Oil prices fell as a stronger USD offset the Red Sea supply crisis. OPEC may need to restrict supply further to balance the market. WTI crude fell below the bearish flag-shaped support line, and the space below may open.

GBP/USD faces a downturn following an unexpected 3.2% drop in UK retail sales for December, hitting the lowest level since January 2021. Economic challenges, including high inflation and borrowing costs, contribute to this decline. The Bank of England grapples with a potential rate cut amidst unexpected increases in December inflation.

The Nasdaq 100 recently hit an all-time high at 16,969.00 Index Points, marking an impressive 50.18% increase over the last year. In the past four weeks, the US Tech 100 Index gained 0.9%, showcasing a robust upward trend. The stock market closed on a positive note, with substantial gains on Thursday, fueled by strong performances from major tech companies.

The recent surge in U.S. Treasury bond yields, fueled by strong economic data and hawkish Federal Reserve comments, has significantly impacted the USD/JPY pair, widening the gap between the two currencies. The Japanese yen faces downward pressure not only due to the rise in U.S. bond yields but also because of Japan's slower-than-expected core consumer price index increase, reducing speculation about a gradual exit from massive monetary stimulus. The article highlights the intricate relationship between fundamental factors, like economic indicators and central bank policies, and technical analysis in predicting and navigating the currency market

The Japanese yen faces instability with a 4.98% decline in January, erasing December gains. Trading at 148.04 against the US dollar, speculation on breaching 150 prompts concerns of currency intervention. The Bank of Japan's potential policy tightening adds uncertainty, with focus on Friday's Japan’s Core CPI release (estimated at 2.3%).

Today's oscillating range is expected to be 72.0-75.0, and it is better to buy low and sell high.