Pound/Euro has fallen 8 cents since last month

Monday 28th September 
The last week has been an interesting one for currencies, with the GBP/EUR exchange rate fluctuating between €1.39 and €1.35. Since last month, it's now fallen 8 cents. This means purchasing €350,000.00 today is costing you around £15,000.00 more than last month, which really illustrates how important it is to get your timing right, and have tools in place like 'Stop Loss' orders to protect against sharp drops in the market like we have seen recently.

Here's how the GBP/EUR rate has moved in the last 2 months:

What has been causing the volatility in currency prices? 

As I explained in my last post, the main reason for the fall in GBP/EUR rates last week was due to a strengthening of the Euro, which has now become more expensive to buy. The European Central Bank opted not to extend their stimulus programme, and have also said interest rates will not be cut. This has supported the Euro and is the main reason for rates dropping away. 

Also the global economic uncertainty has meant that the UK are no longer likely to tighten monetary policy, and this has halted the rise in the value of Sterling. I’d expect the USA to raise interest rates later this year, and the UK may follow them, but not until the latter part of 2016 in my opinion. (The rumour of an interest rate hike generally strengthens a currency due to the higher return on offer for investors).

What could happen to exchange rates this week? 

Below I’ve listed the main data releases I think will affect currency rates for the coming week. For those looking at GBP/EUR, there are lots of inflation figures from the UK and EU, and also UK GDP figures that could affect the rate. 

For GBP/USD, look for hints on interest rates from FED member speeches later today. 

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Monday 28th September 2015 – Very quiet other that data from the USA – Inflation numbers, Home Sales and Speeches by FED members could all affect GBP/USD. So far rates have risen today, but the general trend in Pound/Dollar rates is likely to be down 

Tuesday 29th September 2015 – There is a speech by Bank of England governor Mark Carney, and he may give clues on UK interest rates that could affect the Pound. Also in the UK today we see Mortgage approval numbers and a measure of Consumer Confidence. Elsewhere, Germany has inflation figures, the USA also releases Consumer Confidence figures. 

Wednesday 30th September 2015 – We have the latest GDP figures today that could affect Sterling. European data includes Germany releases Retail Sales numbers and Unemployment figures, along with EU wide unemployment figures and inflation. The FED’s Janet Yellen gives another speech – watch for any hint on US monetary policy. 

Thursday 1st October 2015 – There is data on manufacturing today from Germany, Europe and the UK, in addition to an ECB monetary policy meeting, all of which could affect GBP/EUR rates. The USA has Manufacturing and Construction data due in the afternoon. 

Friday 2nd October 2015 – We end the week with Jobs day in the USA, with Non-Farm Payrolls one of the key releases that could affect the US Dollar this week. The EU releases inflation numbers. 

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Will the FED raise interest rates this week?

Tuesday 15th September 2015
On Thursday, the US Federal Reserve will announce their decision on interest rates, and for the first time in many years, there is actually the chance of a change. It’s widely expected that the USA will be the first major western economy to start pushing interest rates up from the record lows they have been at for many years. 

It’s likely that they will keep them at their record low of 0.25% for another month, however there is a 20% chance that they will raise the benchmark rate to 0.5%. 

What would be the effect on exchange rates if they raise interest rates? 

A hike in interest rates would make the US Dollar an attractive option for investors, due to the higher return they would get on their funds. Therefore, if the FED do indeed raise interest rates I would expect the US Dollar to gain strength and become more expensive to buy, and this would push GBP/USD exchange rates lower. The small chance of a hike will already be priced into the market, so if they leave rates on hold, then GBP/USD may rise slightly. 

Looking further ahead, they are likely to raise rates at some point in the next few months, so I would not expect the GBP/USD rate to remain above the $1.50 mark for long. Most forecasts I’m reading at the moment suggest that the rate to buy Dollars will fall considerably in the medium term. Therefore if you have a requirement to buy US Dollars, click here to get in touch to discuss the ways I can help protect you against the rate moving against you. 

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What could affect exchange rates this week?

Monday 10th August 2015 
Good morning. As I outlined in Friday’s post, Sterling has fallen against other currencies in recent days. Today I’ll list out the main economic data releases that are likely to cause volatility in exchange rates. After last week’s interest rate speculation for the UK and USA, at the time of writing GBP/EUR exchange rates are a little above €1.41, and GBP/USD rates are in the mid $1.54’s. You can view live rates updated every few seconds including interactive charts by clicking here. 

Remember that if you’re looking for the best deal on currency, in addition to my market updates here on the blog, I can also provide you a quote for your exchange that is likely to be significantly better than your bank or existing broker may offer. Click here to get your quotation today. 

What could affect Sterling exchange rates this week? 

As usual for a Monday, I have listed below this week’s main fundamental data releases that I think could affect exchange rates. If you have a currency transaction to perform and would like to get a quote or simply discuss what could affect the exchange rates you’re looking at in the coming weeks, contact me today by clicking here. 

