FX Analysis – USD looking vulnerable after soft data
Lachlan Meakin
9/8/2024
•
0 min read
Share this post
Copy URL
The negative dollar reaction to a modest tick-up in US jobless claims yesterday (231k versus consensus 212k) where the US Dollar Index (DXY) dropped from session highs at 105.74 to close at session lows of 105.20 seems to be telling FX traders that tells us that: a) markets are probably lacking some sense of direction in the period between payrolls and US CPI. b) the generally overbought dollar remains quite vulnerable to even slightly softer US data releases. c) markets may be buying in more convincingly on the softening US jobs market narrative. Beyond very short-term price movements, it’s looking like the key for the USD to trend materially lower remains inflation. Consensus is looking at 0.3% month-on-month core CPI print on Wednesday, which is still too high for the Fed to start cutting rates this summer.
Today’s US calendar includes only the University of Michigan surveys. Markets will be watching closely whether the medium and long-term inflation expectations have moved at all from April’s 3.0/3.2% levels. From the Fed the most interesting speaker will be Neel Kashkari, who recently argued for a higher neutral rate, which would suggest current monetary policy is not as restrictive as perceived.
By
Lachlan Meakin
Head of Research, GO Markets Australia.
The information provided is of general nature only and does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situations or needs. Before acting on any information provided, you should consider whether the information is suitable for you and your personal circumstances and if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice. All opinions, conclusions, forecasts or recommendations are reasonably held at the time of compilation but are subject to change without notice. Past performance is not an indication of future performance. Go Markets Pty Ltd, ABN 85 081 864 039, AFSL 254963 is a CFD issuer, and trading carries significant risks and is not suitable for everyone. You do not own or have any interest in the rights to the underlying assets. You should consider the appropriateness by reviewing our TMD, FSG, PDS and other CFD legal documents to ensure you understand the risks before you invest in CFDs.
Comience con lo que realmente sucedió con los mercados de divisas en el período previo a abril: hubo un choque geopolítico y el suministro de petróleo fuera de Medio Oriente estuvo bajo presión. La reacción inmediata en los mercados de divisas fue la que los comerciantes han visto antes: el dinero se movió hacia la seguridad, hacia el rendimiento y lejos de cualquier cosa que pareciera expuesta a la interrupción.
Los flujos de refugio seguro satisfacen la divergencia de rendimiento
El dólar estadounidense se benefició de ambas fuerzas a la vez. Es un refugio seguro y también lleva una ventaja de rendimiento que la mayoría de sus pares no puede igualar en este momento. El franco suizo recogió parte del desbordamiento de la aversión al riesgo europea. El yen, que solía atraer flujos de refugio seguro casi automáticamente, está atascado en una situación completamente diferente donde la brecha de rendimiento frente al dólar es ahora tan amplia que la lógica de refugio seguro ha sido anulada por la lógica de acarreo.
Las monedas que tuvieron el mes más duro fueron las atrapadas en el medio: sensibles al riesgo, vinculadas a las materias primas o ejecutando tasas de política que simplemente no pueden competir. El dólar neozelandés es el ejemplo más claro mientras que el dólar australiano es una historia más descompuesta. Debajo de todo esto hay una revaluación de las expectativas de recorte de tasas de 2026 que los bancos centrales de múltiples países ahora están reevaluando.
DXY context
Regained 100 on geopolitical risk
Strongest currency
USD — safe haven plus yield
Weakest currency
NZD — yield gap plus energy
Main central bank theme
Repricing of 2026 rate cut paths
Main catalyst ahead
Fed and BOJ policy meetings
Monthly leaderboard — biggest movers
01USD
Rose sharply on safe-haven demand and higher for longer yield expectations.
Strong
02CHF
Advanced strongly as the preferred European refuge from Middle East risk.
Up
03JPY
Highly volatile; fell to 20-month lows before intervention commentary.
Volatile
04AUD
Mixed; caught between domestic energy inflation and a hawkish RBA.
Mixed
05NZD
Fell sharply; pressured by energy exposure and capital outflows.
Weak
El más fuerte en mover: US dollar (USD)
El dólar estadounidense gastó la mayor parte de 2025 perdiendo terreno gradualmente a medida que la Fed recortaba las tasas y el resto del mundo jugaba a ponerse al día. Esa historia se estancó duramente a finales de marzo. El conflicto de Irán cambió el cálculo, y el dólar se reafirmar de una manera que refleja algo real sobre su posición estructural en los mercados globales.
Estados Unidos exporta petróleo y cuando los precios de la energía suben, eso es una mejora en términos de intercambio, no un shock en términos de intercambio. La mayoría de los principales pares del dólar se sientan del otro lado de esa ecuación. Agregue un rango de tasa de póliza de 3.50% a 3.75% que ahora parece bloqueado por más tiempo, y la ventaja del dólar es cíclica y estructural al mismo tiempo. El índice del dólar estadounidense (DXY) ha recuperado el nivel 100 pero la pregunta de cara a abril es si se mantiene ahí o empuja más.
Key drivers
Safe-haven demand:
The Iran conflict directed flows into US assets across equities, Treasuries, and the dollar itself.
Yield advantage:
The federal funds rate at 3.50% to 3.75% provides a meaningful return floor relative to most peers, helping to sustain capital inflows.
Energy insulation:
The US position as an oil exporter creates a structural terms-of-trade benefit when oil prices rise sharply.
Rate cut repricing:
Market expectations for 2026 Fed cuts have been scaled back significantly, removing a key source of dollar headwinds.
What markets are watching next
The DXY's ability to hold above 100 is the near-term reference point. The 10 April CPI print is the most direct test. A reading above expectations may add further support, while a soft print could give traders reason to take some dollar positions off the table.
The main risks to the upside case are a sudden diplomatic resolution in the Middle East, which could reduce safe-haven demand quickly, or a labour market print on 3 April that is weak enough to revive recession concerns and push rate cut expectations higher again.
Lugar de mudanza más débil: Dolar de Nueva Zelanda (NZD)
Si quisieras diseñar una moneda que luchen en el entorno actual, el NZD encaja casi perfectamente al brief. Es sensible al riesgo. Está ligado a la mercancía. Ejecuta una tasa de política de 2.25%, que se sitúa por debajo de la Fed y ahora también por debajo del RBA. Nueva Zelanda también es un importador de energía, por lo que el aumento de los precios del petróleo golpeó la balanza comercial y la perspectiva de inflación interna al mismo tiempo.
