Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 18, 2017)

The Empire State manufacturing index fell from 9.0 to 6.5, lower than the 8.1 consensus, while FOMC member Dudley cast doubts on the Fed's rate hike time line. For today, FOMC member Kashkari and Fed head Yellen have testimonies lined up. 

EUR

The euro carried on with its slide against its forex counterparts as ZEW economic sentiment readings came in weaker than expected. In Germany, the reading rose from 13.8 to 16.6, short of the estimated improvement to 18.9 while the region's figure ticked up from 18.1 to 23.2. Euro zone final CPI readings are due today. 

GBP

The pound erased a lot of its earlier losses so far this year when PM May took the stage and reassured market watchers that the UK can emerge stronger from Brexit. To top it off, UK CPI readings beat expectations as the headline and core figures rose to 1.6%. Claimant count change is due today and a 4.6K increase in joblessness is eyed, but a faster pace of growth in average earnings could still keep the pound propped up.

CHF 

The franc rallied against the dollar but gave up ground to the pound in recent sessions. There were no reports out of Switzerland then and none are due today so the currency could keep reacting to country-specific events. 

JPY

The yen continued to advance against the dollar and most of its rivals, except against the pound. Japan's industrial production reading was unchanged at 1.5% as expected. There are no reports due from Japan today but the yen might continue to benefit from anti-USD sentiment. 

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)

The comdolls fell victim to pound strength but managed to hold on to their wins against the euro and the dollar. New Zealand reported a 0.6% rebound in dairy prices during the latest auction. The BOC statement is due today and upgraded forecasts could mean more gains for the Canadian dollar.  

By Kate Curtis from  Trader's Way