After jumping higher in early trade, the FTSE has manged to hold onto its gains. Boosted by a trade truce between US and Mexico, the prospect of greater central bank globally and a weakening pound the UK index is making an attempt to break through resistance at 7375.
Mexico agreeing to beef up security on the border with the US has placated Trump and removed the risk of trade tariffs. Markets across Europe have reacted positively to the news. Wall Street also opened sharply higher, extending last week’s Fed inspired rally. With trade fears easing and growing expectations of the Fed loosening monetary policy following a terrible headline NFP figure, equity bulls are out in force.
Pound struggles as UK economy slows
Dismal monthly GDP data, in addition to weak manufacturing and industrial production numbers laid bare the impact of Brexit uncertainty and trade tensions on the British economy.
Whilst the monthly GDP tracker is volatile and we say that one bad reading doesn’t constitute a trend, two consecutive readings of contraction are hard to ignore. The data suggests that the UK economy is facing a marked slow down in the second quarter.
The pound dropped to a weekly low of $1.2654. Whilst it has picked up marginally in the afternoon session, we expect pressure to remain on the pound as the Conservative leadership battle heats up. With nominations formally opening today, investors will get a first look at how popular pro- Brexit candidates are. This could in fact spook investors further.
Gold tanks 1%
Gold plunged 1% as flows out of safe havens increased following the trade truce between US and Mexico. The stronger dollar also knocked demand for the precious metal, making it more expensive for buyers with foreign currency.
Gold is currently trading around $1330. Support can be seen as $1324, a breakthrough here could open the door to support at $1320. Weakness in precious metals ensured Fresnillo (LON:FRES) featured high up on the FTSE loser board.
FTSE levels to watch:
The FTSE is trending higher trading above its 50, 100 and 200 SMA on 4-hour chart; a bullish chart. The index is currently testing resistance at 7375. A breakthrough at this level could see the index extend gains to 7420 and up to 7460. On the downside support can be seen at 7260 before 7190.
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