Forex Major Currencies Outlook (July 18, 2017)

The Empire State manufacturing index fell from 19.8 to 9.8 to indicate a slower pace of industry growth compared to the projected dip to 15.2. Only the US import prices report is due today and a 0.2% drop is eyed, smaller than the earlier 0.3% decline. 

EUR 

The euro was able to hold its ground as the return of Brexit concerns in the UK drove safe-haven demand for the shared currency. Final CPI readings were unchanged at 1.3% for the headline reading and 1.1% for the core figure. The German ZEW economic sentiment index is due next and a dip from 18.6 to 17.8 is expected. The region's ZEW index is slated to fall from 37.7 to 37.2. 

GBP 

The pound was in a weak spot once more as Brexit negotiations took place. UK CPI is up for release today, with the headline figure projected to hold steady at 2.9% while the core reading could also stay unchanged at 2.6%. PPI input prices could chalk up a 0.8% decline while the output price could see a meager 0.1% uptick. BOE Governor Carney has a speech as well so it could bring more volatility for pound pairs. 

CHF 

The franc regained some ground against its peers as risk-off flows returned. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy yesterday and none are due today so risk sentiment could keep pushing franc pairs around. 

JPY 

The yen was able to get back on its feet when risk-taking paused in the latter trading sessions. Japanese banks were closed for the holiday yesterday and there are no reports due today so risk sentiment could still be in the driver's seat. 

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD) 

The comdolls were off to a strong start when China printed upbeat data. GDP rose by 6.9% instead of showing the slower 6.8% consensus while retail sales and industrial production reflected strong domestic demand. However, the Kiwi returned its gains when New Zealand's quarterly CPI posted a flat reading instead of the projected 0.2% gain. RBA minutes are due next and New Zealand will have its GDT auction in the next Asian session. 

By Kate Curtis from Trader's Way