This week's economic data releases

• Monday 10th August 2015 – Today's is relatively quiet on the data front. The only UK release of note is Retail Sales data from the British Retail Consortium released at midnight. Retail Sales are a good barometer of overall economic activity so can affect the Pound. Elsewhere, one of the US Federal Reserve’s members gives a speech at lunchtime. Any further indications of an interest rate hike could cause GBP/USD rates to fall further. 

•  Tuesday 11th August 2015 – Nothing of note from the UK, but GBP/EUR could be affected by an EU wide economic sentiment survey. Germany also releases its economic sentiment measures along with Wholesale prices. Because Germany is the EU’s largest economy, its figures can affect the value of the Euro. 

•  Wednesday 12th August 2015 – Today is the most important one for the Pound, as we have several releases detailing unemployment figures at 09:30am. Unemployment is expected at 5.6%, so any deviation from this figure will affect Sterling exchange rates. Later in the day we have House price data from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors. Elsewhere Europe has Industrial production figures. The US delivers its monthly budget statement, so all in all lots today that could affect the currency markets. 

•   Thursday 13th August 2015 – Nothing from the UK today, but GBP/EUR could still be affected by German Inflation data, and a European Central Bank Policy meeting. The USA and New Zealand both release their latest Retail Sales figures. 

•  Friday 14th August 2015 – Another busy day from Europe, with Gross Domestic Product figures from Germany, Italy and the EU as a whole. There are also inflation numbers released from Europe today, so a busy morning for the single currency. We end the week with US Industrial Production figures. 

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Sterling falls after Super Thursday

Friday 7th August 2015
Super Thursday was anything but for the Pound, as a dovish tone from the Bank of England caused a large sell off for Sterling, pulling GBP/EUR exchange rates lower. The decline has continued this afternoon so in just 48 hours exchange rates have dropped from from €1.44 to nearly €1.41: 

Super Thursday pushes GBP/EUR lower 

On Thursday, the Bank's Monetary Policy Committee voted to keep interest rates at their current historic low of 0.5%. What surprised many was that only 1 of the 9 members voted for a rate hike. The markets had been expecting at least 2 or more to vote for a hike. 

This means that earlier in the week expectation was for interest rates to go up at the end of the year. Deputy governor Ben Broadbent said the Committee had no specific time in mind for a rise and comments by governor Mark Carney had been misinterpreted. 

Following yesterday’s news it now looks like mid 2016 is more likely. Investors sold the Pound on the back of the news, pulling the Pound lower against other currencies. I said that exchange rates were likely to change yesterday and that has proved to be the case. 

Pound/Dollar rates fall on US Jobs data 

GBP/USD fell yesterday after the Bank of England’s releases, and today the USA posted much better than expected jobs data, which has strengthened the US Dollar further and pulled GBP/USD rates even lower: 

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Exchange Rates volatile due to interest rate speculation

Wednesday 5th August 2015
There was some movement on both GBP/EUR and GBP/USD exchange rates overnight, and it’s interest rate speculation again that’s driving exchange rates. After a quick look at the charts I’ll explain what’s going on. As you can see below Sterling/Euro rates have climbed to €1.4350 and Sterling/Dollar rates dropped a cent overnight: 

Sterling/Euro

Sterling/Dollar

GBP/USD - US Interest rates affect exchange rates 

Last night, one of the US Federal Reserve members, Dennis Lockhart, who is one of the people who decides on interest rates, said that it would take "significant deterioration" in the U.S. economy for him to not support a rate hike in September. This means that chances are increased that the USA will be the first major western economy to start pushing rates back up. The hint of higher interest rates tends to strengthen a currency due to the higher return on offer for investors. 

On the comments, the USD gained strength and pulled GBP/USD Rates down. As investors moved funds from the Euro into the Dollar, the single currency weakened accordingly, and as you can see from the graphs above, the GBP/EUR rate moved inversely to cable, rising by over 1% to €1.4350. 

On Friday, we see some very important jobs data from the USA at 13:30pm, and if these numbers beat forecasts, expect the decline in GBP/USD rates to continue. I am still of the view that GBP/USD rates won’t stay above $1.50 for very much longer. 

GBP/EUR – Thursday very important for exchange rates 

With many analysts now expecting the US to raise interest rates next month, many are also starting to look at whether the UK will do the same. Tomorrow (Thursday) is a very important one for the Pound. Here is the data we’re going to see from Britain: 

‘Super’ Thursday’s eco-stats include: Manufacturing Production, Industrial Production, a GDP growth estimate, the BoE decision on interest rates, the BoE Inflation report, a Statement from the BoE’s Monetary Policy Committee, and a Speech by the BoE governor Mark Carney. 

Phew. There’s a huge amount of data to chew on tomorrow, and taken as a whole will paint a very clear picture on what direction the UK economy is taking. I think that at least 2 of the 9 member MPC committee will vote for an interest rate hike, and if this happens and the other data is good, expect Sterling to gain in strength. We could well see a decent rise for Sterling exchange rates if the UK economic picture is a robust one. 

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What could affect exchange rates this week?

Monday 3rd August 2015 
Good morning and welcome to a new week of updates about exchange rates. In today’s post, I’m going to take a look at the economic data releases for the week ahead that could affect exchange rates. Currently GBP/EUR sits a little above €1.42, and GBP/USD sits just below $1.56. 

