The GBP/USD pair closed the week lower, falling below the 1.3100 level after facing a double whammy of factors. On one hand, there was a resurgence of demand for the US Dollar, while on the other hand, the Pound Sterling was negatively impacted by the Bank of England’s dovish policy expectations and a risk-averse market environment. This resulted in a loss of almost 300 pips for the pair.
Despite the recent losses, the GBP/USD pair has started to drift higher, trading above 1.3100 with potential upside. However, the upside might be limited as the Federal Reserve’s cutting cycle has been reduced following the upbeat US Nonfarm Payrolls data on Friday. The odds of a larger-than-normal rate cut by the Fed have decreased, with markets now pricing in a nearly 97.4% chance of a 50 basis points rate cut in September.
Overall, the GBP/USD pair continues to face uncertainty as the Pound Sterling struggles against a stronger US Dollar. Traders will be closely watching for any further developments in UK economic data, as well as any shifts in the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy stance. This could lead to increased volatility in the pair in the coming days.
As the week progresses, market participants will be keeping a close eye on key economic indicators, central bank decisions, and geopolitical developments that could impact the GBP/USD pair. Traders should also watch for any comments from policymakers that may provide additional clarity on the future direction of both currencies.
In conclusion, while the Pound Sterling may have experienced recent losses against the US Dollar, the GBP/USD pair could still see potential upside in the near term. However, this upside might be limited as market sentiment shifts and the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy decisions come into focus. Traders should remain vigilant and adaptable to changing market conditions in order to navigate the fluctuations in the currency pair.