Ninguna de esas cosas es nueva pero la combinación de todas ellas golpeando a la vez, en un contexto de alza del dólar y amplio sentimiento de riesgo, ha comprimido el NZD de una manera que es difícil de ignorar. El carry trade que alguna vez hizo atractivo al NZD se ha revertido ya que el capital se ha ido moviendo hacia afuera, no hacia dentro.
Key drivers
Energy import exposure:
Rising Brent crude hits New Zealand's trade balance directly and adds upside pressure to domestic inflation.
Yield gap:
The 2.25% Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) policy rate sits below the Fed and the RBA, sustaining negative carry against both the USD and AUD.
Risk-off positioning:
As a commodity and risk currency, the NZD tends to underperform when global sentiment deteriorates.
Trade uncertainty:
Ongoing tariff related uncertainty continues to weigh on export sector confidence.
Risks and constraints
Any unexpected hawkish commentary from the RBNZ or a sharp decline in oil prices could provide some relief. A broader improvement in global risk appetite would also tend to benefit the NZD, given its sensitivity to sentiment shifts.
But the structural yield disadvantage is not going away quickly, and that may continue to limit the pair's recovery potential.
USD/JPY
USD/JPY es el par que ilustra más claramente lo que sucede cuando el estatus de refugio seguro de una moneda es anulado por la lógica de acarreo. El yen solía ser el primer puerto de llamada para los comerciantes que buscaban protección durante el estrés geopolítico. Esa dinámica ha sido suprimida, y la razón es sencilla: renuncias a demasiado rendimiento para mantener el yen en este momento.
El tipo de interés de política del Banco de Japón (BOJ) se sitúa en 0.75% mientras que el de la Fed se ubica en 3.50% a 3.75% y esa brecha no fomenta los flujos de refugio seguro. Alienta el endeudamiento en yenes y el despliegue en otros lugares. Entonces, mientras el dólar subió por riesgo geopolítico, el yen cayó en el mismo evento. No es así como se supone que funcione, pero es como funcionan las matemáticas cuando los diferenciales de rendimiento son tan amplios.
El USD/JPY se ubica cerca de 159, lo que lo deja no muy lejos del nivel 160 que el Ministerio de Finanzas de Japón ha señalado consistentemente como una línea que requiere atención. La reunión del BOJ del 27 y 28 de abril es ahora un evento genuinamente en vivo.
Key events to watch
Tokyo CPI, 30 March (AEDT):
March inflation data. A strong read may build the case for BOJ action at the April meeting.
BOJ meeting, 27 and 28 April (AEST):
Markets are treating this as a live event. The quarterly outlook report may include updated inflation forecasts that shift rate hike timing expectations.
Intervention watch:
Japan's Ministry of Finance has been explicit about the 160 level. Actual intervention, or a credible threat of it, could trigger a sharp and fast reversal.
What could shift the outlook
A hawkish BOJ, actual FX intervention, or a softer US CPI print that reduces dollar support could all push USD/JPY lower from current levels. On the other side, a dovish hold from the BOJ combined with continued dollar strength could see the pair test 160 and potentially beyond, which would likely intensify the intervention conversation in Tokyo.
For traders watching AUD/JPY and other yen crosses, the BOJ meeting on 27 and 28 April carries similar weight. A hawkish shift tends to compress yen crosses broadly, not just USD/JPY.
Datos para ver a continuación
Cuatro eventos se destacan como los catalizadores potenciales de FX más claros en las próximas semanas. Cada uno tiene un canal de transmisión directo hacia las expectativas de tasa, y las expectativas de tasa están impulsando gran parte del movimiento en FX en este momento.
Key dates and FX sensitivity
30
Mar
Tokyo CPI
JPY pairs, USD/JPY · AEDT
A strong read may strengthen the case for a more hawkish BOJ at the April meeting.
3
Apr
US labour market (NFP)
USD pairs, AUD/USD, NZD/USD · 10:30 pm AEDT
A weak result could revive recession concerns and alter Fed pricing.
10
Apr
US CPI - March
USD/JPY, EUR/USD, gold · 10:30 pm AEST
The most direct test of whether inflation is easing fast enough to reopen the rate cut conversation.
27-28
Apr
BOJ meeting and quarterly outlook report
JPY crosses, AUD/JPY · AEST
The key policy event for yen crosses. Updated inflation forecasts may shift rate hike timing expectations.
Niveles y señales clave
Estos son los puntos de referencia que los comerciantes y los formuladores de políticas están observando más de cerca. Cada uno representa un detonante potencial para un cambio en el posicionamiento o una respuesta oficial.
◆
DXY 100.00
A psychologically and technically significant support level. Holding above it may sustain the dollar's current run across major pairs. A break below it would likely signal a broader sentiment shift.
◆
USD/JPY 160.00
Japan's Ministry of Finance has consistently referenced this level as a threshold requiring attention. Actual intervention, or a credible threat of it, has historically been capable of producing sharp and fast reversals in the pair.
◆
Brent crude US$120
A move to this level would likely intensify risk off behaviour across FX markets, putting further pressure on energy importing currencies including the NZD, EUR, and JPY.
◆
AUD/USD 0.7000
This level has historically attracted buying interest and may act as a near term directional reference for positioning in the pair.
Bottom line
The FX moves heading into April were shaped by a combination of geopolitical shock, yield divergence, and a repricing of central bank expectations that few had positioned for at the start of the quarter. The dollar's dual role as a high yielding and safe haven currency has put it in an unusually strong position, but that position is not unconditional.
One soft CPI print, one diplomatic breakthrough, or one labour market miss could change the tone quickly. Currency moves may remain highly data dependent and sensitive to overnight news flow from the Middle East, where developments can gap markets before the next session opens.
Acceda a un universo FX más amplio y manténgase flexible a medida que cambian las condiciones. Abrir una cuenta · Iniciar sesión
Los mercados de divisas (FX) de marzo podrían estar moldeados por varias versiones de alto impacto agrupadas alrededor de la primera mitad del mes. Los PMIs de China, el PIB de Australia, el PIB de Japón y la reunión de marzo de la Reserva Federal podrían influir en el sentimiento cambiario a medida que avanza el mes.
