British Pound Analysis By zForex Research Team - 01.24.2025
Recession Fears Pressure Pound
The British pound is trading near 1.2400 as investors await clarity on U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff plans and express concerns about the UK’s financial outlook. According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC), consumer confidence in the British economy has reached a new low amid recession fears. Adding to the pressure, Britain’s December budget deficit exceeded expectations, with public sector net borrowing rising to £17.8 billion ($22 billion), over £10 billion higher than a year ago, increasing scrutiny on Finance Minister Rachel Reeves.
Trump has not immediately imposed tariffs on U.S. imports but is considering tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China starting February 1, and on EU imports. Looking ahead, concerns over the UK’s economic weakness and anticipated rate cuts from the Bank of England, markets are pricing in around 65 basis points of cuts this year, pointing to a negative outlook for the pound. However, with the U.S. dollar index weakening, the GBP/USD pair is poised to end the week with gains.
Technically, the first resistance level is at 1.2430, with 1.2460 and 1.2500 as the next targets if breached. On the downside, initial support lies at 1.2265, followed by 1.2100 and 1.2080 if the pair moves lower.