This week, traders are mainly focused on the rate decisions of major central banks, such as the Federal Reserve, Swiss National Bank (SNB), Bank of England (BOE), and Bank of Japan (BOJ). These decisions have the potential to influence the markets significantly. It’s advisable to exercise caution and stay informed about the latest developments to ensure a successful week of trading.

Here are some notable market highlights for this week:

Canada Consumer Price Index (19 September 2023)

Consumer prices in Canada rose 0.6% in July 2023, following a 0.1% gain in June 2023. 

Analysts expect a 0.6% increase in the figures for August, which are set to be released on 19 September.

Federal Reserve Rate Decision (21 September 2023)

The Fed raised its funds rate target to 5.5% in July. 

Analysts expect the Fed to keep interest rates at 5.5% following its upcoming meeting on 21 September.

Swiss National Bank Rate Decision (21 September 2023) 

The SNB raised its policy interest rate by 25 bps to 1.75% during its June meeting. It also raised the possibility of further rate hikes in the future to ensure price stability over the medium term.

The next rate decision will be released on 21 September, with analysts expecting another increase of 25 bps to 2%.

Bank of England Rate Decision (21 September 2023) 

The BOE raised its policy interest rate by 25 bps to 5.25% during its August 2023 meeting, marking the 14th consecutive increase. 

Analysts expect the central bank to raise its rate by another 25 bps to 5.5% at its upcoming meeting on 21 September.

Bank of Japan Rate Decision (22 September 2023)

The BOJ unanimously decided to keep its key short-term interest rate at -0.1% and 10-year bond yields at 0% during its July 2023 meeting.

For the upcoming meeting on 22 September, analysts anticipate that the central bank will maintain the current interest rate levels.

Flash manufacturing PMI for Germany, the UK, and the US (22 September 2023) 

Germany’s manufacturing PMI increased to 39.1 in August 2023 from 38.8 in July 2023. Meanwhile, the UK’s manufacturing PMI for the same period fell from 45.3 to 43. Additionally, the US’ manufacturing PMI for the same period decreased from 49 to 47.9

The next set of data will be released on 22 September. Analysts’ predicted manufacturing PMIs are 39 for Germany, 43.6 for the UK, and 48.8 for the US.

Flash services PMI for Germany, the UK, and the US (22 September 2023) 

Germany’s services PMI declined from 52.3 in July 2023 to 47.3 in August 2023. Similarly, the UK’s services PMI declined from 51.5 to 49.5 during this period, while the US’ services PMI also fell from 52.3 to 50.2 during the same period. 

Analysts’ predicted services PMIs for September 2023 are as follows: Germany at 47.2, the UK at 49.1, and the US at 50.2.

Dear Client,

Please note that the dividends of the following products will be adjusted accordingly. Index dividends will be executed separately through a balance statement directly to your trading account, and the comment will be in the following format “Div & Product Name & Net Volume ”.

Please refer to the table below for more details:

The above data is for reference only, please refer to the MT4/MT5 software for specific data.

If you’d like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact info@vtmarkets.com.

Dear Client,

Please note that the dividends of the following products will be adjusted accordingly. Index dividends will be executed separately through a balance statement directly to your trading account, and the comment will be in the following format “Div & Product Name & Net Volume ”.

Please refer to the table below for more details:

The above data is for reference only, please refer to the MT4/MT5 software for specific data.

If you’d like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact info@vtmarkets.com.

Dear Client,

Please note that the dividends of the following products will be adjusted accordingly. Index dividends will be executed separately through a balance statement directly to your trading account, and the comment will be in the following format “Div & Product Name & Net Volume ”.

Please refer to the table below for more details:

The above data is for reference only, please refer to the MT4/MT5 software for specific data.

If you’d like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact info@vtmarkets.com.

Read Part 1 of this article to learn about the purpose of charts in Forex trading, different chart types, and how to use line charts.

Bar Charts (OHLC) 

OHLC stands for Open, High, Low, and Close. Bar charts are a widely used type of Forex chart that display these four key price points for each time period. They are represented as vertical bars, and each bar provides a comprehensive view of price movements within that specific timeframe. 