What could affect Sterling exchange rates this week? 

There are lots of things that can change the value of a currency. Regular readers will know that in recent times it’s been events in Greece, and political situations like the Scottish referendum and UK election. Usually however, it’s fundamental data such as unemployment figures and interest rates. 

We already know well in advance what is going to be released using calenders such as this one, and analysts give their forecasts as to what they think the results will be. These forecasts are already priced into the value of a currency, so what’s important is not necessarily whether the figure is good or bad for an economy, but whether the figures are better or worse than expected. For example UK unemployment could fall, but that could still weaken the Pound if it didn't fall as much as had been expected!

Below I have listed this week’s main fundamental data releases that I think could affect exchange rates. If you have a currency transaction to perform and would like to get a quote or simply discuss what could affect exchange rates in the coming weeks, contact me today by clicking here. 

This week’s data releases 

Monday 3rd August 2015 – This morning we have already seen Inflation numbers from Europe and Germany which were better than expected, which strengthened the Euro and pulled GBP rates down slightly. This afternoon those with an eye on GBP/USD rates should watch for the US Manufacturing PMI Numbers. They are expected to show a reading of 53.5 so a figure higher than this could cause Sterling/Dollar to drop. 

Tuesday 4th August 2015 – The main UK release today is PMI Construction which shows business conditions in the UK construction sector and can affect the value of Sterling. Elsewhere the main news is from down under. Australia has Trade Balance figures and an interest rate decision. They’ve already cut rates twice this year to 2% so I don’t expect any further cut, but if they do expect GBP/AUD to rise. In New Zealand we have unemployment data figures that could affect GBP/NZD rates. 

Wednesday 5th August 2015 – GBP/EUR today could be affect by data from Europe – Markit Services and Retail Sales. The latter is expected to show a rise of 1.9%. If it’s lower than this, Pound/Euro could rise and vice versa. Over in the United States we have Inflation, Manufacturing and Services data, in addition to Employment numbers and the latest Trade balance figures. Lots to chew on for investors, which could affect GBP/USD rates. 

Thursday 6th August 2015 – Today is the most important one for Sterling, as we have a lot of data for Britain – Industrial Production, an NIESR GDP Estimate, and the all-important Bank of England meeting. It’s highly unlikely there will be a change to interest rates, but the minutes will make an interesting read, and also the Speech by Mark Carney, BoE governor at 12:45pm is also very important. If the minutes or the speech contain any comments hinting at an interest rate rise later in the year, expect the Pound to rise against other currencies. 

Friday 7th August 2015 – The UK is a little quieter today, but there are Trade balance figures released at 09:30am. Germany also has Trade balance figures, so GBP/EUR could be affected today. Over in the USA we have Jobs data including the Non-Farm Payrolls numbers. This usually creates quite a bit of volatility for GBP/USD rates as the figure often differs significantly from estimates. GBP/CAD could also have a choppy day today due to Canadian Unemployment figures and inflation numbers.  

Looking for the best deal of foreign exchange?

If you want to get the best possible exchange rates, then contact me for a quote. I provide commercial rates of exchange to private and corporate clients looking to trade £5k+. You can send me a free enquiry using the link below, and I will get in touch personally to discuss your requirements, explain how the service works, and discuss the different options you can consider to help you get the best rate of exchange possible. 

Click here to discuss your currency requirements today.  

GBP/EUR falls 4 cents in a week. GBP/USD also set to drop

Tuesday 28th July 2015
Sterling has fallen sharply against the Euro of late, and in the last week had slipped from €1.44 down to €1.40. As you can see from the chart below, the rate has recovered slightly this morning, getting back above €1.41: 

The main reason for the gradual slide in Sterling is partly due to renewed optimism surround Greece, but also the global economic picture. If you look at the global economy, you will see that the Chinese market is in turmoil, and there has also been a sharp drop in Commodity prices. This is giving investors serious doubts over the strength of economic growth worldwide, and in turn this casts some doubt over whether the Bank of England will actually raise interest rates at the turn of the year. 

The global picture means that the Bank of England may well have to tighten their monetary policy, and this has pulled Sterling lower against other currencies. 

This morning however, strong UK Growth figures have shown that the economy has grown by 0.7% in the last few months, which is an improvement over recent measures. This positive news has pushed the Sterling/Euro rate up by 1% comfortably over the €1.41 mark. 

Sterling/Dollar 

It is interest rates driving this currency pair too at the moment. Today, the US Federal Reserve starts a 2 day meeting, with an announcement due tomorrow. If they give further signals that interest rates are going to rise within the next few months, then expect the US Dollar to gain strength and pull rates lower.

 
Currently GBP/USD is trading at around $1.56. I don’t expect the level to remain at these levels. As the US are widely expected to be the first western economy to start pushing up rates, this could mean the USD strengthens. I still expect rates to drop below the key $1.50 mark by the end of the year. 

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GBP/USD & GBP/AUD Currency Forecast

Tuesday 7th July 2015 
In recent posts I’ve been focusing on Sterling/Euro exchange rates and the Greek crisis that is the reason for the current buying levels for the Euro being around the best in 8 years. Nothing has really changed for GBP/EUR and while a deal is yet to be made, the rate remains supported around the €1.41 level. 