Datos rápidos
Las expectativas de tasas de Estados Unidos se mantienen estables, con CME FedWatch implicando una probabilidad superior al 85% de que no haya cambio de tasa en la reunión del FOMC de marzo.
Los PMI, CPI/PPI y datos comerciales de China ayudarán a dar forma al tono de riesgo regional de principios de mes.
El PIB de Australia, la decisión del RBA, los datos de la fuerza laboral y el IPC crean una ventana de eventos internos concentrada para el AUD.
El PIB de Japón y la reunión de política del Banco de Japón (BoJ) pueden influir en la refijación de precios del rendimiento interno y la volatilidad del JPY.
El IPC de la zona del euro, la producción industrial y la Decisión de Política Monetaria del BCE siguen siendo claves para la estabilidad del EUR.
Dólar estadounidense (USD)
Eventos clave
Nóminas no agrícolas: 12:30 a.m., 7 de marzo (AEDT)
Índice de Precios al Consumidor (IPC): 23:30 h, 11 de marzo (AEDT)
Ventas al por menor: 23:30 h, 17 de marzo (AEDT)
Decisión de política de la Reserva Federal: 5:00 a.m., 19 de marzo (AEDT)
Conferencia de prensa de la Reserva Federal: 5:30 a.m., 19 de marzo (AEDT)
Qué ver
El USD sigue siendo impulsado principalmente por la inflación y los datos laborales y sus implicaciones para los precios de la Reserva Federal.
Los precios de FedWatch de CME indican que los mercados están asignando una probabilidad superior al 85% de que no haya cambios en las tarifas en la reunión del FOMC de marzo. Esto sugiere que actualmente el posicionamiento está anclado en torno a una pausa, aumentando la sensibilidad ante cualquier sorpresa inflacionaria que podría cambiar las expectativas.
Con una pausa en gran parte cotizada, la dirección del USD puede depender más de la trayectoria de la inflación y las expectativas de política a más largo plazo que de la decisión en sí. Un IPC más firme o datos laborales resilientes podrían reforzar el soporte de rendimiento.
Gráfico clave: Gráfico semanal del índice del dólar estadounidense (DXY)
IPC de la zona del euro (estimación flash): 22:00 horas, 3 de marzo (AEDT)
Producción industrial de la zona del euro: 21:00 horas, 13 de marzo (AEDT)
Decisión de Política Monetaria del BCE: 12:15 a.m., 20 marzo (AEDT)
Conferencia de prensa del BCE: 12:45 a.m., 20 marzo (AEDT)
PMI flash de la eurozona: 20:00 horas, 24 de marzo (AEDT)
Qué ver
La dirección del EUR sigue ligada a la persistencia de la inflación y a si los datos de crecimiento estabiliza las expectativas en torno a la política del BCE.
La inflación pegajosa o la mejora de los datos de actividad podrían limitar las expectativas de flexibilización y apoyar al EUR. Una inflación más suave y unos datos de producción más débiles pueden renovar la presión bajista, particularmente si los datos de Estados Unidos se mantienen firmes.
La estructura diaria del EUR/USD muestra consolidación tras una extensión al alza a principios de año. El impulso a corto plazo se ha moderado, manteniendo los precios por encima de los niveles de soporte a más largo plazo.
PIB de Japón (cuarto trimestre de 2025, 2ª estimación): 10:50 a.m., 10 marzo (AEDT)
Reunión de política del Banco de Japón: 18 a 19 de marzo (AEDT)
Declaración del BOJ sobre política monetaria: 19 Marzo (AEDT)
Qué ver
El JPY sigue siendo sensible a los datos de crecimiento interno y a las decisiones de política del Banco de Japón. Las expectativas de rendimiento y las señales de normalización de políticas continúan influyendo en la volatilidad del USD/JPY y entre JPY.
La reunión de políticas del BOJ y la comunicación posterior pueden influir en la volatilidad a corto plazo y las expectativas de tasas a más largo plazo, y por extensión en el sentimiento del JPY.
El PIB más fuerte o las señales políticas que refuerzan la normalización podrían apoyar al JPY a través de ajustes de rendimiento internos. Un mensaje más cauteloso podría mantener los diferenciales de rendimiento a favor del USD y el AUD.
Decisión de Política Monetaria del RBA: 14:30 h, 17 de marzo (AEDT)
Encuesta sobre la fuerza de trabajo: 11:30 a.m., 19 marzo (AEDT)
Índice de Precios al Consumidor (IPC): 11:30 a.m., 25 marzo (AEDT)
Qué ver
AUD se enfrenta a un calendario nacional centrado en la reunión del RBA del 16 al 17 de marzo. El crecimiento, la mano de obra y la inflación liberan clúster dentro de una ventana de tres semanas, lo que aumenta el potencial de volatilidad.
El PIB más fuerte o la inflación persistente podrían reforzar la cautela política y apoyar al AUD. Los resultados laborales o del IPC más suaves pueden pesar sobre las expectativas de las tasas y presionar al AUD, particularmente contra el USD y el JPY.
Los datos chinos a principios de mes también pueden influir en el sentimiento regional y las monedas vinculadas a las materias primas como el AUD.
April's US earnings season is landing in a market that wants more than a good story. JPMorgan has already set a high bar with a strong result, and attention is now shifting to the engine room of the S&P 500: AI infrastructure where three companies are at the centre of that story.
Why this earnings window matters for AI
Microsoft, Alphabet and NVIDIA are not just participants in the AI cycle, they are building the physical and software architecture that other companies depend on: the chips, the cloud regions, the models and the tools. If this spending is going to deliver returns, the first signs may start to show in their quarterly results over the next few weeks.
Each company represents a different test.
Microsoft: Whether enterprise AI adoption is translating into revenue and margin expansion
Alphabet: Whether owning the full stack, from chips to cloud to distribution, is a durable advantage or simply an expensive position to defend
NVIDIA: Whether the hardware cycle is still holding, accelerating or starting to level out
In 2026, the question is no longer whether AI investment is happening, the capital commitments are substantial and already publicly stated. The question is whether that spending is generating returns quickly enough to justify the scale of those bets.
