USD in the spotlight: latest news

The USD/JPY exchange rate is experiencing instability as the yen gains strength and concerns about carry trade vulnerabilities increase. Despite a packed economic calendar, market reactions may become more sensitive in the coming weeks.

By mid-February 2026, gold prices have rebounded significantly, surpassing the crucial $5,000 per ounce threshold.

In this week's SMC outlook, I analyze the DXY, EURUSD, GBPUSD, AUDUSD, and gold through the lens of Smart Money Concepts and price action.

Gold prices are holding steady above $5,000, bolstered by declining yields and a weaker dollar, which enhance the overall economic environment and maintain positive momentum.

The Euro to Dollar (EUR/USD) exchange rate fell below 1.19 on Wednesday, as the dollar experienced a rebound following stronger-than-expected economic data. However, Scotiabank forecasts that the EUR/USD pair has the potential to break above the 1.20 mark in the near future.

The USD/JPY exchange rate has increased as the Japanese Yen gains strength. Gold prices are stabilizing, while Bitcoin is approaching the $60,000 mark. The S&P 500 is aiming for new record highs, although market volatility continues to be elevated.

The Australian Dollar (AUD) has increased for the fourth consecutive week; however, momentum indicators are indicating a decline. Upcoming data from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) minutes, US Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) reports, and geopolitical developments may determine if the rally loses steam.

Itochu Corp. announced its Q3 2025 earnings, indicating a minor shortfall in both earnings per share and revenue projections. Despite this, the company's stock price experienced an increase.

MBS Securities, based in Hanoi, predicts that the Vietnamese dong (VND) will achieve greater stability by 2026, with the USD/VND exchange rate anticipated to increase by 2.5-3%.

The Pet Joint Health Supplements Market is projected to reach USD 3.0 billion by 2036, with an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.8% from 2026 to 2036.

EUR/USD's rebound halted after reaching 1.1928 last week and has since declined. The initial outlook for this week remains neutral. If the pair rises above 1.1928, it will aim for higher targets.

The ringgit's recent rally has sparked memories of 2005, and MUFG Bank Ltd predicts that the currency may appreciate further, reaching 3.70 against the US dollar by the end of 2026.

Pound Sterling ended the previous week on a strong note, with GBP/EUR nearing 1.1500 and GBP/USD approximately at 1.3650. Investors are now focused on the upcoming UK inflation data, which will be crucial in shaping the outlook for the Bank of England.

The USD/JPY exchange rate is experiencing fluctuations that defy traditional trends. As Japan's yield curve flattens significantly and concerns over fiscal stability diminish, the yen is strengthening against the dollar.

USD/JPY is experiencing instability as the yen gains strength and concerns about carry trade risks reemerge. Despite a packed economic calendar, market reactions may become increasingly sensitive.

The Zcash to US Dollar (ZEC/USD) exchange rate is currently experiencing a significant increase, trading at approximately 284.81, which represents a rise of 6.27% for the day. This surge continues a strong rebound in the market.

Expectations are subdued as the US nonfarm payrolls report is set to be released today, which will significantly influence the near-term forecast for the USD/JPY currency pair.

The British pound is experiencing fluctuations as traders anticipate the release of US Consumer Price Index (CPI) data. Key support is identified at 1.35, while a breakout above 1.3750 could initiate a longer-term bullish trend.

The Dollar to Yen (USD/JPY) exchange rate strengthened on Friday, recovering some of this month's significant losses. This increase was driven by safe-haven demand for the US Dollar, which countered ongoing market uncertainties.

Despite some impressive economic data from the United States, the US Dollar did not strengthen as expected.

The US dollar remains stable following the Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, which came in as anticipated on Friday. Market participants are now turning their attention back to the Federal Reserve for further guidance.

The Pound to Dollar (GBP/USD) exchange rate stabilized above 1.3600 on Thursday, consolidating around the 1.3650 mark.

ING has forecasted that the Euro to Dollar (EUR/USD) exchange rate will reach 1.22 within the next 12 months. After rising above 1.2050 in January, the exchange rate experienced a decline below 1.18 but has since recovered to above 1.19.

The USD/MXN currency pair has rebounded from the 17.10 support level but remains within a wider downtrend. Traders are looking to short the pair during rallies, as the strong interest rate differentials are advantageous for the Mexican peso.

The US Dollar (USD) continued its yearly downtrend this week, dropping to two-week lows before experiencing a slight recovery in the latter part of the week.