FX.co ★ Analysis and trading tips for GBP/USD on May 17

Analysis of transactions and tips for trading GBP/USD

The test of 1.2505 coincided with the time that the MACD line was already far from zero, so the downward potential was limited. No other market signal appeared for the rest of the day.

Pound fell due to the spike in jobless claims and unemployment rate in the UK. Then, pressure intensified as the US reported strong statistics, such as a rise in retail sales.

There is nothing to look forward to today apart from the speech of Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey. Emphasis on further interest rate hikes may help pound recover positions.

For long positions:

Buy pound when the level of 1.2485 (green line on the chart) is reached and take profit at the price of 1.2537 (thicker green line on the chart). Growth could occur in the morning. However, before buying, traders should make sure that the MACD line is above zero or is starting to rise from it. Pound can also be bought after two consecutive price tests of 1.2447, but the MACD line should be in the oversold area as only by that will the market reverse to 1.2485 and 1.2537.

For short positions:

Sell pound when the level of 1.2447 (red line on the chart) is reached and take profit at the price of 1.2405. Pressure will increase after strong US and real estate market data. However, before selling, traders should make sure that the MACD line is below zero or is starting to move down from it. Pound can also be sold after two consecutive price tests of 1.2485, but the MACD line should be in the overbought area as only by that will the market reverse to 1.2447 and 1.2405.

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.