Pound (GBP) Nosedives as BoE Keeps Bank Rate on Hold
The Pound (GBP) plunged yesterday after the Bank of England (BoE) shocked markets by leaving interest rates unchanged.
Traders expected a hike after weeks of hawkish hints from policymakers, but the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) voted 7-2 in favour of keeping the Bank Rate at a record low of 0.1%.
Sterling may spend today’s session licking its wounds as markets continue to digest the BoE’s decision and forward guidance. Yesterday the bank trimmed its growth forecasts and said that inflation will outpace wages.
Euro (EUR) Firms as Central Bank Policy Gap Narrows
The Euro (EUR) gained against most of its rivals yesterday as the BoE’s decision not to raise rates narrowed the policy gap between the European Central Bank (ECB) and its British counterpart, thereby removing a key headwind for EUR.
German factory orders may also have supported the single currency as they returned to growth in September, although the recovery was smaller than economists expected.
The Euro may struggle this morning after German industrial production unexpectedly contracted. EUR investors will now be looking ahead to the Eurozone’s latest retail sales figures.
US Dollar (USD) Climbs amid Delayed Upside from Fed Taper
The US Dollar (USD) strengthened through yesterday’s session as USD investors shook off their initial disappointment following the Fed’s tapering announcement.
The Fed tapered monthly bond purchases by $15bn, as expected, which upset some investors who had hoped for a more hawkish approach. However, the taper is still a relatively hawkish move and USD enjoyed a delayed upside.
The US non-farm payrolls report is in the spotlight today. With markets expecting a strong reading, USD could climb even higher.
Canadian Dollar (CAD) See-Saws as Oil Prices Rise and Fall
The oil-sensitive Canadian Dollar (CAD) rose and then fell against most of its peers yesterday, in line with the price movements of WTI crude, after mixed messages from OPEC+ members.
Canadian employment data could boost CAD exchange rates this afternoon. Economists expect the country’s unemployment rate to fall from 6.9% to 6.8%.
Australian Dollar (AUD) Falls on Chinese Property Sector Jitters
The Australian Dollar (AUD) ticked lower overnight amid renewed concerns in China’s property sector. Chinese developer Kaisa had its shares suspended from trading due to liquidity concerns, triggering a risk-off market mood.
New Zealand Dollar (NZD) Down as Sentiment Sours
The New Zealand Dollar (NZD) also fell in overnight trade as the prevailing bearish mood weighed on the risk-sensitive currency.