Ultima Markets Notification of Server Upgrade

As part of our commitment to providing our clients with the best reliability and service, there will be a server upgrade & maintenance this weekend. Trading sessions this weekend are as follows:

Date

Trading sessions (GMT+2)

Trade status

Maintenance sessions (GMT+2)

2023/11/11 (Sat.)

08:00-23:59

08:00 Late Open

00:00-08:00

2023/11/12 (Sun.)

00:00-23:59

Normal

Friendly Reminder

• During the upgrade process, the client portal and UM App will be temporarily unavailable. Our official website will remain available, but clients will not be able to sign up.

• During the upgrade process, the features of MetaTrader software & application, including but not limited to logging in, quoting and opening/closing positions, will be temporarily unavailable.

• There might be a gap between the original price and the price after maintenance. The gap between Pending Orders, Stop Loss and Take Profit will be filled at the market price once the maintenance is completed.

• Please refer to MT4 for the latest update on the completion and market opening time.

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected].

Focus on BRENT OIL Today – 9th November 2023


Comprehensive Brent Oil for November 9, 2023

In this comprehensive analysis, Ultima Markets brings you an insightful breakdown of the BRENT OIL for 9th November 2023. 


Key Takeaways 

  • Global economic downturn: The overseas economic recovery is less than expected. For example, the U.S. unemployment rate has exceeded expectations in the past two months, and the new orders index has accelerated its contraction. This has led to doubts about the future demand for crude oil, and oil prices have followed the trend to chart the gains driven by early risk aversion. 
  • The balance between S/D supports oil prices: The overall supply side of crude oil has not yet shown signs of tightening. In the long term, the supply and demand pattern is relatively loose, but in the short term there may be production cuts on the supply side, and there may be some support for prices. 

Brent Oil Technical Analysis

Brent Oil Daily Chart Insights

Brent Oil Daily Chart Insights by Ultima Markets MT4
  • Stochastic Oscillator: The indicator has entered the oversold range, and the selling pressure is serious. You need to be alert to the coming of a short-term intraday rebound in the market. 
  • Moving average: After the 5-day moving average completely fell below the 200-day moving average, the market did not show an effective rebound structure, and the two consecutive days of decline may take some time to correct. The rebound target price is looking towards the 5-day moving average. 
  • Downward channel line: Since crude oil began to fall on September 27, the overall market trend has formed a downward channel line. Yesterday’s decline touched the lower edge of the channel line, and there is a certain probability of a rebound in the short term. 

Brent Oil 1-hour Chart Analysis

Brent Oil 1-hour Chart Analysis By Ultima Markets MT4
  • Stochastic oscillator: The indicator has sent a long signal, and oil prices have a certain rebound momentum. However, oil prices cannot rebound lightly until they break through the 81.316 level. 
  • Price Action: Oil prices are currently in a strong downward trend, and you cannot arbitrarily choose to enter the market at the bottom. Although the current indicators are suggesting that a rebound is imminent, we need to wait for a clear bullish structure before making a correction. 

Ultima Markets MT4 Pivot Indicator

Ultima Markets MT4 Pivot Indicator for Brent Oil
  • According to the pivot indicator in Ultima Markets MT4, the central price of the day is established at 81.178, 
  • Bullish Scenario: Bullish sentiment prevails above 81.178, first target 82.268, second target 83.852; 
  • Bearish Outlook: In a bearish scenario below 81.178, first target 79.594, second target 78.519. 

Bottom Line

Switzerland Tops Euro Nations With Remarkable Inflation Rate


Inflation Rate Remains Unchanged at 1.7%

Switzerland stands out as a beacon of stability and resilience.

In October 2023, the annual inflation rate in Switzerland remained steady at 1.7%, meeting market predictions. There was a 0.1% increase in the Consumer Price Index (CPI) compared to the previous month, reversing a 0.1% decline.

Several factors contributed to the 0.1% month-on-month increase, including higher heating oil and air transport prices. Women’s coats and jackets, as well as foreign red wine, also experienced price hikes. On the other hand, prices for hotels, petrol, and fruiting vegetables declined. 


