GBP/USD - Bullish outside day, focus on the Yen
|- Yesterday's bullish outside day candle favors upside in GBP.
- But, rising JPY could be an indication of impending risk aversion.
- GBP ranks last on the list of anti-risk currencies.
The return of the "USD-dumping" theme post-US CPI release pushed GBP/USD above 1.40 yesterday.
The price action engulfed previous day's high-low, meaning the GBP/USD created a "bullish outside day candle" yesterday. This, coupled with a close above 1.3986 (38.2% Fib R of 1.4345-1.3765) has boosted expectations of further upside in the pair.
However, the momentum studies are biased bearish, i.e. the 10-day MA is still sloping downwards. Further, the Japanese Yen is driving the action in the FX markets. Yen caught a fresh bid in Asia after Japanese Finance Minister Aso played down the need for FX intervention. The resulting drop in USD/JPY helped Cable hold above 1.40.
Moreover, the JPY continues to rise in the face of rising Treasury yields, suggesting the US yields could be rising for all wrong reasons (like fiscal profligacy). Also, it could be an advance indication that markets are heading towards another round of risk aversion (Yen is classic anti-risk currency).
In such a scenario, Cable could turn lower as the Pound ranks last on the list of anti-risk currencies, courtesy of Brexit uncertainty and domestic political chaos.
The UK economic calendar offers no first tier data releases today. Hence, the spot is at the mercy of the broader market sentiment and action in the Japanese Yen.
GBP/USD Technical Levels
Failure to hold above 1.3986 (38.2% Fib R of 1.4345-1.3765) would allow a re-test of downward sloping 10-day MA positioned at 3937 and 1.39 (psychological support). On the higher side, immediate resistance is seen at 1.4055 (50% Fib R of 1.4345-1.3765). A close higher could yield rally to 1.4124 (61.8% Fib R of 1.4345-1.3765) and 1.4167 (Jan. 30 high).
Information on these pages contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Markets and instruments profiled on this page are for informational purposes only and should not in any way come across as a recommendation to buy or sell in these assets. You should do your own thorough research before making any investment decisions. FXStreet does not in any way guarantee that this information is free from mistakes, errors, or material misstatements. It also does not guarantee that this information is of a timely nature. Investing in Open Markets involves a great deal of risk, including the loss of all or a portion of your investment, as well as emotional distress. All risks, losses and costs associated with investing, including total loss of principal, are your responsibility. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of FXStreet nor its advertisers.