Log in to today's North American session Market wrap for February 2 Traders are still trying to grasp the significance of Friday’s historic move in the metals market after Kevin Warsh's nomination to be the next Fed Chair.The price action was so extreme that it exceeded 99.9996% of typical volatility observations — a very rare 6-sigma event.Silver retested the $71.30 lows (!) after gapping down at the weekly open, but rebounded sharply to close the session up around 2%, near $80.Gold, meanwhile, wicked down to $4,400 and remained relatively calm throughout the session.Metals are unlikely to snap back immediately, but they are showing notable resilience following such a massive shock.Stocks, on the other hand, have recovered all of Friday’s losses, supported by the fastest growth in US manufacturing since 2022 and dip-buying following weekend risk deleveraging, as the probability of Iran-US talks increased in an effort to ease mounting pressure.Diplomacy remains a possible path forward, but the odds of reaching a consensus to avoid a full-blown conflict appear low.US demands — including reducing enriched uranium and scaling back ballistic missile programs — have been described as unacceptable by Iranian advisers.Oil has also given back a large portion of its Friday gains and is now retesting its upward trendline around $62 — a familiar pattern when geopolitical risk premiums fail to hold.Meanwhile, a partial US government shutdown began over the weekend, leading to the postponement of Friday’s NFP release. Further details will follow once the BLS announces an updated schedule. Discover:Bitcoin breaks $80,000! Altcoins suffer – BTC, ETH and SOL OutlookOil prices down 6% as US-Iran de-escalation hopes cool market heat… Is it the end of the line for bulls?Stocks rebound to start February – US Index Outlook zoom_out_map Market Close Heatmap – Source: TradingView – February 2, 2026 Palantir just beat on its earnings by an enormous margin so expect movement there tomorrow!For the rest, the picture is broadly green from the beat on the Manufacturing PMIs, great news that were very welcome for investors.Keep a close eye on Volatility events this week, as this weekend didn't deliver any surprises but anxiety remains high.Cross-Assets Daily Performance zoom_out_map Cross-Asset Daily Performance, February 2, 2026 – Source: TradingView As you can see, this weekend offered quite some volatile gaps lower across asset classes.Still, most remained pretty resilient after today's action, particularly with Sentiment rebounding.Trader can still expect a lot of volatility this week.A picture of today's performance for major currencies zoom_out_map Currency Performance, February 2, 2026 – Source: OANDA Labs The US Dollar also rebounded sharply in today's session, extending above the 50% retracement of its Greenland move lower.For the rest of FX, the CHF has been getting hammered quite harshly in the past two session so keep an eye on whether this lasts or not. The Swiss currency is also affected by risk-appetite and can either jump up or down depending on the outcomes of the US-Iran talks.AUD traders will be looking closely at tonight's RBA event – Get ready!Major Earnings in Tomorrow's session zoom_out_map Earnings Calendar for February 3, 2026 – Source: Nasdaq.com Tomorrow's session will focus heavily on traditional and energy sectors – Focus on Chevron, Exxon and Verizon, all releasing their earnings during the pre-Open.A look at Economic data releasing throughout today and tomorrow's sessions zoom_out_map For all market-moving economic releases and events, see the MarketPulse Economic Calendar. All eyes are on the Royal Bank of Australia.Today’s evening session is dominated by the Reserve Bank of Australia rate decision, where a 25 bps hike is heavily expected – Traders will also focus on Bullock's tone to spot if more are to come or not.Any shift in tone around how restrictive policy really is or the balance of risks between inflation and growth could move rate expectations quickly, particularly at the front end of the Aussie curve.With US Data not releasing due to the partial shutdown, traders will focus more on the weekly ADP report as the NFP won't come on time.Safe Trades, keep a close eye on the Middle East!Follow Elior on Twitter/X for Additional Market News, interactions and Insights @EliorManier Opinions are the authors'; not necessarily that of OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc. or any of its affiliates, subsidiaries, officers or directors. The provided publication is for informational and educational purposes only.If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, an award winning forex, commodities and global indices analysis and news site service produced by OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc., please refer to the MarketPulse Terms of Use.Visit https://www.marketpulse.com/ to find out more about the beat of the global markets.© 2026 OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