Factors Driving Inflation

1. Energy Sector Impact

The month-on-month increase is partly attributed to higher heating oil and air transport prices. Switzerland’s strategic measures to navigate the challenges posed by escalating energy costs have not only maintained stability but have also propelled the nation forward.

2. Commodities Market Influence

Specifically noteworthy are the price hikes in women’s coats and jackets, alongside foreign red wine. These seemingly disparate sectors contribute to the intricate dance of the Swiss economy, showcasing adaptability in the face of diverse market forces.

3. Countering Declines

Conversely, certain sectors experienced price declines. Notably, hotels, petrol, and fruiting vegetables saw reduced prices. This balanced approach to inflationary pressures exemplifies Switzerland’s commitment to equilibrium in the marketplace.


Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices (HICP)

The Harmonized Index of Consumer Prices (HICP) allows for inflation comparison between Switzerland and other European Union member countries, as it uses a standardized methodology across the EU.

The cost of living in Switzerland, as measured by the HICP, went up 0.1% for the third month running, indicating that inflation continued its gradual increase despite relatively low overall inflation numbers. On a year-over-year basis, it went up by 2.0%.

Swiss Consumer Price Index, Federal Statistical Office FSO Bar Chart

(Swiss Consumer Price Index, Federal Statistical Office FSO) 

International Benchmarking

Switzerland, often overshadowed by its European counterparts, emerges as a beacon of fiscal prudence. Continuously surpassing both Germany and the European Monetary Union in inflation performance, Switzerland’s economic strategy underscores a commitment to outpacing global standards.


Swiss Franc Rebounds from One-month Low 

Beyond inflation, the resurgence of the Swiss franc demands attention.

Rebounding from a one-month low, the franc strengthened beyond 0.9 per USD, marking a significant recovery from the four-week low at 0.91 on October 31.

This resurgence can be attributed to the proactive intervention of the Swiss National Bank (SNB)

USD/CHF 1-year Chart By Ultima Markets MT4

(USD/CHF 1-year Chart) 

SNB’s Strategic Intervention

The SNB’s substantial sale of foreign exchange reserves underscores a proactive approach to support the franc. This intervention, aimed at mitigating the impact of import inflation resulting from higher energy prices, showcases the SNB’s commitment to maintaining economic stability.

Foreign Exchange Dynamics

Remarkably, data from the SNB reveals that its foreign exchange reserves reached their lowest level in over five years in September. This deliberate reduction aligns with Switzerland’s strategic vision, prioritizing currency strength and resilience in the face of global economic challenges.


Bottom Line

In conclusion, Switzerland’s economic landscape stands as a testament to resilience, strategic planning, and fiscal prudence.

The nation’s ability to navigate inflationary pressures while concurrently bolstering its currency is a model for others to emulate.

As we delve into the intricacies of Switzerland’s economic narrative, it becomes evident that the nation’s commitment to stability positions it as a formidable force in the global economic arena.



Ultima Markets – The Rollover Schedule of Futures in Nov

Futures contracts switch to new contracts on the expiration date regularly, the process is known as “Rollover.” Market prices may experience fluctuations caused by non-market factors after the rollover. Positions in futures contracts will undergo corresponding funding adjustments based on the rollover direction to reflect the value change when transitioning between old and new contracts. Below is the schedule for the futures contract rollover at Ultima Markets in November.

The Rollover Schedule of Futures in Nov

Symbol

Description

Rollover Date

Current Contract

Next Contract

VIX

Volatility

2023/11/10

Nov-2023

Dec-2023

FRA40ft

France 40 Index Future

2023/11/15

Nov-2023

Dec-2023

CL-OIL

Crude Oil West Texas Future

2023/11/16

Dec-2023

Jan-2024

UKOUSDft

Brent Oil Future

2023/11/22

Dec-2023

Jan-2024

FLG

UK Long Gilt Futures

2023/11/23

Dec-2023

Mar-2024

CHINA50ft

CHINA50 Future

2023/11/24

Nov-2023

Dec-2023

HK50ft

Hong Kong 50 Future

2023/11/28

Nov-2023

Dec-2023

TY

US 10 YR T-Note Futures Decimalised

2023/11/28

Dec-2023

Mar-2024

FGBX

Euro – BUXL Futures

2023/12/01

Dec-2023

Mar-2024

FGBS

Euro – Schatz Futures

2023/12/01

Dec-2023

Mar-2024

FGBL

Euro – Bund Futures

2023/12/05

Dec-2023

Mar-2024

FGBM

Euro – BOBL Futures

2023/12/05

Dec-2023

Mar-2024

Friendly Reminder

• Internal transfers will be suspended during the half-hour before and after the rollover.

