ING has pointed out that the U.S. dollar's strong performance in August was not fully supported by conventional market drivers such as relative rates, equities, and commodity dynamics. Their short-term fair value model shows the dollar as overvalued against all G10 currencies to varying degrees. ING believes that a deterioration in U.S. economic data remains the most plausible trigger for a rapid and substantial dollar correction.
Key Points:
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Dollar Overvaluation: According to ING's short-term fair value model, the dollar is overvalued against all G10 currencies. The overvaluation is moderate against the GBP (<1%) but becomes more significant against Scandinavian currencies (>3%).
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Trigger for Correction: ING asserts that a downturn in U.S. economic data is the most likely catalyst for a correction in the overvalued dollar.
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Potential for Rapid Correction: Should U.S. data deteriorate, the dollar could see a rapid and sizable correction, given its current state of overvaluation.
Trading Recommendations:
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Be Prepared for Volatility: Traders should brace themselves for a potential rapid correction in the dollar, particularly when new U.S. economic data is released.
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Watch U.S. Economic Indicators: Close attention should be paid to upcoming U.S. economic releases, as negative data could be the trigger for a significant USD selloff.
Implications:
For Traders:
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Short USD Positions: Those holding short positions in the USD should be aware that a U.S. data turn could lead to a rapid correction, benefiting their trade strategy.
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Risk Management: Given the likelihood of a rapid correction, risk management strategies should be in place to protect against abrupt moves.
For Policymakers:
- Economic Deterioration Impact: Policymakers should note the sensitive market reaction to economic data and be prepared for currency fluctuations in response to policy announcements or data releases.
Conclusion:
ING suggests that the U.S. dollar is currently overvalued and that its strong performance in August wasn't justified by typical market factors. They propose that the dollar is primed for a correction, which could be triggered by a downturn in U.S. economic data. Given the current overvaluation, this correction could be both rapid and substantial.