Summary:
- Markets are becoming more optimistic around hopes of a more hawkish European Central Bank (ECB).
- Firmer oil prices adding to downward pressure on JPY.
- Strong market expectations of a more hawkish Swiss National Bank (SNB).
Euro holds steady
The market is reflecting mixed signals for this currency pair. The markets are becoming more optimistic around hopes of a more hawkish European Central Bank (ECB) tomorrow after adding a couple more basis points to the yearly forecasts. There has been talk of a 50bps hike in July and rumors of a possible hike on Thursday, it is likely that the market could see a change in ECB tone which has allowed the Euro to remain resilient against the US Dollar.
On Wednesday, the market opened with strong economic Q1 data for the eurozone. The euro did not react instantly to the release of this data, likely due to its delay.
EUR/USD Price Chart
Anticipation of ECBs announcement offers Euro support
The market is reflecting mixed signals for this currency pair. The Euro has gained against the pound sterling ahead of the market awaiting the European Central Banks (ECB) interest rate announcement, which is due tomorrow. Earlier in the trading week the pound sterling rallied in response to the news of Boris Johnssons vote of no confidence. If the ECB announces an interest rate hike in July, the pound sterling currency could be under pressure against the Euro.
EUR/GBP Price Chart
Negative outlook for Japanese Yen is likely to continue
The market is reflecting bullish signals for this currency pair. In addition to the Bank of Japan (BoJ) continuing its monetary easing, firmer oil prices have added to the downward pressure on the Japanese Yen and both of these factors will continue to add to the negative outlook for the safe-haven currency.
USD/JPY Price Chart
CHF holding its position in the market
The market is reflecting bullish signals for this currency pair. The Swiss Franc has recovered against the US Dollar in comparison to the lows experienced in mid-May when the US Dollar was at its strongest, the recovery comes in the wake of market expectations of a more hawkish Swiss National Bank (SNB). the expectations come from indications from policy makers that the SNB will increase its interest rates for the first time since the 2008 financial crisis.
USD/CHF Price Chart
Sources: finance.yahoo.com, poundsterlinglive.com, dailyfx.com