Is GBP/USD ready for 1.23?

18 oct 2023

Initially, the exchange rate between the British pound (GBP) and the US dollar (USD) showed an increase, surpassing 1.2130 but encountering resistance at 1.2175. Despite inflation in the UK, the pair consolidated with slight losses due to the strength of the US dollar. Currently, it fluctuates between 1.2190 and 1.2200, in line with Fibonacci retracement levels at 23.6% and simple moving averages at 50 and 100 periods. If the pair manages to stabilize above this range, technical buyers could step in, aiming for 1.2250 and 1.2300. Otherwise, potential sellers could push the pair towards 1.2130 and 1.2100.

During a quiet Asian session, I noticed a modest increase in GBP/USD, reaching 1.2200 during the Wednesday morning European session. From a technical perspective, there are no clear signals of upward momentum, but further increases could occur if the pair holds at 1.2200. The inflation index in the UK remained stable at 6.7% on a yearly basis in September, surpassing market expectations. The British Finance Minister anticipates a decrease in inflation. Although recent CPI data may not influence the markets for a rate hike by the Bank of England in the November meeting, investors might reassess whether the BoE has completed its tightening cycle, potentially supporting the British pound in the short term. In the afternoon, Housing Starts and Building Permits data for September will be released in the US, which could impact the US dollar. I will look for a long entry on M15 or M5 with a subsequent target of 1.22. Let me know what you think, comment, and leave a like. Greetings from Nicola, the CEO of Forex48 Trading Academy.