UK PMI data reflected a softening in activity in September after the recovery in the economy seen earlier this year, Scotiabank’s Chief FX Strategist Shaun Osborne notes.

Undertone remains positive

“The Manufacturing PMI dipped a point to 51.5 while Services dropped to 52.8, from 53.7, to leave the Composite Index at 52.9, from 53.8. All the data were weaker than expected but remain solidly in expansion territory. Sterling dipped on the data but has recovered most of the lost ground to hold the 1.33 area ahead of the North American open.”

“The Pound Sterling (GBP) has reversed most of the losses seen through the European session relatively easily. The broader pattern and tone of the charts remain GBP-bullish, amid steady GBP gains and strong, upward momentum on the short-, medium– and long-term oscillators. GBP dips should remain relatively shallow.”

“Support is 1.3250. Sustained GBPUSD gains through 1.3330 long-term retracement resistance will be bullish. GBP resiliency should support further EURGBP losses towards support in the low 0.83 area, the last stopping point potentially for the cross ahead of a move back to 0.82.”