Will it become risk-on?! Hope for progress in US-China trade talks! ~February 25 highlights and schedule~

Last week, the Australian dollar wavered as coal exports to China were halted. The NZ dollar fell sharply on a surprise rate-cut signal. Conversely, the dollar-yen pair, which had been moving little due to a lack of key speeches, ended the week with extremely narrow moves as there were no substantial remarks from major figures.

◎ Today's Highlights

1) US-China Trade Negotiations

Breaking news as it happens! “The planned tariff increase on China for March 1 has been postponed.” …

However, postponement means talks will continue, so headlines about negotiations or potential agreement are likely to emerge. Will the headlines be a buying factor or a selling factor?! The market, especially resource-country currencies, could react strongly each time.

2) Two Key Speeches

Speeches by Bank of England Governor Mark Carney and Federal Reserve Vice Chair Lael Brainard are scheduled. Both are hoped to address monetary policy. However, both central banks have congressional testimony this week. Unless there are substantial details, the market may remain range-bound.

◎ Today's Economic Calendar

Monday, February 25

EU and Middle East Summit (Prime Minister May to attend)

06:45 NZD Retail Sales

19:00 GBPSpeech by Bank of England Governor Mark Carney

23:00 MXN Mexico GDP

Tuesday, February 26

Prime Minister May to testify on Brexit in Parliament

01:00 USDSpeech by Federal Reserve Vice Chair Lael Brainard

01:30 USD 2-year note auction

03:00 USD 5-year note auction