U.S. Dollar Strengthens on Better-Than Expected PMI Data

Dear traders,

The best performer Monday was the British pound that rallied as signs the U.K. and European Union are close to agreeing a trade deal. The latest progress in the development of a coronavirus vaccine bolstered the currency’s upward move.

Bulls in the GBP/USD profited while sterling rose to the highest level since early September. Looking ahead, the potential for progress in Brexit talks, growing optimism for a vaccine and fresh fiscal stimulus should keep the cable supported.

We bear in mind, that a Brexit deal is largely priced in to the pound, which is why a breakdown in talks would see a much larger move lower.

The euro experienced a sharp reversal after the U.S. dollar gained traction on better than expected flash PMI data. The monthly PMI report crushed market forecast as it came in at a five-year high.

From a technical perspective, not much has changed in the EUR/USD. Above 1.1920 gains may be extended towards 1.1960 whereas below 1.1790 the euro may slip towards 1.1690.

The U.S. dollar could experience bullish tailwinds in short-term time frames as robust U.S. economic data could downplay the urgency of another fiscal stimulus package or additional accommodation from the Federal Reserve.