AUD/JPY Price Forecast: Uptrend Stalls Near Yearly High as RSI Momentum Fades

The Australian dollar against the Japanese yen (AUD/JPY) has encountered resistance near its year-to-date high, with technical indicators signaling a potential pause in the recent uptrend. The Relative Strength Index (RSI) has flattened, suggesting that buying momentum may be waning after a sustained rally.

AUD/JPY Technical Overview: Key Levels and Momentum Shift

The AUD/JPY pair has been on a steady climb since early 2025, driven by a combination of hawkish Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) policy expectations and a weaker yen amid the Bank of Japan’s (BoJ) cautious normalization path. However, the pair now faces resistance near the 98.50–99.00 zone, a level not seen since late 2024.

The flattening RSI, which had been in overbought territory above 70, now hovers around 65–68. This divergence between price action and momentum often precedes a consolidation phase or a minor pullback. Traders are watching for a break above the YTD high at 99.20 to confirm continuation, or a drop below the 20-day moving average near 97.50 to signal a deeper correction.

Fundamental Drivers: Diverging Monetary Policy Paths

The AUD/JPY uptrend has been supported by the RBA’s firm stance on inflation, with markets pricing in a potential rate hike later this year. In contrast, the BoJ has maintained ultra-loose policy despite modest inflation, keeping the yen under pressure.

Recent data showing resilient Australian employment and steady Chinese demand for commodities have also bolstered the Aussie. Meanwhile, Japan’s trade deficit and subdued wage growth have limited yen upside. However, any hawkish surprise from the BoJ or a risk-off shift in global markets could reverse the pair’s trajectory.

Market Implications for Forex Traders

For traders, the current technical setup suggests caution. The flattening RSI does not guarantee a reversal, but it reduces the probability of an immediate breakout. Key support levels to monitor include 97.50 (20-day MA) and 96.80 (50-day MA). A break above 99.20 would open the door to the 100.00 psychological level.

Volume and volatility are expected to remain elevated ahead of the next RBA and BoJ policy meetings, scheduled for early next month. Traders should also watch for any commentary from central bank officials that could shift rate expectations.

Conclusion

The AUD/JPY pair is at a critical juncture, with the uptrend stalling near yearly highs and momentum fading. While the fundamental backdrop remains supportive for the Aussie, technical signals warrant a watchful approach. A clear break above resistance or a drop below support will likely determine the next directional move. Traders should manage risk carefully amid the evolving central bank landscape.

FAQs

Q1: What does a flattening RSI mean for AUD/JPY?
A flattening RSI indicates that buying momentum is weakening, often preceding a consolidation or a short-term pullback. It does not guarantee a reversal but suggests the uptrend may be losing steam.

Q2: What are the key resistance and support levels for AUD/JPY?
Resistance is near the year-to-date high at 99.20, with the 100.00 level as the next target. Support is at 97.50 (20-day moving average) and 96.80 (50-day moving average).

Q3: How do RBA and BoJ policies affect AUD/JPY?
A hawkish RBA (raising rates or signaling hikes) strengthens the Australian dollar, while a dovish BoJ (keeping rates low) weakens the yen. The divergence in policy paths has been a key driver of the AUD/JPY uptrend.