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16.03.2026 07:29 PM
GBP/USD: Tips for Beginner Traders on March 16th (U.S. Session)

Trade Analysis and Tips for Trading the British Pound

The test of the 1.3245 level occurred when the MACD indicator had already moved significantly below the zero mark, which limited the pair's downward potential. For this reason, I did not sell the pound. A second test of 1.3245 triggered the implementation of Scenario No. 2 for buying, resulting in a 20-point increase in the pair.

Despite the slight recovery of the pound in the first half of the day, pressure on the pair may return at any moment. Markets accustomed to periods of relative stability react sensitively even to the slightest signs of escalating conflicts. The threat of disruptions to oil and gas supplies from a region that is a key supplier of energy resources to the global market will inevitably lead to higher energy prices. This, in turn, will trigger a new wave of inflationary pressure, which typically has a negative impact on risk assets.

In addition, today's macroeconomic indicators may also support the dollar. Positive reports on changes in industrial production and manufacturing output in the United States will clearly lead to an immediate strengthening of the dollar. Furthermore, the publication of the NAHB Housing Market Index may also contribute to increased dollar strength. This indicator, reflecting the condition of the construction sector, is highly sensitive to fluctuations in interest rates and consumer sentiment. Favorable NAHB index results, signaling rising demand and positive expectations in the real estate sector, will indicate resilient domestic demand and the overall state of the economy.

As for the intraday strategy, I will rely more on the implementation of Scenario No. 1 and Scenario No. 2.

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Buy Signal

Scenario No. 1: Today, I plan to buy the pound when the price reaches the 1.3280 entry point (green line on the chart) with a target of 1.3315 (thicker green line on the chart). Around 1.3315, I will exit long positions and open short positions in the opposite direction, expecting a 30–35 point move from the level. An increase in the pound can be expected today after weak U.S. data.

Important: Before buying, make sure that the MACD indicator is above the zero mark and is just beginning to rise from it.

Scenario No. 2: I also plan to buy the pound today if there are two consecutive tests of the 1.3259 level when the MACD indicator is in the oversold area. This will limit the pair's downward potential and lead to a reversal of the market upward. Growth toward the opposite levels of 1.3280 and 1.3315 can be expected.

Sell Signal

Scenario No. 1: Today, I plan to sell the pound after the 1.3259 level is broken (red line on the chart), which will lead to a rapid decline in the pair. The key target for sellers will be 1.3225, where I will exit short positions and immediately open long positions in the opposite direction, expecting a 20–25 point move from the level. Pressure on the pound may return at any moment today.

Important: Before selling, make sure that the MACD indicator is below the zero mark and is just beginning to decline from it.

Scenario No. 2: I also plan to sell the pound today if there are two consecutive tests of the 1.3280 level when the MACD indicator is in the overbought area. This will limit the pair's upward potential and lead to a reversal of the market downward. A decline toward the opposite levels of 1.3259 and 1.3225 can be expected.

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What is shown on the chart:

  • Thin green line – the entry price at which the trading instrument can be bought;
  • Thick green line – the expected level where Take Profit orders can be placed or profits can be locked in manually, since further growth above this level is unlikely;
  • Thin red line – the entry price at which the trading instrument can be sold;
  • Thick red line – the expected level where Take Profit orders can be placed or profits can be locked in manually, since further decline below this level is unlikely;
  • MACD Indicator – when entering the market, it is important to consider overbought and oversold zones.

Important

Beginner traders in the Forex market should be very cautious when making decisions about entering the market. Before the release of major fundamental reports, it is best to stay out of the market to avoid sharp price fluctuations. If you decide to trade during news releases, always place stop orders to minimize potential losses. Without placing stop orders, you can lose your entire deposit very quickly, especially if you do not use money management and trade with large volumes.

Remember that successful trading requires a clear trading plan, similar to the one presented above. Spontaneous trading decisions based on the current market situation are an inherently losing strategy for an intraday trader.

Jakub Novak,
Analytical expert of InstaForex
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