USD lower, yields whacked on renewed Fed-cut betsEven as recently as two weeks ago, the thought of fed cuts were in the distant past. Yet a slew of weak data from the US since Friday including two consumer sentiment reports and a surprise PMI miss has seen markets reconsider a 25bp Fed cut in June. Today I cover bond yields, the US dollar index and futures exposure to update my dollar outlook.
Matt Simpson, Market Analyst at City Index and Forex.com
Fed
USD/JPY: Liquidity Grab Below Weekly LowThe chart shows that the price has grabbed liquidity below the weekly low, potentially triggering a bullish reaction. Analyzing the current USD/JPY situation, recent economic data highlights bearish pressure on the dollar due to declining consumer confidence in the U.S. and expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts, while the yen is strengthening on the back of more solid economic indicators. Technically, the price has rejected a key demand zone and remains below the psychological threshold of 150.00, which acts as a crucial resistance. If the price confirms a bullish structure on lower timeframes, we could see an upward move towards the 152.00-152.50 area, aligning with a supply zone and moving average confluence. However, a close below recent lows could invalidate this outlook, paving the way for a further drop toward the next support at 146.00.
Gold Prices Stay Fundamentally Strong Despite Profit-TakingMacro:
- Gold prices corrected as investors took profits following a brief consolidation near recent highs but maintained an upward bias amid uncertainty over Trump's tariffs and policy plans.
- Meanwhile, strong ETF inflows and weak US economic data, reinforcing rate cut expectations for Jul, supported gold prices.
- All focus is on this week's core PCE release to gauge gold's short-term direction.
Technical:
- XAUUSD topped out around 2952, confluence with the 200% Fibo Extension. The price is still above both EMAs and the ascending trendline, indicating the upward structure is still intact.
- If XAUUSD breaks below the ascending trendline and the support at 2880, the price may prompt a further correction to retest the following support at 2790.
- On the contrary, if XAUUSD stays above 2880, the price may retest the previous swing high of around 2952.
Analysis by: Dat Tong, Senior Financial Markets Strategist at Exness
Dollar weakens amid growing economic uncertainty
Persistent tariff threats from the Trump administration and rising concerns over the U.S. economy are weighing on the dollar. Trump reaffirmed his commitment to implementing tariffs on Mexico and Canada according to schedule and reiterated the need for reciprocal tariffs. Meanwhile, weak consumer confidence data further rattled investor sentiment, as the February CB Consumer Confidence Index plunged to 98.3 from 105.3, marking its lowest level since June last year.
In Japan, accelerating inflation increases the likelihood of a BoJ rate hike. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Japan’s January CPI rose 3.2%, the largest increase since June 2023. Bloomberg noted that with Japan's inflation among the highest in the G7, the BoJ may continue scaling back stimulus and shifting toward a more restrictive policy stance.
After breaking below the ascending trendline, USDJPY shows a persistent downtrend. After EMA21 death-crossed EMA78, it widens the gap and reinforces the bearish momentum. If USDJPY breaks below the support at 148.20, the price could extend its decline toward 145.00. Conversely, if USDJPY tests the resistance at 150.80, it may gain upward momentum toward 153.40.
EUR/USD Faces Key Resistance Amid Liquidity Grab ExpectationsEUR/USD is undergoing a pullback after reaching a one-month high of 1.0528, closing at 1.04658 on February 24, marking a 0.22% decline from the previous day. The euro's recent strength was driven by post-election stability in Germany, where centrist parties formed a coalition government, boosting market confidence. However, bullish momentum has stalled near key resistance levels around 1.0530 and 1.0560, with the pair struggling to sustain gains above the 100-day simple moving average.
From a technical standpoint, the price is approaching a significant supply zone, where a liquidity grab could occur before a potential downside move. Resistance in this area aligns with broader concerns over Germany's economic outlook and coalition negotiations, which could weaken the euro’s appeal. Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar, despite recent weakness due to declining consumer confidence, remains in a favorable position for a short-term recovery, adding further pressure on EUR/USD.
If the pair fails to break through resistance, a rejection could trigger a decline toward 1.0400, with further downside potential extending to 1.0283. Conversely, if buyers manage to push past the liquidity zone, the next upside targets lie at 1.0530 and 1.0560.
