Euro Falters as 1Q GDP Disappoints, Pound Rebounds on BoE
Euro: EZ 1Q GDP Disappoints, H&S Continues to Pan Out
The Euro slid to a fresh monthly low of 1.2874 as the region�s 1Q GDP report showed the growth rate contracting 0.3% versus forecasts for a 0.1% decline, and the prolonged recession may continue to drag on the exchange rate as it fuels speculation for additional monetary support.
As the euro-area struggles to return to growth, the European Central Bank (ECB) may come under increased pressure to further embark on its easing cycle, and we may see a growing argument to purchase Asset-Backed Securities (ABS) in an effort to encourage a stronger recovery. At the same time, negative interest rates may also turn into a real option for the Governing Council amid the ongoing turmoil in the periphery countries, and the central bank may continue to push into uncharted territory as the governments operating under the single currency become increasingly reliant on monetary support.