USD

The US dollar gave up more ground to its peers when the US advance GDP turned out to be a disappointment. 

The economy grew by only 0.5% in the first quarter versus the projected 0.7% expansion. This marks the weakest pace of quarterly growth in two years. Initial jobless claims was slightly better than expected. For today the core PCE price index, personal spending and income, and Chicago PMI are up for release. 

EUR 

The euro was able to take advantage of dollar weakness but it was no match to its other counterparts. Data from the euro zone came in mixed. The German preliminary CPI printed a 0.2% decline as expected while the Spanish flash CPI showed a sharper than expected drop of 1.1% versus the projected 0.7% dip. Meanwhile, the German unemployment change report showed a 16K drop in joblessness instead of the estimated 1K rise. Euro zone flash CPI estimates, French preliminary GDP and CPI, German retail sales, and the Spanish flash GDP are up for release today.  

GBP

The pound advanced against most of its rivals except for the Japanese yen. There were no major reports out of the UK yesterday and only medium-tier reports are lined up today. These include the net lending to individuals and mortgage approvals figures. 

CHF

The franc carried on with its climb to the dollar but lost ground to the yen. There were no reports out of Switzerland yesterday while today has the KOF economic barometer due. Analysts are expecting a climb from 102.5 to 102.9. Also scheduled today is a speech from SNB Chairman Thomas Jordan. 

JPY

The yen was unstoppable in its rallies after the BOJ refrained from making any monetary policy changes. This turned out very disappointing for market participants who were counting on some form of easing, such as negative lending rates. Japanese banks are closed for the holiday today. 

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)

The comdolls held their ground to the dollar but caved to yen strength. The RBNZ also kept interest rates on hold but gave a downbeat outlook and reiterated that further Kiwi declines might be appropriate. Australian PPI and private sector credit are up for release in today’s Asian session while the Canadian monthly GDP is due later on. Chinese PMI readings are scheduled for release over the weekend.  

By Kate Curtis from Trader’s Way