AUD/USD (Aussie): the Australian dollar and commodities
Updated 2026-09-20
What AUD/USD is, why it's tied to commodities and risk sentiment, what moves it and when to trade it.
What it is
AUD/USD, called "Aussie", compares the Australian dollar with the US dollar. Australia is a major commodity exporter (iron ore, coal, gold) and its currency is sensitive to global growth and China.
What moves it
- Reserve Bank of Australia decisions
- Chinese economic data and commodity prices
- Risk sentiment: in risk-appetite phases it tends to strengthen, in fearful ones to weaken
- Fed policy and dollar strength
When to trade it
It is active in the Asian session and at the London open. Australian and Chinese data come out overnight for Europe.
Correlations
It is positively correlated with NZD/USD and, in general, with equity indices. It tends to move together with EUR/USD against the dollar.
Live chart
Frequently asked questions
Why does AUD/USD rise when markets are confident?
Because the AUD is considered a "risky" currency with a higher yield than haven currencies and benefits from commodity demand.
Related entries
Want to compare notes with other traders?
Join the community to share ideas and questions, or the free signal room on Telegram.
Educational content, not financial advice. Trading involves risk.