Pound Steady Near Four-Month Low Amid BoE Rate Hold ExpectationsThe pound traded at $1.294, near a four-month low, as investors awaited the BoE's Thursday decision. The central bank is expected to hold rates at 4.5%, balancing weak growth and inflation risks. Despite forecasts for 2025 rate cuts, none are expected now. The UK labor market is weakening, with unemployment set to hit 4.5% and wage growth slowing. Markets also await Chancellor Reeves’ Spring Statement on March 26 for economic updates. In trade talks, the UK is taking a softer stance with the US than the EU.
If GBP/USD breaks above 1.3050, the next resistance levels are 1.3100 and 1.3150. On the downside, support stands at 1.2860, with further levels at 1.2800 and 1.2715 if selling pressure increases.
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EUR/USD Dips Amid U.S.-EU Trade TensionsEUR/USD is slightly down, hovering near 1.0915 in early Asian trading. The Euro faces pressure from rising U.S.-EU trade tensions after Trump announced new tariffs on European goods. Washington imposed duties on steel and aluminum, prompting Brussels to prepare countermeasures, while Trump threatened a 200% tariff on European wine and spirits, adding downside risks for the Euro.
However, losses may be limited by Germany’s fiscal policy shifts. The Green Party supports debt restructuring, and incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz proposed a €500 billion infrastructure fund with borrowing rule adjustments. The measures expected to be passed this week could support the Euro.
Weak U.S. Retail Sales data also weigh on the Dollar. February sales rose just 0.2% vs. the expected 0.7%, while January’s figures were revised lower to -1.2%. Annual sales growth slowed to 3.1% from 3.9%, fueling concerns about consumer spending and offering near-term support for EUR/USD.
Key resistance is at 1.0950, followed by 1.1000 and 1.1050. Support stands at 1.0880, with further levels at 1.0800 and 1.0730.