Key Headline:

·       Mixed UK inflation.

·       Despite a rise in CPI, the services component sees only a slight increase.

Recap

·      USD finished the day slightly stronger after Fed members Daly and Waller signalled that interest rates should remain on hold until further inflation progress is made.

·      GBP saw modest support following job data showing slightly stronger wage growth in the three months leading up to December, indicating ongoing inflationary pressures.

·      Bank of England Governor Bailey attempted to downplay expectations of an inflation uptick in the coming months.

·       Canada's Core CPI for January came in at 2.7% (vs. 2.4% expected), underscoring persistent inflationary pressures in the economy.

Today’s Rates

Today's Interbank Rates at 10:25 am against GBP movement.

GBP>EUR – 1.2084

GBP>USD – 1.2601

EUR>GBP – 0.8274

EUR>USD – 1.0427

GBP>CAD – 1.7897

GBP>AUD – 1.9828

GBP>SEK – 13.512

GBP>CHF – 1.1398

GBP>PLN – 5.0322

GBP>AED – 4.6266

GBP>HKD – 9.7981

GBP>ZAR – 23.200

Today’s Key Takeaways

UK CPI came in higher than expected at 3.0% YoY (vs. 2.8% expected), but the services component saw a smaller-than-anticipated increase.

·       This is positive news for the Bank of England as it suggests moderating inflation pressures in the services sector.

·       GBP performance remains mixed, with no clear direction from the data.

Market outlook:

·       A calm trading day is expected, with little market-moving data scheduled.

·       The key event is the release of the latest FOMC meeting minutes this evening.

·       No major surprises are anticipated, as Fed Chair Powell and other key members have already shared their post-meeting insights.

19th February 2025

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