Most Read: Markets Weekly Outlook - NFP forecast, Fed's new direction, RBA rate hike risk, BoE/ECB pause and big tech earningsOil prices have slipped 6% today in what is a poor start to the month. This comes after an impressive rally in the month of January.WTI finished January with gains of around 14% but that turned sour this morning with a 5% plunge in the Asian session. This sharp reversal appears to be driven by a combination of diplomatic shifts in the Middle East and strategic supply decisions by major producers.The primary drivers behind the drop The most immediate catalyst for the price drop is the sudden cooling of tensions between the United States and Iran. Just a week ago, markets were pricing in a significant risk of military conflict after US President Donald Trump hinted at potential strikes.However, remarks made by the President on Sunday expressing hope for a new deal with Iran with a meeting scheduled for Friday this week which has dramatically pivoted investor sentiment.The prospect of a diplomatic breakthrough suggests a potential easing of sanctions. If an agreement is reached, Iran, a major OPEC member, could legally return significant volumes of crude to the global market.This "peace premium" being removed from the price of oil has led to a rapid sell-off, as traders re calibrate for a more well-supplied market than previously feared.OPEC + maintains the status quo Adding to the downward pressure, OPEC+ concluded its latest meeting with a decision to keep production levels unchanged for March. While the group’s "cautious approach" is intended to maintain market stability, it failed to provide the bullish spark some investors were hoping for. By reaffirming a freeze on planned production increases, OPEC+ signaled that they anticipate seasonally weaker demand in the coming months.Taking a look at US drilling activity, it appears to be in a slump because low prices are making new investments less attractive for energy companies. Recent data from Baker Hughes shows that the number of active oil rigs held steady at 411 last week, which is significantly lower than this time last year.While there was a tiny increase in gas drilling, the overall number of active rigs remains 36 below last year's levels. Because experts expect there to be more oil on the market than people actually need this year (a "surplus"), US oil production growth is expected to stay limited throughout 2026.Forward Outlook - bulls or bears to prevail? The future of oil prices currently hangs on two major variables: the reality of US-Iran diplomacy and the strength of the US dollar.Geopolitical Volatility: While de-escalation is the current theme, financial institutions like DBS and Deutsche Bank warn that the situation remains fragile. Should diplomatic efforts fail or military rhetoric resurface, a renewed rally beyond the $70/barrel mark cannot be ruled out.The "Warsh Effect": The US dollar has been gaining strength following the nomination of Kevin Warsh as the next Federal Reserve Chair. Because oil is priced in dollars, a stronger greenback makes the commodity more expensive for international buyers, creating a natural headwind for price growth.In the short term, markets are looking toward upcoming US inventory data from the API and EIA to gauge domestic demand.While the current trend is bearish, the structural risks in the Middle East suggest that the "pause" in the oil rally may be temporary rather than a permanent reversal.For now, investors are moving with caution, balancing the hope of a diplomatic solution against the ever-present threat of supply disruptions. Keep an eye on developments between Iran-US when they meet on Friday in Turkey.Technical Analysis - WTI From a technical analysis standpoint, WTI drop is flirting with a close below the 200-day MA.This would not be the first time that WTI has broken above the 200-day MA and reversed the move in a few days.The last time WTI traded above the 200-day MA was in July 2025 when the price only managed to hold above the 200-day MA for two days before slipping back below for a prolonged period.All is not lost for bulls though as the 100-day MA may provide the support that bulls are looking for as it rests on the psychological 60.00 handle, making this area a key confluence zone.The period-14 RSI is just shy of the neutral 50 level and if it holds above this is a positive signs for bulls as it is seen as a sign of bullish momentum.WTI Crude Oil Daily Chart, February 2, 2026 zoom_out_map Source: TradingView (click to enlarge) Key levels to keep an eye onSupport:60.0058.5057.00Resistance:62.3264.7366.15Follow Zain on Twitter/X for Additional Market News and Insights @zvawda Opinions are the authors'; not necessarily that of OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc. or any of its affiliates, subsidiaries, officers or directors. The provided publication is for informational and educational purposes only.If you would like to reproduce or redistribute any of the content found on MarketPulse, an award winning forex, commodities and global indices analysis and news site service produced by OANDA Business Information & Services, Inc., please refer to the MarketPulse Terms of Use.Visit https://www.marketpulse.com/ to find out more about the beat of the global markets.© 2026 OANDA Business Information & Services Inc.