• Investors are advised to carefully manage their positions or adjust the take-profit and stop-loss settings before the rollover.

• Liquidity providers might adjust the rollover schedules base on the dynamic nature of market conditions. The up-to-date execution data should be subject to information on the MetaTrader software/application.

If you have any questions or require assistance, please do not hesitate to contact [email protected].

Focus on EURUSD today – 8th November 2023 

In this comprehensive analysis, Ultima Markets brings you an insightful breakdown of the EURUSD for 8th November 2023. 

Key Takeaways 

  • Hawkish statement from Fed member: Federal Reserve member Kashkari said that given the recent series of strong economic data, the Fed may have to take more measures to reduce inflation to the 2% target level. At the same time, regarding the issue of interest rate cuts, he said that the FOMC did not discuss the content of interest rate cuts. 
  • Powell will address a speech: Federal Reserve Chairman Powell will speak at the event tonight, and the market is paying attention to whether the chairman will release more forward guidance. 

Technical Analysis 

Daily Chart Insights 

  • Stochastic Oscillator: After the indicator hovered at the 50 mid-line for a period of time, it issued a bull signal again. However, judging from the market situation, the current bullish trend is still not clear and needs to wait for important resistance levels to be broken before it can be confirmed.
  • Moving average: The recent rise has hit the moving average resistance, then broke through the moving average after a correction, and then encountered resistance to the moving average again. Yesterday, the market touched the key 240-day moving average (green). Pay attention to whether the market will completely open up the upper space after the correction.  

1-hour Chart Analysis 

  • Stochastic oscillator: After the indicator forms a long signal, the market does not rise rapidly. The price may still oscillate, and the indicator may send a long signal again before looking for trading opportunities. 
  • Moving average: The current 65-period moving average is the key support and resistance conversion level during the day. If the price rebounds and breaks through 1.07047, the exchange rate will look towards the purple 2400-period moving average. On the contrary, if it falls below the black 65-period moving average, the euro will still depreciate in the short term. 
  • Fibonacci retracement level: The market is blocked at the 38.2% retracement level. If it continues to fall below, focus on the 50% retracement level. This price is also the overlap position of the green 240-period moving average. 

Pivot Indicator 

  • According to the pivot indicator in Ultima Markets MT4, the central price of the day is established at 1.06962, 
  • Bullish Scenario: Bullish sentiment prevails above 1.06962, first target 1.07280, second target 1.07542; 
  • Bearish Outlook: In a bearish scenario below 1.06962, first target 1.06699, second target 1.06387. 

Conclusion 

To navigate the complex world of trading successfully, it’s imperative to stay informed and make data-driven decisions. Ultima Markets remains dedicated to providing you with valuable insights to empower your financial journey. 

For personalized guidance tailored to your specific financial situation, please do not hesitate to contact Ultima Markets. 

Join Ultima Markets today and access a comprehensive trading ecosystem equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the financial markets. 

Stay tuned for more updates and analyses from our team of experts at Ultima Markets. 

—– 

Legal Documents 

Ultima Markets, a trading name of Ultima Markets Ltd, is authorized and regulated by the Financial Services Commission “FSC” of Mauritius as an Investment Dealer (Full-Service Dealer, excluding Underwriting) (license No. GB 23201593). The registered office address: 2nd Floor, The Catalyst, 40 Silicon Avenue, Ebene Cybercity, 72201, Mauritius. 

Copyright © 2023 Ultima Markets Ltd. All rights reserved. 

Disclaimer   

Comments, news, research, analysis, price, and all information contained in the article only serve as general information for readers and do not suggest any advice. Ultima Markets has taken reasonable measures to provide up-to-date information, but cannot guarantee accuracy, and may modify without notice. Ultima Markets will not be responsible for any loss incurred due to the application of the information provided.  