For something a little different, in today’s report I’m going to take a look at Sterling/US Dollar, Sterling/Australian Dollar, and also some of the other commodity based currencies, including the forecast for where analysts think rates could go. Many readers are unaware that this site not only provides a market commentary on Euros, but also most major international currency pairs. (If there is a particular currency pair that you would like to chat about, then get in touch for a free consultation.)

In addition to the market reports I provide for free, I can also provide you a quote on your currency exchange. I can access commercial rates of exchange for over 30 currency pairs that are up to 5% better than you can achieve at the bank. If you have a currency exchange to perform this year, then click here to find out what rates I can offer you. 

Sterling/US Dollar

GBP/USD was down in the $1.40’s a few months ago, however recently it had been climbing. In the last 3 months the rate climbed over 10 cents higher, as you can see from the chart below: 

In the Spring, markets expected the USA to raise interest rates at some point this year. This along with strong US economic data strengthened the US Dollar and made it more expensive to buy. However in the last few month's economic data was coming in worse than expected. Also, the expectation of an interest rate rise has now been pushed back, and this is what caused the USD to weaken and exchange rates to rise. 

Today however, we have seen the rate slide from $1.5625 to $1.5425. This is because interest rate differentials are starting to move in the Dollars favour. Also, while the crisis in Greece deepens, the US Dollar is seen as a ‘safe haven’ for investors in times of uncertainty. In my view I think this slide will continue, and we may well see rates down at or below the $1.50 mark again by the end of this year. 

GBP/AUD, and GBP/NZD, GBP/CAD, GBP/ZAR 

Sterling/Australian Dollar rates are currently around their best in 6 years. Part of this is due to a robust UK economy, but mostly this is due to weakness in the Australian Dollar. 

The Aussie Dollar is a commodity based currency, which is a name given to currencies of countries which depend heavily on the export of certain raw materials for income*. Australia is just such a country as a large part of its economy relies on exports of raw materials to China. China's economy has been slowing down recently, and their stock market is falling.

This has resulted in less demand for these raw materials, and commodity prices are low anyway due to the Greek crisis. The result is a weak Aussie Dollar, and at the moment £1.00 will buy you $2.08 AUD, which is around a 6 year high. To be honest, while commodity prices continue to suffer, we could see all commodity based currencies like the AUD, CAD, NZD, NOK and ZAR continue to weaken and exchange rates may rise further for those buying these currencies with Sterling. 

*Other Commodity based currencies are the Canadian Dollar, New Zealand Dollar, Norwegian Kroner, South African Rand. All of these currencies are currently weak and very cheap to buy due to low commodity prices. 

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Pound/Euro breaks €1.40 on BoE minutes and Greek uncertainty

Wednesday 22nd April 2015
As you can see from the chart below, today we have seen the GBP/EUR rate climb above the €1.40 mark, after the Bank of England released its latest minutes confirming interest rates will remain on hold at 0.5%. This is the best it's been in over a month, and only a few cents away from an 8 year high.

Bank of England minutes 

Today the Bank of England (BoE) confirmed they would be keeping interest rates at the record low again. This wasn’t a surprise, but the minutes to the meeting were quite hawkish, and it was these comments that have caused the Pound to rise. 2 of the members said their decision was finely balanced, and after some recent uncertainty which way rates will go in the coming months, it is now quite certain that the next move will be up. 

This speculation of higher interest rates, probably in early 2016, boosted the Pound due to the higher return that may be on offer for investors. Consequently we have seen Sterling/Euro break the 1.40 level, and not far at all from the best we’ve seen in 8 years. (Those needing to buy Euros should consider taking advantage of these levels that may not last for long.)

The strengthening Pound also pushed higher against the US Dollar, breaking back above the $1.50 level. 

Greek worries keeping Euro week 

With an election only a few weeks away, it’s surprising the Pound is holding on against the Euro. Most expected it to drop away, however the Euro is very week indeed due to uncertainty over Greece. A Greek exit from the euro could still happen as they on course to run out of money and be unable to make their loan payments net month. There is still faith that European policymakers will avert that scenario, but while no bailout deal is in place, expect the Euro to remain cheap to purchase. 

Getting the best exchange rates 

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Pound/Dollar rates at 5 year low

Monday 13th April 2015

Pound/Dollar rates hit 5 year low

The US Dollar has been gaining more and more strength recently, and has therefore become more expensive to purchase. First thing this morning the GBP/USD rate was as low as 1.4569 which is the lowest in 5 years. It’s climbed a little during trading to 1.4645. Still a far cry from the highs of $1.72 we saw last summer! 

The reason is the US economy is performing very well, and it’s likely they will be the first major western economy to raise interest rates. Also, global uncertainty is driving investment into the ‘safe haven’ US Dollar, which also strengthens it. This is great news for anyone looking to convert Dollars to Pounds. Those needing Dollars however should note that many forecasts think the rate will continue to slide this year. 

