USD

The US dollar chalked up larger gains against its forex rivals when the FOMC minutes confirmed that some members were more optimistic about economic prospects.

Some even argued that a June rate hike is likely if the US is able to sustain its growth, jobs, and inflation progress. There are no major reports due from the US economy today but FOMC members Fisher and Dudley have testimonies lined up.

EUR

The euro resumed its slide to the dollar but was able to hold on to its gains against its other rivals. Euro zone final CPI readings didn’t contain any revisions from the -0.2% headline figure and the 0.7% core figure. ECB meeting minutes and the euro zone current account balance are up for release today. 

GBP

The pound was able to advance against its forex peers when UK jobs data beat expectations. The claimant count fell by 2.4K in April instead of showing the estimated 4.0K gain in joblessness. The average earnings index showed a return in wage growth as it climbed back to 2.0% from 1.8%. The unemployment rate was unchanged at 5.1% as expected. UK retail sales data is due today and a 0.6% rebound in consumer spending is eyed. 

CHF 

The franc was mostly weaker against its counterparts as risk appetite came back in recent trading sessions. There were no major reports out of the Swiss economy then and none are due today so the franc could keep following risk sentiment. 

JPY

The yen had a mixed performance as it continued to advance against the comdolls but gave up ground to the dollar and pound. Core machinery orders came in stronger than expected with a 5.5% gain instead of the estimated 1.9% drop. The all industries activity index is up for release next. 

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)

The comdolls were no match to dollar and yen strength. US crude oil inventories rose by 1.3 million barrels despite the disruptions in Nigeria, Venezuela, and Canada. Australia’s jobs report printed a weaker than expected employment change of 10.8K versus 12.1K but the jobless rate fell from 5.8% to 5.7%. New Zealand visitor arrivals data is due next. 

By Kate Curtis from Trader’s Way