The British pound (GBP) has shown resilience by trending moderately higher this week. This uptick follows Prime Minister Kier Starmer's endorsement of Chancellor Rachel Reeves, which appears to have reassured markets somewhat. However, concerns linger regarding fiscal deficits, particularly after the government's retreat on welfare reforms, casting a shadow over the pound's recovery.
Market analysts note that GBP movements may face limitations in the absence of significant UK data today, leaving the currency susceptible to broader market trends and shifts in investor sentiment. The ongoing trade dynamics, especially the recent imposition of a 10% reciprocal tariff on UK goods by the United States, could further complicate the pound's trajectory.
In recent price data, GBP/USD remains close to 14-day lows around 1.3498, just above the 3-month average. The pair has experienced a stable trading range of 5.1%, fluctuating between 1.3082 and 1.3746. Meanwhile, GBP/EUR is at a 60-day low near 1.1548, approximately 1.7% below its 3-month average, operating within a narrow band of 3.6%. In contrast, GBP/JPY is currently at 198.9, standing 2.5% above its 3-month average and trading within a stable range of 6.1%.
In the broader context, the pound continues to be influenced by domestic economic indicators, monetary policies set by the Bank of England, and the ongoing impact of Brexit uncertainties. The UK's pivotal relationships with major trading partners, particularly the US and the EU, will remain crucial in determining the GBP's outlook. As the UK navigates its post-Brexit economic landscape, future movements in the pound will likely reflect a combination of policy decisions, trade developments, and overarching market confidence.