GBP/USD: Bullish Momentum Faces Key ResistanceGBP/USD has reached its highest point since mid-December at 1.2690, primarily driven by the weakness of the US dollar. The pair has shown strong momentum, and as long as it holds above the key support at 1.2520, analysts see potential for further upside toward 1.2725. Positive UK economic data, including better-than-expected retail sales and inflation figures, have reinforced a bullish outlook for the pound. However, minor retracements have been observed, with slight declines following recent gains, such as the 0.05% drop on February 24. Market volatility remains a factor, with geopolitical tensions and fluctuating commodity prices impacting the dollar’s strength. From a technical standpoint, the price is currently testing a resistance zone while approaching key moving averages, which could act as dynamic resistance. The presence of supply zones above suggests that the pair could face selling pressure before a potential continuation higher. If the price fails to sustain above the resistance area, a retracement toward the 1.2520 level and possibly deeper into the 1.2400 region could materialize. Despite the recent bullish momentum, caution is warranted due to broader market uncertainties, and future movements will depend on economic indicators from both the UK and the US, as well as overall market sentiment.
EUR/GBP: Key Support Test Amid Bearish PressureThe analysis of EUR/GBP as of February 24, 2025, presents an interesting technical outlook. The price is testing a key support area around 0.8297 after a modest recovery from the 0.8271 lows. The current setup suggests a potential reaction in this zone, with the possibility of a technical rebound towards higher levels or a more significant bearish breakdown.
From a technical perspective, several key areas stand out: the upper resistance in the 0.8440-0.8460 range represents a critical level for a bullish recovery, while the lower support around 0.8265-0.8240 could act as a catalyst for further downside momentum if broken. Moving average analysis indicates persistent bearish pressure, with both the 50 and 200-period moving averages sloping downward. This reinforces the idea that, despite recent rebounds, the dominant trend remains bearish in the medium term.
From a macroeconomic standpoint, expectations regarding the UK and Eurozone economic outlook are shaping the pair's direction. UK inflation is showing signs of recovery, providing some support for the pound, but uncertainties related to economic growth and Bank of England policies could hinder a sustained strengthening of the British currency. On the other hand, the Eurozone is facing challenges linked to growth stagnation, and the ECB may maintain an accommodative policy to stimulate the economy. These factors create an unstable balance that could lead to heightened volatility in the coming days.
Technical forecasts suggest two possible scenarios: a temporary rebound towards 0.8340-0.8360 before another test of the lows or a direct break below 0.8265, which could open the door for a decline towards 0.8240-0.8220.
GOLD| Approaching Historic Highs Amid Geopolitical UncertaintyThe analysis of XAU/USD highlights a strong bullish trend, closing at approximately $2,939.41 on February 20, 2025, marking a 0.23% increase from the previous day. The recent high of $2,946.83 on February 19 indicates continued positive momentum, driven by geopolitical tensions, inflation concerns, and fears of potential trade wars, all of which have strengthened gold’s status as a safe-haven asset. The current momentum has pushed prices toward historic levels, with the potential to surpass $3,000, supported by a weaker U.S. dollar and declining U.S. yields. The chart shows a key resistance zone around $2,960, with a potential retracement towards the $2,880 area, identified as the first major support level. The current price action suggests a possible pullback before another breakout attempt. If the price consolidates above $2,900, it could accelerate towards new highs, while a break below $2,880 may drive the price toward the next support level around $2,840. The overall outlook remains bullish, with investor interest fueled by global uncertainties and the increasing demand for gold as a hedge against economic risks.
GBP/NZD Analysis: Market Uncertainty Amid Key Technical LevelsThe analysis of GBP/NZD shows recent volatility, with a close at 2.20571 on February 19, 2025, slightly down from the previous day, indicating a phase of market indecision. The previous trend saw moderate progression from February 16 to 18, supported by an increase in UK GDP, which temporarily strengthened the Pound. However, the absence of new economic data left the pair exposed to market sentiment, contributing to the decline on February 19. From a technical perspective, the chart highlights a strong resistance area between 2.21770 and 2.22180, a level that has rejected the price multiple times, suggesting that without a decisive breakout above this zone, the bullish trend may weaken. Conversely, a significant support area is located around 2.17616, a level that has already provided a positive reaction, pushing the price back up. The current price action shows a consolidation phase between these two key levels, with a recent structure of higher lows that could indicate an accumulation attempt before a potential bullish breakout. If the price manages to break above the upper resistance decisively, the next target would be around the recent highs in the 2.24000 area. On the other hand, a break below the 2.17616 support could trigger a decline towards the next key level at 2.15000, where an interesting liquidity zone is present. The combination of the recent positive GDP data and a more cautious market sentiment leaves the pair in a state of uncertainty, with a key reaction expected in the coming days depending on the holding or breaking of the main technical levels.
