The Beat of the Global Markets
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During the week of August 17–21, 2026, major currency pairs rallied against the U.S. dollar amid shifting monetary policy expectations. While accelerated Canadian inflation bolstered the CAD and a cooling job market complicated the RBA’s outlook in Australia, markets looked past hawkish FOMC minutes to price in upcoming Fed rate cuts, driving broad gains led by NZD and AUD.
A sharp rise in US Treasury yields dominated the week before the Treasury Department expanded its long-term bond buyback programme. The move improved market liquidity and briefly reduced borrowing costs, but also weakened the dollar. With oil prices elevated and US debt exceeding USD40 trillion, investors are questioning whether Washington is becoming more willing to tolerate currency depreciation…
Gold (XAU/USD) has staged a major bullish breakout, surging 4.35% on 19 August for its largest one-day gain since February 2026. The rally reflects growing US dollar debasement and fiscal-dominance concerns following larger US Treasury bond buybacks. Technical momentum remains bullish above the $4,434/$4,405 pivotal support, while a sustained break above $4,504 could reinforce the advance towards…
This report provides a financial analysis for the week of August 17, 2026. It covers market expectations ahead of the July FOMC minutes, noting the debate between inflation risks and a cooling labor market. It also examines Canada’s latest CPI data, highlighting that headline inflation reached 3.0% while core metrics remain steady. Finally, the report includes a USD/CAD daily chart analysis,…
China’s economy lost momentum at the start of the second half of 2026 as weak consumption, falling investment and a deepening property crisis outweighed the support from strong exports.
