UK DATA: Unemployment Rate Rises To 7.2% In

UK DATA: Unemployment Rate Rises To 7.2% In Oct-Dec Vs 7.1% Sep-Nov
-Jan Claimant Count Falls 27,600; Rate falls to 3.6% Vs 3.7% Dec
-Dec Claimant Count Fall Revised to 27,700 Vs 24,000 Previous Estimate
-Oct-Dec Total Earnings 1.1% 3m/3m y/y vs 0.9% previous 3m

AUSSIE: Fresh wave of demand lifts the aussie.

AUSSIE: Fresh wave of demand lifts the aussie through overnight highs to
$0.9037. The rate holds firm at typing with offers remaining on approach to
$0.9045/50, a break opens tech resistance at $0.9079/81 (38.2% of
$0.9757-0.8660, 18 Feb high).

AUSSIE: MNI Fundamental levels (orders, options,.....

AUSSIE: MNI Fundamental levels (orders, options, technicals)
*$0.9145/50 Strong offers
*$0.9136 100-day ma
*$0.9120 Large stops

OIL: After breaking above initial resistance at......

OIL: After breaking above initial resistance at $102.97 (Oct 16 high) in after
hours action Tuesday, the front NYMEX contract

Japan and Australia resume EPA talks

Japan and Australia are still making efforts behind closed doors to conclude a free-trade agreement. Japanese tariffs on Australian beef are a major stumbling block in the talks.

USD, AUD Down, Rupiah Up

The US dollar fell after a surprisingly weak retail sales and jobs reports. The euro gained against the dollar as a result. Interestingly, the euro barely moved after Italy’s Prime Minister said he will resign on Friday, paving the way for a third administration in 12 months.

USD, AUD Up