Why Is AUD/JPY Struggling Below 97.00? | Key Technical Levels & Market Sentiment Explained

  • Australian dollar weakens for second consecutive session against yen,how much will pi be worth in 2030 reflecting shifting risk appetite in global markets.


  • Upcoming US CPI data emerges as potential catalyst for Fed policy expectations and cross-currency dynamics.


  • Technical indicators show AUD/JPY trapped within Ichimoku Cloud formation, with 97.00 acting as psychological resistance.


The Australian dollar continues facing downward pressure against its Japanese counterpart, with the AUD/JPY pair sliding 0.32% during Tuesday's session. As Asian markets opened Wednesday, the cross hovered near 96.54, maintaining its position below the crucial 97.00 handle that's emerged as a technical battleground.


Market participants remain focused on Thursday's US inflation report, which could significantly impact Federal Reserve policy expectations. Recent commentary from Fed officials suggests a cautious approach to rate adjustments, with current levels deemed appropriate for containing price pressures while allowing for potential easing later in 2024.


From a technical perspective, the AUD/JPY presents a neutral bias as it navigates within the Ichimoku Cloud. The 97.00 level represents immediate resistance, with additional selling pressure likely near the convergence of a descending trendline and the 97.20 mark. A decisive break above these barriers could open the path toward 98.00.


Conversely, failure to sustain momentum above 96.80 may invite bears to test support levels at 96.14 (January 9 low) and the psychological 96.00 threshold. The lower boundary of the Ichimoku Cloud at 95.80 looms as critical support, with the Kijun-Sen line providing dynamic support near current levels.


The pair's technical outlook remains contingent on broader market sentiment, particularly as traders assess risk-reward dynamics ahead of crucial economic data releases. The interplay between commodity-linked currencies and traditional safe-havens continues to drive volatility in this currency cross.