The GBP/USD pair is currently trading below 1.3400 as markets await the release of US PMI data. The pair is struggling to gain ground around 1.3370 during the Asian session on Tuesday. This comes as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s less dovish remarks provide some support to the Greenback, leading to a drop in the major pair. Investors are also preparing for the US September ISM Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) data and speeches from Fed’s Raphael Bostic and Lisa Cook later in the day.
Powell stated on Monday that the US central bank is committed to keeping the economy in good shape but is not in a rush to make any drastic moves. Atlanta Federal Reserve President Raphael Bostic also mentioned that he would consider another 50 basis point rate reduction at the November meeting if job growth slows more than expected. However, he had previously only anticipated one 25 bps rate cut for the year.
The GBP/USD pair is facing resistance around the 1.3400 level as markets assess the data outlook. While high-impact data is limited for GBP traders this week, they will be keeping an eye on the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Report Hearings scheduled for early Thursday. On the US side, investors will be focusing on Friday’s US Nonfarm Payrolls report for September.
Overall, the GBP/USD pair is currently grappling with the 1.34 handle as intraday price action fluctuates around the key price level. Powell’s statements regarding rate cuts have impacted market sentiment and boosted the Greenback, leading to a drop in the major pair. With upcoming data releases and central bank speeches, investors are closely monitoring the developments in the currency market.
As the US PMI data and Fed speeches approach, market participants are bracing for potential volatility in the GBP/USD pair. Powell’s remarks have tempered rate cut expectations, contributing to the pair’s struggles to break above 1.3400. Traders will be closely watching upcoming economic indicators and central bank actions to gauge the future direction of the currency pair.
In conclusion, the GBP/USD pair is currently facing resistance below 1.3400 as investors await key data releases and central bank speeches. Powell’s comments on the US economy and potential rate cuts have impacted market sentiment, leading to a decline in the major pair. As the week progresses, traders will be closely monitoring economic developments to determine the future trajectory of the GBP/USD pair.