The currency pair GBP/USD is based on the value of the British pound versus the US dollar. It’s often referred to as ‘cable’ after the original method used to transmit the exchange rate across the Atlantic, which dates back to the mid-19th century. The GBP/USD price is based on how many US dollars (the quote currency) are needed to buy one British pound (the base currency), representing one of the most popularly traded forex pairs in the world. Several factors can influence this currency pair, such as political events, monetary policies and economic growth. Our GBP/USD chart can be analysed in various short and long-term timeframe views. View our trading hours, margins and spreads below. Spread bet or trade CFDs on the GBP/USD currency pair, or learn how to short the pound.