Author Archives: Ricky Kielkowski

It’s a relatively quiet day for economic data, but that hasn’t stopped the pound from gaining ground. Market sentiment remains upbeat ahead of key growth reports tomorrow.

German Inflation Data Meets Expectations

This morning’s sole release was German inflation data, which came in as forecast at 2.1%.
The figures provided no surprises and had little impact on broader market movements, keeping the focus on upcoming events.

Attention Shifts to UK and EU Growth Reports

Tomorrow morning brings the release of UK GDP figures at 7am, followed later in the day by growth data from the EU.
Both will be key indicators of economic momentum and could influence near-term currency movements, particularly for sterling and the euro.

US Retail Sales and Industrial Output in Focus

Across the Atlantic, US retail sales and industrial production figures are due tomorrow.
These releases will be closely watched for clues on the strength of US economic activity, especially as markets weigh the impact of recent trade developments.

Pound Pushes Higher on Positive Sentiment

In the past 24 hours, the pound has strengthened against both the euro and the US dollar.
This uptick is largely driven by renewed optimism surrounding US-China trade negotiations, which have buoyed risk appetite and boosted GBP.

UK-EU Summit Lifts Sterling

Sterling has also benefited from reports that the UK is seeking to deepen ties with the EU, with a summit scheduled for 19th May.
Investors see this as a sign of improving cooperation and longer-term economic stability, supporting demand for the pound.

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As key growth data and international developments continue to shape currency markets, it’s important to stay informed and responsive.
For expert support in navigating today’s market – or to explore strategies that protect your business from volatility – speak to a Qu Money specialist today.

Yesterday’s major trade news and upcoming US inflation figures are keeping financial markets busy. Here’s what’s moving the currency markets today – and what to watch next.

Tariff Cuts Cement US-China Trade Truce

Following up on earlier reports, the US and China have now formally agreed to slash tariffs on most traded goods.

• The US will reduce duties on Chinese imports to 30%
• China will cut taxes on US goods to 10%

This step back from heightened trade tensions has lifted global market sentiment and added support to the US dollar.

Dollar Dominates, Sterling Holds Firm

The dollar was the clear winner in yesterday’s currency trading, gaining between 1% and 1.5% against both the euro and the yen.
Sterling, meanwhile, maintained a slightly firmer tone, buoyed by broader market calm, despite a relatively neutral domestic data release.

UK Labour Market Data Matches Forecasts

This morning’s UK labour figures delivered few surprises:

• Unemployment edged up to 4.5% in March
• Average earnings growth slowed to 5.5% year-on-year

Despite the softening in wage growth, the figures landed roughly in line with expectations and had little immediate impact on sterling during early trading.

Focus Shifts to US CPI Inflation Figures

Later today, the spotlight moves to the US, with the release of April’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) data.
Markets expect the headline inflation rate to hold steady at 2.4%, with the core rate unchanged at 2.8%.

These figures will be watched closely for clues on the Federal Reserve’s next move – and any deviation from the forecast could spark fresh volatility in dollar pairs.

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For expert guidance on how today’s developments could affect your currency exposure – or to take advantage of market opportunities – contact a Qu Money specialist today.

Markets are braced for a busy day, with central bank moves on both sides of the Atlantic shaping sentiment. Here’s what to watch and how it could impact currency markets.

Bank of England Set to Cut Rates

The headline event of the day is the Bank of England’s policy announcement, where a 0.25% interest rate cut is widely anticipated.
The decision will be released at 12:02pm – slightly later than usual – with traders keen to see how the Bank positions itself for the rest of the year.

Beyond the cut itself, the tone of the Bank’s commentary will be closely scrutinised. Any forward guidance on the potential for further rate adjustments before year-end could have a significant impact on sterling.

Pound Slips Overnight on Trade Talk Tensions

Sterling has already weakened overnight, falling around 100 points against the US dollar.
This move followed fresh developments surrounding a potential UK-US trade deal and shifting expectations around future interest rate policy.

Fed Announcement as Expected

Last night, the US Federal Reserve delivered its own policy update – raising interest rates slightly, but offering no major surprises.
With the Fed continuing to tread carefully, investors remain focused on incoming data to gauge the health of the US economy and the likely path of policy.

US Employment Numbers on the Radar

Later this afternoon, markets will digest fresh US employment figures – a key piece of data that could influence both dollar sentiment and global market confidence.

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With rate decisions, economic data, and political developments all affecting currency movements, now is the time to be proactive.
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A sparse economic calendar has kept markets largely subdued – but behind the scenes, currency movements and anticipation over the US Federal Reserve’s next steps are keeping investors alert.

Eurozone Inflation Falls, But Has Little Market Impact

The only notable data release yesterday was Eurozone producer price inflation, which dropped more than expected – falling to 1.9% in March from 3% previously.
This undershot forecasts of 2.5%, but the release had little immediate effect on trading, with markets largely brushing it aside.

Currency Movements: Sterling Gains, Euro Weakens, Dollar Pressured

Despite the lack of major data, currency markets have seen some volatility over the past 24 hours.
Sterling started the session on a stronger footing, while the euro remained on the defensive. Meanwhile, the US dollar faced renewed pressure overnight – a reflection of ongoing uncertainty ahead of today’s central bank announcement.

Spotlight on the Federal Reserve’s Policy Decision

Today’s main event is the conclusion of the US Federal Reserve’s FOMC meeting.
While interest rates are expected to remain unchanged, the market’s attention will be fixed on the Fed’s tone: Will they hint at any changes to their economic outlook? What’s the latest thinking on tariffs? And crucially, how is the Fed balancing political pressure with its independence?

These insights will be key to shaping global investor sentiment and could lead to notable currency moves.

Eurozone Retail Sales Expected to Stall

Also on today’s radar are the latest Eurozone retail sales figures.
Expectations are low, with forecasters predicting flat results for March. Though not headline-grabbing, this data may still feed into the broader picture of slowing demand across the region.

Make Sense of Market Shifts with Qu Money

With markets moving on central bank commentary, inflation signals, and currency fluctuations, it pays to stay ahead.
For tailored advice on protecting your business from currency risk – or for seizing opportunities in the current environment – get in touch with a Qu Money expert today.