Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Jan 19, 2016)

For today, there are still no major reports lined up, which suggests that the US currency could take its cue from market sentiment and US equities. 

EUR

The euro was stuck in consolidation against most of its peers yesterday since there were no major market catalysts. German final CPI and the euro zone current account balance are up for release today, with strong readings likely to keep the shared currency supported. Also lined up is Germany's ZEW economic sentiment index and the euro zone final CPI readings. 

GBP

The pound could be in for a lot of volatility today since the UK is set to print its latest inflation reports. The headline CPI is expected to stay unchanged at 0.1% while the core CPI could also hold steady at 1.2%. Stronger than expected readings could give the pound a bit of a boost while weak data could lead traders to push back rate hike expectations further. 

CHF

The franc was also in consolidation mode yesterday since traders are waiting for more clues from the market. Swiss PPI is up for release today and a 0.2% uptick in producer prices is expected, weaker compared to the previous 0.4% gain.  

JPY

The yen was unable to make much headway against its higher-yielding peers when the risk-off flows weren't so strong yesterday. There have been no major reports out of Japan then and none are due today, keeping risk sentiment in play. 

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)

The comdolls held steady ahead of China's GDP release today then resumed their drop upon seeing slightly weaker than expected data. The actual reading came in at 6.8% versus the projected 6.9% rise while industrial production fell from 6.2% to 5.9%. Fixed asset investment and retail sales also weakened. In the next Asian trading session, New Zealand will have its GDT auction and any changes in dairy prices could lead to strong Kiwi moves. NZ quarterly CPI is also due and a 0.2% decline in price levels is expected.  

By Kate Curtis from Trader's Way