UK unemployment rate unexpectedly remained unchanged

Close-up of Union Jack flag
Blue avatar for FOREX.com guest contributors
By :  ,  Financial Analyst

The Office for National Statistics said Tuesday that the number of people seeking unemployment benefits increased by more than 1.5 million in the two months through May. However, there was a drop in jobless claims between April and May. The unemployment rate for the quarter to April unexpectedly remained unchanged at 3.9%.

On Thursday, the Bank of England may decide to strengthen its aid package for the British economy.

From a chartist’s point of view, the FTSE 100 has landed on a short term support at 5931 and is posting a rebound. However, the medium term technical picture remains challenging as prices are nearing a significant hurdle near 6700 (overlap). The 20-week simple moving average is still heading downward.  Even though a continuation of the rebound cannot be ruled out, its extent should be limited. Readers may want to consider opening short positions below the key resistance at 6700. A break below 5931 would open a path to see 5400. Alternatively, a push above the key resistance at 6700 would reinstate a bullish bias with 7100 as the first target.

Market chart showing UK 100. Analysed June 2020

Source: GAIN Capital, TradingView

Related tags: Indices unemployment

Open an account in minutes

Experience award-winning platforms with fast and secure execution.

Live Trading Webinars

Our interactive webinars, led by our industry experts, come highly recommended and can help provide your trading with the edge it needs.
Economic Calendar