This week the focus will be on the Bank of Canada rate hike and inflation statistics from Europe and Australia.
CAD: rate hike expected
The Bank of Canada may raise its rate by 25 basis points on Wednesday, from 4.25% to 4.5%. The projected increase will come in line with expectations, which could push the Canadian dollar into a new wave of appreciation. This is likely to be the last rate hike in the Canadian monetary policy tightening cycle.
USD: weak statistics
A batch of statistics – probably disappointing – will put pressure on the already falling US dollar. Durable goods orders and GDP for the fourth quarter are expected to be released – figures may fall short of expectations. S&P Global PMI data will be presented on Tuesday, which already points to a potential decline in business activity in January.
EUR: support from ECB
The European Central Bank is promising a 50 basis points rate hike at its upcoming meeting, from 2.5% to 3%. In addition, the focus will be on the release of Germany’s January Ifo business climate index and a speech by ECB President Christine Lagarde.
GBP: focus on PMI
Positive surprises in the release of UK data could help the pound to consolidate above the current high, from which a pullback down has been seen so far. On Tuesday, the market will see values from the manufacturing and service sector business activity index – slight deviations from previous figures are expected.
AUD: Inflation data
The quarterly consumer price index data will be released on Wednesday. Australia is still struggling with inflation, the weighted average consumer price index for November could rise again. This will push the Bank of Australia into another rate hike of 25 basis points as early as February.
