GBP/USD Tumbles Lower on Customs Union Rumours for Northern Ireland

• UK PM Johnson spoke to German Chancellor Merkel this morning and a No. 10 Downing Street source said that there could only be a deal if Northern Ireland stays in customs union. If not, then the deal is ‘overwhelmingly unlikely’ to be reached
• Brexit talks close to breaking down (a No. 10 Downing Street source again)
• No. 10 describes EU position that a deal is “essentially impossible not just now, but ever”
• UK Government is skeptical that the EU are engaging seriously or negotiating seriously.

The GBP is not liking the tones here, especially the comment about Northern Ireland. The EU wants NI to stay in the Customs Union, which basically means staying in the EU, while NI and the UK want Northern Ireland in the UK and out of the EU. DUP Party of NI also made some comments.

Via Ransquawk

• Ireland wants to have its cake and eat it
• Northern Irish DUP leader Dodd says Ireland appear to be turning peace process on its head
• It looks difficult to get a deal by Friday

So, the deal looks nearly impossible now that the EU want Northern Ireland to stay out. Johnson’s cabinet sees this as a major obstacle for the deal even if UK gets another extension. So, there’s no reason for another extension if both stay on their sides regarding Northern Ireland. GBP/USD has tumbled around 70 pips lower today.