August 19, 2026

Risk Disclaimer: The example below is for illustrative purposes only and is based on price movements derived from Contracts for Difference (CFDs). The calculations reflect hypothetical outcomes using historical or specified price data for the relevant instrument on the stated date and are not indicative of future performance. Any reliance placed on this material is strictly at the user’s own risk.
The EUR/USD pair rose firmly after broadly stronger than expected European data and softer US data weakened the US dollar across the board.
The British pound rose to an almost one month high after stronger than expected UK GDP data boosted the pound.
The USD/JPY ended a volatile week higher after touching a one month high amid increasing expectations that the Bank of Japan might hike rates at its next meeting in September.
Gold prices hit a fresh two month high to peak after weaker US inflation linked data and much lower than expected retail sales data reduced the chances of Fed rate hikes this year.
The US S&P 500 posted another record high after positive earnings results from tech companies. A total of 84.5% of companies that have posted earnings so far have beaten expectations.
Oil prices rose to a ten day high after further reports of attacks upon tankers by Iran or by Yemeni Houthis highlighted the supply disruption from the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.