China's official manufacturing purchasing managers’ index (PMI) fell to 49.3 in January, indicating a contraction and coming in well below forecasts. The non-manufacturing PMI also slipped back into contraction at 49.4, marking a 37-month low.

Headline CPI beat expectations while broader market sentiment also favored risk currencies. AUD/CHF emerged as the focus while technical levels also held up well.

The Reserve Bank of Australia could be the first major global central bank to hike rates in this cycle.We are set to get a decision on the cash rate at 10:30 pm ET and the consensus is for a 25 basis point hike to 3.85%. It's far from a sure thing as economists only shifted their calls over the past couple weeks as inflation and jobs data beat estimates. The market remains uncertain with about a 75% chance of a hike priced in.Of the 31 economists in the Reuters survey, 24 expected a hike and 7 are forecasting no change. Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley are among those forecasting the RBA holds rates but -- notably -- all of the big Australia banks are calling for a hike.The Australian economy has proven resilient as house prices have firmed even with high interest rates. Back in the post-covid period, the RBA was forced into an embarassing backtrack after pledging to hold rates for the long term. Instead, they were among the first to hike rates in May 2022 and ultimately hiked from 0.10% to 4.35%. As economic conditions softened and inflation stabilized, they cut rates in February 2025 in what initially looked like the start of an extended period of rate cuts. Instead, the final cut came in August and now the central bank may be quickly pivoting back to hiking.The Reserve Bank of Australia left the cash rate unchanged at its last meeting, marking a third consecutive pause in a unanimous decision. While the statement itself was largely neutral and reiterated a data-dependent stance but Governor Bullock was surprisingly hawkish in the press conference. Since then, the market has tip-toed towards a rate hike.But the tipping point came after the jobs report saw unemployment fall to 4.1% from 4.4% IN December as 65.2K jobs were added. December CPI also ran above expectations.Aside from a hike there will be a focus on guidance. The economists' consensus is still that this will be a one-and-done hike for the year but that's rarely the way central banks operate and some firms -- like NAB -- see 4.10% by year end. The RBA will give us its own forecasts via the Quarterly Statement on Monetary Policy and Bullock will further qualify at 11:30 pm ET.For the Australian dollar, expect a good sized move on the headline, as much as 50 pips in either direction. I increasingly like the Australian dollar backdrop as global growth picks up and metals prices boom. This article was written by Adam Button at investinglive.com.

Weekly Analysis: Wild Days Not Over Yet? on Friday, there was a major sell-off in the metals and stocks. What now?

The Tokyo Stock Exchange said trading activity on its CONNEQTOR platform reached a record JPY 506.9 billion in January, the highest monthly total since the request-for-quote service launched in 2021. Average daily trading value rose to JPY 26.6 billion, a 250% increase on the year, reflecting rapid growth in usage beyond traditional investor clients.  TSE said more than 310 investors used the service at the end of January, supported by rising participation from market makers, securities firms, overseas investors and even non-financial domestic institutions such as universities. The platform, which marks its fifth anniversary in February, was designed to improve ETF liquidity by enabling participants to request competitive quotes from 11 market makers and execute trades through 22 brokers.  Increased integration with order and execution management systems used by asset managers, as well as connectivity to Tradeweb, has also contributed to rising activity. CONNEQTOR is increasingly seen as an essential execution tool for institutional investors in Japan’s expanding ETF market, the exchange said. TSE added that it would continue to enhance the service to support the country’s ambitions to strengthen its asset-management ecosystem and further develop the domestic ETF market. The post TSE’s CONNEQTOR Platform Hits Record in Monthly ETF Trades appeared first on LeapRate.

