Under Brexit pressure to split by December 2020 and uncertainty about the Irish border, the UK economy is in turmoil in Q1 2018. February month-to-month industrial and manufacturing production output was weak at +0.10% and -0.20% (prior: +1.30% and 0%). February’s trade deficit of GBP -965 million (prior: GBP 2.95 billion), due to lower imports caused by mid-February snow storms, decreased the likelihood of money tightening. March inflation data (to release on 18 April) will give a better view as to whether the Bank of England will hit its target of 2.40%.

Strengthening since the beginning of the year, GBP/USD currently trades at 1.4187 (+5.07% year to date) and is approaching its 2-year high, heading to 1.4195 short-term.

This report has been prepared by Swissquote Bank Ltd and is solely been published for informational purposes and is not to be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any currency or any other financial instrument. Views expressed in this report may be subject to change without prior notice and may differ or be contrary to opinions expressed by Swissquote Bank Ltd personnel at any given time. Swissquote Bank Ltd is under no obligation to update or keep current the information herein, the report should not be regarded by recipients as a substitute for the exercise of their own judgment.

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