IMPORTANT: REPORTING SCHEDULES CAN CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. REPORTING DATES AND RELEASE TIMES ARE FROM COMPANY INVESTOR RELATIONS CALENDARS WHERE MARKED CONFIRMED; OTHERWISE THEY ARE GO MARKETS ESTIMATES. CONSENSUS EPS, REVENUE AND ANALYST-RANGE DATA ARE FROM THIRD-PARTY MARKET CONSENSUS SOURCES, AS OF 16 APRIL 2026 (AEST). COMPANY GUIDANCE, BACKLOG AND OPERATING METRICS ARE FROM THE LATEST COMPANY FILINGS OR RESULTS PRESENTATIONS UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE. FIGURES AND SCHEDULES MAY CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
$MSFT| Q1 2026 REPORTING PERIOD
Microsoft Corporation
NASDAQ | Technology | 29 Apr 2026
Confirmed
Global Release Countdown (AMC)
00:00:00:00
Consensus EPS
US$4.04
Consensus Revenue
US$81.40bn
AU/ASIA30 Apr | 6:05 am
US/LATAM29 Apr | 4:05 pm
Market Intelligence: $MSFT
Analysis: Microsoft price drivers and scenarios
Azure Growth Target
37-38%
Constant currency projection
AI Contribution
+6-8 pts
Azure revenue from AI services
FY26 Capex
US$146bn
Total infrastructure spending
AVG
LOW US$3.86AVG US$4.04HIGH US$4.14
Microsoft is being tested on a specific question: can it turn heavy AI spending into margin expansion? A result above US$4.14 could ease concerns over "capex fatigue" and demonstrate whether Azure growth is re-accelerating alongside enterprise AI adoption.
Factors that could move the markets
Azure growth rate
Watch if constant-currency growth re-accelerates above 39%, suggesting AI workloads are filling new capacity rather than sitting idle.
Signal: Capacity Utilisation
Workplace agent adoption
The shift to autonomous agents is central. Clear enterprise uptake in Dynamics 365 supports the high-tier subscription thesis.
Signal: Software Monetisation
Maia 200 cost savings
If the in-house AI chip is lowering inference costs at production levels, gross margins may start to recover from recent compression.
Watch: Gross Margin Recovery
Regulatory backdrop
Ongoing scrutiny of cloud bundling practices remains a potential headwind; management commentary here is vital for the long-term view.
Watch: Bundling Compliance
Sentiment Analysis · Microsoft Corp.
Interactive scenario analysis: $MSFT
Select earnings outcome
AI Scaling Proof
Strong result, backed by real AI progress
EPS above US$4.14 and Azure re-acceleration above 39% could support the view that AI spending is starting to translate into commercial returns. Workplace Agents show measurable ROI and FY26 guidance is raised.
EPS Outcome
Above US$4.14
Cloud Signal
Accelerating
Guidance
Raised
Possible reaction
Strong rally
Sources & Data Methodology
Sources: Reporting dates and release times are from company investor relations calendars where marked Confirmed; otherwise they are GO Markets estimates. Consensus EPS, revenue and analyst-range data are sourced from Bloomberg and Earnings Whispers, as at 16 April 2026 (AEST). Company guidance, backlog and operating metrics are sourced from the latest company filings or results presentations. Any scenario analysis reflects GO Markets analysis. Figures and schedules may change without notice.
Expanded Coverage
Beyond the chipmakers
As the "show me the money" year unfolds, discover how AI demand is impacting Tesla, NextEra, and Exxon.
Alphabet has transformed from a search business into a sprawling AI infrastructure play, and this result will test whether that transformation is delivering. The US$185 billion capex forecast for 2026 is extraordinary, close to double last year's spending.
EPS is expected to decline slightly year on year, precisely because that infrastructure spending is consuming capital. The question is whether Google Cloud's growth is fast enough to show a credible path back to margin recovery, and whether Ironwood, the seventh-generation custom AI chip, is proving its cost-per-query advantage at scale.
$GOOGL| Q1 2026 REPORTING PERIOD
Alphabet Inc.
NASDAQ | Technology | 29 Apr 2026
Confirmed
Global Release Countdown (AMC)
00:00:00:00
Consensus EPS
US$2.64
Consensus Revenue
US$92.14bn
AU/ASIA30 Apr | 6:30 am
US/LATAM29 Apr | 4:30 pm
Market Intelligence: $GOOGL
Analysis: Alphabet price drivers and scenarios
Cloud growth
48% YoY
Compared with last quarter
Ironwood TPU
10x peak
Vs previous-generation chip
2026 Capex
US$185bn
Double last year's spending
AVG
LOW US$2.50AVG US$2.64HIGH US$2.80
Alphabet has shifted to being viewed as a broader AI infrastructure play. The question is whether Cloud growth can support a path back to margin recovery while the massive US$185bn infrastructure buildout absorbs capital.
Factors that could move the markets
Google Cloud momentum
Markets are watching if the 48% growth rate holds, specifically among customers using Ironwood TPUs for large-scale AI.
Signal: Enterprise AI Adoption
Search & AI overview
If compute-intensive AI summaries are monetising through ads, it supports core search economics in the AI era.
Focus: Search Economics
Capex & margin trajectory
With free cash flow under pressure from US$185bn capex, markets want to know when infrastructure investment will moderate.
Watch: Spending Ceiling
DOJ antitrust risk
Management commentary on the legal timeline for Chrome or Android divestiture appeals will influence how risk is priced.
Watch: Regulatory Remedies
Sentiment Analysis · Alphabet Inc.
Interactive scenario analysis: $GOOGL
Select earnings outcome
Efficiency Proof
Ironwood efficiency drives upside
EPS above US$2.80 and cloud growth above 45% suggest Ironwood is cutting costs and strengthening Google’s advantage faster than expected.
EPS outcome
Above US$2.80
Cloud Signal
Strong growth
Waymo
Accelerating
Reaction
Sentiment improves
Sources & Data Methodology
Sources: Reporting dates and release times are from company investor relations calendars where marked Confirmed; otherwise they are GO Markets estimates. Consensus EPS, revenue and analyst-range data are sourced from Bloomberg and Earnings Whispers, as at 16 April 2026 (AEST). Company guidance, backlog and operating metrics are sourced from the latest company filings or results presentations. Any scenario analysis reflects GO Markets analysis. Figures and schedules may change without notice.
NVIDIA: the hardware cycle read through
NVIDIA is no longer simply a chip company. It has become what analysts now describe as the central bank of compute, the entity whose product determines how much AI capacity the world can actually deploy.