Here’s a breakdown of the components of a bar on a bar chart: 

• _{Open Price: The top of the vertical bar represents the opening price of the currency pair at the beginning of the chosen time period.} 
• _{High Price: The top point or “spike” of the vertical bar indicates the highest price reached during that time period.} 

• _{Low Price: The lowest point or “dip” of the vertical bar represents the lowest price reached during that time period.} 
• _{Close Price: The bottom of the vertical bar represents the closing price of the currency pair at the end of the chosen time period.} 

Bar charts are valuable for traders who want a more detailed understanding of price movements. They provide a holistic picture of what happened within a given timeframe. 

How to Read and Interpret Bar Charts 

Reading and interpreting a bar chart involves analysing each bar to understand the dynamics of the market during that specific time period. Here’s how you can read and interpret a bar chart: 

• _{Open to Close: The vertical length of the bar represents the price range between the opening and closing prices for that period. A longer bar indicates a larger price range.} 
• _{High and Low: The “spike” at the top and the “dip” at the bottom of the bar show the highest and lowest prices reached during the period.} 
• _{Market Sentiment: Analysing the relationship between the opening and closing prices can help you gauge market sentiment. If the closing price is higher than the opening price, it suggests bullish sentiment (buying pressure). Conversely, if the closing price is lower than the opening price, it indicates bearish sentiment (selling pressure).} 
• _{Patterns and Trends: By observing patterns in multiple bars, traders can identify trends, reversals, and potential trading opportunities.} 

In summary, bar charts are a powerful tool for traders seeking detailed insights into price movements. While they may seem complex at first, they are worth exploring as you gain experience in Forex trading. 

Candlestick Charts 

Candlestick charts are a highly visual and popular way to represent price movements in Forex trading. They use “candles” to provide a comprehensive view of the opening, high, low, and closing prices within a specific timeframe. 

Here’s a breakdown of the key elements of a candlestick: 

• _{Body: The central and thicker part of the candlestick is known as the “body.” The body represents the price range between the opening and closing prices for the given time period.} 
• _{Wicks or Shadows: Thin lines extending above and below the body are called “wicks” or “shadows.” These wicks represent the highest and lowest prices reached during the same time period.} 
• _{Colour: Candlestick charts use colour to convey valuable information about price movement during the timeframe. Typically, candles are coloured green or red, but this can vary depending on your chart settings and platform.} 

How to Read and Interpret Candlestick Charts 

Reading and interpreting candlestick charts involve understanding the relationship between the body, wicks, and their colours. Here’s how you can read and interpret a candlestick: 

• _{Body and Wick Length: The length of the body and the wicks provides insights into price volatility. A longer body or wick signifies greater price movement during the timeframe.} 
• _{Green (Bullish) and Red (Bearish): In most cases, a green (or white) candle represents a bullish candlestick, indicating that the closing price is higher than the opening price. Conversely, a red (or black) candle represents a bearish candlestick, signifying that the closing price is lower than the opening price.} 
• _{Upper and Lower Shadows: The upper shadow extends from the top of the body to the high price, while the lower shadow extends from the bottom of the body to the low price. These shadows illustrate the price range’s extremes during the timeframe.} 
• _{Patterns: Candlestick charts are renowned for their ability to reveal specific patterns, such as doji, hammer, and engulfing patterns. Traders often use these patterns to predict market reversals or continuations.} 

In summary, candlestick charts are a powerful tool for traders seeking a visually engaging way to analyse price movements. Their ability to reveal patterns and market sentiment makes them a favourite among traders, but mastering their interpretation may require some practice and education. 

Timeframes and Charting Periods 

Forex charts can be customised to display price data at various timeframes. The timeframe you choose determines how much data each candlestick or bar represents. Here are some common timeframes: 

• _{1-Minute: Each candlestick or bar represents one minute of trading data. This timeframe is popular among day traders for making quick decisions.} 
• _{5-Minute: Each candlestick or bar represents five minutes of trading data. It provides a slightly broader view than the 1-minute timeframe while still catering to short-term traders.} 
• _{1-Hour: Each candlestick or bar represents one hour of trading data. This timeframe is suitable for traders who want to capture short- to medium-term price movements.} 
• _{4-Hour: Each candlestick or bar represents four hours of trading data. It’s commonly used by swing traders and provides a more extended perspective of the market.} 
• _{Daily: Each candlestick or bar represents one full trading day. Daily charts are favoured by long-term traders and investors who want to identify significant trends and potential entry points over several days or weeks.} 
• _{Weekly: Each candlestick or bar represents one trading week, making it ideal for traders with long-term investment horizons who aim to capture trends over months or even years.} 