Focus on EUR/USD Today – 8th November 2023 


Comprehensive EUR/USD for November 8, 2023

In this comprehensive analysis, Ultima Markets brings you an insightful breakdown of the EUR/USD for 8th November 2023. 


Key Takeaways

  • Hawkish statement from Fed member: Federal Reserve member Kashkari said that given the recent series of strong economic data, the Fed may have to take more measures to reduce inflation to the 2% target level. At the same time, regarding the issue of interest rate cuts, he said that the FOMC did not discuss the content of interest rate cuts. 
  • Powell will address a speech: Federal Reserve Chairman Powell will speak at the event tonight, and the market is paying attention to whether the chairman will release more forward guidance. 

EUR/USD Technical Analysis 


EUR/USD Daily Chart Insights

EUR/USD Daily Chart Insights by Ultima Markets MT4
  • Stochastic Oscillator: After the indicator hovered at the 50 mid-line for a period of time, it issued a bull signal again. However, judging from the market situation, the current bullish trend is still not clear and needs to wait for important resistance levels to be broken before it can be confirmed.
  • Moving average: The recent rise has hit the moving average resistance, then broke through the moving average after a correction, and then encountered resistance to the moving average again. Yesterday, the market touched the key 240-day moving average (green). Pay attention to whether the market will completely open up the upper space after the correction.  

EUR/USD 1-hour Chart Analysis

EUR/USD 1-hour Chart Analysis by Ultima Markets MT4
  • Stochastic oscillator: After the indicator forms a long signal, the market does not rise rapidly. The price may still oscillate, and the indicator may send a long signal again before looking for trading opportunities. 
  • Moving average: The current 65-period moving average is the key support and resistance conversion level during the day. If the price rebounds and breaks through 1.07047, the exchange rate will look towards the purple 2400-period moving average. On the contrary, if it falls below the black 65-period moving average, the euro will still depreciate in the short term. 
  • Fibonacci retracement level: The market is blocked at the 38.2% retracement level. If it continues to fall below, focus on the 50% retracement level. This price is also the overlap position of the green 240-period moving average. 

Ultima Markets MT4 Pivot Indicator

Ultima Markets MT4 Pivot Indicator for EUR/USD
  • According to the pivot indicator in Ultima Markets MT4, the central price of the day is established at 1.06962, 
  • Bullish Scenario: Bullish sentiment prevails above 1.06962, first target 1.07280, second target 1.07542; 
  • Bearish Outlook: In a bearish scenario below 1.06962, first target 1.06699, second target 1.06387. 

Conclusion

Singapore’s PMI Moderate Growth, Index Hits 1.2-Year High


Singapore’s Manufacturing Sector: A Resilient Recovery and Soaring Confidence

In the ever-evolving landscape of Singapore’s manufacturing sector, the latest data paints a promising picture of recovery and growth.

The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for October 2023 inched up slightly to 50.2, marking the second consecutive month above the pivotal 50-point threshold.

This upward trend signals a robust recovery and an expansion of factory activity, underlining the resilience of Singapore’s manufacturing landscape.


Steady Gains in Key Metrics

Crucial metrics such as factory output, new exports, and employment have witnessed positive developments, indicating a steady climb back to pre-contraction levels. This optimistic trend is particularly encouraging given the recent six-month contraction period.

Despite the challenges posed by sluggish external demand, the manufacturing sector is demonstrating its ability to adapt and thrive.

Simultaneously, the electronics sector, which accounts for approximately 40% of Singapore’s industrial output, saw its activity decline for the 15th consecutive month in October. However, the rate of decline moderated slightly, with a reading of 49.9 compared to 49.8 in September.  

Singapore Manufacturing PMI, SIPMM Graph

(Singapore Manufacturing PMI, SIPMM)

Factory Output Takes Center Stage

Factory output, a cornerstone of manufacturing vitality, has shown notable improvement. The positive momentum suggests increased production activities, reflecting not only a recovery but also a potential uptick in consumer demand.

This bodes well for the overall economic landscape, as manufacturing often serves as a barometer for broader economic health.

