GBP/USD Price Analysis – Aug 03, 2023

Daily Price Outlook

The GBP/USD currency pair experienced a bearish consolidation during the Asian session on Thursday. It remained within a narrow range, below a one-month low at 1.2640. The GBP/USD pair is currently around 1.2638, and traders appear cautious, refraining from taking aggressive positions as they await the upcoming monetary policy update from the Bank of England (BoE) later today. This update will likely have a major effect on the market, so traders are being cautious and watching closely before making any major moves in the GBP/USD pair.

UK Inflation Rate and Its Impact on GBP/USD Pair

According to the latest data, the UK's headline inflation rate decreased to 7.9% YoY in June, down from the previous 8.7%. This might lead the UK central bank to consider a smaller 25 bps interest rate increase, pushing the benchmark rate to 5.25%, the highest since December 2007. However, some investors are anticipating a more significant 50 bps rate hike due to persistent inflation above the Bank of England's (BoE) 2% target. As a result, all eyes will be on the monetary policy statement and press conference for clues about the future rate hike path. Thus, the growing expectations will significantly impact the British Pound and give a new direction to the GBP/USD pair.

USD Bullish Sentiment Weighs on GBP/USD Pair

The broad-based US Dollar is experiencing a bullish sentiment, which is putting pressure on the GBP/USD pair. The USD Index (DXY), which measures the USD against other currencies, is near its highest level since July 7, backed by expectations of a strong US economy that could keep interest rates higher for a longer time.

However, the recent positive US ADP jobs report, showing 324K jobs added in July compared to the expected 189K, further reinforces this view. Despite the Fitch downgrade of the US credit rating, the elevated US Treasury bond yields support the USD and limit the upside for the GBP/USD pair.

Upcoming US Macro Data and NFP Report: Potential Impact on GBP/USD Pair

Looking forward, traders will closely monitor various US macroeconomic data, including jobless claims, service industry activity, and factory orders. These indicators, along with US bond yields and overall market sentiment, will influence the demand for the US Dollar (USD) and create short-term trading opportunities for the GBP/USD pair.

GBP/USD - Technical Analysis

Yesterday, the GBP/USD pair experienced a bearish trend, successfully reaching the initial target at 1.2725, and even closing below it. This development strengthens the possibility of a continued downward correctional trend, with the next significant target at 1.2625.

The formation of a Double Top pattern signals further negativity, potentially leading the price to test 1.2500. As long as the price remains below 1.2835, the bearish trend is likely to persist.

For today's trading, we expect the GBP/USD to move within the range of support at 1.2620 and resistance at 1.2790. Our analysis indicates a bearish trend for today's session.