Choosing the Right Timeframe 

Selecting the appropriate timeframe is a crucial decision that depends on your trading style, goals, and preferences. It impacts the type of price movements you observe and the duration of your trades. By aligning your timeframe with your trading style and objectives, you can make more informed decisions and enhance your overall trading success. 

Here are some considerations: 

• _{Short-Term Traders: If you’re a day trader or scalper looking for quick profits from short-term price fluctuations, lower timeframes like 1-minute or 5-minute charts may be more suitable.} 
• _{Medium-Term Traders: Traders with a medium-term horizon, such as swing traders, often use 1-hour or 4-hour charts to capture price movements that span a few days to a few weeks.} 
• _{Long-Term Investors: If you’re an investor or trader focused on long-term trends, daily or weekly charts provide a broader view of the market and are better suited for identifying significant trends and potential entry points over a more extended period.} 
• _{Combination: Some traders use a combination of timeframes to gain different perspectives on the same currency pair. For example, they might use a daily chart for trend analysis and a 1-hour chart for precise entry and exit points.} 

In conclusion, Forex charts are indispensable tools in the currency trading world, offering clarity amid market complexity. Whether you choose line, bar, or candlestick charts, your chart type significantly impacts your trading strategy. Understanding various timeframes is key for aligning your trading style with your goals. As you dive into trading, remember that chart analysis is a skill to refine, guiding you to profitable decisions and financial growth. 

Dear Client,

Please note that the dividends of the following products will be adjusted accordingly. Index dividends will be executed separately through a balance statement directly to your trading account, and the comment will be in the following format “Div & Product Name & Net Volume ”.

Please refer to the table below for more details:

The above data is for reference only, please refer to the MT4/MT5 software for specific data.

If you’d like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact info@vtmarkets.com.

Dear Client,

Please note that the dividends of the following products will be adjusted accordingly. Index dividends will be executed separately through a balance statement directly to your trading account, and the comment will be in the following format “Div & Product Name & Net Volume ”.

Please refer to the table below for more details:

The above data is for reference only, please refer to the MT4/MT5 software for specific data.

If you’d like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact info@vtmarkets.com.

Of particular interest to traders this week will be the US Consumer Price Index (CPI), the US Producer Price Index (PPI), and the European Central Bank’s (ECB) Rate Decision. These items have the potential to significantly impact the markets. Exercise caution and stay up to date with the latest developments to ensure a successful week of trading. 

Here are some notable market highlights for the upcoming week:

UK Claimant Count Change (12 September 2023)

The number of people claiming unemployment benefits in the UK increased by 29,000 in July 2023.

The data for August 2023 will be released on 12 September, with analysts expecting a further increase of 17,000.

UK Gross Domestic Product (13 September 2023) 

The British economy expanded by 0.5% in June 2023, rebounding from a 0.1% decline in May. 

Analysts anticipate a 0.3% decrease in the data for July 2023, scheduled for release on 13 September.

US Consumer Price Index (13 September 2023)

The monthly inflation rate in the US held steady at 0.2% in July 2023. 

Analysts expect an increase of 0.5% in the upcoming CPI figures, set to be released on 13 September.

Australia Employment Change (14 September 2023) 

Employment in Australia decreased by 14,600 in July 2023. 

Figures for August 2023 will be released on 14 September, with analysts anticipating an increase of 40,000.

European Central Bank Rate Decision (14 September 2023)  

The ECB raised its key interest rates by 25 bps to 4.25% during its July meeting.

For the upcoming meeting on 14 September, analysts expect the central bank to keep the interest rates at 4.25%.

US Producer Price Index (14 September 2023) 

Producer prices in the US rose 0.3% in July 2023, the biggest increase since January 2023.

Analysts expect a 0.4% increase in the figures for August 2023, set to be released on 14 September.

