The Sterling met extra buying pressure following UK’s jobs report today, sending GBP/USD back above the 1.2300 barrier.
GBP/USD bid on upbeat data
The pair managed to break above 1.2300 the figure after UK’s Claimant Count Change increased by 0.7K during September, less than initially estimated. In addition, the ILO unemployment rate has stayed unchanged at 4.9%, matching consensus.
Spot is thus extending its weekly upside while looking to break above the 1.2300 handle on a more sustainable fashion. Today’s results add to yesterday’s higher-than-expected inflation figures during September, all collaborating with a better sentiment around GBP (although its extent remains doubtful to say the least).
The USD will take centre stage later in the NA session with the releases of MBA’s Mortgage Applications, Building Permits and Housing Starts, all preceding the Fed’s Beige Book.
In addition, speeches by San Francisco Fed J.Williams (2018 voter, neutral), Philly Fed P.Harker (2017 voter, hawkish) and Dallas Fed R.Kaplan (2017 voter, neutral) will keep the attention around USD.
GBP/USD levels to consider
As of writing the pair is gaining 0.14% at 1.2315 and a break above 1.2327 (high Oct.18) would aim for 1.2377 (high Oct.11) and finally 1.2614 (20-day sma). On the flip side, the immediate support lines up at 1.2086 (low Oct.11) ahead of 1.1450 (low post-‘flash crash’ Oct.7).
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. The author will not be held responsible for information that is found at the end of links posted on this page.
If not otherwise explicitly mentioned in the body of the article, at the time of writing, the author has no position in any stock mentioned in this article and no business relationship with any company mentioned. The author has not received compensation for writing this article, other than from FXStreet.
FXStreet and the author do not provide personalized recommendations. The author makes no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of this information. FXStreet and the author will not be liable for any errors, omissions or any losses, injuries or damages arising from this information and its display or use. Errors and omissions excepted.
The author and FXStreet are not registered investment advisors and nothing in this article is intended to be investment advice.
Recommended content
Editors’ Picks
EUR/USD holds gains above 1.0700, as key US data loom
EUR/USD holds gains above 1.0700 in the European session on Thursday. Renewed US Dollar weakness offsets the risk-off market environment, supporting the pair ahead of the key US GDP and PCE inflation data.
GBP/USD extends recovery above 1.2500, awaits US GDP data
GBP/USD is catching a fresh bid wave, rising above 1.2500 in European trading on Thursday. The US Dollar resumes its corrective downside, as traders resort to repositioning ahead of the high-impact US advance GDP data for the first quarter.
Gold price edges higher amid weaker USD and softer risk tone, focus remains on US GDP
Gold price (XAU/USD) attracts some dip-buying in the vicinity of the $2,300 mark on Thursday and for now, seems to have snapped a three-day losing streak, though the upside potential seems limited.
XRP extends its decline, crypto experts comment on Ripple stablecoin and benefits for XRP Ledger
Ripple extends decline to $0.52 on Thursday, wipes out weekly gains. Crypto expert asks Ripple CTO how the stablecoin will benefit the XRP Ledger and native token XRP.
US Q1 GDP Preview: Economic growth set to remain firm in, albeit easing from Q4
The United States Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is seen expanding at an annualized rate of 2.5% in Q1. The current resilience of the US economy bolsters the case for a soft landing.