USD/JPY: Bearish Momentum and Key Support TestThe USD/JPY analysis as of February 18, 2025, shows a clear bearish structure, with the price breaking below key support levels, particularly around 152.70, which aligns with the 200-day moving average. The February 17 close at 151.456 confirms the downward trend after the recent high of 154.79 on February 12, highlighting the weakness of the US dollar against the strengthening Japanese yen. The yen’s appreciation was driven by Japan’s unexpectedly strong GDP data, which showed an annualized growth of 2.8%, far exceeding expectations and fueling speculation of a potential rate hike by the Bank of Japan. In contrast, the US dollar has been under pressure due to weak retail sales data and a general lack of bullish catalysts.
The chart setup highlights a key demand zone between 150.50 and 151.00, where the price is showing an initial reaction, suggesting a possible technical rebound. However, the overall structure remains weak, and unless the price can stabilize above 152.50-153.00, the risk of further downside remains high. The next significant resistance lies between 154.50 and 156.00, an area with concentrated sell orders and a potential reversal point in case of recovery. Conversely, a break below 150.50 would open the way toward 148.00 and even lower levels, with a critical support zone around 146.00.
The short-term trading range could remain between 151.00 and 155.00, with strong dependence on upcoming macroeconomic developments, particularly statements from the Bank of Japan and economic updates from the United States.
GBP/JPY: Uncertainty and Bearish PressuresGBP/JPY has shown a volatile trend in recent sessions, with a combination of ups and downs highlighting a phase of uncertainty. The last closing on February 15, 2025, at 191.618 marks the beginning of a bearish trend after the doji on February 14. This movement reflects a complex dynamic, where macroeconomic and technical factors play a decisive role in price direction. The recent rebound was supported by positive UK GDP data, which helped the pound recover from bearish pressures over the past months. Notably, on February 12, a reversal of the bearish trend occurred, with GBP/JPY starting to regain ground due to an improvement in market sentiment. Additionally, the strengthening of US inflation negatively impacted the Japanese yen, pushing GBP/JPY up by 1.22% around February 12, driven by a weaker yen following the increased strength of the US dollar. However, despite these positive elements, the Bank of England’s monetary policy has introduced uncertainty, with a dovish stance fueling pressure on the pound. The interest rate cut has raised concerns about further depreciation, negatively affecting GBP/JPY. Added to this is the earlier decline in early February, triggered by disappointing UK economic data and expectations of further BoE interventions, which contributed to a widespread bearish sentiment. From a technical perspective, the price is currently in a consolidation phase between 187.610 and 193.120, with a structure suggesting a possible expansion of volatility in the coming weeks. The key resistance at 193.120 represents a critical obstacle for a potential continuation of the bullish trend, while support at 187.610 remains the main level to watch in case of renewed bearish pressure. A breakout above the 193.50 threshold could confirm further pound strengthening, while a break below 188.00 could reopen scenarios of weakness. With a combination of technical and macroeconomic factors in play, GBP/JPY’s trend remains subject to upcoming BoE decisions and the evolution of global economic conditions, making it crucial to monitor upcoming economic releases to determine the market’s direction.
XAUUSD - Gold, no competitors!Gold is located in a 2 -hour timeframe, above EMA200 and EMA50 and is on its uptrend channel. Gold reform to the demand range will provide us with a good risk position for us.
According to Tom Stevenson from Fidelity International, gold remains resilient despite challenges such as high interest rates and a strong dollar, continuing its march towards the $3,000 mark. However, while these fundamental factors persist, he believes that silver could be a more attractive investment option in the future.
Stevenson notes that gold prices have increased tenfold since 2000 and have surged by over $1,000 since late 2023. Yet, he argues that fundamentally, gold should not be this expensive.
He explains: “Historically, precious metals tend to underperform when interest rates rise. This is because, unlike bonds, stocks, cash, or real estate, gold does not generate income for investors. When other assets offer appealing returns, there is less incentive to hold onto what economist John Maynard Keynes once referred to as the ‘barbarous relic.’ This situation remains true today, yet gold continues to set new record highs.”
