EUR/GBP nears 0.8300 on UK jobs and ECB cut

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EUR/GBP is gaining momentum, trading near 0.8295 as the UK’s unemployment rate climbs to 4.3% in the latest labor market report. With weaker-than-expected UK employment data and a cautious outlook from the European Central Bank (ECB) regarding potential rate cuts, market sentiment has shifted. The ECB’s decision may influence the pair’s near-term movement as traders await further economic indicators.

EUR/GBP Gains Ground as UK Employment Weakens
The EUR/GBP cross is experiencing upward momentum, nearing 0.8300 during the European session, as the Pound Sterling weakens following recent labor market data from the UK. The rise in the unemployment rate to 4.3% for the three months ending in September indicates potential challenges in the UK job market, adding pressure on the GBP. This uptick was higher than expected, with markets anticipating a figure closer to 4.1%.

UK Labor Market Data Reflects Rising Unemployment and Wage Pressures
The data from the Office for National Statistics revealed an increase in the unemployment rate, while the Claimant Count Change rose by 26.7K in October, falling short of the forecasted 30.5K increase. Wage inflation, however, showed some resilience, with average earnings (excluding bonuses) rising by 4.8% YoY in September, slightly above expectations. Despite this, the GBP has seen limited support as investors weigh the implications of a higher unemployment rate on the UK economy.

ECB Rate Cut Expectations Limit Upside for EUR/GBP
On the Eurozone side, ECB policymaker Robert Holzmann recently indicated that an interest rate cut is likely on the table for December, with markets factoring in a 25 basis point (bps) reduction and a 20% chance of a more significant 50 bps cut. This prospect of further monetary easing from the ECB may constrain EUR/GBP’s upside, especially as investors await more data to clarify the Eurozone’s economic trajectory.

Focus Shifts to German ZEW Survey and ECB Rate Decision
Looking ahead, the German ZEW economic sentiment survey will be a focal point, providing insights into business and economic outlooks within the Eurozone. Additionally, the ECB’s upcoming December rate decision could play a significant role in shaping EUR/GBP’s next moves, as markets seek clarity on the central bank’s monetary policy direction amid mixed economic indicators.