Tag Archives: USD

US data and central bank updates in focus this week. Get expert FX insights from QuMoney for smart, informed decision-making.

Market Watch: Eyes on US Retail Sales and Central Bank Decisions

Markets have eased into the week with a relatively calm start, with limited data releases on the calendar for today. However, attention will quickly turn to key developments in both the US and Europe.

US Data in Focus: Retail Sales & NY Fed Survey

This afternoon, investors will be watching the NY Fed State Manufacturing Survey, which is expected to show a decline from the previous month. Should the data underperform, it may place further pressure on the US dollar.

The more significant release will be US retail sales figures, forecast to rebound to +0.6% following a sharp -0.9% drop the previous month. A stronger-than-expected print could lend support to the greenback and influence the Fed’s next steps.

Euro Strengthens on German Spending Plan

Over the weekend, the euro gained ground after Germany’s ruling parties agreed to a major fiscal stimulus package. The plan is set to unlock public spending worth approximately 2% of GDP annually over the next decade, with a focus on infrastructure and defence—potentially boosting growth across the eurozone.

Central Bank Updates Ahead

Looking ahead, markets will be closely monitoring interest rate decisions from both the Bank of England and the US Federal Reserve. The BoE is widely expected to hold rates steady at 4.5%, while the Fed’s policy update later in the week will be the main event for global investors and currency markets alike.

Plan Ahead with Expert Guidance

For tailored guidance on how these events may affect your international transfers or corporate exposure, speak to a QuMoney specialist today. We help you navigate volatility and seize the right opportunities.

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Market Update: Russia’s Peace Proposal, Trump’s Warning, and Key Economic Data

Russia Presents Peace Terms to the US

Overnight, reports suggest that Russia has delivered a list of demands to the US as part of negotiations to end the war in Ukraine. These demands reportedly include:

  • No NATO membership for Kyiv
  • An agreement not to deploy foreign troops in Ukraine
  • International recognition of Crimea and four Ukrainian provinces—Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia—as Russian territory

Notably, none of these four provinces are fully under Russian control, making the proposal a highly contentious one.

Trump Threatens ‘Devastating’ Financial Punishment

Former US President Donald Trump has warned Russia of severe financial consequences if it refuses to accept the terms of the proposed agreement. Markets are closely monitoring developments, as heightened geopolitical tensions could lead to further currency volatility.

Key Economic Data Releases Today

Today’s market-moving data includes:

  • EU Industrial Production Figures – Released this morning, providing insights into the strength of the European manufacturing sector.
  • US Employment Figures – Due this afternoon, this data will be closely watched as a gauge of labour market strength and potential impacts on Federal Reserve policy.

FX Market Overview: Cable Hits 5-Month Highs

In the foreign exchange market, the British pound (cable) remains elevated, touching five-month highs. Meanwhile, the Australian and New Zealand dollars present strong buying opportunities, trading at multi-year highs.

Navigating Market Volatility

With ongoing geopolitical tensions, economic data releases, and shifting currency trends, market volatility remains elevated. If you’re looking to capitalise on these fluctuations or manage risk, our Qumoney experts are here to help.

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Market Update: Risk Aversion Dominates as Trade Tensions Weigh on Markets

Investor Caution Drives Market Declines

Yesterday, risk aversion remained the dominant theme across global markets, with investors increasingly wary of the economic outlook amid escalating trade tensions and tariffs. This ‘risk-off’ sentiment led to another difficult day for major indices on both sides of the Atlantic, as traders sought safer assets.

Dollar Struggles Amid Economic Slowdown Concerns

In currency markets, the US dollar remained under pressure, as fears of a potential slowdown in the world’s largest economy weighed on sentiment. Uncertainty surrounding trade policies and economic resilience kept investors cautious.

Euro Gains on Optimism Over German Fiscal Stimulus

Meanwhile, the euro continued its upward momentum, buoyed by hopes that Germany’s newly announced fiscal policy measures—hailed as historic—will gain the necessary parliamentary approval. If passed, these measures could provide a much-needed boost to the eurozone economy.

Key Market Drivers: Trade Tensions and US Budget Talks

Looking ahead, investor sentiment will remain sensitive to global trade tensions and geopolitical developments. The US Senate will also be in focus, as lawmakers attempt to strike a deal on a budget bill to avoid a government shutdown this Friday. A failure to reach an agreement could lead to heightened market volatility.

Key Economic Data: US CPI Inflation Report

The most significant data release of the day will be the US CPI inflation report for February. Inflation figures will play a crucial role in shaping Federal Reserve policy expectations and could drive further FX market movements.

Stay Ahead of Market Volatility

With ongoing trade tensions, political uncertainty, and key economic data releases, markets remain volatile. If you’re looking to navigate these shifts or take advantage of trading opportunities, our Qumoney experts are here to provide tailored insights and strategies.

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Market Update: US-Ukraine Talks Begin Amid Geopolitical Tensions

High-Stakes Talks in Saudi Arabia

Today, US and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, marking the most senior-level discussions since the disastrous February 28th meeting between Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead the American delegation, with markets closely watching for any diplomatic breakthroughs.

Ukraine Strikes Moscow Ahead of Negotiations

Overnight, Ukraine launched an attack on Moscow, adding a fresh layer of geopolitical tension just hours before negotiations begin. This has already sparked volatility in the currency markets, with traders reacting to the latest developments.

Limited Economic Data on the Calendar

From a data perspective, today is relatively quiet. The only notable release will be the US JOLTS job openings report, set for release this afternoon. While not a major market mover, it provides insight into the US labour market and could influence expectations around Federal Reserve policy.

Market Outlook: Expect Volatility

With ongoing geopolitical tensions and limited economic data, market sentiment will likely be driven by developments in the US-Ukraine talks. If you’re looking to navigate currency market fluctuations or capitalise on opportunities, our Qumoney experts are here to help.

FX market volatility

Market Update: Key Economic Data and US-Ukraine Tensions Shape FX Markets

PMIs in Focus Across Major Economies

Today, markets will be closely monitoring Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data from the EU, UK, and US for fresh insights into economic strength. These figures will be key in determining whether major economies are showing signs of recovery or contraction, influencing currency movements.

US-Ukraine Tensions Drive Market Volatility

Market sentiment remains heavily influenced by geopolitical uncertainty, particularly US President Donald Trump’s negotiation tactics with Ukraine. Ongoing tensions have led to increased volatility in currency markets, with investors reacting to the latest developments.

Key US Data Releases This Afternoon

Later today, a series of US economic reports will provide further clarity on the state of the American economy. The key data releases include:

  • ADP Employment Report – A precursor to the official US jobs report, offering insight into the labour market.
  • Factory Orders – A measure of demand in the US manufacturing sector.
  • PMI Data – Further indications of economic performance.

These figures will be closely watched by traders as they assess the strength of the US economy and potential impacts on the US dollar.

Looking Ahead: EU Interest Rate Decision

Tomorrow, all eyes will turn to the European Central Bank (ECB) as it announces its latest interest rate decision. Markets widely expect a rate cut, marking a key moment for the euro and broader FX markets.

Navigating Market Volatility

With continued uncertainty and major data releases ahead, currency markets are set for further fluctuations. If you’re looking to capitalise on market movements or mitigate risks, speak to our experts at Qumoney for tailored insights and strategies.