Australian employment data and the Asian-session shock

[Amanhasnoname]

Australian labor force figures are released in the Asian morning, around 11:30 local time, and the data can move AUD pairs sharply. The numbers are known for volatility and revisions, and surprises are common.

For scalpers in Europe or the Americas, the release lands in the early hours, outside normal activity. For those in Asia, it is a key event of the month.

The reaction tends to be fast, with spreads widening and liquidity gaps. The first move may be reversed as details, such as the split between full-time and part-time jobs, are considered.

Because the market is less liquid than during London or New York hours, moves can overshoot, then retrace.

The approach is the same as with other data: stay out of the minutes surrounding the release, then evaluate. Historic examples show the range of reactions and how long the volatility lasted.

If the system runs automatically around the clock, make sure the news filter covers Asian data as well, since many filters focus on US and European events.

Does the news filter include the Australian and New Zealand data releases?