New Exports Signal Global Relevance

The uptick in new exports is another noteworthy aspect of Singapore’s manufacturing resurgence. Despite external challenges, the sector is positioning itself on the global stage, showcasing its resilience and adaptability.

This is a testament to the competitiveness of Singaporean products in the international market.

Employment on the Rise

A positive correlation between increased factory activity and employment growth is a pivotal marker of a thriving manufacturing sector. As the manufacturing landscape expands, job opportunities follow suit, contributing to the overall economic well-being of the nation.


Navigating Challenges: A Balanced Outlook

While the overall trajectory is positive, it’s crucial to acknowledge and address the challenges that persist. Despite improvements, input purchases and new orders continue to contract, influenced in part by the economic deceleration in China and geopolitical tensions.

Additionally, supplier deliveries have experienced deterioration, reflecting the interconnected nature of global supply chains.

Electronics Sector: A Mixed Bag

The electronics sector, a significant contributor to Singapore’s industrial output, witnessed a decline for the 15th consecutive month in October. However, the rate of decline moderated slightly, signaling potential stabilization. This nuanced perspective underscores the sector’s resilience amid external pressures.


Business Confidence: Reaching New Heights

Beyond the numbers, the third quarter of 2023 brought a surge in business confidence, reaching its highest level in 18 months. This surge, from a confidence index of 6 to 7, signifies a renewed optimism within the manufacturing community.

Business Confidence, Singapore Department of Statistics Bar Chart

(Business Confidence, Singapore Department of Statistics) 

Electronics Industry: A Driving Force

The electronics industry, particularly the semiconductor segment, emerged as a major driver of this newfound confidence. The confidence index soared from 11 in the second quarter to an impressive 23 in the third quarter.

This surge underscores the pivotal role of semiconductors in shaping the outlook of the manufacturing sector.

General Manufacturing: Diverse Optimism

Diversification of optimism is evident in the general manufacturing sector, where an overall increase from -8 to 6 is observed. This shift is primarily attributed to positive sentiments surrounding food, beverages, and tobacco manufacturing.

The sector’s ability to adapt and pivot towards areas of demand is a testament to its resilience.


Sector-Specific Variances: A Nuanced Landscape

While overall confidence rose, specific sectors experienced divergent trends. The transport engineering sector witnessed a dip from 43 to 35, signaling a need for strategic adjustments.

Similarly, assessments for the chemicals, biomedical manufacturing, and precision engineering segments saw fluctuations, highlighting the importance of targeted strategies for sustained growth.

In conclusion, Singapore’s manufacturing sector is on a trajectory of resilience and recovery. The positive indicators across key metrics and the surge in business confidence underscore the adaptability and strength of the sector.

As challenges persist, addressing them with strategic precision will be paramount in ensuring a sustained and robust manufacturing landscape for Singapore.



Focus on AUD/USD Today – 7th November 2023 


Comprehensive AUD/USD for November 7, 2023

In this comprehensive analysis, Ultima Markets brings you an insightful breakdown of the AUD/USD for 7th November 2023. 


Key Takeaways

  • Changes in the RBA’s monetary policy: The Reserve Bank of Australia will announce its latest interest rate decision at noon. Due to the unexpectedly strong CPI in Australia in the third quarter and the rebound in housing prices to near record highs, the market expects that the possibility of the Reserve Bank of Australia raising interest rates by 25 basis points this week reaches 60% %. On the contrary, if there is no sign of tightening in monetary policy, AUD/USD will enter a rapid downward trend. 
  • Bullock has a hawkish attitude: The new chairman of the Reserve Bank of Australia, Bullock, said in a public speech that “if the inflation outlook shows a substantial increase, we will not hesitate to further raise the cash rate.” Expectations that the Reserve Bank of Australia will resume raising interest rates have triggered a strong rise in the Australian dollar recently. 

AUD/USD Technical Analysis 


AUD/USD Daily Chart Insights

AUD/USD Daily Chart Insights by Ultima Markets MT4
  • Stochastic Oscillator: The indicator has entered the overbought area, indicating the strength of the current bullish trend. Although there were signs of a reversal yesterday, we cannot judge that a reversal is coming without confirmation. 
  • Moving average: After the exchange rate strongly breaks through the 33-day moving average and the 65-day moving average, it hints that the current bullish trend is coming, and the resistance level is looking towards the 200-day moving average (dashed line). There is a certain probability of going back to the green 5-day moving average. 

