02.04.202508:50 Forex Analysis & Reviews: USD/JPY: Simple Trading Tips for Beginner Traders on April 2. Review of Yesterday's Forex Trades

Analysis of Trades and Trading Tips for the Japanese Yen

The price test at 149.27 occurred when the MACD indicator had already moved significantly below the zero line, which limited the pair's downside potential. For this reason, I did not sell the dollar. Throughout the day, I did not encounter any other suitable entry points.

Weak U.S. Manufacturing PMI data put pressure on the dollar and helped the Japanese yen strengthen. The PMI index, which reflects business activity in the manufacturing sector, came in below analysts' expectations, raising concerns about the outlook for U.S. economic growth. This, in turn, reduced the dollar's appeal. The yen, traditionally considered a safe-haven currency, benefited from the situation. Additional support for the yen comes from expectations of a possible shift in the Bank of Japan's monetary policy.

Today's relatively weak report on Japan's monetary base had little impact on the yen's exchange rate against the dollar. However, that does not mean the country's economy is stable. Many economists note a slowdown in growth, which could trigger more market volatility. Still, short-term fluctuations in the yen may be tied to global factors, such as changes in U.S. trade policy toward several developed nations. We'll get more details later today, so be prepared for increased market volatility.

For intraday strategy, I will focus primarily on implementing Scenarios #1 and #2.

Buy Signal

Scenario #1: I plan to buy USD/JPY today upon reaching the entry point around 150.03 (green line on the chart), targeting a rise to 150.60 (thicker green line). Near 150.60, I plan to exit long positions and open short positions in the opposite direction (expecting a 30–35 pip reversal). The best time to buy the pair is during pullbacks or significant dips. Important: Before buying, ensure the MACD indicator is above the zero line and beginning to rise.

Scenario #2: I also plan to buy USD/JPY if the price tests the 149.69 level twice in a row while the MACD is in oversold territory. This will limit the pair's downside and trigger a bullish reversal. A rise toward 150.03 and 150.60 can then be expected.

Sell Signal

Scenario #1: I plan to sell USD/JPY only after breaking below 149.69 (red line on the chart), which could lead to a rapid decline. The key target for sellers will be 149.07, where I intend to exit short positions and open immediate longs (expecting a 20–25 pip bounce). Important: Before selling, ensure the MACD is below the zero line and starting to fall from it.

Scenario #2: I also plan to sell USD/JPY if the price tests 150.03 twice in a row, with the MACD in overbought territory. This will limit upside potential and lead to a bearish reversal. A decline toward 149.69 and 149.07 may follow.

What's on the Chart:

• The thin green line represents the entry price where the trading instrument can be bought.
• The thick green line indicates the expected price level where a Take Profit order can be placed, or profits can be manually secured, as further price growth above this level is unlikely.
• The thin red line represents the entry price where the trading instrument can be sold.
• The thick red line indicates the expected price level where a Take Profit order can be placed, or profits can be manually secured, as further price decline below this level is unlikely.
• The MACD indicator should be used to assess overbought and oversold zones when entering the market.

Important Notes:

• Beginner Forex traders should exercise extreme caution when making market entry decisions. It is advisable to stay out of the market before the release of important fundamental reports to avoid exposure to sharp price fluctuations. If you choose to trade during news releases, always use stop-loss orders to minimize potential losses. Trading without stop-loss orders can quickly wipe out your entire deposit, especially if you neglect money management principles and trade with high volumes.
• Remember, successful trading requires a well-defined trading plan, similar to the one outlined above. Making impulsive trading decisions based on the current market situation is a losing strategy for intraday traders.