just now
12 February 2026
Factors in price action (Mon–Wed):
• GBP: Cabinet unity behind PM Keir Starmer trimmed the political risk premium, giving GBP some relief on Monday. Gains were modest as markets await Q4 GDP and ongoing labour-market signals.
• USD: Fell for three consecutive sessions through Tuesday amid disappointing December retail sales and weaker-than-expected payroll guidance, then rebounded Wednesday after an unexpectedly strong January nonfarm payrolls report (+130k) and a lower unemployment rate, pushing the market to price Fed cuts later (June → July).
• Treasury yields followed a similar pattern: lower early in the week, rising post-payrolls, providing USD support.
This week (Thu–Fri preview):
• UK: Q4 GDP (Thu) — expected soft end to 2025, with early 2026 recovery possible as budget uncertainty fades. Key risk remains a fragile job market and political headlines.
• US: Jan CPI (Fri) — main focus for Fed guidance; will set near-term USD tone.
• Eurozone: Trade data (Fri) — ongoing impact of US tariffs and Chinese shipment diversion could influence broader risk sentiment.
Key risks ahead:
• UK GDP weaker than expected → GBP downside pressure.
• Strong US CPI → USD supported → GBPUSD lower.
• Continued political stability → limits GBP downside, allows temporary rallies.
• Eurozone trade surprises → indirect risk-on/off influence via EURUSD moves.
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