See also
The price test at 147.14 occurred when the MACD indicator had already moved well above the zero line, which limited the pair's upward potential.
Today's data showing a slower decline in machinery and equipment orders in Japan, along with strong figures for the growth of Japan's services activity index, supported the yen and led to a downward correction in the USD/JPY pair. However, despite this temporary reprieve for the Japanese currency, fundamental factors continue to point to a sustained upward trend for USD/JPY in the medium term.
First and foremost, it is important to consider the absence of a comprehensive trade agreement between Japan and the United States. This factor creates uncertainty for the Japanese economy and puts pressure on the yen. Until there is clarity in trade relations, investors are likely to remain cautious toward the Japanese currency.
Secondly, the divergence in monetary policy between the U.S. Federal Reserve and the Bank of Japan plays a key role. The Fed continues to pursue a tight monetary policy, while the BoJ maintains a wait-and-see approach aimed at stimulating economic growth. This interest rate differential makes the U.S. dollar more attractive to investors, exerting additional pressure on the yen.
For intraday strategy, I will focus primarily on implementing Scenarios #1 and #2.
Scenario #1: I plan to buy USD/JPY today upon reaching the entry point around 147.50 (green line on the chart), with a target of rising toward 147.96 (thicker green line on the chart). Around 147.96, I intend to exit long positions and open short positions in the opposite direction (expecting a 30–35 pip pullback from the level). It's best to return to buying the pair on corrections and significant pullbacks.
Important! Before buying, make sure that the MACD indicator is above the zero line and just beginning to rise from it.
Scenario #2: I also plan to buy USD/JPY today in the event of two consecutive tests of the 147.20 level, at a time when the MACD indicator is in oversold territory. This will limit the pair's downside potential and lead to a reversal to the upside. A rise toward the opposite levels of 147.50 and 147.96 can be expected.
Scenario #1: I plan to sell USD/JPY today only after a break below the 147.20 level (red line on the chart), which would likely lead to a sharp decline in the pair. The key target for sellers will be 146.76, where I plan to exit short positions and immediately buy in the opposite direction (expecting a 20–25 pip rebound from the level). Strong downward pressure on the pair is unlikely today.
Important! Before selling, make sure that the MACD indicator is below the zero line and just beginning to decline from it.
Scenario #2: I also plan to sell USD/JPY today in the event of two consecutive tests of the 147.50 level, at a time when the MACD indicator is in overbought territory. This will limit the pair's upside potential and lead to a reversal to the downside. A decline toward the opposite levels of 147.20 and 146.76 can be expected.