USD

The dollar had a mixed performance against its peers, although it was generally weaker due to the downbeat NFP release last week.

Data from the US came in weaker than expected, as the ISM non-manufacturing PMI fell from 59.0 to 56.9, worse than the projected fall to 58.0. The US trade balance is up for release today and a wider deficit is eyed, possibly indicating a fall in export activity.

EUR

The euro continued to chalk up losses against its higher-yielding forex counterparts, as the euro zone final services PMI readings came in mixed. Spain and Italy posted weaker than expected results while France printed an upward revision and Germany’s reading was downgraded slightly. Euro zone retail sales came in flat instead of showing the projected 0.1% dip. German factory orders data is due today and a 0.5% rebound is eyed. 

GBP 

The pound struggled to end its decline in recent trading sessions, but was pushed lower by a bleak services PMI figure. The report showed a drop from 55.6 to 53.3 instead of the projected rise to 56.4, indicating that industry growth slowed down in September. There are no major reports lined up from the UK today.

CHF

The franc could be in for a bit more volatility today since Switzerland is set to print its latest CPI reading. The report could show a 0.1% uptick in price levels after falling by 0.2% in the previous month, but weaker than expected data could mean more losses for the franc. 

JPY 

The yen sold off heavily against its forex rivals, as risk appetite appeared to improve yesterday and traders priced in downbeat remarks from the BOJ in this week’s rate statement. Japanese average cash earnings data was weaker than expected with a 0.5% uptick instead of the estimated 0.7% increase. There are no reports due from Japan today.

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)

The comdolls were able to advance against their counterparts in recent trading sessions, thanks to the pick up in commodity prices and the return in risk appetite due to forecasts of a delayed Fed rate hike. Australia’s ANZ job advertisements picked up by 3.9% indicating better hiring prospects while the RBA kept rates on hold at 2.00% earlier today. In New Zealand, the NZIER business confidence index slipped from 5 to -14 but traders seem to be awaiting positive results from the upcoming dairy auction. Canada’s trade balance and Ivey PMI are also on today’s docket.

By Kate Curtis from Trader’s Way