USD

The US dollar was able to rake in some gains even though traders were out on a Presidents’ Day holiday yesterday. 

Futures are pointing to a strong open today and stocks could sustain their gains if earnings come in strong and Trump drops more hints about his tax reform plan. FOMC members Kashkari and Harker have testimonies lined up today. 

EUR

The euro continued to chalk up losses against its peers as geopolitical risks in France and debt troubles in Greece and Italy are weighing on the shared currency. Euro zone consumer confidence dipped from -5 to -6 to reflect increased pessimism. Flash manufacturing and services PMI readings are due from Germany and France today. 

GBP

The pound was still under a bit of selling pressure to the dollar but it managed to advance against most of its other counterparts as the first day of the Brexit debates in the House of Lords went by without any major glitches. These talks could continue to keep the pound in consolidation until the outcome is announced this week or the next. The BOE Inflation Report hearings are scheduled today. 

CHF

The franc was also in a weak spot, thanks to all the troubles weighing on Europe these days. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy yesterday while today has the trade balance lined up. A wider surplus of 3.03 billion CHF is eyed, compared to the earlier 2.72 billion CHF. 

JPY

The yen was able to chalk up some gains against the European currencies but was mostly weaker to the dollar and comdolls. The Japanese flash manufacturing PMI jumped from 52.7 to 53.5 instead of falling to 52.1 to reflect a faster pace of growth. The all industries activity index is due next. 

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)

The Aussie resumed its rally after the RBA minutes also turned out less dovish than expected. Canadian wholesale sales were up 0.7% versus the 0.4% forecast, also shoring up some gains for the Loonie as well. New Zealand will be holding its Global Dairy Trade auction in the next Asian session and another gain in prices could boost the Kiwi. 

By Kate Curtis from Trader’s Way