The Impact of UK Inflation Data on GBP/USD
GBP/USD Hits Two-Month Low
- The GBP/USD pair touched its lowest level in nearly two months below 1.3000 on Wednesday.
- Annual CPI inflation in the UK softened to 1.7% in September.
- The near-term technical outlook suggests that the bearish bias remains intact.
Wednesday saw GBP/USD undergo a downward trend after consolidating near 1.3100 in the Asian session, reaching its lowest level since August 20 below 1.3000. This decline could continue in the short term as market participants reassess the Bank of England’s (BoE) policy stance following weaker inflation readings.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported a drop in annual UK inflation to 1.7% in September from 2.2% in August, below the market’s 1.9% expectation. Additionally, the Producer Price Index (PPI) – Input fell by 2.3% year-on-year, while the Retail Price Index rose by 2.7%, significantly lower than the 3.5% increase recorded in August.
Market sentiment now indicates a 70% probability of the BoE implementing two consecutive 25 basis points rate cuts in November and December, up from less than 50% before the inflation data release.
With no significant US economic data scheduled for the day, the negative impact of UK inflation data on Pound Sterling could continue to influence GBP/USD movements.
GBP/USD Technical Analysis
The Relative Strength Index (RSI) on the 4-hour chart slightly rose after dipping below 1.3000, indicating the pair’s sustained bearish bias. Resistance levels are seen at 1.3050 and 1.3080, while support levels lie at 1.2940 and 1.2900.
Pound Sterling FAQs
Learn more about the Pound Sterling’s significance and how it impacts the global financial landscape:
- The Pound Sterling (GBP) is the oldest currency globally, with a rich history dating back to 886 AD.
- Key trading pairs include GBP/USD (‘Cable’), GBP/JPY (‘Dragon’), and EUR/GBP.
- Monetary policy decisions by the Bank of England are crucial in determining GBP’s value.
- Economic indicators like GDP, PMIs, and employment data can influence GBP’s direction.
- The Trade Balance indicator reflects a country’s export-import dynamics, affecting its currency value.