The upcoming Q1 FY2027 result will test whether the new Vera Rubin R100 GPU architecture, which entered mass production ahead of schedule, is already contributing to revenue, and whether NVIDIA can sustain gross margins above 75% as inference, rather than training, becomes the dominant workload. Inference is more competitive and more price-sensitive than training, so margin resilience here matters.
$NVDA| Q1 2026 REPORTING PERIOD
NVIDIA Corporation
NASDAQ | Semiconductors | 20 May 2026
Confirmed
Global Release Countdown (AMC)
00:00:00:00
Consensus EPS
US$1.70
Consensus Revenue
US$78.42bn
AU/ASIA21 May | 6:30 am
US/LATAM20 May | 4:30 pm
Market Intelligence: $NVDA
Analysis: NVIDIA price drivers and scenarios
Revenue growth
73% YoY
Last quarter benchmark
Data centre share
91%+
Share of total revenue
Rubin R100
In production
Mass production began April 2026
AVG
LOW US$76bnAVG US$78bnHIGH US$81bn+
NVIDIA’s outlook depends on whether Rubin R100 can keep gross margins above 75% as inference becomes a bigger part of demand. Because inference is more price-sensitive than training, margins are the key test.
Factors that could move the markets
Rubin ramp-up
Watch whether Rubin production can scale smoothly without disrupting the Blackwell transition.
Signal: supply chain continuity
Inference margins
The key test is whether NVIDIA can keep gross margins above 75% as inference revenue grows.
Signal: pricing power holds up
Sovereign AI demand
Government-backed investment in Europe and the Middle East could broaden the base beyond hyperscalers.
Signal: market expansion
CUDA regulatory risk
Any US or European scrutiny of NVIDIA’s software advantage could move the stock regardless of the revenue result.
Signal: software moat under review
Sentiment Analysis · NVIDIA Corp.
Interactive scenario analysis: $NVDA
Select earnings outcome
Rubin ramp supports growth
Rubin ramp supports growth
Revenue above US$81 billion may suggest the Rubin ramp is tracking ahead of expectations. That could support the view that AI demand is broadening into sovereign AI and enterprise markets, helping extend visibility into 2027.
Revenue Outcome
Above US$81bn
Gross Margin
Above 75%
Workload
Inference strong
Reaction
Positive read-through
Sources & Data Methodology
Sources: Reporting dates and release times are from company investor relations calendars where marked Confirmed; otherwise they are GO Markets estimates. Consensus EPS, revenue and analyst-range data are sourced from Bloomberg and Earnings Whispers, as at 16 April 2026 (AEST). Company guidance, backlog and operating metrics are sourced from the latest company filings or results presentations. Any scenario analysis reflects GO Markets analysis. Figures and schedules may change without notice.
Thematic Risks
What could shift the picture
Three risks could change the narrative regardless of how the numbers print. Each one is worth understanding before the results land.
Capex fatigue
If both Microsoft and Alphabet report in line or below expectations while reaffirming enormous spending plans, the market may start pricing the risk that AI monetisation is slower than the spending implies. That is not a stock-specific concern. It would be a broader de-rating event, affecting the valuations of companies across the technology sector.
Regulatory escalation
The FTC investigation into Microsoft, the DOJ case against Alphabet, and emerging EU scrutiny of NVIDIA's CUDA software ecosystem are all active. A material legal development before the earnings calls could overshadow the financial results entirely. Regulatory risk in this sector is not theoretical. It is live and moving.
Competition from custom silicon
Microsoft's Maia 200 chip, Alphabet's Ironwood TPU, Amazon's Trainium and Meta's custom accelerators are all reducing how much the large cloud companies depend on NVIDIA hardware. If any of these companies signals a meaningful shift in its GPU procurement plans, that could create uncertainty around NVIDIA's forward order book.
Note: These systemic risks represent thematic pivots that may influence risk appetite independently of headline EPS beats.
The Bottom Line
The 2026 reality check
Microsoft and Alphabet report on the same evening, 29 April. NVIDIA follows in late May. Together, they offer the clearest read yet on whether the AI infrastructure buildout is generating returns fast enough to justify the extraordinary scale of capital being committed.
$MSFT
AI spend is shifting from cost to competitive advantage. The question is whether margins can follow.
$GOOGL
Vertical integration from chips to search to cloud may prove to be a moat, or an expensive position to defend.
$NVDA
This is the pulse of the AI hardware cycle, and a test of whether Rubin can keep the supercycle alive into 2027.
Taken together, they offer a read on a market that looks more physical, more capital-intensive and, for many traders, more real.
Your next earnings setup starts here
Stay ahead of major beats, misses, and market surprises. Log in to your terminal, open a new account, or explore our dedicated earnings academy.
April’s US earnings season is landing in a market that wants more than a good story. As GO Markets highlighted in its recent defence earnings watchlist, this reporting period is arriving after a broader shift in what markets care about. It is no longer just about growth at any cost. Traders want to know what the numbers are saying beneath the surface.
Why these 3 names matter
In this part of the market, that brings Tesla, NextEra Energy and Exxon Mobil into focus. Each offers a different read on a key 2026 theme: autonomy, electricity demand and oil supply risk.
Tesla: Is being judged on whether autonomy and energy can support the next stage of growth
NextEra: Offers a window into rising power demand and the infrastructure needed to meet it
Exxon Mobil: Sits at the centre of the oil and energy security story as supply risks stay in focus
Taken together, these three names help explain where attention may be shifting. The question is no longer just who has the strongest narrative, rather, who can show real demand, firmer margins and execution that holds up in a more complicated backdrop.
In 2026, AI power demand is pushing utilities, storage and grid capacity into sharper focus while at the same time, oil supply risk has brought energy security back into the market conversation.
IMPORTANT: REPORTING SCHEDULES CAN CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. REPORTING DATES AND RELEASE TIMES ARE FROM COMPANY INVESTOR RELATIONS CALENDARS WHERE MARKED CONFIRMED; OTHERWISE THEY ARE GO MARKETS ESTIMATES. CONSENSUS EPS, REVENUE AND ANALYST-RANGE DATA ARE FROM THIRD-PARTY MARKET CONSENSUS SOURCES, AS OF 14 APRIL 2026 (AEST). COMPANY GUIDANCE, BACKLOG AND OPERATING METRICS ARE FROM THE LATEST COMPANY FILINGS OR RESULTS PRESENTATIONS UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE. FIGURES AND SCHEDULES MAY CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE.
