Scotiabank analysts observe CAD remains stable, influenced by diminished risk appetite despite narrowing spreads

    by VT Markets
    /
    Oct 18, 2025

    The Canadian Dollar is largely unchanged but saw a brief increase before returning to a lower trading range. A weak risk appetite may pose challenges; however, narrowing US/Canada spreads could offer some support. Current spreads have narrowed by 15bps over the past few weeks, indicating a potential mispricing of the Canadian Dollar.

    Charts indicate that the USD maintains a strong tone, with support around 1.4000 helping to sustain the uptrend. Intraday support is at 1.4020 with resistance at 1.4065/75. Market observations are regularly updated by journalists for FXStreet Insights, including changes in currency trading and financial market movements.

    Recent Developments in Currency Market

    Recent developments include USD strength as US-China tariff tensions ease, while CAD rebounds due to a receding USD. The US Dollar demand increased, affecting pairs like EUR/USD and USD/JPY. Upcoming data such as US and Canadian CPI, UK inflation figures, and Eurozone flash PMIs could impact central bank rate cut expectations.

    Cryptocurrency market liquidations have exceeded $1 billion in 24 hours. BNB, Solana, and Cardano experienced over 10% declines, marking them as the largest losers among the top cryptocurrencies. Investing in financial markets comes with risks, including potential losses.

    We see the Canadian Dollar is struggling to gain ground, with the USD/CAD exchange rate holding firm above the critical 1.4000 level. This pressure persists despite the narrowing of US-Canada interest rate spreads, which would normally provide the loonie some support. The market’s weak appetite for risk seems to be the main driver keeping the US dollar in demand.

    The recent drop in WTI crude oil prices, which fell below $80 a barrel this month, is a significant headwind for the commodity-linked Canadian currency. Adding to this, the latest jobs report for September 2025 from Statistics Canada showed a disappointing gain of only 5,200 jobs, far below expectations and fueling bets that the Bank of Canada will have to consider easing policy. This economic softness makes the CAD less attractive compared to the US dollar.

    Technical Indicators and Market Strategies

    The technical chart suggests we are in a consolidation phase, holding at levels not consistently seen since the market volatility of late 2022. For now, the low 1.4000s are acting as a strong floor for the US dollar. Traders should watch for initial support at 1.4020, with a break below 1.3970 needed to signal a real change in direction.

    Given the general market uncertainty, underscored by the CBOE Volatility Index (VIX) holding above 20 for two straight weeks, using options to manage risk is a sensible approach. Buying USD/CAD call options could allow traders to profit from a potential move towards 1.4100 while defining their maximum loss. This strategy is particularly relevant with major inflation data for both Canada and the US due in the coming weeks.

    The upcoming Canadian Consumer Price Index (CPI) report will be a key event, as a soft reading would intensify pressure on the Bank of Canada to cut rates. Conversely, the US CPI and PMI data will test the market’s dovish view on the Federal Reserve. Any sign of persistent US inflation could quickly send the US dollar higher across the board.

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