Stevenson also believes that gold should benefit from a weaker dollar. He states: “Since gold is priced in U.S. dollars, when other currencies strengthen against the dollar, their purchasing power for gold increases.Conversely, when the dollar strengthens, global demand for gold should decline. However, despite Trump’s policies reinforcing the dollar, gold remains on an upward trajectory.”
He concludes that this signals something important to the market: “Gold’s performance suggests that not everything is as stable in the world as some may think. It indicates investor concerns, and history has shown that ignoring gold’s signals during times of uncertainty is a mistake.”
Stevenson further emphasizes that central banks around the world are taking steps to hedge against risks. Since the onset of the Ukraine war and subsequent sanctions, countries like Russia, China, India, and Turkey have increased their gold purchases in an effort to reduce their dependence on the U.S. dollar. He points out that gold has long been recognized as a valuable store of wealth and a diversification tool, as it carries no credit risk unlike paper currencies. According to him, central bank gold purchases in 2024 have surpassed 1,000 tons for the third consecutive year.
Meanwhile, Elon Musk, the world’s richest man and head of the Department of Government Efficiency (D.O.G.E), has shared memes resurfacing old conspiracy theories regarding the status of the U.S. government’s gold reserves at Fort Knox. In response, a prominent politician seized this rare opportunity to call for greater transparency.
Senator Rand Paul, a Republican representative from Kentucky, replied to one of Musk’s posts advocating for an annual audit of Fort Knox, writing, “Let’s do it.” So far, no evidence has surfaced to support Musk’s theory of missing gold, but the status of these reserves remains highly classified.
US30 stalls amid Fed uncertainty and trade policy risks
Macro:
- The Dow remained in a prolonged sideways trend within a tightening range, navigating Fed policy uncertainty, geopolitical risks, and evolving trade policies.
- Markets expect it to stay range-bound until the Trump administration finalizes tariff measures early next month.
Technical:
- US30 is trading in a tight range at the previous top level and awaits an apparent breakout to determine the potential trend.
- If US30 breaks above the resistance at 45000, the index may continue rising to 47146, the 100% Fibonacci Extension level, which is confluence with the Ascending Channel's upper bound.
- On the contrary, a closing below 44000-44200 may prompt a further correction to restest the following support at 43300.
Analysis by: Dat Tong, Senior Financial Markets Strategist at Exness
XAUUSD - Consolidation, what’s next?Here is our in-depth detailed view on XAUUSD . Potential opportunities and what to look out for. This is a detailed overview on the pair sharing possible entries and important Key Levels.
Alright first, taking a look at XAUUSD from a lower time-frame . For this we will be looking at the m15 time-frame .
As of right now, we are consolidating on OANDA:XAUUSD The best “signal” for now is to sit on our hands and wait for a clear break. Right now we are in a range from around 2905.6 and 2896 . Until we get a clear break , we can’t know the direction of the pair just yet. So, breaking down everything and understanding the importance of Key Levels we have several outcomes possibly in play.
Scenario 1: BUYS at the break to the upside (from the consolidation area)
- We broke above our consolidation area.
With the break to the upside, we can expect to see 2915 or a deeper revisit of 2920. At this point we would have to see if we make any pullbacks, possibly revisiting the top of the consolidation area (now becoming our support).
Scenario 2: SELLS at the break to the downside (from the consolidation area)
- We broke below our consolidation area.
With the break to the downside, we can expect to see lower levels such as 2880. At this point we would have to see if we make any pullbacks and continue chugging away to the downside. With the breaks of current lows we have on gold, we can expect drops even down to 2840.
KEY NOTES
- XAUUSD is consolidating.
- Breaks to the upside would confirm buys.
- Breaks to the downside would confirm sells.
- Possible deeper digs to the upside from 2915.
Happy trading!
FxPocket
EURNZD: Key Resistance at 1.8430 and Rejection from HighsAs of February 14, 2025, the EURNZD pair is once again testing the key resistance zone around 1.8430 after showing a clear rejection in previous sessions. The price has reacted from the support zone at 1.8235, which continues to act as a strong defense level for buyers. However, the strong rejection from the weekly resistance area suggests a possible new phase of weakness.
Technical analysis indicates interaction with key moving averages, with the price rebounding from the mid-term moving average but struggling to break through the upper liquidity zone. If the market stays below 1.8435, it could trigger a decline towards 1.8235, and if broken, a further extension towards 1.8100. Conversely, a decisive close above 1.8435 could open the way for a breakout attempt towards 1.8500. The macroeconomic context remains a key factor to monitor, with the strength of the euro and the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s policy likely to influence the future direction of the pair.
