Canadian Dollar Slides as Soft CPI and Trump Tariffs Lift USD/CAD

The Canadian dollar was the weakest-performing major currency on Monday after softer-than-expected inflation data reduced expectations of further Bank of Canada policy tightening. Cooling headline and core inflation diminished Canada's relative yield advantage, weighing on the Loonie despite the central bank leaving its policy rate unchanged at 2.25%. Separately, reports that the US and Iran had signed a memorandum aimed at ending the conflict weighed on oil prices, adding further pressure to the oil-sensitive Canadian dollar. The loonie then came under renewed selling late in the US session after Reuters reported that Washington would impose new 50% tariffs on Canadian products.

View related analysis:

Source: LSEG

Trump's Tariffs Add to Pressure on the Canadian Dollar

The proposed 50% tariffs on Canadian products add a fresh headwind for the loonie by threatening Canada's export outlook and economic growth. Slower growth could reinforce expectations that the Bank of Canada will keep interest rates on hold or even consider easing if the economic impact proves material, reducing the Canadian dollar's yield appeal relative to the US dollar. While the full scope and timing of the tariffs remain uncertain, the announcement was enough to fuel another leg higher in USD/CAD.

USD/CAD Technical Analysis: US Dollar vs Canadian Dollar

USD/CAD posted its largest daily gain in 23 sessions, rising 0.5% after finding support at the 50-day EMA and the 1.40 handle, strongly suggesting a swing low may be in place, at least in the near term. It has been just under a month since USD/CAD peaked, and recent developments suggest the pair could extend its rebound towards the 2025 high at 1.4140.

The 1-hour chart shows support has emerged around the weekly pivot point for now, although the sharp momentum shift below ¥116 suggests bears may look to sell into minor pullbacks. A break below 115.31 would bring the 115.00 handle into focus, followed by a key support zone around 114.60 where the monthly and weekly pivot points converge.

Source: ICE, TradingView

CAD/JPY Technical Analysis: Canadian Dollar vs Japanese Yen

While crude oil prices didn’t exactly roll over on Monday, they did form doji’s on the daily chart to show indecision. Given but WTI and brent crude have stalled around their respective resistance levels, it removes another pillar of support for CAD/JPY – which is leaving bearish reversal signals of its own.

CAD/JPY formed a notable bearish engulfing candle on Monday to mark its second worst day of the month. Given it formed around 1.16 after a solid bounce, the case for a pullback was arguably growing anyway.

The 1-hour chart shows support has been found around the weekly pivot point for now, though the sharp momentum shift below 116 suggests bears may be seeking to fade into minor pullbacks, A break below 115.31 brings the 115 handle, and tight support zone around 114.6 into focus comprising of the monthly and weekly pivot points.

Source: ICE, TradingView

View the full economic calendar

-- Written by Matt Simpson

Follow Matt on Twitter @cLeverEdge

The information on this web site is not targeted at the general public of any particular country. It is not intended for distribution to residents in any country where such distribution or use would contravene any local law or regulatory requirement. The information and opinions in this report are for general information use only and are not intended as an offer or solicitation with respect to the purchase or sale of any currency or CFD contract. All opinions and information contained in this report are subject to change without notice. This report has been prepared without regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any particular recipient. Any references to historical price movements or levels is informational based on our analysis and we do not represent or warranty that any such movements or levels are likely to reoccur in the future. While the information contained herein was obtained from sources believed to be reliable, author does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness, nor does author assume any liability for any direct, indirect or consequential loss that may result from the reliance by any person upon any such information or opinions.

Futures, Options on Futures, Foreign Exchange and other leveraged products involves significant risk of loss and is not suitable for all investors. Losses can exceed your deposits. Increasing leverage increases risk. Spot Gold and Silver contracts are not subject to regulation under the U.S. Commodity Exchange Act. Contracts for Difference (CFDs) are not available for US residents. Products and services available depend on your location and the entity holding your account. Before deciding to trade forex, commodity futures, or digital assets, you should carefully consider your financial objectives, level of experience and risk appetite. Any opinions, news, research, analyses, prices or other information contained herein is intended as general information about the subject matter covered and is provided with the understanding that we do not provide any investment, legal, or tax advice. You should consult with appropriate counsel or other advisors on all investment, legal, or tax matters. References to FOREX.com or GAIN Capital refer to StoneX Group Inc. and its subsidiaries. Please read Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options.

FOREX.com is a registered FCM and RFED with the CFTC and member of the National Futures Association (NFA # 0339826). Forex trading involves significant risk of loss and is not suitable for all investors. Full Disclosures and Risk Warning. Increased leverage increases risk.

GAIN Capital Group LLC (dba FOREX.com) 30 Independence Blvd, Suite 300 (3rd floor), Warren, NJ 07059, USA. GAIN Capital Group LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of StoneX Group Inc.