Analysis and trading tips for GBP/USD on August 17 (US session)

Analysis of transactions and trading tips on GBP/USD

The test of 1.2725 occurred when the MACD line rose from zero, confirming the signal to buy pound. However, after a 12-pip increase, pressure on the pair returned and trading remained within the sideways channel.

Quite important reports lie ahead, such as the number of initial jobless claims and the Philadelphia Fed's manufacturing index. Weak data in the former will recover demand, leading to the update of the daily high. On the other hand, a strong report will trigger another sell-off in GBP/USD.

For long positions:

Buy when pound hits 1.2759 (green line on the chart) and take profit at the price of 1.2808 (thicker green line on the chart). Growth may occur, which may result in the update of yesterday's high. However, when buying, ensure that the MACD line lies above zero or rises from it.

Pound can also be bought after two consecutive price tests of 1.2723, but the MACD line should be in the oversold area as only by that will the market reverse to 1.2759 and 1.2808.

For short positions:

Sell when pound reaches 1.2723 (red line on the chart) and take profit at the price of 1.2674. Pressure may intensify in the afternoon. However, when selling, make sure that the MACD line lies below zero or drops down from it.

Pound can also be sold after two consecutive price tests of 1.2759, but the MACD line should be in the overbought area as only by that will the market reverse to 1.2723 and 1.2674.

What's on the chart:

Thin green line - entry price at which you can buy GBP/USD

Thick green line - estimated price where you can set Take-Profit (TP) or manually fix profits, as further growth above this level is unlikely.

Thin red line - entry price at which you can sell GBP/USD

Thick red line - estimated price where you can set Take-Profit (TP) or manually fix profits, as further decline below this level is unlikely.

MACD line- it is important to be guided by overbought and oversold areas when entering the market

Important: Novice traders need to be very careful when making decisions about entering the market. Before the release of important reports, it is best to stay out of the market to avoid being caught in sharp fluctuations in the rate. If you decide to trade during the release of news, then always place stop orders to minimize losses. Without placing stop orders, you can very quickly lose your entire deposit, especially if you do not use money management and trade large volumes.

And remember that for successful trading, you need to have a clear trading plan. Spontaneous trading decision based on the current market situation is an inherently losing strategy for an intraday trader.