Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Sep 19, 2017)

Data printed on Friday came in weaker than expected as headline consumer spending fell 0.2% instead of rising by the estimated 0.1% uptick. US building permits and housing starts, as well as the current account balance and import prices, are up for release. 

EUR 

The euro was also off to a good start this week as it bounced against most of its counterparts when final CPI readings were unchanged. Keep in mind that both the headline and core reading have indicated a pickup in price levels over the past month, supporting ECB tapering expectations next month or in December. Canadian manufacturing sales data is due today and a 1.4% drop is eyed. 

GBP 

The pound made a bit of a retreat from its strong surge on Friday as traders probably booked profits ahead of the UK retail sales release later this week. The Rightmove HPI showed a 1.2% decline in house prices, following the earlier 0.9% slide. There are no major reports due from the UK for now so bulls might take a bit of a pause. 

CHF 

The franc weakened to the dollar but made a bit of a rebound against some of its peers as the SNB dialed down its intervention threats. There were no reports out from the franc so far this week and none are due today so market sentiment or currency-specific action could push franc pairs around. 

JPY 

The yen was off to a weak start as risk appetite extended its stay on the lack of moves from North Korea so far. At the same time, traders are also likely adjusting their positions ahead of the BOJ decision later this week. Japanese banks were closed for the holiday on Monday and there are no major reports due today. 

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD) 

The comdolls were on the back foot as the gang corrected from their strong rallies last week. Canada's foreign securities purchase came in stronger than expected while BOC member Lane reiterated that rates are still relatively low. New Zealand's Westpac consumer sentiment index is due next and the RBA will be printing its meeting minutes next. 

By Kate Curtis from Trader's Way