Forex Major Currencies Outlook (Apr 4, 2016)

While the jobless rate rose from 4.9% to 5.0% this was mostly a result of a larger labor force participation rate, indicative of stronger confidence in job prospects. Also, the ISM manufacturing PMI rose from 49.5 to 51.8 to indicate a much stronger than expected pace of expansion in manufacturing. For today, only the factory orders and labor market conditions index are due.

EUR

The euro was able to advance against the pound but it weakened against most of its other currency rivals, especially against the commodity currencies. Data from the euro zone was mostly stronger than expected for Friday, except for the Spanish manufacturing PMI. Spanish unemployment change data and the euro zone Sentix investor confidence figure is due today.

GBP

The pound was one of the weakest performing currencies, weighed mostly by weaker than expected manufacturing PMI and downbeat data earlier in the week. The PMI climbed from 50.8 to 51.0, lower than the estimated rise to 51.4. The construction PMI is due today and a rise from 54.2 to 54.3 is eyed.

CHF

The franc gave up ground to the dollar as data from Switzerland came in mixed. Retail sales showed a 0.2% decline instead of the estimated 0.5% uptick while the manufacturing PMI jumped from 51.6 to 53.2. There are no reports due from the Swiss economy today.

JPY

The yen was also able to rake in some gains against the European currencies but was no match to comdoll strength. Data from Japan earlier that day was mostly weaker than expected, as the Tankan readings fell short of expectations and showed declines. There were no reports out of Japan today.

Commodity Currencies (AUD, NZD, CAD)

The comdolls retreated to the dollar but were able to recover towards the end of the US session. Earlier today, Australia's data came in mixed, as building approvals were up 3.1% while retail sales stayed flat. BOC Governor Poloz has a speech coming up. 

By Kate Curtis from Trader's Way