USD 

The dollar was dragged lower by the healthcare bill setback in Senate.

As it turns out, at least three Republicans are set to vote against the bill, along with Democrat lawmakers. This reminded market watchers of the lack of progress in terms of fiscal policy, which means that tax reform could be pushed back much later. As for data, import prices posted the 0.2% dip as expected and the NAHB housing market index dipped from 66 to 64 instead of improving to 67. US housing starts and building permits are lined up next. 

EUR 

The euro regained some ground against its counterparts as risk appetite took a hit on Tuesday. Economic data from the region was actually weaker than expected as the German ZEW index slipped from 18.6 to 17.5 versus the 17.8 forecast while the region’s ZEW is down from 37.7 to 35.6 to reflect weaker optimism. There are no major reports due from the euro zone today, leaving traders to price in expectations for the ECB statement tomorrow. 

GBP 

The pound was one of the weakest performers for the day as UK inflation readings fell short. Headline CPI is down from 2.9% to 2.6% while core CPI dropped from 2.6% to 2.4%, lessening pressure on the central bank to tighten monetary policy. There are no reports due from the UK today. 

CHF 

The franc was able to regain some ground as risk aversion popped back in the financial markets. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy then and none are due today so market sentiment could continue to push franc pairs around. 

JPY 

The yen regained some ground on risk appetite and dollar weakness. There were no reports out of Japan yesterday and none are due today so market sentiment could stay in play or traders might start pricing in expectations for the upcoming BOJ decision. 

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD) 

The Aussie was on stronger footing after the release of the RBA minutes as policymakers didn’t sound as dovish as some expected. Instead, the central bank struck a neutral tone and signaled less preference for rate cuts than before. New Zealand reported a 0.2% uptick in dairy prices during the latest GDT auction while the API reported a surprise build in inventories. US crude oil stockpiles data from the EIA is due today and analysts are hoping to see a 3.6M reduction. 

By Kate Curtis from Trader’s Way