Gained a brief reprieve from the........>

EURO-DOLLAR: Gained a brief reprieve from the recent downside pressure on the

EUR Friday as markets reacted to the release of US Retail Sales. Rate popped up

to $1.0861, headline Retail Sales numbers were in line with expectations but the

GDP sensitive Retail Control Group disappointed, coming in flat versus forecast

for 0.3%. However, this reaction proved short lived with willing sellers quickly

appearing to press rate back to $1.0833, recovered to $1.0846 before drifting

off to $1.0830 into the close. EUR continues to be under pressure from growth

concerns along with carry plays but there are signs that rate could be open to

corrective recovery moves, though traders suggesting rallies ahead of $1.0900

will continue to attract counter sales, a break of $1.0900 needed to convince a

stronger recovery under way. Rate touched an opening Asian low of $1.0821,

recovered to $1.0844 then settled around $1.0840 into Europe. US Presidents' Day

holiday likely to make for a subdued session. A light EZ data day, Construction

Output at 1000GMT. Focus this week on Friday's release of flash PMI's.

- Support $1.0821, $1.0810/00. Resistance $1.0845/50, $1.0860/65,

$1.0890/1.0900.