US Retail Sales (14 September 2023)

US retail sales were up 0.7% in July 2023. This follows a 0.3% increase in June 2023 and marks a fourth consecutive rise.

Analysts expect a further increase of 0.2% in the figures for August 2023, set to be released on 14 September. 

University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment (15 September 2023)

The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index for the US was revised from preliminary estimates of 71.2 to 69.5 in August 2023.

Analysts expect the index to remain at 69.5 in the upcoming figures, set to be released on 15 September.

In recent years, Forex and contract for difference (CFD) trading have seen a tremendous surge in popularity in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This growth can be attributed largely to increased market accessibility, technological advancements and the desire for diversified investment opportunities.

One of the main drivers of the growing popularity of Forex and CFD trading in the MENA region is the increasing accessibility to global financial markets. Traditionally, access to such markets was limited to institutional investors or high-net-worth individuals. However, with the emergence of online trading platforms and the widespread availability of internet services, retail traders in the MENA region can now easily participate in the global financial market. This shift has democratized trading and opened up new opportunities for individuals seeking to diversify their investment portfolios.

Low corporate tax rates and clear regulations have attracted many brokers to the region, and companies like VT Markets are catering and contributing to this growth in the MENA region. VT Markets is a well-known and respected broker that offers multi-asset trading services to retail traders worldwide, with a focus on Forex and CFD. Based in Australia, this brokerage has established itself as a trusted name over the last decade by providing innovative products and services that cater to the needs of traders. With over 200,000 clients from over 160 countries, the company has cemented its reputation by facilitating an average daily trade volume of over 4 million trades each month. Traders can sign up for an account with VT Markets in a matter of minutes.

The development of user-friendly trading platforms and mobile applications has made it easier for traders to access and trade financial markets on the go. Platforms like VT Markets provide real-time market data, charting tools and educational resources that enable traders to make informed investment decisions.

VT Market has successfully created a trustworthy and user-friendly platform that caters to the needs of all traders, particularly those in the MENA region who are new to trading. The demand for mobile app trading has been soaring, with a staggering $22 billion in revenue generated in the year 2022 in the U.S. alone. Forex trading has reached new highs, with a daily turnover of $7.5 trillion globally in 2022, up from $6.6 trillion in 2019. There are approximately 10 million Forex traders globally.

Interestingly, more than 50% of Forex traders favor trading through mobile devices or apps. Recognizing the demand for mobile apps, VT Markets provides a range of platforms to cater to different preferences, including the renowned MetaTrader 4 and 5 platforms, along with WebTrader, WebTrader+, and their proprietary VT Markets app.

The company was honored with the title of Best Multi-Asset Broker in South Africa 2023 by World Business Stars Magazine, solidifying its reputation as a reliable broker. VT Markets’ excellence in Forex trading was also acknowledged by World Business Stars Magazine, which awarded the company Best Forex Platform in UAE 2023. Notably, the company was also recognized as the Best Multi-Asset Broker in the MENA region for 2023 by International Business Magazine, further highlighting its appeal and recognition among traders in the Middle East and North Africa. These awards highlight VT Market’s commitment to providing exceptional services and platforms to its clients.

Learn more about VT Markets by visiting its website.

Featured photo by Yiorgos Ntrahas on Unsplash.

This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice.

About VT Markets:

VT Markets is a global multi-asset broker, providing access to a wide range of financial markets for traders and investors worldwide. With a strong commitment to innovation, technology, and client satisfaction, VT Markets offers competitive trading conditions, advanced trading platforms, and a comprehensive suite of educational resources. As a responsible corporate citizen, VT Markets is dedicated to making a positive impact on society through its corporate social responsibility initiatives.

For more information, please visit the official VT Markets website. Alternatively, follow VT Markets on Meta, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

For media enquiries and sponsorship opportunities, please email media@vtmarkets.com 

Dear Client,

Please note that the dividends of the following products will be adjusted accordingly. Index dividends will be executed separately through a balance statement directly to your trading account, and the comment will be in the following format “Div & Product Name & Net Volume ”.

Please refer to the table below for more details:

The above data is for reference only, please refer to the MT4/MT5 software for specific data.

If you’d like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact info@vtmarkets.com.