Brent Declines Amid Rising Inventories and Peace HopesOn February 13, 2025, Brent crude fell by 0.9% to $74.50 per barrel, driven by expectations of a potential peace deal between Ukraine and Russia, which could ease supply disruptions caused by sanctions. Additionally, U.S. crude inventories increased for the third consecutive week by 4.1 million barrels, surpassing analysts' forecasts. These factors, combined with new U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, have reinforced the bearish sentiment in the oil market.
GBP/JPY: Persistent Bearish Pressure Amid Recovery AttemptsThe GBP/JPY pair has shown recent volatility, attempting a rebound to 188.00 on February 10, breaking a three-day losing streak after hitting the weekly low at 187.00. The Bank of England’s dovish monetary policy, including the recent rate cut, has worsened the bearish sentiment on the pound, while downward revisions in the UK's growth forecasts have further weakened the GBP. Despite recovery attempts above 190.00, economic uncertainty and the central bank's negative outlook keep the risk of further declines high. The price is near a daily FVG, with potential liquidity grabs within and around the 0.62% Fibonacci level before resuming its downward movement.
XAG/USD: Silver Uptrend with Short-Term ConsolidationAs of February 11, 2025, the XAG/USD (Silver Spot/US Dollar) exchange rate exhibits a positive medium-term trend despite a recent short-term slowdown. Currently, the price is around $32.83 per ounce at the time of writing. The first resistance level is identified at $32.24, followed by a second resistance at $32.96. The first support level is at $31.52, with an additional support at $31.21. In the short term, a weakening of the bullish trendline is observed, with the price testing the high at $32.24. Technically, a potential decline towards the $31.21 support level remains possible. Recent political decisions, such as the announcement of a 25% tariff on all steel and aluminum imports to the United States, have impacted financial markets, leading to an appreciation of the US dollar and a decline in stocks. These developments could affect the precious metals market, including silver. Despite the positive medium-term trend, silver is currently undergoing a consolidation phase in the short term.
USD/JPY Approaches 152.00 Amid Yen Weakness and Trade War FearsThe USD/JPY exchange rate is recovering from recent lows, reaching 151.90 on February 10, 2025, compared to the previous close of 151.30. After a significant drop in early February, the trend shows a gradual rebound, supported by the Japanese Yen’s weakness due to disappointing macroeconomic data, particularly the sharp decline in Japan’s current account balance to 1,077.3 billion Yen from November’s 3,352.5 billion Yen. The strength of the US Dollar is also fueled by concerns over new 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum announced by President Trump, driving investors toward safe-haven assets like the Greenback.
From a technical perspective, USD/JPY is nearing the psychological level of 152.00, with key resistance between 152.40 and 152.90. A breakout above this range could signal further gains, while a rejection may trigger a corrective phase. Volatility is heightened by uncertainty surrounding the Fed’s monetary policy, as it may maintain a cautious stance on rates to counter inflationary pressures. Meanwhile, speculation about a potential rate hike by the Bank of Japan (BoJ) could reduce the interest rate differential between the US and Japan.
The Dollar Index (DXY) stands at 108.20, slightly up by 0.1% but down from the intraday high of 108.50, indicating a cautious market sentiment ahead of Fed Chair Jerome Powell’s testimony before Congress on Tuesday and Wednesday. Traders will closely watch his statements for any hints of a policy shift.
EUR/AUD: Weekly Engulfing Bar Pullback!The recent performance of the EUR/AUD exchange rate shows a fluctuating trend, with a slight recovery, closing at approximately 1.6450 in the first week of February. In the preceding days, the rate experienced several declines, with a significant drop. These fluctuations reflect the economic dynamics of both the Eurozone and Australia. In the Eurozone, inflation unexpectedly rose to 2.5% in January, exceeding the European Central Bank’s 2% target for the third consecutive month. Despite this, the ECB plans to continue cutting interest rates, expecting inflation to reach its 2% target over the year. Meanwhile, the Eurozone economy showed no growth in the last quarter of 2024, with contractions in Germany and France and stagnation in Italy. In Australia, the leading economic indicators index increased by 0.2% in October 2024, suggesting a slight economic recovery. However, Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirmed a worsening fiscal deficit, projected to rise by AUD 21.8 billion over the next four years, mainly due to unavoidable expenditures. These economic developments impact the EUR/AUD exchange rate, with the Euro benefiting from a more accommodative monetary policy while Australia faces fiscal challenges. Despite the recent upward movement, the negative trends from previous sessions and technical analysis suggest caution is warranted when assessing the short-term trajectory of the EUR/AUD exchange rate.
