Why Is GBP/USD Rallying Despite Trump's Auto Tariffs? | Pound Sterling Defies Trade War Fears

Sterling stages impressive recovery against Greenback as currency traders discount immediate impact of US trade measures.

The 10 USD to DogecoinGBP/USD pair showcases remarkable buoyancy during Thursday's European session, rebounding from recent corrective moves to approach the 1.2925 level. This resurgence occurs against the backdrop of President Trump's controversial decision to impose 25% duties on automotive imports, demonstrating the complex interplay between trade policy and currency valuations.

Dollar Index retreats from three-week peak as tariff consequences come under scrutiny.

Market analysts observe the US Dollar Index (DXY) pulling back to 104.30 after touching 104.70 earlier, suggesting traders are evaluating the broader economic implications of protectionist measures. While tariffs traditionally strengthen the imposing nation's currency, concerns about potential demand destruction and supply chain disruptions appear to be tempering Dollar enthusiasm.

Kashkari advocates steady Fed policy amid economic crosscurrents.

Minneapolis Fed President Neel Kashkari's recent remarks at the Detroit Lakes Chamber Economic Summit highlight the central bank's delicate balancing act. His characterization of competing inflationary and growth pressures as "kind of a wash" underscores the challenges facing monetary policymakers in the current environment. Market participants appear to be pricing in prolonged stability within the 4.25%-4.50% federal funds rate range.

UK fiscal developments create mixed signals for Sterling.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves' Spring Statement introduced welfare benefit reductions while maintaining commitment to fiscal discipline, creating opposing forces for the Pound. The announced £4.8 billion in welfare savings and increased defense spending demonstrate the government's attempt to navigate economic headwinds while meeting strategic priorities.

Technical landscape suggests cautious optimism for GBP bulls.

From a chart perspective, the Pound's ability to find support near the 20-day EMA at 1.2873 indicates underlying strength. The 61.8% Fibonacci retracement level at 1.2930 now serves as immediate resistance, with the 14-day RSI's retreat from overbought territory suggesting room for additional upside potential if momentum rebuilds.

Market attention now turns to upcoming US PCE data and UK GDP figures, though their impact may be tempered by the larger narrative surrounding trade policy evolution and central bank positioning. The currency pair's ability to maintain its recovery trajectory will likely depend on whether tariff concerns remain contained or begin to materially affect growth expectations.