Gold price analysis suggests the probability of further downside as the stronger dollar weighs on the precious metal. The new Fed Chair nomination has triggered a wave of deeper retracement in gold after a strong rally. Gold’s structural support remains intact as central banks still buy, while US-Iran tension also maintains a safe-haven demand. Gold... The post Gold Price Analysis: Pullback Accelerates Amid Fed Repricing, Retail Liquidation appeared first on Forex Crunch.

USDJPY bulls limited the damage but still couldn't prevent a weekly loss even after Trump calmed the market by picking Kevin Warsh for new Fed Chair. In today's Elliott Wave analysis we discuss if buying this dip makes sense. To access this article you need to have an active subscription The post Elliott Wave Analysis of USDJPY – February 2nd, 2026 appeared first on EWM Interactive.

Traders split over whether insurers’ retreat from FX hedging is help or hindrance

Introduction to Smart Grid Defense EA MT4 The Smart Grid Defense EA MT4 represents a sophisticated approach to automated forex trading, combining intelligent grid strategies with robust defense mechanisms. This expert advisor is designed for traders who seek consistent performance across multiple currency pairs while maintaining strict risk management protocols. Developed with professional traders in

When the markets are anxious “risk off sentiment” money flows tend to move toward the yen, Swiss franc and gold. Equity markets can be seen as an indicator of fear and greed. The U.S. equity markets sold off on Wednesday erasing gains for 2018. On Thursday the markets rebounded and closing higher and recovering Wednesday’s losses. On Friday, the equity markets moved down again sharply as the U.S. session got underway.   As price made a lower high early in the U.S. session, a short was taken in the USDJPY risking 13 pips for a potential 32 pips to our daily target at 111.75. Price moved down to our target and we closed the trade. Price gained further downside momentum and continued lower without us. As the U.S. equity markets began to pare some of their losses intraday, the pair reversed higher. The majors made uniformed moves today and the USD has been weaker once again. I’m curious as to whether the U.S. equity markets can recover to close positively today to end the week. If not, next week may start off ugly with negative sentiment and continued selling. Good luck with your trading and enjoy your weekend!

