Pound (GBP) tumbles as UK inflation undershoots expectations
The pound (GBP) slumped at the beginning of yesterday’s session, hitting weekly lows against several peers, after weaker-than-expected UK inflation figures strengthened bets on a Bank of England (BoE) interest rate cut in December.
Headline inflation remained stuck at 3.8% for a third straight month in September, rather than edging up to 4% as forecast. The stagnant reading suggests price pressures have peaked, fuelling speculation that the BoE could lower borrowing costs again before the year’s end.
Looking ahead, fresh data from the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) may drive movement in the pound today. Forecasts point to a drop in the business optimism index for the fourth quarter, alongside weaker industrial orders in October. These results could weigh on GBP if confirmed.
Euro (EUR) subdued amid stronger USD
The euro (EUR) struggled for direction yesterday as the absence of notable Eurozone data left the common currency without clear support.
This saw the euro vulnerable to its inverse relationship with the US dollar (USD), slipping as the ‘greenback’ extended its gains.
Today, traders are likely watching the Eurozone’s latest consumer confidence figures. With sentiment expected to have worsened in October, EUR could face further headwinds.
US dollar (USD) edges higher as risk appetite fades
The US dollar advanced on Tuesday, benefiting from its status as a safe-haven currency amid a gloomier global outlook.
Investor confidence weakened amid renewed concerns about the world economy and mounting talk of a potential AI-driven market bubble.
With little in the way of key US data due today, USD movement will likely continue to track shifts in risk appetite and developments in US-China relations.
Canadian dollar (CAD) lifted by rising oil prices
The commodity-tied Canadian dollar (CAD) firmed yesterday, supported by a climb in crude oil prices.
Attention now turns to Canada’s latest retail sales release. Analysts expect growth to have slowed from 1% to 0.5%, a result that could limit further CAD gains.
Australian dollar (AUD) gains on improved risk tone
The Australian dollar (AUD) strengthened overnight, buoyed by a brighter market mood and renewed investor optimism.
New Zealand dollar (NZD) pressured by mass public sector strike
The New Zealand dollar (NZD) underperformed overnight despite the improved risk sentiment, as a widespread public sector strike – one of the largest in the country’s history – unsettled markets.
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