In line with market expectations, FOMC members voted in favour of a 25 basis point hike making it the third time the FED have raised interest rates since the Global recession. Analysts had already called the shots on the likelihood, boasting a 94$ probability following strong non-farm figures on Friday.
The US Dollar turned slightly sour following the Chairlady’s comments, during the press conference Yellen hinted at a return to slower policy changes moving forward, which prompted a small but noticeable US Dollar sell off.
Stronger US economy
Investor appetite for the US Dollar remains at high following a string of economic data released hours before the FED’s interest rate decision. Both Consumer price and retail sale figures came in at market expectations, but highlighted consumer spending was at its weakest in 6 months.
Most economic inidicators point to a strengthening of the US economy, and coupled with President Trump’s economic plans the FED may still have to play catch up in the latter parts of 2017.
President Trump’s speech
Shortly after the FED’s interest rate decision, President Trump held a rally in Nashville in which he encouraged supporters to ’embrace their glorious national destiny’. Speaking out against the Hawaiian judge who blocked his travel ban executive order, President Trump vowed to fight the decision labeling the ruling as ‘weak’. The US Dollar retracted slightly following the rally.
Queen to give Royal Assent on Article 50 today
The Queen is expected to give Royal Assent to the UK Government, allowing Theresa May the legal path for triggering Article 50 and beginning the process of an EU-exit.
With this in mind, GBP/USD may continue to trend lower testing ranges of 1.20 possibly lower as we approach April.