AUD / USD 1-hour Chart Analysis

AUD/ USD 1-hour Chart Analysis by Ultima Markets MT4
  • Stochastic oscillator: The indicator is still in the oversold area. Judging from the market trend, it is currently in the consolidation stage. Wait for the indicator to show a long signal before paying attention to whether there are trading opportunities. 
  • Price Action: After consolidation for two trading days, the market formed a rectangular range. After falling below the range, the exchange rate will most likely continue to decline in the short term. Pay attention to the support price below. 
  • Support price: The red 65-period moving average is the first target support level. If the market enters a deep correction, continue to look at the upper edge of the upward channel line. 

Ultima Markets MT4 Pivot Indicator

Ultima Markets MT4 Pivot Indicator for AUD/USD
  • According to the pivot indicator in Ultima Markets MT4, the central price of the day is established at 0.64993, 
  • Bullish Scenario: Bullish sentiment prevails above 0.64993, first target 0.65131, second target 0.65371; 
  • Bearish Outlook: In a bearish scenario below 0.64993, first target 0.64752, second target 0.64608. 

Conclusion 


The Canadian Dollar Recovered from One-Year-Low of Weak USD


CAD Bounced, But Appreciation Capped 

The Canadian dollar has strengthened to 1.37 per USD, bouncing back strongly from the one-year low of 1.39 reached on November 1st.

This recovery was strengthened by a general retreat in the DXY index, as weak economic data from the US reinforced the Federal Reserve’s indications that they may hold off on further interest rate hikes.

However, the appreciation was limited by disappointing domestic economic data, which increased expectations of a less aggressive stance by the Bank of Canada (BoC).

(USD/CAD Six-month Chart) 


CAD Resurgence: Unveiling the Drivers

The rebound in the CAD is primarily driven by external macroeconomic factors:

DXY Index Retreat: The decline in the DXY index, which measures the USD’s strength against major currencies, is a pivotal factor.

This decrease in USD strength is linked to weak economic data from the United States, reinforcing the Federal Reserve’s inclination toward a more prudent approach to interest rate hikes.

This decline in USD strength has provided essential support for the CAD’s appreciation.


Domestic Economic Headwinds: Understanding the Constraints

The CAD’s upward momentum is hindered by domestic economic challenges:

  • Rising Unemployment: Canada’s unemployment rate surged to 5.7% in October, the highest level in 21 months. This unexpected increase has raised concerns about the stability of the Canadian labor market.
  • Sluggish Wage Growth: The ongoing deceleration in wage growth is a significant issue. Slower wage growth affects consumer spending and economic sentiment, adding to uncertainty in the market.
  • Faltering Job Creation: Job creation in Canada has fallen short of expectations, highlighting a pronounced weakness in the labor market. The inability to meet job creation projections amplifies concerns about the overall health of the Canadian economy.

Bank of Canada’s Approach: Navigating Economic Waters

The role of the Bank of Canada is paramount in shaping the CAD’s trajectory:

  • Interest Rate Policy: In a recent meeting, the BoC opted to maintain unchanged interest rates. However, the central bank has expanded its flexibility regarding future rate hikes. This shift indicates the BoC’s concern about the repercussions of previous tightening measures.
  • Dampened Demand and Inflation: The BoC has recognized that previous rate hikes have curbed demand and restrained inflation. This suggests a more measured approach to monetary policy, striking a balance between stimulating economic growth and managing inflation.

Conclusion: An Insightful Perspective

To sum up, the CAD’s resurgence from a one-year low is underpinned by a complex interplay of external and domestic factors.

While the retreat of the DXY index and the Federal Reserve’s policy stance have buoyed the CAD, the constraints of a challenging labor market and the BoC’s nuanced policy approach remain substantial challenges.

Staying vigilant in monitoring these factors is vital for investors and businesses as they navigate the intricate financial landscape.


