GBPUSD Ticks Higher on Surprise Inflation Reading

The GBPUSD currency pair showcases a compelling narrative amidst recent inflation data from the UK and the US.  

While the Office for National Statistics reported UK inflation surprising slightly to the upside at 3.2%, hinting at the potential prolongation of higher interest rates by the Bank of England, it also indicates a slight dip from the prior month, reflecting the UK’s strides in inflation containment. In contrast, US inflation accelerated to 3.5%, up slightly from the preceding month.  

Despite this, the GBPUSD is trading higher, marking a 33 basis point increase in the trading session, as the British Pound endeavours to rebound from a five-month low against the Greenback. Looking forward, market participants keenly await speeches from policymakers in both nations, with a focus on monetary policy outlook, likely influencing the pair’s short-term trajectory. This interplay of inflation figures, central bank actions, and geopolitical events underscores the dynamic nature of forex markets, captivating investors and analysts alike. 

Technical 

The GBPUSD’s price action unfolds within a discernible downtrend, underscored by technical indicators signalling a bearish trajectory. Currently positioned below the 100-day moving average, a descending channel pattern validates the pair’s descent, encapsulating market sentiment favouring downside movements. 

At the 1.27078 level, resistance materialized, coinciding with the channel’s upper boundary amid overbought RSI conditions, triggering a subsequent selloff. However, support emerged at the 1.24052 level, aligning with the channel’s lower boundary amid oversold RSI conditions, indicating a potential reversal. 

Presently, a retracement is underway, with the pair retracing to the 23.60% Fibonacci Retracement level. Should upward momentum persist, a breakthrough above this level on high volume could pave the way for further gains, with the 38.20% level becoming a plausible target. Conversely, a resurgence of downside pressures could lead to a retest of the 1.24052 support level, highlighting the importance of key technical levels in navigating market movements.  

Summary 

Amidst surprise UK inflation readings, the GBPUSD ticks higher, reflecting market dynamics influenced by UK and US economic data. Despite a downtrend, technical analysis suggests potential reversals at key levels, with the pair retracing to the 23.60% Fibonacci level. The market awaits central bank speeches, potentially shaping the short-term trajectory of the pair. 

Sources: Office for National Statistics, Reuters, Trading Economics, TradingView 

Piece Written By Nkosilathi Dube, Trive Financial Market Analyst 

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