GBPUSD pair pulled back slightly today as traders digested latest economic data from Great Britain. Yesterday’s UK jobs report showed the unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.7% in the August-to-October period, while average earnings rose by a stronger-than-expected 6.1%, however it also did indicate a slowdown in hiring as businesses brace for a difficult start of 2023. Monday's data had shown the UK economy grew more than anticipated in October, however UK Chancellor Hunt warned that the situation could get worse before it gets better. Today's figures showed that UK inflation fell more than expected in November, cementing expectations of a 50 bps move from BoE tomorrow. Also comments from Governor Bailey may provide more details as to the way forward and cause some market movements on Thursday.
Of course the pair may face a spike in volatility in the evening, following Fed interest rate decision. The US central bank is expected to moderate its aggressive tightening campaign but point to a higher peak for rates. Traders will be closely monitoring Fed Chair Powell’s press conference which will take place after the rates announcement for guidance on futures rate hikes.
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Create account Try a demo Download mobile app Download mobile appFrom a technical point of view, the GBPUSD pair continues to oscillate around local support at 1.2355 waiting for a catalyst for another big move. Should break lower occur, downward move may deepen towards next support at 1.2150 which is marked with previous price reactions and 100 EMA (purple line). In case of a morendovish FED, the pair may retest recent high at 1.2450.
GBPUSD, H4 interval. Source: xStation5