$TSLA| Q1 2026 REPORTING PERIOD
Tesla Inc.
NASDAQ | Consumer Discretionary | 22 Apr 2026
Confirmed
Global Release Countdown (AMC)
00:00:00:00
Consensus EPS
US$0.41
Consensus Revenue
US$22.26bn
AU/ASIA23 Apr | 6:05 am
US/LATAM22 Apr | 4:05 pm
Market Intelligence: $TSLA
Analysis: Tesla price drivers and scenarios
Auto Gross Margin
17-19%
Target floor, excl. credits
Megapack Growth
+25% YoY
Projected energy deployment
Analyst range
US$0.32-0.48
EPS estimate range
AVG
LOW US$0.32AVG US$0.41HIGH US$0.48
The US$0.16 analyst range shows there is still a lot of uncertainty. The main question is how weaker vehicle deliveries compare with stronger, higher-margin energy storage contributions. A result above US$0.48 would suggest the autonomy and battery story is improving faster than the bear case expects.
Key factors that could move the result
Automotive gross margin
This is the most important number for Tesla’s core business. Markets want to see whether price cuts have started to settle, or whether margins are still under pressure.
Benchmark: 17% (excluding credits)
Energy storage (Megapacks)
This is the more durable growth story. Strong Megapack deployment and battery margins could help offset weaker vehicle deliveries
Focus: Storage growth versus pressure in the auto business
Full Self-Driving (FSD) & Robotaxi
This is the main narrative driver. Markets will watch for updates on FSD adoption and the robotaxi timeline to judge whether the move towards “physical AI” is becoming more credible.
Watch: Timing for next-generation autonomy technology
Regulatory credits
This is a quality check on the result. If EPS is boosted too much by credit sales, some traders may see the beat as less durable.
Watch: How much credit sales contribute to final EPS
Trade Execution: $TSLA
Earnings reaction framework: Q1 2026
Bull case
EPS above US$0.45, energy margins at 20%+ | FSD take rates rising
The result clears the top-tier analyst range. Commentary focuses on FSD scaling and Megapack production ramps rather than vehicle discounting. FY26 guidance is reaffirmed.
Possible reaction: stronger momentum, with short covering adding support
Base case
EPS between US$0.38 and US$0.43, auto margins stable | Near target
The result is close to expectations, but there is no major surprise from the energy business. The market stays focused on the robotaxi timeline. The initial move may be limited if the product mix looks unchanged.
Possible reaction: range-bound trading or a muted early response
Bear case
EPS below US$0.35, auto margins drop below 16% | Signs of FSD delays
The result misses even cautious expectations. Rising inventory suggests more discounting may be needed. The market starts to question whether the level of spending on AI and autonomy is too high.
Possible reaction: rotation out of the stock, especially if growth confidence weakens
Sentiment Analysis · Tesla Inc.
Interactive scenario analysis: $TSLA
Select earnings outcome
Growth momentum
Strong result, helped by energy and FSD
FSD and Energy do better than expected, which helps offset weaker car deliveries. Management gives the market more confidence that autonomy is getting closer to real revenue. Auto margins staying above 17% would also help.
EPS Outcome
Above US$0.45
Energy Signal
On track
Margins
At or above 17%
Possible reaction
Strong rally
Sources & Data Methodology
Sources: Reporting dates and release times are from company investor relations calendars where marked Confirmed; otherwise they are GO Markets estimates. Consensus EPS, revenue and analyst-range data are sourced from Bloomberg and Earnings Whispers, as at 14 April 2026 (AEDT). Company guidance, backlog and operating metrics are sourced from the latest company filings, results presentations or investor relations materials unless stated otherwise. Any scenario analysis reflects GO Markets analysis. Figures and schedules may change without notice.
Expanded Coverage
AI isn’t the only trade this earnings season.
From data centres to defence, see why JPMorgan and the big defence players are on our radar for March.
If Tesla is the market’s test of whether physical AI can become a business, NextEra is a test of whether the power buildout behind AI is starting to show up more clearly in utility economics.
That is what makes the shift from Tesla to NextEra interesting: one is about ambition and platform narrative and the other is about power, contracts, infrastructure and return on capital.
$NEE| Q1 2026 REPORTING PERIOD
NextEra Energy, Inc.
NYSE | Utilities | 23 Apr 2026
Confirmed
Global Release Countdown (BMO)
00:00:00:00
Consensus EPS
US$0.91
Consensus Revenue
US$7.17bn
AU/ASIA23 Apr | 9:35 pm
US/LATAM23 Apr | 7:35 am
Market Intelligence: $NEE
Analysis: NEE price drivers and scenarios
Backlog
About 29.8 GW
Total Energy Resources backlog
Growth target
8%+ a year
Adjusted EPS growth through 2032
Analyst range
US$0.88-1.06
Q1 EPS estimate range
AVG
LOW US$0.88AVG US$0.92HIGH US$1.06
The main question is simple: can NextEra turn big growth plans into real progress? Traders want to see whether rising power demand, especially from AI, is starting to show up in results, contracts and project execution.
Trade Execution: $NEE
Key signals to watch
Contract conversion
One of the biggest proof points. Markets want to see whether strong customer interest is turning into signed agreements and clearer revenue visibility.
Signal: More large-load agreements signed
Natural gas and power buildout
Traders will watch for clearer milestones on the approved gas buildout and capacity plan to meet rising power demand.
Focus: Buildout timeline and project execution
Funding and capital discipline
Investors will want to know whether funding plans look manageable after the recent equity raise and the impact of financing costs.
Watch: Funding risk and capital pressure
Rate base and earnings outlook
Markets look for healthy rate-base growth and signs that rising demand can support long-term earnings growth.
Focus: Guidance, rate-base growth and EPS visibility
Sentiment Analysis · NextEra Energy
Interactive scenario analysis: $NEE
Select earnings outcome
Upside momentum
Strong result, backed by real progress
EPS comes in above US$1.06. Management shows better contract progress and clearer steps on new power projects. That would suggest the backlog is moving closer to real revenue.
