Release of stronger than forecast France......>

FOREX: Release of stronger than forecast France flash PMI data provided the EUR

with an early lift in Europe, took EUR/USD up to $1.1163, but early enthusiasm

quickly countered by softer than forecast PMI data from Germany and the EU. EUR

lost ground across the board, eased EUR/USD to $1.1124, which allowed USD/JPY to

edge up to Y108.75. UK Labour's Rebecca Long-Bailey said it was the party's

policy to support a call for a general election, which popped cable higher

(current polls suggest a clear majority win for the Conservatives) but momentum

quickly faded. Corrective pullback to $1.2877 met the usual sterling demand into

dips, helped by EUR/GBP rejection at its 10-dma at Gbp0.8646.

- Norges Bank and Riksbank left rates unchanged, the former reaffirming a

prolonged policy pause, whilst the latter signalled a Dec hike and flat after

that.

- ECB Draghi last policy meeting at 1230GMT, as well as U.S. durable orders and

new home sales take focus on the data front. U.S. Vice President Pence will make

his awaited speech on China policies.