Ella 
In early Asian trading on Friday, the AUD/USD lost rebound momentum. The U.S. dollar (USD) rebounded from its lowest level since July near 100.85 before moving back up to 101.25. Markets are likely to be calm on the last trading day of 2023 as economic data is light and remains in holiday mode. AUD/USD is currently trading around 0.6830, down 0.02% on the daily basis.
Data released on Thursday showed that the number of initial jobless claims in the United States rose to 218,000 in the week ended December 23, which was better than the expected value of 210,000. Continuing claims for unemployment benefits were 1.875 million, the highest level in four weeks. Finally, pending home sales were flat in November, missing consensus expectations for a 1% increase.
The minutes of the RBA meeting showed that members agreed to wait and see further data to assess how the balance of risks was changing. However, there were encouraging signs that progress in the economic situation towards achieving the board’s objectives needed to continue. . Traders will look to the quarterly consumer price index due out on Jan. 31 for evidence that inflation continues to fall. The Reserve Bank of Australia will hold its first board meeting of 2024 on February 5 and 6.
Additionally, the Chicago PMI for December will be released later on Friday. However, given the light trading volume, this data may not have a significant impact on the market.