 

 

Sterling/Euro remains supported at €1.38

The strength of the Dollar is also causing weakness in the Euro. Issues over Greece means investors are moving from Euro to Dollar, which is weakening the single currency and keeping GBP/EUR rates supported above the €1.38 level. 

I’m actually surprised the rate is holding at these levels, and I’m still of the view that as the election draws closer, Sterling will start to lose value against other currencies. Only on Friday figures showed weaker-than-expected industrial data, and the rising risk of prolonged political uncertainty after a tight British election next month is already dragging the Pound down against other currencies. Remember, the current high level is Euro weakness, not any fundamental strength in the Pound! 

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What could affect exchange rates this week? 

Below I’ve listed the scheduled releases for the coming week that I think may affect exchange rates. Remember that other things such as election uncertainty could also change rates at any time without warning. To discuss your currency requirement in more detail, or have a chat about which direction the exchange rate may go, click here to send a free enquiry today. 

Tuesday 14th April 2015 – Quite an important day for the UK as we have the latest inflation numbers. Recent figures show the UK headed towards deflation, which could in turn mean interest rates going down. If that’s the case, the Pound could weaken. In Europe the only data of note is Industrial Production at 10am. Later in the afternoon in the USA we see the latest Retail Sales numbers. These are a good overall indicator of economic activity and so GBP/USD rates could be affected. 

Wednesday 15th April 2015 – Nothing from the UK today, but plenty from the EU that could move GBP/EUR rates. Germany releases a host if inflation numbers at 7am, and at 12:45pm we have the latest decision from Europe in interest rates. They are unlikely to change the rate, but at 13:30pm they give a press conference, and comments made often cause volatility for the Pound/Euro rate. Elsewhere, Canada also announces interest rates, and the USA has Industrial production figures. 

Thursday 16th April 2015 – Another quiet day for the UK. The only data of note today is in Australia where we see the latest employment figures, and the USA which also releases jobs data. Staying in the USA, we also have a speech by a FED member which could affect the Dollar. 

Friday 17th April 2015 – After a quiet few days, this could be an important one for Sterling. At 09:30am we have the latest employment numbers from the UK. This can often affect the Pound so expect a volatile morning for GBP exchange rates. Europe, Canada and the USA all release inflation numbers today too, so GBP/CAD, GBP/EUR and GBP/USD could all change today. 

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GBP/USD falls as FED announce end to QE

Thursday 30th October 2014 
Sterling/Dollar has plummeted overnight, following the FED’s expected decision to end its Quantitative Easing (QE) programme. This also had the effect of weakening the Euro, pushing GBP/EUR rates higher. The charts below show the currency movements: 

FED announce end to QE 

The US Federal Reserve has announced it is ending its quantitative easing (QE) stimulus programme, saying that it was confident the US economic recovery would continue, despite a global economic slowdown. The central bank, which also said it would not raise interest rates for a "considerable time", has gradually cut back QE since last year. 

While the decision was expected, it did have the effect of strengthening the US Dollar, bringing rates down below the $1.60 mark, however this morning GBP/USD recovered to around $1.60. The main reason the rate fell is their hawkish tone on interest rates.

Pound/Euro rises 

As investors bought the Dollar, they sold the Euro which caused the single currency to weaken, pushing rates up above €1.27. This has happened several times over the last few months, so I expect rates to dip back off again in the coming days and weeks as has been the trend of late. 

Getting the best exchange rates 

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GBP/EUR gains unlikely as UK interest Rates set to remain low

Wednesday 29th October 2014 
Pound/Euro rates have slipped slightly in the last 24 hours, bringing the mid-market rate down to €1.2647. While a little lower than the recent 6 year high, it’s still a very attractive buying level for Euros given that last summer rates were as low as €1.14. 

GBP/EUR gains unlikely as UK interest Rates set to remain low 

Part of the reason the Pound has failed to go any higher against the Euro is the fact interest rates are no longer expected to go up any time soon. Reinforcing this view was a speech this week from the Bank of England (BoE) deputy governor Jon Cunliffe. 

In it he said that interest rates can be kept at their current record low level for longer than first thought, saying that weak pay and lower inflation, coupled with slower UK growth and slowdown in the global economy meant the BoE should remain "cautious". 

So with rates now set to remain at their record low of 0.5% for quite some time, it’s hard to see what would push Sterling exchange rates higher. Those that need to buy Euros should therefore consider locking in a rate now while it is still close to the 6 year high. 

Those selling Euros however should be cautious. While the Pound is unlikely to gain, a deterioration of the EU economy could weaken the Euro, meaning less Pounds for those that are converting the single currency back to Sterling. 

If you need to convert Pounds to Euros, or Euros to Pounds, click here to get a free quote and find out more about the foreign exchange services I offer. Rates I source are up to 5% better than banks can offer, so you could save thousands of Pounds by comparing the rates I offer. 

Pound/Dollar set to drop? 

GBP/USD has been on the way down for a few months now, dropping from $1.72 to $1.60. Currently rates hold firm around $1.6140. However the US Federal Reserve is expected to announce the end of its quantitative easing (QE) programme later, and this could strengthen the Dollar, make it more expensive to buy and pull the GBP/USD rate down further. 

