Forex Major Currencies Outlook (May 23, 2017)

There have been no major reports out of the US while the FOMC speeches gave little assurance that a June hike is on the table. US flash manufacturing and services PMIs are lined up today, along with the new home sales report and Richmond manufacturing index. FOMC members Kashkari and Harker are scheduled for more speeches. 

EUR

The euro managed to hold on to most of its gains so far this week even with resurfacing Greek debt headlines. Flash manufacturing and services PMI readings are due from Germany and France today, with more improvements expected. Strong readings could allow the shared currency to rake in more gains while disappointing results could push it back down.

GBP

The pound has been in a weak spot owing to concerns about Brexit negotiations and the snap elections. BOE Inflation Report hearings and UK public sector net borrowing data are lined up today so the focus could move back to economic data, although Brexit-related headlines could still influence price action.

CHF

The franc paused from its risk-off rallies after SNB head Jordan jawboned the currency last week. There have been no reports out of Switzerland yesterday and none are due today so currency-specific events or market sentiment could keep driving franc pairs around.

JPY

The yen is drawing some support from a pickup in risk aversion and dollar weakness. Reports of an explosion in the Manchester Arena in the UK have spurred geopolitical uncertainties once more during the Asian session. Japan's flash manufacturing PMI is lined up next and a pickup from 52.7 to 52.9 is expected.

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)

The Kiwi was the leading performer of the bunch as data from New Zealand have been mostly upbeat in the past weeks. The Loonie also got a bit of a boost from stronger expectations of a 9-month extension of the OPEC deal, with Kuwait and Iraq showing signs that they are likely to cooperate. New Zealand trade balance is due next and a narrower surplus is eyed.

By Kate Curtis from Trader's Way