Technical analysis of the DAX 40 as it range trades while AUD/USD rallies and the price of copper slips.
Brent crude oil climbed back above $100 per barrel as disruption to the Strait of Hormuz intensified supply concerns and inflation risks.
Analysts warn that higher oil prices could push inflation higher and weigh on global gross domestic product (GDP) as geopolitical risks increase.
Asian markets traded unevenly while US futures edged lower, reflecting volatility driven by energy prices and conflict-related headlines.
Wall Street opened the week higher, led by gains in AI and semiconductor stocks on robust demand expectations.
Ongoing disruption to global oil flows raises the likelihood of shortages and higher energy costs, adding upside pressure to UK inflation.
Markets continue to assess the policy outlook, with the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) delivering a second consecutive 25bp hike and major central banks navigating rising energy-driven inflation pressures.
Iran warned it could intensify missile strikes and threatened oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz, underscoring ongoing volatility despite hopes of de-escalation.
The DAX 40 is stuck in a sideways range within Friday's 23,762 - 23,294 extremes, a break out of which is likely to determine the short-term trend.
A rise above 23,762 may lead to the 10 March high at 24,061 being reached whereas a fall through 23,294 may push the 23,000 region to the fore.
Bullish while above last week's low at 23,294.
Neutral with a slightly bullish stance while above the 9 March low at 22,928.
AUD/USD has swiftly bounced off this week's $0.6980 low amid the RBA's second 25 basis point rate hike in as many months. The next upside target is the 23 February high at $0.7112, followed by the $0.7129 - $0.7136 region.
Minor support may be spotted around the 20 February low at $0.7016.
Bullish while above the early March $0.6945 low, targeting the $0.7147 - $0.7158 area.
Bullish while above $0.6897, eyeing the January 2023 peak at $0.7158.
The price of copper is seen coming off Monday's $5.8585 high and is about to test minor support at the early March $5.7465 low. If slipped through, the $5.7000 region may be revisited.
Neutral while holding above the early February $5.5640 low.
Neutral while trading above the early February $5.5640 low but below its late February $6.1413 peak.
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