GBP/USD Faces Uphill Battle Amid Inflation Fears and Geopolitical Tensions
The GBP/USD currency pair had a rough start to the trading week, closing in the red for two consecutive trading days. While a modest rebound was attempted on Monday, it struggled to gain momentum as various factors weighed down on the pair.
One of the key drivers behind GBP/USD's recent struggles has been the risk-averse sentiment prevailing in the market. As the weekend approached, uncertainty and concerns over geopolitical tensions weighed on investors' minds, pushing them to seek safer assets. This trend put pressure on the British pound (GBP) and supported the US dollar (USD).
Adding to the USD's strength was the release of the University of Michigan's Consumer Sentiment Survey, which indicated a significant increase in the one-year inflation expectation component. This data boosted confidence in the USD and led to a reduction in the probability of the Federal Reserve (Fed) raising the policy rate in December, which dropped from nearly 75% to 67%.
Geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have also played a role in shaping market sentiment. The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has been a source of concern, prompting a more cautious approach among investors.
Looking ahead, the second half of the trading day will be crucial, and much will depend on whether safe-haven assets continue to dominate the market. If risk aversion prevails, the USD is likely to maintain its strength against other currencies, making it challenging for GBP/USD to gain traction. On the other hand, a shift towards a more positive market sentiment could provide some support to GBP/USD, although investors may remain wary of betting on a sustained improvement in risk appetite given the ongoing uncertainties.
As we move into Tuesday, all eyes will be on the UK's Office for National Statistics, which is set to release wage inflation data for August. This report has the potential to impact the GBP/USD pair and add an additional layer of complexity to the trading dynamics.
In conclusion, GBP/USD's recent performance reflects a combination of factors, including inflation concerns, geopolitical tensions, and market sentiment. Traders will closely monitor economic data releases and geopolitical developments to gain insights into the currency pair's future direction. The potential for increased market volatility makes it important for traders to stay vigilant and adapt to changing conditions in the financial markets.
Short-Term Setup | Our preference
Short positions below 1.2250 with targets at 1.2125 & 1.2050 in extension.