The FED has been gradually cutting back the scheme, which began in 2008, since late last year. The end of QE, assuming it does indeed come, will nonetheless be an important milestone in the repair of the US economy and likely strengthen the Dollar. 

Whether it makes a difference to the GBP/USD rate however remains to be seen. As it’s widely expected to happen, it will be priced into the rate already, but it’s impossible to know by how much. I wouldn’t be surprised to see rates drop below the $1.60 level throughout the rest of 2014. 

If you have a requirement to buy or sell USD, click here to send me a free enquiry to see how I can assist you in getting the best possible rates.

Pound/Euro €1.25 & Pound/Dollar $1.70. What next?

Monday 30th June 2014 
Good afternoon and I hope everyone had a lovely weekend. The Glastonbury festival is now over, and nearly 200,000 revellers will now be suffering the post festival blues. They are not alone, as the currency markets seem to be suffering post Carney blues, with his recent mixed messages over interest rates pulling exchange rates up and down over the last few weeks. 

The volatility has continued this morning however the current GBP/EUR rate and GBP/USD rates are hovering in their recent familiar positions of around €1.25 and $1.70, around the level they have been for the last week or so. 

There is still no consensus in UK interest rates, with the BoE governor still giving mixed signals over when rates may rise, and this is reflected in the Pound/Euro rate going up and down around the €1.25 level. 

Which way will Pound/Euro rates move in 2014? 

It depends on UK economic data and what the markets think the data will mean for the timing of a UK interest rate hike. In short, good news will push the Pound higher, worse than expected figures will push it lower. It should be noted that in the last month or so, the GBP/EUR rate has hovered around €1.25 but has failed to break any higher, as the chart below shows:  

So those holding out hoping for rates to go higher should consider the possibility that they might not. If it becomes less likely interest rates are going up this year, the Pound could drop away. Of course good data could cause it to go higher, but given we’ve seen the rate climb 7% already this year means there may not be much left in this cross to go higher. 

If you need to buy Euros then you can either fix the rate now while it’s close to a 20 month high. Even if you don’t need your currency for up to 2 years, you can lock in the rate now if you have 10% of the total you want to convert to lodge as a deposit. 

Alternatively if you are keen to hold out in the hope of a higher rate, a Stop Loss order allows you to do this without leaving yourself open to the risk of rates dropping and ending up with a worse rate than currently available. 

Click here to find out more about our rates and these types of contracts 

This week’s economic data releases 

As I’ve stated above, it’s economic data that will be driving the markets over the next few weeks and months. 

Below I’ve listed this week’s figures that I think will affect rates. Of course the way this could affect your currency requirement depends on the currencies you are buying or selling. 

For a free consultation on my views on which way exchange rates to go, click here to send me a free no obligation enquiry today. 

Monday 30th June 2014 

This morning we had UK mortgage approvals, which while slight better than expected was almost as forecast so this had little effect on exchange rates. We also saw worse than expected German Retail Sales but again this did little to weaken the Euro as the number was close to forecast. Later this afternoon, we have Canadian GDP figures that could affect GBP/CAD rates, and UK Home sales data that could move the Sterling/Dollar rate. 

Tuesday 1st July 2014 

A quiet start to the new month from the UK with Manufacturing PMI figures the only data of note. More likely to affect the Pound/Euro rate will be the German Unemployment data due at around 9am. We also have EU wide inflation data and unemployment. Elsewhere we see US inflation data in the afternoon. 

Wednesday 2nd July 2014 

Nothing major from the UK today, but we do have the latest EU growth figures that could affect GBP/EUR rates. We also have Australian Trade Balance data and a speech from a member of Australia’s central bank, so we could see some volatility in GBP/AUD rates. Over in the USA we have employment data, Factory Orders, and a speech from the FED chairman Janet Yellen. The last time she spoke the Dollar weakened pushing GBP/USD through the $1.70 level, so what she has to say today will be closely watched by the markets. 

Thursday 3rd July 2014 

The only UK data of note today is inflation data due at 09:30am. Of more importance will be events in Europe, as we have a raft of inflation figures, Retail Sales, and the ECB’s latest decision on interest rates. There is also a press conference afterwards at 13:30pm and often the comments made have a big impact on GBP/EUR rates. This will be the biggest mover of rates this week in my opinion. 

It’s also a busy day in America, with Jobless Claims, Non-Farm Payrolls, Trade Balance data and inflation numbers all likely to change the GBP/USD rate depending on the results. 

Friday 4th July 2014 

US Markets are closed for Independence Day, and it’s quiet elsewhere with German Factory Orders the only data of note. 

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Pound falls further in what is an important week for Sterling

Monday 17th March 2014 
Good afternoon everybody. The UK has been basking in unseasonable sunshine over the weekend, however Sterling has remained firmly in the shade. We have seen the Pound drop further today against the Euro and other currencies, ahead of what I think will be a key week for UK economic data releases, and therefore Sterling exchange rates.

Pound/Euro has fallen to 1.1940. Pound/Dollar remains in the mid $1.66’s. In today’s report I am going to run over the week’s economic data and how it might affect exchange rates. 

