USD
The dollar managed to regain ground towards the end of the week despite weaker than expected Q4 GDP data.
The economy grew by 1.9% in the period, slower than the estimated 2.1% growth figure and the earlier 3.5% expansion. UoM consumer sentiment data was revised up from 98.1 to 98.5, outpacing the consensus at 98.2. Core PCE price index, along with personal spending and income data, is due today.
EUR
The euro held its ground on Friday as it got support from stronger than expected German import prices data. The report showed a 1.9% gain versus the projected 1.3% increase, signaling stronger inflationary pressures down the line. German preliminary CPI and Spanish flash GDP data are lined up today and another round of strong results could keep the shared currency afloat.
GBP
The pound gave back some of its gains from earlier in the week as traders likely booked profits before the weekend. There were no reports out of the UK then and none are due today, leaving traders to price in their expectations for the BOE decision later on this week.
CHF
The franc slipped back in consolidation on Friday after scoring a few gains against its rivals. There were no reports printed from Switzerland then while today has the KOF economic barometer on tap. An improvement from 102.2 to 102.9 is expected so this could allow the Swissy to stay afloat.
JPY
The yen gave up ground against most of its counterparts towards the end of the week as traders got wind of reports that the BOJ adjusted its bond purchases to target the yield curve. More details on this are expected for their upcoming monetary policy statement.
Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)
The comdolls failed to establish a clear direction against the dollar but managed to take advantage of yen weakness. Australian inflation reports were mixed as import prices came in short while PPI beat expectations. Over the weekend, New Zealand reported a smaller trade deficit of 41 million NZD. There are no major reports due from the comdolls today while Chinese banks are closed for the holiday.
By Kate Curtis from Trader’s Way
