The Pound Sterling has seen a significant increase in value, reaching near 1.2900 against the US dollar. This surge in the British currency comes as the UK Office for National Statistics reported that Retail Sales in the UK rebounded in July after a sharp contraction in June. This positive news has led to the outperformance of the GBP against its major peers in Friday’s New York session.
In addition to the positive Retail Sales data, GBP/USD has also been boosted by the improved risk sentiment in the market. The stronger-than-expected recovery in US Retail Sales has eased concerns about a potential US recession, leading to increased demand for risk-sensitive currencies like the Pound Sterling. As a result, GBP/USD has been able to rise above 1.2850 in anticipation of the UK Retail Sales figures.
GBP/USD has continued to strengthen for the second consecutive session, with the currency pair trading around 1.2870 during the Asian hours on Friday. The optimism in the market has also been supported by UK economic data, with GDP growth meeting expectations and Manufacturing Production exceeding forecasts in July. This has further boosted the bullish momentum for the Pound Sterling, with GBP/USD bulls now aiming for the 1.2900 level amid the recovery in risk appetite.
The positive sentiment in the market has also been driven by the stronger-than-expected recovery in US Retail Sales, which has helped to alleviate fears of a possible US recession. This has led to a rebound in market sentiment, with risk-sensitive currencies like the Pound Sterling benefiting from the improved outlook. As a result, GBP/USD has been able to find additional bullish momentum, with traders looking towards the 1.2900 level as a potential target for further gains in the currency pair.
Overall, the Pound Sterling has seen a significant increase in value against the US dollar, driven by positive UK economic data and improved risk sentiment in the market. With Retail Sales rebounding in July and additional support from GDP growth and Manufacturing Production data, the GBP has outperformed its major peers and continues to strengthen against the USD. Traders are now focused on the 1.2900 level as a potential target for further gains in GBP/USD as the positive momentum for the Pound Sterling continues.