There are lots of very important releases this week that will affect the Pound, including a Bank of England report, the latest Unemployment data, and George Osborne's budget just to name a few.

• Will the Pound fall further?
• Could it bounce back? 
• How to know when to fix a rate? 
• Do you want to get the best exchange rates? 

The below data will determine the answers to these questions, so read on to find out more about how this week could affect you getting the best foreign exchange currency rates. 

If you need to to buy or sell currency and want to get the best exchange rates, then you can get in touch with me for a free quote by clicking below.

Contact me to discuss your currency requirement in detail. 

This weeks economic data releases that could affect exchange rates 

Monday 17th March 2014 

Today has been relatively quiet data wise, with only some EU inflation data released earlier this morning. The numbers were not that different to the forecast, and so didn’t affect GBP/EUR rates too much. 

Tuesday 18th March 2014 

GBP/EUR could be affected by the EU ZEW survey at 10am. Basically this measures economic sentiment and how investors see the economy. A high reading could strengthen the Euro and pull GBP/EUR rates lower. 

GBP/USD could also be choppy today, as we have a raft of inflation data from the USA at lunchtime. 

At 17:45pm there is a speech by the Bank of England governor Mark Carney. This could be very important. It’s impossible to know whether he will be upbeat and positive about the economy, but if he is it could cause the Pound to rise. Many think they he wants the Pound lower however, in order to help UK exports. So he may use this opportunity to talk the Pound down which would cause exchange rates to fall also. 

Wednesday 19th March 2014 

The most important day of the week for the Pound in my opinion. Firstly we have all the latest unemployment figures. I expect the figure to be at 7.2%. Lower than this would cause the Pound to rise, and vice versa. 

Along with unemployment we also have the latest BoE minutes which will show what was discussed and how they voted in their recent decision to hold interest rates. The key will be whether this report hints at a rate cut early next year or not, and this report is likely to affect Sterling one way or the other. 

At 12:30pm chancellor George Osborne delivers the budget report, so just how could the budget affect exchange rates? The last few haven’t really affected the value of the Pound at all, but it all depends what he says. As we’re getting closer to an election, I expect some positive noises, but nothing that will really surprise the markets, so it’s the unemployment and BoE data today that you want to keep your eye on. 

Late in the afternoon the USA has an interest rate decision and a press conference, so GBP/USD may also be affected today. 

Thursday 20th March 2014 

After yesterday’s incredibly busy day, things settle down a little. There is nothing of note from the UK or EU, but the USA does have some manufacturing data and a bank stress test in the afternoon. 

Friday 21st March 2014 

The latest UK Public sector borrowing figures are released today and is expected to come in at around £7.8bn. As always, if the number differs from this then the Pound may rise or fall accordingly. 

Find out more about the rates and service I offer 

If you have a currency transaction to perform and would like to find out how I can help you, get in touch in the following ways: 

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Call me directly: +44 (0) 1442 892 066 

You can reach me between 08:30am and 17:30pm Mon-Fri. 

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Sterling/Euro drops below €1.20

Wednesday 12th March 2014 
The Pound/Euro exchange rate has continued to fall since my post last week, and has fallen below the €1.20 level for the first time this year. Several weeks ago I warned that there was a good chance the rate was about to drop, and that is what we have seen. 

In today’s post I will analyse the reasons for the drop, go over what options are available to protect against rates moving against you, and look at what other economic data is due this week that could affect rates. 

Pound/Euro drops below €1.20

For the first time this year, GBP/EUR rates have fallen back into the €1.19’s. Only a few weeks ago we were at highs of €1.22+. The rate started to decline last week when the ECB president Mario Draghi gave a very positive press conference about the Eurozone economy, as I outlined in a recent post. 

Since then, industrial production figures from the UK and EU have caused the exchange rate to drop further. The UK released its figures yesterday, and as the number was worse than expected Sterling fell in value. This morning the EU released its industrial production figures, and they were better than expected. This caused the Euro to rise in value and become more expensive to buy, and that’s the reason GBP/EUR rates have dipped into the €1.19’s. This is the lowest it has been all year:

Will rates drop further, or bounce back? 

It’s impossible to predict of course, but my view is in the medium term we will see rates climb back above €1.20 again within a month or two. For those that need to buy Euros, much depends on how much time you have to play with. If you need to secure your currency soon, it may be wise to fix a rate sooner rather than later to protect against it dropping any further. 

If you have some time to play with, then you could gamble on rates recovering, however it is always wise to place a ‘Stop Loss’ order to protect you against rates dropping further. If you need to convert Euros back to Pounds, then the current levels are the best they’ve been all year. I do believe we will see the rate in the mid €1.20’s again later this year, so those with a EUR/GBP requirement may wish to lock in a rate sooner rather than later while we have seen a move in your favour. 

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What could affect exchange rates this week? 

Pound/Euro - Other than the Industrial Production data I mentioned above, it’s been a very quiet week for data releases so far. Tomorrow (Thursday) should be a little more interesting with a BoE inflation report and House price data for the UK. Strong numbers could push rates above €1.20 again. We also have various inflation figures from the Eurozone tomorrow – if low, then the Euro could weaken off which would also cause rates to rise. Friday see’s UK Trade Balance data, and the latest Employment numbers from the EU. 

