USD

The US dollar regained a bit of ground in the past few hours as the recovery in risk appetite failed to gain much traction.

The final US GDP reading for the first quarter of the year was upgraded from 0.8% to 1.1%, higher than the forecast at 1.0%. Meanwhile, US CB consumer confidence rose higher than expected but the Richmond manufacturing index showed a steeper contraction. Core PCE price index, personal spending and income, and pending home sales are due today. 

EUR

The euro had a bit of a rebound in recent sessions but soon returned its intraday wins. German import prices showed a stronger than expected 0.9% gain but remarks from EU officials during their Economic Summit suggested that they’re also worried about the region’s future as well. German GfK consumer climate and preliminary CPI are due today, along with the Spanish flash CPI. 

GBP

The pound tried to fill in the gaps over the weekend but failed as risk aversion returned. UK CBI realized sales fell from 7 to 4 instead of improving to the estimated 9 reading. UK Nationwide HPI, net lending to individuals, and mortgage approvals are due today but updates from UK officials could play a greater role in price action. 

CHF

The franc continued to advance as traders shifted their biases after the SNB admitted to intervening in the currency markets recently. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy yesterday but a central bank official defended their recent moves. 

JPY

The yen consolidated against most of its peers as Japanese officials continued to discuss the possibility of additional stimulus. Earlier today, Japan’s retail sales report printed weaker than expected results. Consumer spending fell 1.9% year-over-year versus the estimated 1.6% drop. 

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD) 

The Loonie got a bit of a boost from stronger crude oil prices while the Aussie and Kiwi trailed behind. There were no major reports from these economies as the currencies took their cue from risk sentiment. Only the Australian HIA new home sales data is due today. 

By Kate Curtis from Trader’s Way