What could affect exchange rates this week?

Monday 3rd November 2014 
We have seen Pound/Euro rates reach €1.28 today, due to slightly better than expected manufacturing numbers that gave Sterling a boost. The other reason rates have climbed up from €1.27 is a weaker Euro following last week’s decision from the USA to end their QE programme. 

The end of QE in the states strengthened the US Dollar, pulling rates down below $1.60 where they remain today. 

Below I have listed this week’s economic numbers that I think could affect exchange rates. I personally think that Pound/Euro will slip back away again in the coming days, as has been the general trend in the last few weeks. The high GBP/EUR rate is not good for the UK economy as it makes our goods and services more expensive. 

In the last few weeks we’ve seen BoE members and even the Prime Minister stating their wish for interest rates to stay at record lows for a long time to come. This could well be an attempt to weaken the Pound to help our exports, and I believe this could hold the Pound back from making further gains.

If you need the best exchange rates, would like a quote, or to simply find our more about the foreign exchange services I can offer, click here to send me a free no obligation enquiry today. 

This week’s economic data releases 


Tuesday 4th November – There are various economic figures from Australia today, including an interest rate decision, Trade Balance figures, and the latest Retail Sales numbers, so GBP/AUD could face some volatility. In the UK the only data of note is construction numbers. Over in the USA we have Trade Balance numbers, and the Bank of Canada’s Governor gives a speech. New Zealand has its latest employment numbers which could affect GBP/NZD 

Wednesday 5th November – A very quiet day for economic data releases. The only UK release is Services PMI. The Eurozone releases Retail Sales numbers in the USA we have manufacturing figures. 

Thursday 6th November – Today could be interesting for the Pound. We have Industrial and Manufacturing numbers at 09:30am, followed at lunchtime by the BoE decision on Interest Rates. I expect no movement, but any accompanying statement could affect Sterling. The Eurozone also has its interest rate decision. Again rates will be left on hold in all likelihood, but any hint of stimulus in the accompanying statement could weaken the Euro, pushing up GBP/EUR. In the afternoon, a GDP estimate will also be closely watched as an indicator of how the UK economy is performing. 

Friday 7th November – Today’s main UK release is Trade Balance data. This is important as if exports are down, it could mean the BoE talking the Pound down to try to help this area. In the USA we have Unemployment and Non-Farm payrolls, which are very hard to forecast. As a result, the actual figures often surprise the markets and affect GBP/USD rates. 

For more information on how the above could affect your currency requirement, or to get an exchange rate quote to compare with your bank or existing broker, click below to send me a free enquiry now. 

Click here to send a free no obligation enquiry.

Labels: , , , , , , ,