Daily Currency Report
Overview
The sterling hit three-week highs versus the dollar and held around two-year peak against a basket of currencies. The US dollar came under pressure following poor manufacturing data. The eurozone is suffering from rigid labour market and needs a more flexible policy to enable the economy to strengthen further.
GBP
An article in the Financial Times reported that BoE Deputy Governor Sir John Gieve gave serious thought to another rate hike, adding pressure to the report that the MPC members are getting increasingly worried about inflation expectations.
USD
The dollar fell towards a two-week low against the euro and yen as investors are becoming increasingly worried about the stream of data this week, which may increase expectations that the Fed may move towards a cut in interest rates.
EUR
The euro lost ground against the sterling when Sir John Gieve said he would give serious thought to another increase in interest rates.
JPY
The yen has suffered since the rate hike earlier this year, as the economy faltered and the prospect of further rate hikes receded.