EPS Outcome
Above US$1.06
Infrastructure Signal
More contracts signed
Possible reaction
Sentiment improves
Sources & Data Methodology
Sources: Reporting dates and release times are from company investor relations calendars where marked Confirmed; otherwise they are GO Markets estimates. Consensus EPS, revenue and analyst-range data are sourced from Bloomberg and Earnings Whispers, as at 14 April 2026 (AEDT). Company guidance, backlog and operating metrics are sourced from the latest company filings or results presentations. Any scenario analysis reflects GO Markets analysis. Figures and schedules may change without notice.
From power to oil
If NextEra reflects the electricity side of the real economy story, Exxon Mobil reflects the fuel side. That matters in a market where supply risk can still reset inflation expectations, shift sector leadership and change how traders think about defensiveness.
$XOM| Q1 2026 REPORTING PERIOD
Exxon Mobil Corporation
NYSE | Energy | 1 May 2026
Confirmed
Global Release Countdown (BMO)
00:00:00:00
Consensus EPS
US$1.66
Consensus Revenue
US$82.47bn
AU/ASIA1 May | 8:30 pm
US/LATAM1 May | 6:30 am
Market Intelligence: $XOM
Analysis: XOM price drivers and scenarios
Liquids pricing effect
US$1.9-2.3bn
Support from stronger oil prices
Energy products timing
-US$3.3-4.1bn
Downstream timing drag
Analyst range
US$1.60-$1.85
Q1 EPS estimate range
AVG
LOW US$1.60AVG US$1.66HIGH US$1.85
The key question for Exxon Mobil is straightforward: can stronger oil and gas pricing offset weaker volumes and downstream pressure? For traders, this is a test of earnings quality, if prices do the lifting, the market may still want proof that operations are holding up.
Trade Execution: $XOM
Key signals to watch
Realised pricing
Markets want to see whether stronger oil and gas prices were enough to offset weaker production volumes.
Signal: Price strength vs Volume pressure
Timing and quality
Commentary on whether the downstream timing drag is temporary or a sign of deeper margin pressure.
Focus: Accounting effect vs Headwind
Guyana and Upstream
Markets want steady production growth from Guyana to keep the long-term story intact.
Watch: Delivery and Resilience
Refining margins
Even if crude helps, weaker refining or chemicals performance could limit the overall upside.
Focus: Downstream offset levels
Sentiment Analysis · Exxon Mobil
Interactive scenario analysis: $XOM
Select earnings outcome
Pricing offsets disruption
Strong result, with pricing support doing enough
EPS above US$1.85. Higher realised pricing more than offsets weaker volumes, and management suggests timing drag was less severe than expected. Upstream updates stay constructive.
EPS Outcome
Above US$1.85
Timing Impact
Smaller than feared
Possible reaction
Sentiment improves
Sources & Data Methodology
Sources: Reporting dates from company investor relations calendars; otherwise they are GO Markets estimates. Consensus EPS, revenue and analyst-range data from Bloomberg and Earnings Whispers as at 14 April 2026 (AEDT). Any scenario analysis reflects GO Markets analysis. Figures and schedules may change without notice.
The Bottom Line
The 2026 Reality Check
This late-April energy cluster is about more than three company reports. It is a live test of what the market wants to pay for in 2026.
Tesla ($TSLA)
Autonomy and energy shifting from promise to proof.
NextEra ($NEE)
Electricity demand turning into practical utility growth.
Exxon ($XOM)
Oil strength translating into durable earnings power.
Taken together, they offer a useful read on the part of the market that looks more physical, more capital-intensive and, for many traders, more real.
Your next earnings setup starts here
Stay ahead of major beats, misses, and market surprises. Log in to your terminal, open a new account, or explore our dedicated earnings academy.
El anuncio del alto el fuego del 8 de abril y las discusiones paralelas en torno a una tregua de 45 días no han resuelto la interrupción del Estrecho de Ormuz. Por ahora, han puesto un tope al peor escenario posible, pero el tráfico de petroleros se mantiene en una fracción de los niveles normales y la demanda iraní de tarifas de tránsito señala un cambio estructural, no temporal.
Lo que comenzó como un conflicto regional se ha convertido en un shock energético global, y la pregunta para los mercados ya no es si Ormuz fue interrumpido, sino cómo permanentemente la interrupción cambia el piso de precios para el petróleo.
Puntos clave
Alrededor de 20 millones de barriles por día (bpd) de petróleo y productos derivados del petróleo normalmente pasan por el Estrecho de Ormuz entre Irán y Omán, lo que equivale a aproximadamente una quinta parte del consumo mundial de petróleo y aproximadamente el 30% del comercio mundial de petróleo marítimo.
Esto es un choque de flujo, no un problema de inventario. Los mercados petroleros dependen del rendimiento continuo, no del almacenamiento de información estático.
Si la interrupción persiste más allá de unas pocas semanas, el Brent podría pasar de un pico a corto plazo a un shock de precios más amplio, con riesgo de estanflación.
El tráfico de petroleros a través del estrecho cayó de alrededor de 135 barcos por día a menos de 15 en el pico de interrupción, una reducción de aproximadamente 85%, con más de 150 embarcaciones ancladas, desviadas o retrasadas.
El 8 de abril se anunció un alto el fuego de dos semanas, con negociaciones de tregua de 45 días en curso. Irán ha señalado por separado una demanda de tarifas de tránsito para los buques que utilizan el estrecho, lo que, de formalizar, representaría un piso geopolítico permanente en los costos de energía.
Los mercados han comenzado a alejarse del crecimiento y la exposición tecnológica hacia los nombres de energía y defensa, lo que refleja la opinión de que el petróleo elevado se está convirtiendo en un costo estructural en lugar de una prima de riesgo temporal.
Institutional Grade Performance
Master the Markets with MetaTrader 5
Trade hundreds of instruments with superior speed and advanced technical analysis. Harness full EA functionality to execute your strategy.
El punto de choque petrolero más crítico del mundo
El Estrecho de Ormuz maneja aproximadamente 20 millones de barriles diarios de petróleo y productos derivados del petróleo, lo que equivale a alrededor del 20% del consumo mundial de petróleo y alrededor del 30% del comercio mundial de petróleo marítimo. Con la demanda mundial de petróleo cercana a los 104 millones de bpd y la capacidad sobrante limitada, el mercado ya estaba fuertemente equilibrado antes de la última escalada.
El estrecho también es un corredor crítico para el gas natural licuado. Alrededor de 290 millones de metros cúbicos de GNL transitaron por la ruta cada día en promedio en 2024, lo que representa aproximadamente el 20% del comercio mundial de GNL, siendo los mercados asiáticos el principal destino.