2025 Market Outlook - Cautiously Bullish (Important Bar Counts)Hey Everybody,
Thanks for checking out the video. I'm reviewing all major instruments, US and Non US.
US has carried the financial markets since 2020 and 2022 and this year out of the gate we're seeing big runs in "uninvestable" spaces like Europe and China. I say that jokingly because of how bad everything thought non US assets were, but here we are watching DAX, FTSE, and HSI running to double digit gains while the US lags behind.
Will the US catch up and the global economy tide rise to lift all boats or are we truly seeing a catch up trade that will have headwinds uncertainties a plenty? Time will tell.
This week is a holiday shortened trading week, RBA and RBNZ expected to cut rates, Europe and US printing PMI on Friday. BABA and BIDU earnings this week (China related), and NVDA earnings next week (#2 market cap in US).
I discuss the big bar counts that I'm watching closely on SPY, SPX, XSP, RSP, NDX, QQQ, DIA, NVDA, META, NFLX, and others that I believe technically will matter for limited upside momentum without a bigger pause, snapback or correction ahead.
Cautiously optimistic is a perfect play for 2025. I'm off to a good start for the year and intend to keep that way without chasing or doing anything silly.
Thank for watching.
NAS100 - Nasdaq is setting a new ATH!The index is trading above the EMA200 and EMA50 on the 4-hour timeframe and is trading in its ascending channel. If the index corrects towards the marked trend line, which is also intersecting the demand zone, we can look for further buying opportunities in Nasdaq.
At the start of the week, the U.S. dollar strengthened significantly after President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports. He also stated that any country imposing tariffs on American products would face reciprocal tariffs from the U.S. Later, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, in his congressional testimony, emphasized that the central bank is in no hurry to implement further rate cuts. Additionally, data from the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) for January came in higher than expected, further supporting the dollar.
Although the dollar experienced a slight correction on Thursday and Friday, these factors, combined with a strong non-farm payroll report for January, led investors to anticipate a rate cut of only 30 basis points for the year. This outlook is more hawkish than the Federal Reserve’s own forecast of a 50-basis-point reduction. In other words, traders in financial markets have fully priced in just a single 0.25% rate cut by December.
Kevin Hassett, Chairman of the White House Council of Economic Advisers, revealed in an interview with CBS’s Face The Nation that he meets regularly with Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. He stressed that these meetings are not intended to influence interest rate policy and that Powell’s independence is respected, although the President’s views are still conveyed.
Hassett also pointed out that long-term yields have declined, with a 40-basis-point drop in the 10-year Treasury yield, indicating market expectations of lower inflation.
Retail sales data showed a 0.9% decline following an upwardly revised 0.7% increase in December. Out of 13 reported categories, nine recorded declines, with the largest drops observed in automobiles, sporting goods, and furniture stores.
Following a tense week filled with impactful economic news, the upcoming week is expected to be quieter and shorter, as U.S. markets will be closed on Monday in observance of Presidents’ Day.
Key economic events for the week include the release of the Empire State Manufacturing Index on Tuesday, the minutes from the latest Federal Reserve policy meeting, and U.S. housing starts and building permits data on Wednesday. On Thursday, weekly jobless claims and the Philadelphia Fed Manufacturing Index will be released. Finally, Friday will see the publication of preliminary S&P Flash PMI reports and existing home sales data.
GBP/USD: Bearish Pressure Amid US Inflation and Trade TensionsThe GBP/USD pair has recently declined, closing at 1.24445 on February 12 (-0.0233%) after a 0.6688% increase on February 11. Volatility has dominated recent sessions, with fluctuations between 1.2400 and 1.2500. The decline was triggered by US inflation data, which strengthened expectations of higher Fed rates, weighing on the pound. Despite a 2.5% increase in UK retail sales (compared to the expected 0.2%), GBP struggled to maintain upward momentum, further pressured by uncertainty surrounding US tariffs on steel and aluminum. Technically, support between 1.2320 - 1.2330 remains crucial for potential rebounds towards 1.2550 - 1.2600, but future movements will depend on upcoming economic data and monetary policy expectations on both sides of the Atlantic.