Best Futures Trading Platform for Mac Finding the best trading platform for Mac used to be a challenge. Most trading software was originally built for Windows; however, the landscape has changed significantly. Today, Mac traders can access powerful, browser-based trading platforms that offer professional tools, fast execution, and seamless performance on macOS devices. This guide covers the most reliable trading platforms for Mac, including the best futures trading platform for Mac, and explains which brokers integrate best with Apple devices. Furthermore, you will discover how each platform operates and why choosing the right combination can elevate your trading experience. Why Mac Traders Need a Compatible Trading Platform Mac devices are known for speed and stability. Even though this offers many advantages, not all trading platforms historically supported macOS. Because of this, traders needed workarounds. Fortunately, modern platforms now run directly through Safari or Chrome. As a result, Mac traders can experience professional charting, stable execution, and cross-device accessibility without installing additional software. In addition, most cloud-based platforms receive updates faster than desktop software, which means Mac users benefit from rapid improvements and fewer compatibility issues. 1. TradingView – The Best Trading Platform for Mac TradingView is widely considered the best trading platform for Mac, mainly because it runs entirely online. Therefore, it works instantly on any MacBook, iMac, or iPad without requiring installation or system adjustments. Access TradingView for Mac here. Why TradingView Is Ideal for Mac Traders TradingView performs exceptionally well in the browser; moreover, its interface is designed to load charts quickly and accurately. It includes professional features such as multi-timeframe analysis, smart drawing tools, alerts, and futures charting. In addition, it supports forex, indices, stocks, and crypto, making it extremely versatile. Because it is browser-based, TradingView is also one of the best futures trading platforms for Mac, especially when paired with a strong broker. Consequently, traders can benefit from both advanced charting and fast execution. 2. IC Markets – The Best Broker for Mac Traders A platform is important; however, a broker determines execution quality. IC Markets is one of the top brokers for Mac users because it integrates smoothly with both TradingView and MT5 WebTrader. Therefore, it delivers stable execution, ultra-tight spreads, and access to deep liquidity. Open IC Markets (Mac-compatible) here: Why IC Markets Works So Well on Mac IC Markets offers extremely low spreads, fast order execution, and strong liquidity. Furthermore, it supports futures-style CFD trading, which is ideal for Mac traders looking to trade indices, commodities, or currency futures. Because everything works through the browser, Mac users avoid compatibility problems entirely. In addition, IC Markets performs reliably during high-volatility events, which is essential for professional trading. 3. cTrader Web – Modern, Fast, and Mac-Friendly cTrader Web provides a clean, modern trading environment that loads quickly on any Mac device. It is designed for traders who want fast execution combined with a highly intuitive interface. Why Mac Traders Choose cTrader Web cTrader Web offers advanced charting, depth of market views, and one-click execution. Furthermore, it integrates perfectly with IC Markets, which ensures consistent performance. Since it runs entirely online, Mac traders benefit from immediate updates and high-speed functionality. In contrast to older desktop platforms, cTrader Web does not require installation or configuration, which makes it ideal for traders who want simplicity without sacrificing power. 4. MT5 WebTrader – Classic Trading Tools on Mac Although the desktop version of MetaTrader 5 no longer runs natively on macOS, the MT5 WebTrader version is fully compatible. This solution allows traders to use the traditional MT5 layout while accessing markets directly through Safari or Chrome. Benefits of MT5 WebTrader for Mac MT5 WebTrader supports forex and index trading, provides reliable order execution, and offers a familiar interface for seasoned traders. Moreover, when paired with IC Markets, it becomes a very stable environment for both intraday and swing trading. Consequently, many traders still prefer MT5 because of its straightforward workflow. Final Verdict: The Best Futures Trading Platform for Mac After comparing charting quality, platform stability, execution speed, and macOS compatibility, the following options deliver the best overall experience: Best Trading Platform for Mac TradingView — fast, browser-based, and equipped with professional tools for futures analysis. Best Broker for Mac Traders IC Markets — low spreads, fast execution, and seamless integration with all Mac-friendly platforms. Best Execution Platform for Mac cTrader Web — modern interface, fast execution, and ideal for intraday traders who prefer simplicity and precision. Together, these platforms and brokers create a powerful trading setup for any Mac user. Consequently, traders can access professional tools without switching to Windows or using virtual machines. FAQ – Trading Platforms for Mac What is the best trading platform for Mac? TradingView is the best trading platform for Mac due to its clean interface, browser compatibility, and professional charting features. What is the best futures trading platform for Mac? TradingView provides excellent futures charting, while IC Markets offers fast and reliable execution. Can you trade futures on a Mac? Yes. TradingView, MT5 WebTrader, and cTrader Web allow Mac users to analyze and trade futures-style markets without installation. Does MT5 work on Mac? Yes. MT5 WebTrader works smoothly in Safari and Chrome. Which broker is best for Mac traders? IC Markets offers the best combination of execution speed, low spreads, and Mac compatibility. Het bericht Best Futures Trading Platform for Mac verscheen eerst op theforexscalpers.

Cracker Barrel (CBRL) was down as much as 14% recently. …The post Cracker Barrel’s Rebrand Bust and the Next Wave of Applied AI Stocks appeared first on Market Traders Daily.