USD

The US dollar got a strong boost from hawkish remarks by FOMC member William Dudley in his testimony.

He affirmed US economic growth and how it has been well-distributed, citing that wage growth could pick up once productivity does. He also emphasized the need to keep up the Fed’s tightening timeline. FOMC member Evans still has a speech coming up, along with Fischer and Kaplan. 

EUR

The euro was in a weak spot as Brexit-related uncertainties dampened demand for the shared currency. There were no major catalysts from the region on Monday while today has German PPI and the euro zone current account balance. A 0.1% drop in producer prices is eyed, so a steeper fall could push the shared currency much lower. 

GBP

The pound was also on shaky footing as traders have been on edge during the start of the Brexit talks. While officials confirmed that it was a positive start and that the timeline and agenda have been agreed upon, traders can’t help but limit their pound holdings in anticipation of more heated discussions later on. The UK Rightmove HPI indicated a 0.4% drop in price levels. BOE Governor Carney is set to give his postponed testimony later today. 

CHF

The franc was also in a weak spot against most of its peers as sentiment in the region turned sour. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy then while today has a speech by SNB Chairman Jordan. Jawboning could continue to weigh on the Swiss currency, although traders don’t seem to be so bothered anymore. 

JPY

The yen gave up ground to the commodity currencies as risk appetite came into play. Japan’s trade balance turned out weaker than expected at 0.13T JPY versus the projected rise from 0.16T JPY to 0.35T JPY. There are no reports due from Japan today. 

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)

The comdolls managed to advance against their peers even with the drop in commodity prices. RBA monetary policy meeting minutes are up for release, along with the quarterly HPI. Moody’s downgraded big Australian banks for their exposure to the housing market. Canadian wholesale sales data and New Zealand’s GDT auction are lined up next. 

By Kate Curtis from Trader’s Way