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GBP stuck at 2 week lows

May 7, 2024
GBP stuck at 2 week lows

The fluctuating Pound to Euro exchange rate this morning reflects uncertain Bank of England interest rate cut expectations and a blend of diverse industry data emerging from the Eurozone.

As of now, the GBP/EUR exchange rate stands at approximately €1.16545, showing minimal movement compared to the morning's opening rate.

This morning, the pound encounters obstacles due to the absence of significant macroeconomic releases.

With limited data available, Sterling is exposed to fluctuating speculations about interest rate cuts, leading up to the Bank of England's imminent interest rate decision on Thursday.

Although markets largely expect a sixth consecutive interest rate hold, investors are keen to scrutinize the central bank's forward guidance for any indications of when monetary easing might be on the horizon.

As investors and analysts weigh the possibility of a summer rate cut against that of one in autumn, GBP may find it challenging to make gains as the session unfolds.

The euro lacks a distinct direction this morning, with mixed releases from the Eurozone's largest economy contributing to the uncertainty in trading.

Initial pressure weighed on the common currency at the session's outset due to an unforeseen drop in German factory orders. Contrary to economists' expectations of a 0.5% increase, orders fell by 0.4% in March.

Nevertheless, the downside for EUR was mitigated as German exports rose by 0.9%, indicating vitality in other sectors of the export-driven economy.

Moreover, exceeding expectations, retail sales across the Eurozone are aiding in buoying the euro. March saw a 0.8% increase, surpassing market projections of 0.6%, and notably rebounding from February's 0.3% contraction.

Turning to the future, the upcoming release of the latest German industrial production data is scheduled for tomorrow morning. Economists anticipate a downturn in the sector, with production forecasted to have declined by 1.1% in March. Given today's disappointing German factory data, additional apprehensions about German output may pose challenges for the common currency against its counterparts.

Regarding the UK, the absence of significant data leading up to the BoE's monetary policy meeting on Thursday might result in GBP trading without a discernible trend as markets persist in speculating about the central bank's present position.

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