Despite a weaker open and a test of near-term S/R the USD has recovered to post highs against some pairs as intraday volatility continues. Equities faded into the middle of the day unable to hold early gains helping to push the majors to lower prices in two-way volatility. Crude giving up gains also was a factor for lower EURO pricing traders say but for the most part the majors are struggling to hold support against negative sentiment as traders continue to wait for signs that the financial crisis is mitigating.

GBP had early highs at 1.5072 before dropping two full handles in late trade; traders note selling sympathy with EURO and cross-spreaders adding to the volatility.

Falling equities, weaker US economic data and fear of larger than expected rate cuts by the ECB and the ECB later this week kept the pressure on the majors today as GBP, EURO, Swissy and CAD gave back recent gains. Traders note stops were part of today's trade but thin conditions remained a contributing factor likely making the moves a bit bigger than would normally be the case. Analysts are now expecting a full 100 BP rate cut by the BOE on Thursday this week and traders sold GBP across the board today.

Rate forced lower to start the week after consolidating gains last week. Good bids reported but supply seen from semi-official names. Stops in range helps to pressure but support has failed at 1.5050 area. Traders note solid two-way action with stops cleared across several levels.

Sellers hold control above 1.5100 area so far but how the rate trades into US news today will tell more. OK to buy if flat on a dip. Profit-taking likely to result in a squeeze on the further strength. Technical trade overnight as traders decide near-term action with little to go on but the charts.