Pound/US Dollar – In addition to the UK data mentioned above, the US releases Jobless data, Trade Balance numbers and Retail Sales on Thursday, along with inflationary numbers on Friday. These figures could affect the GBP/USD rate. 

Pound/Australian Dollar – We will see the latest Australian Employment figures overnight. The GBP/AUD is very attractive at the moment, and if the figures are better than expected, we could see a slight dent in the Pound/Aussie rate. 

Find out more about the rates and service I offer 

If you have a currency transaction to perform and would like to find out how I can help you, get in touch in the following ways: 

• Click here to send a free enquiry
• Call me directly: +44 (0) 1442 892 066 

Ask for Alastair Archbold, and quote ref ‘FERF’

What could affect exchange rates this week?

Monday 3rd March 2014 
It’s been relatively quiet since my last post, and today hasn’t seen much economic data that has affected exchange rates. We have not seen the Pound make any further gains, and we currently have GBP/EUR rates around the 1.2140 mark, and GBP/USD rates a little above $1.67. 

In today’s post, I will have a look at upcoming events this week that I think will have an impact on rates, including economic data releases and the current instability in Ukraine. 

Instability in Ukraine to affect exchange rates 

There are various things that affect exchange rates. Economic data is the main one, and in a moment I’ll analyse what we have due to be released this week that I think will move FX rates. 

Other things that can affect currency rates are natural disasters like floods and droughts. Political events like elections and new policies. Finally terrorism/instability and acts of war can also have an impact. 

Dominating the headlines at the moment are events in Ukraine. How could this affect exchange rates? Let’s start with the obvious factor – how has it affected the Russian Rouble? I can’t actually trade the rouble, but it’s a good place to start to explain the effects of the current situation. 

Russia's rouble has fallen to a fresh all-time low against both the dollar and the euro after the political turmoil in Ukraine intensified. So the instability there has weakened their currency. 

Further afield, the unstable situation is likely to affect all major currencies. Due to the uncertainty it’s creating, it will likely mean the global investors seek safety. This may mean that perceived riskier currencies can weaken, and safe haven currencies can strengthen. 

Safe haven currencies like the US Dollar and Swiss France therefore could gain strength and become more expensive to buy. Risky currencies like AUD, NZD, ZAR for example could weaken and become cheaper to buy. 

Closer to home, we could see the Pound weaken on the back of the instability, as investors sell it to move to the safety of the US Dollar while geo political negotiations take place. 

If you need to buy or sell currency, then you can contact me to discuss your options for free, without obligating you in any way. 

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This weeks scheduled economic data releases that could affect rates 

Monday 3rd March 2014 

It’s been relatively quiet today we did have some slightly worse than expected UK data this morning. This afternoon we say some better than expected US data that temporarily caused GBP/USD rates to drop away. 

Tuesday 4th March 2014 

Again a quiet day in terms of data releases. The only UK data of note is construction data released at 09:30am. Most information today is from Australia – an interest rate decision followed by a statement from the RBA. 

Wednesday 5th March 2014 

There is a release of interest from the UK today, an inflation report at 10am that could dictate future interest rate movements and therefore could affect Sterling exchange rates. Elsewhere, the Eurozone has a raft of releases today – Inflation data, Retail Sales and Gross Domestic Product. All of these will give a good idea how the EU economy is preforming and if the numbers are worse than expected we may see the Euro weaken in value. 

Elsewhere, we have an interest rate decision from Canada followed by a statement from the Bank of Canada. In the United States we see the latest mortgage approval numbers and employment figures. 

Thursday 6th March 2014 

It’s the first Thursday in the month, so we will see the Bank of England and European Central Bank announce their decision on interest rates at 12:00pm and 12:45pm respectively. I expect no chance from either; however comments that follow the decision could have an impact on exchange rates. If there are hints of a rate cut in the EU, Pound/Euro rates may rise. If the BoE however hint that a rate change in the UK is a long way off, expect the Pound to fall in value. 

Elsewhere today we have Trade Balance and Retail Sales data from Australia, and Jobless Claims from the United States. All in all a busy day so I do expect some volatility in FX rates today. 

Friday 7th March 2014 

We end the week across the pond – Canada releases unemployment data, and the USA has its latest Trade Balance figures, along with Non-Farm Payrolls at 13:30pm. This is usually quite different to the forecast number, so expect a choppy day for GBP/USD rates today. There is nothing of note from the UK or EU. 

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I can offer exchange rates very close to the ‘mid-market’ rate you see published on this site, which is up to 5% better than your bank can offer you. In addition to exceptional rates of exchange, I can provide a consultative service which allows you to discuss your requirement with me over the phone. In this way you can discover all the options available to you such as Forward contracts and Stop Loss orders, and make an informed choice with regards to when to fix your exchange rate. 

Getting in touch costs you nothing, doesn’t obligate you in any way, and the savings you make could be very considerable indeed. 

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Alastair Archbold