Explore Ultima Markets News Hub

Stay Informed with the Latest Updates – Dive into Our Articles


Disclaimer   

Comments, news, research, analysis, price, and all information contained in the article only serve as general information for readers and do not suggest any advice. Ultima Markets has taken reasonable measures to provide up-to-date information, but cannot guarantee accuracy, and may modify without notice. Ultima Markets will not be responsible for any loss incurred due to the application of the information provided.  

Copyright © 2023 Ultima Markets Ltd. All rights reserved. 

Understanding the Recent Surge in GBP Value


The Impact of BOE and FED Decisions on the British Pound and Economy

The British pound has seen a remarkable resurgence in recent times, climbing above the $1.23 mark against the US dollar. This is the highest level for the pound since mid-October 2022.

The rise can be attributed to key decisions and outlooks from both the Bank of England (BOE) and the US Federal Reserve.


Factors Driving the Pound’s Rise

Several factors related to the stances of the BOE and Fed have contributed to lifting the pound:

  • Fed holds interest rates steady – The Fed’s decision not to raise rates further due to signs of slowing US job growth has boosted confidence in the pound as an investment option compared to the dollar.
  • BOE maintains firm interest rate stance – By holding its key rate at a 15-year high of 5.25%, the BOE has signaled its commitment to stability and shored up faith in the pound.
  • Reassurance from Governor Bailey – Comments from BOE Governor Andrew Bailey signaling no near-term rate cuts and upholding guidance on further hikes has reinforced the bank’s position.
GBP/USD 1-year Chart By Ultima Markets MT4

(GBP/USD 1-year Chart) 


Bank of England Outlook and Policy

The BOE has provided clarity around its monetary policy outlook and intentions:

  • No rate cuts expected soon – Bailey has indicated rate reductions are not on the horizon, offering certainty to markets.
  • Potential 3 quarter-point cuts by end 2024 – Markets speculate up to 75 basis points in cuts could come in 2024 as the BOE eyes the weak growth outlook.
  • On track to meet inflation target – BOE forecasts show inflation is slated to halve by year-end to meet the 2% target.
  • Inflation to remain above target until late 2025 – Projections see inflation at 3.1% in Q4 2024 before declining to 1.9% in Q4 2025, underscoring the bank’s anti-inflation stance.

Bank of England Interest Rate Projections

PeriodInterest Rate Projection
Q4 20225.25%
Q4 20234.50%
Q4 20243.75%
Q4 20253.00%
These data are from Bank of England
United Kingdom Interest Rate by Bank Of England

(United Kingdom Interest Rate, BOE)


Economic Headwinds Facing the UK

While positive for the pound, the BOE has cautioned around significant challenges for the UK economy:

  • Q3 growth stagnation – Economic expansion stalled in the third quarter of 2022.
  • Minimal Q4 growth expected – Forecasts show just 0.1% GDP growth to close out 2022.
  • Subdued 2023 growth outlook – The BOE sees the UK economy contracting throughout 2023.
  • High energy costs hit output – Expensive energy is forcing firms to cut back production.
  • Labor market concerns – Despite low unemployment, weak wage growth and poor productivity weigh on the economy.
  • Global slowdown impacts exports – Weaker EU and US markets are dampening demand for UK exports.

Impact on the British Pound

The pound’s rally indicates it remains an attractive safe-haven currency investment despite clouds on the UK’s economic horizon:

  • BOE policy credibility supports pound – The central bank’s consistency and transparency in laying out its policy intentions instills market trust in the pound.
  • UK rate advantage persists over dollar – The Fed being closer than the BOE to ending its tightening cycle preserves higher yield appeal for sterling.
  • Inflation fight remains intact – The BOE’s commitment to getting inflation down reinforces the pound as a stable store of value.
  • Economic challenges mainly priced in – Markets have largely priced in the headwinds facing the UK economy, limiting downside for the pound.

Conclusion

In summary, the BOE and Fed’s policy signaling has provided key support for the British pound’s surge above $1.23.

Despite economic struggles ahead, the UK central bank’s firm anti-inflation stance and rate advantage over the dollar are likely to continue underpinning sterling strength.

However, further dollar gains on aggressive Fed tightening or an unanticipated BOE pivot on rates pose risks.

Overall, the pound looks set to remain on solid footing as long as the BOE maintains policy credibility.