/USD could break above  two or more resistance levels.

Kenny Fisher

Kenny Fisher

Kenny Fisher - Senior Writer A native of Toronto, Canada, Kenneth worked for seven years in the marketing and trading departments at Bendix, a foreign exchange company in Toronto. Kenneth is also a lawyer, and has extensive experience as an editor and writer.