USD
The US dollar was unable to make much headway against its counterparts despite stronger than expected jobs data.
The JOLTS job openings report showed a 5.62 million figure, up from the earlier 5.51 million reading and the 5.52 million consensus. Initial jobless claims and import prices are up for release today but traders seem to be reacting to market sentiment or waiting for the retail sales data on Friday.
EUR
The euro advanced to the dollar and pound, but was still weaker to the yen and commodity currencies. France reported a 0.8% drop in industrial production instead of the estimated 0.3% uptick. France’s final CPI and Italy’s trade balance are up for release today.
GBP
The pound continued to slide lower against its counterparts as traders are adjusting their positions after the BOE’s decision to expand its bond purchase program. There were no reports out of the UK economy yesterday and none are due today so the ongoing trends could carry on.
CHF
The franc was stronger across the board despite the lack of top-tier data from Switzerland. It appears as though the Swiss currency is benefitting from safe-haven flows in Europe and anti-dollar sentiment. There are still no reports due from Switzerland today.
JPY
The yen regained ground against its peers as traders continued to favor the Japanese currency against the dollar. Tertiary industry activity rose 0.8% versus the projected 0.3% uptick. There are no reports due from Japan today since banks are closed for the holiday.
Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)
The comdolls were able to hold on to their gains despite the fall in crude oil prices and the RBNZ’s decision to cut interest rates by 0.25%. This decision came in line with market expectations, as many market watchers were also disappointed to find out that the central bank wasn’t more dovish. Oil inventories were up by 1.1 million barrels instead of showing the estimated drop of 1.3 million barrels. Australia’s MI inflation expectations were down from 3.7% to 3.5%.
By Kate Curtis from Trader’s Way
