The Pound Sterling (GBP) started the year on a firm note, outperforming most of its major currency peers. Economists at Scotiabank analyze GBP outlook.
Positive UK data, suggesting some surprising resiliency in the economy prompted a significant reduction in BoE rate cut bets while strengthening global stocks gave the quasi high-beta GBP a pro-risk lift.
Cable gains were capped a little above 1.2800 while solid support developed on dips to 1.2600 as speculative and hedge fund traders boosted bullish positioning.
Short-term trends turned more negative in early February as GBP/USD weakened below 1.2600 but we still anticipate moderate gains for the GBP (mainly in H2) this year as global rates ease and risk appetite picks up.
GBP/USD – Q1-24 1.2500 Q2-24 1.2500 Q3-24 1.3000 Q4-24 1.3000