La Agencia Internacional de Energía (AIE) ha descrito a Ormuz como el punto de choque del tránsito petrolero más importante del mundo, señalando que incluso las interrupciones parciales pueden desencadenar movimientos desmedidos de precios. El crudo Brent se ha movido por encima de los 100 dólares el barril, lo que refleja tanto la estanqueidad física como una prima de riesgo geopolítico al alza.
Fuente: Administración de Información Energética de Estados Unidos, de fecha 17 de junio de 2025, utilizando el promedio diario de 2024
Tanques inactivos a medida que los flujos son lentos
Los datos de envío y seguros ahora apuntan a tensión en tiempo real. Se informa que más de 85 grandes transportistas de crudo están varados en el Golfo Pérsico, mientras que más de 150 embarcaciones han sido ancladas, desviadas o retrasadas a medida que los operadores reevalúan la cobertura de seguridad y seguros. Eso dejaría un estimado de 120 millones a 150 millones de barriles de crudo inactivos en el mar.
Esos volúmenes representan solo de seis a siete días de rendimiento normal de Hormuz, o un poco más de un día de consumo mundial de petróleo.
Los datos actualizados de envío y seguros confirman ahora que más de 150 embarcaciones han sido ancladas, desviadas o retrasadas, por encima de las 85 reportadas inicialmente. Los 1.3 días de cobertura de consumo mundial del crudo inactivo siguen siendo la limitación vinculante: se trata de un shock de flujo, no un problema de almacenamiento, y el alto el fuego aún no se ha traducido en un rendimiento restaurado de manera significativa.
🌋 Trump, volatility and Hormuz.
As tariff shocks collide with a ten year extreme in oil positioning, the margin for error is zero. See the technical markers and safe haven pivots defining the current risk environment.
Un mercado basado en el flujo, no en el almacenamiento de información
Los mercados petroleros funcionan en movimiento continuo. Las refinerías, las plantas petroquímicas y las cadenas de suministro mundiales están calibradas para lograr entregas estables a lo largo de rutas marítimas predecibles. Cuando los flujos a través de un punto de choque que lleva aproximadamente una quinta parte del consumo mundial de petróleo y alrededor del 30% del comercio mundial de petróleo marítimo se interrumpen, el sistema puede pasar del equilibrio al déficit en cuestión de días.
La capacidad de producción sobrante, concentrada en gran medida dentro de la OPEP, se estima en sólo 3 millones a 5 millones de bpd. Eso queda muy por debajo de los volúmenes en riesgo si los flujos de Ormuz se ven gravemente perturbados.
GO Markets — Idle Tankers: Days of Cover
Oil market analysis
How long do idle tankers last?
135M idle barrels — days of cover against each demand benchmark
vs. Strait of Hormuz daily flow (20M bbl/day)
6.75 daysof Hormuz throughput covered
6.75 days
0
5
10
15
20
25
30 days
vs. Global oil consumption (104M bbl/day)
1.3 daysof world demand covered
1.3 days
0
5
10
15
20
25
30 days
vs. US Strategic Petroleum Reserve release (1M bbl/day)
135 daysof full SPR release pace covered
135 days — but SPR exists to replace this role
0
5
10
15
20
25
30 days
135M
idle barrels on tankers (midpoint of 120–150M range)
~33%
of daily Hormuz flow that is idle storage, not transit
<31 hrs
is all idle storage against global daily consumption
Indicative market trajectories based on disruption severity
Scenarios for the weeks ahead
1–2 WEEKS
Ceasefire catch-up
Markets face catch-up repricing. Brent could consolidate in the US$105–US$115 range as risk premia unwind. Brent may trade lower (US$95–US$110) if strategic stocks bridge the temporary shortfall.
2–4 WEEKS
Infrastructure blitz
Shifts to structural supply shock. Brent moving toward US$150–US$200 cannot be ruled out. This is the stagflation trigger where energy costs constrain central bank flexibility.
STRUCTURAL
Geopolitical floor
Iran's transit fee demand creates a permanent input cost. The pre-crisis price structure (US$60–US$70) may not return, embedded in insurance and freight rates.
Critical Threshold
US$120 remains the level at which energy inflation becomes a direct Federal Reserve policy problem.
Riesgos de inflación y macroderrames
El impacto inflacionario de un choque petrolero suele llegar en oleadas. Los precios más altos del combustible y la energía pueden elevar rápidamente la inflación general a medida que los costos de gasolina, diésel y energía se muevan al alza.
Con el tiempo, los mayores costos de energía pueden pasar por fletes, alimentos, manufactura y servicios. Si la perturbación persiste, la combinación de una inflación elevada y un crecimiento más lento podría elevar el riesgo de un entorno estanflacionario y dejar a los bancos centrales enfrentando una difícil compensación.
🛢️ Brent hits $100.
Exxon and SLB are leading the rotation out of tech. Get the price targets and technical support levels for the top 5 energy majors.
Sin compensación fácil, un sistema con poca holgura
Lo que hace que el episodio actual sea particularmente agudo es la falta de holgura en el sistema global.
La oferta y la demanda mundiales cerca de 103 millones a 104 millones de bpd dejan poco colchón de sobra cuando un punto de choque que maneja casi 20 millones de bpd, o cerca de una quinta parte del consumo mundial de petróleo, se ve comprometido. La capacidad sobrante estimada de 3 millones a 5 millones de bpd, en su mayoría dentro de la OPEP, cubriría sólo una fracción de los volúmenes en riesgo.
Las rutas alternativas, incluidas las tuberías que eluden Ormuz y el envío reencaminado, solo pueden compensar parcialmente los flujos perdidos, y generalmente a un costo más alto y con plazos de entrega más largos.
Conclusión
Hasta que se restablezca el tránsito por el Estrecho de Ormuz y se vea como creíblemente seguro, es probable que los flujos mundiales de petróleo sigan deteriorados y las primas de riesgo sean elevadas. Para los inversionistas, los formuladores de políticas y los tomadores de decisiones corporativas, la pregunta central es si el petróleo puede moverse hacia donde necesita ir, todos los días, sin interrupción.
Market Opportunity
Don't just watch the squeeze. Trade the framework.
As positioning gaps hit decade extremes, access advanced charting tools and real time execution on the six key markets defining this cycle.
.jpeg)
