USD, GBP, and Key Currency Movements

USD: A Safe-Haven Under Pressure

The US dollar remains under pressure, with its recent consolidation failing to shift its broader underperformance. The primary driver behind the USD’s weakness has been the resurgence of risk appetite, as investors weigh the likelihood that President Trump’s tariff threats are more negotiation tactics than an outright escalation of trade wars. Despite fresh threats of 25% tariffs on automobile, semiconductor, and pharmaceutical imports, market participants are cautiously optimistic that the administration may ultimately adopt a more measured approach.

Additionally, the Trump administration’s push to cut government spending has raised concerns over long-term US growth prospects, pushing yields lower and further undermining USD demand. Another key factor is Trump's efforts at re-engagement with Russia, fuelling hopes for a quicker resolution to the Ukraine conflict. If successful, this could increase global energy supply, improving conditions for energy-importing economies and eroding the USD’s safe-haven appeal.

Looking ahead, today’s focus is on the release of the FOMC minutes and a speech from Federal Reserve Governor Philip Jefferson. Investors will also keep a close watch on any developments related to a potential US-Ukraine peace deal and additional tariff announcements. Unless the FOMC minutes surprise markets with a more hawkish tone or Trump delivers fresh tariff shocks, the dollar’s latest consolidation could stall, continuing its broad weakness against major counterparts.

GBP: Inflation’s Role in BoE Policy Adjustments

Sterling has extended its gains against the euro and other lower-yielding G10 currencies, buoyed by stronger-than-expected UK labour market data. The positive employment figures have prompted investors to scale back their expectations for imminent Bank of England (BoE) rate cuts, lending support to the GBP.

The key test for the pound now lies in today’s CPI release. Market consensus expects both headline and core inflation to rebound following a softer December print. However, with expectations already elevated, any upside surprise would need to be significant to materially alter the current BoE outlook. Additionally, BoE Governor Andrew Bailey has downplayed persistent inflation concerns, attributing price pressures to temporary factors rather than underlying economic trends.

If today’s inflation data surprises to the upside, we could see a further shift in rate cut expectations, extending GBP strength. However, should the data reinforce the idea of transitory inflationary pressures, the pound’s recent rally may lose steam.

JPY: A Narrowing Rate Gap Buys the BoJ Time

The Japanese yen has found some support following comments from Bank of Japan (BoJ) Board member Hajime Takata, who indicated that the central bank should take time to assess the impact of previous rate hikes. The narrowing US-Japan interest rate differential is giving policymakers additional flexibility, reducing the urgency for immediate policy adjustments.

Despite these remarks, Takata reiterated that if economic conditions align with expectations, the BoJ should proceed with further tightening. With Japan’s spring wage negotiations underway, policymakers will be closely monitoring labour market dynamics before making their next move. The market currently prices in a BoJ rate hike between July and September, which could provide sustained support for the JPY in the coming months.

NZD: RBNZ Slows the Pace of Rate Cuts

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) delivered a widely anticipated 50bps rate cut, bringing the Official Cash Rate (OCR) to 3.75%. Despite this dovish move, the central bank signalled a slower pace of rate cuts moving forward, supporting the NZD.

Notably, the RBNZ has advanced its forecast for reaching a terminal rate of 3.10% to the end of 2025, aligning with market expectations. This shift reflects New Zealand’s economy exhibiting more spare capacity than previously anticipated. The central bank also raised its inflation forecast for 2025 due to a weaker currency and rising energy prices, but with inflation still projected to peak within the 1-3% target band, policymakers feel comfortable maintaining a gradual easing trajectory.

One emerging risk is the potential impact of Trump’s tariffs on New Zealand exports. If US trade restrictions target NZ products, this could lead to accelerated rate cuts and renewed NZD weakness.

AUD: Key Data Will Dictate RBA’s Next Move

RBA Governor Michele Bullock outlined four conditions necessary for further rate cuts: sustained declines in housing costs, lower services inflation, slower wage growth, and improved productivity. While today’s wage data showed a slowdown in growth, aligning with RBA forecasts, the Australian labour market remains a crucial factor.

Thursday’s employment report will be pivotal. If job growth remains robust, the RBA may hold off on additional easing, lending support to the AUD. However, a faster-than-expected rise in unemployment could reignite speculation of further rate cuts, pressuring the currency.

The currency markets remain highly sensitive to economic data releases and geopolitical developments. The USD’s performance hinges on FOMC minutes, trade policy updates, and risk sentiment, while the GBP’s trajectory will depend on inflation surprises. Meanwhile, the JPY, NZD, and AUD face central bank-driven influences, with upcoming data dictating their near-term direction. As markets continue to digest evolving macroeconomic narratives, traders should stay attuned to key event risks that could trigger fresh volatility.

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