Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Mar 19, 2018)

There are no major reports due from the US economy today so sentiment and expectations for the FOMC statement could push the currency around.

EUR

The euro continued to slump to the pound, yen, and dollar but was stronger versus the commodity currencies. The headline final CPI reading was downgraded from 1.2% to 1.1% instead of being unchanged as expected. Italian industrial production data is due today and a 0.5% dip is eyed. The region's trade balance is also on the docket.

GBP

The pound extended its wins, except against the yen, even though there were no major reports from the UK economy. Only the Rightmove HPI is due today so traders could keep propping the currency higher, depending on Brexit updates and overall market sentiment.

CHF

The franc had a mixed round as it mostly reacted to its counterparts. There were no reports out of the Swiss economy last Friday and today has an empty schedule as well, which suggests that the franc could keep moving to the tune of market sentiment and its rivals.

JPY

The yen was the strongest performer as it took advantage of risk-off moves and outlasted the dollar. Japan's industrial production figure was actually downgraded and the trade balance released over the weekend came in below consensus. There are no other reports due next so yen pairs could take their cues from sentiment and bond yields.

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)

The comdolls were stuck on the losing end until the end of the week as fears of more protectionism in the US could dampen demand for raw materials and commodities. Canada's reports namely foreign securities purchases and manufacturing sales missed estimates. Australia's CB leading index and New Zealand's Westpac consumer sentiment data are due in the next Asian session.

By Kate Curtis from Trader's Way