The GBP/USD pair has been on a rollercoaster ride recently, with the Pound Sterling gaining traction after touching a multi-month low near 1.2350. Following a technical correction, the pair closed in positive territory on Friday and continued to stretch higher toward 1.2500 on Monday. This positive movement can be attributed to an improving risk mood and bullish momentum in Wall Street’s main indexes.
Despite the Pound Sterling holding positive ground near 1.2450 on Monday, the potential upside seems limited due to the Federal Reserve’s hawkish stance. The US central bank has cut interest rates by one percentage point since September 2024 and has signaled slower rate cuts this year, supporting the US Dollar broadly. Investors are closely watching for cues about the US interest rate outlook from Fed Governor Lisa Cook’s speech later on Monday.
Over the weekend, Fed officials reinforced the view that the Fed will take a more cautious approach to cutting interest rates this year. While emphasizing the need to protect job market stability, policymakers warned that the fight against inflation is ongoing. This cautious approach has strengthened the US Dollar, making it difficult for the GBP/USD pair to gain significant ground.
Looking ahead, market participants will continue to monitor the developments in the US interest rate outlook and the overall risk sentiment. Any shifts in Fed policy or investor sentiment could impact the GBP/USD pair’s movement. Traders should also keep an eye on key levels, such as 1.2450 and 1.2500, for potential support and resistance levels in the near term.
In conclusion, the GBP/USD pair has shown signs of a technical correction and positive momentum, driven by an improving risk mood and bullish sentiment in US markets. However, the Federal Reserve’s hawkish stance and cautious approach to interest rate cuts could limit the pair’s upside potential. Traders should remain vigilant and closely monitor key developments to make informed trading decisions.