Thursday, 7 October 2010
USD/GBP - 1.589
Sterling fell to a 4 ½ month low against a generally stronger euro yesterday as concerns over more monetary easing hurt sterling. However, as has been the case of late, gains from the single currency helped boost sterling against the US dollar and saw the pound hit a high of $1.5940/£1 – the highest since early August. The major concern for the UK is the Bank of England’s monetary policy committee meeting today. After mixed messages from several key decision makers, markets are expecting the worst – more Quantitative Easing. As a result, sterling has slumped to a low of 1.1360/£1 already this morning as investors sell the pound ahead of the news. House price data did not help either, showing that prices fell by 3.6% on the month. The decision is released at 12:00pm, so expect significant sterling/ euro volatility before and after – ensure you speak to a trader asap to avoid losing out.
In the USA, the US dollar continued to lose ground yesterday as it loses favour amongst global investors as many are now almost certain that the Federal Reserve will start pumping more money into the US economy in the next few weeks. The ADP Non-Farm payroll data showed that the economy shed 39,000 jobs in the last month which doesn’t help ahead of Friday’s ‘headline’ Non-Farm figures. There is unemployment data released today, so call in now for a live price.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Wednesday, 6 October 2010
USD/GBP - 1.593
Sterling recovered to hit a 2 month high against the US dollar yesterday after stronger than expected UK services sector data and expectations over further monetary stimulus in the USA. Sterling hit a high of $1.5928/£1 on the day as growth in the services sector unexpectedly jumped off of August’s 16 month lows. Analysts were keen to point out that this was not the reversal of the UK’s woes, and as such, any return to favour from the US dollar will see sterling slip back down. Sterling was not so successful against the euro, as euro buying in Asia helped strengthen the single currency. Out tomorrow there is key data released on house price data which is expected to show a slight increase on last month. The data could prove vital ahead of Thursday’s Bank of England interest rate meeting so speak to one of the team now to protect yourself.
In the USA, concerns still remain over the widely expected fresh monetary easing that is expected over the next few weeks. As a result, the US dollar fell to the lowest level against the euro in 8 months hitting a session high of $1.3851/1. Combined with the diversification of currency holdings by Asian banks, it was a poor day for the US dollar. US data showed that services sector activity improved slightly more than expected in September which helped slightly, but the overriding concerns over further Quantitative Easing prevailed. Out today, there is the first Non-Farm measure of the week. Speak to a trader now to ensure you take advantage of any large movements.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Tuesday, 5 October 2010
USD/GBP - 1.580
Sterling recovered against the euro on Monday as better than expected construction data helped investors feel more confident in the UK recovery. Construction PMI data showed that construction activity picked up in September, rising to 53.8 against an expectation of a fall to 51.6. Concerns over the ‘peripheral’ European countries also saw the euro suffer, but the atmosphere is still nervous ahead of Thursday’s Bank of England interest rate after last week’s comments by Adam Posen. The Bank of England policymaker made clear last week that a fresh round of Quantitative Easing should be used to pump more money into the economy and provide stimulus for growth. This contrasts with Andrew Sentance, who has been voting for a 0.25% rise in interest rates for the last 4 meetings. Either way, the meeting has the potential to cause significant movement, so call in and speak to a trader now to make sure you don’t lose out. Key house price and service sector data is released today also.
In the USA, concerns still remain over the widely expected fresh monetary easing that is expected over the next few weeks. However, the balance of power shifted back towards the US dollar as the euro lost ground after the budgetary and growth announcements detailed above. There was some respite as data showed sales of previously owned homes rose to a 4 month high, but the effect was not long lived. The US dollar may have recovered some ground against the euro, but it slipped to a 2 ½ year low against the Swiss franc and again hovered near to a 15 year low against the Japanese yen. Speak to one of the team to make sure you take advantage.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Monday, 4 October 2010
USD/GBP - 1.578
Sterling fell to a 4 month low on Friday against euro as worries over further Quantitative Easing and poor data saw investors sell the pound. Sterling fell below 1.15/£1 and dropped to a low of 1.1423/£1 in Asian trading overnight. Against the US dollar, sterling performed well as investors looked elsewhere over concerns that the Federal Reserve would pump more money into the economy over the next few weeks. Data on Friday showed that the UK manufacturing sector weakened more than expected in September, as export orders dropped fro the first time in a year. In a speech to the conservative party conference, Chancellor George Osborne has said that the UK has moved out of the financial “Danger Zone” and is set for a steady and sustainable recovery. Data out later is expected to show that UK construction activity declined for the 4th consecutive month and slumping to the lowest level since February. Call in now for a live exchange rate and to protect yourself from poor movements.
In the USA, concerns over further Quantitative Easing and monetary stimulus are still hurting the US dollar – expect this to continue in the run up to the next meeting of the Federal Reserve on 2nd November. Pending home sales and factory order data are both expected to show lower rates of growth later today. Ensure you are covered over the next few months by discussing forward contracts.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Friday, 1 October 2010
USD/GBP - 1.574
Sterling fell to a 4 month low against the euro yesterday after large flows related to the annual EU farming subsidy saw investors covering short positions after a surprise jump in orders for euros into sterling. The EU subsidy saw a large amount of euros moved into sterling, which caused sterling to drop. Once that had happened, many started taking advantage of the strong euro prices to move more euros into sterling, which saw a lot of speculators (who had been betting on a swift rebound) scramble to reverse their positions and avoid losing money. All in all, the effect of this was that sterling dropped from an earlier high of 1.1675/£1 to a 4 month low of 1.1535/£1. Despite this, sterling had a strong day against the US dollar – hitting $1.5920/£1 as house prices edged higher and Adam Posen (who earlier in the week stated that there should be more Quantitative Easing) said that he had not yet decided which way he would vote at the next Bank of England meeting. This eased concerns, but consumer confidence weakened more than expected. There is further house price data out today and manufacturing data. Call in now for a live exchange rate.
In the USA, following the news that Euro zone banks were relying less and less on bank funds, the US dollar dropped to a 5 month low against the euro. US dollar losses were limited though, as data showed stronger than expected business activity, lower unemployment claims and a 0.1% upward revision in 2nd Quarter GDP data. There is key manufacturing activity data today. Call in now for a live price.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Wednesday, 29 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.586
Sterling fell by over 1% against the euro yesterday after downbeat comments by a key Bank of England policy maker left sterling floundering despite hitting a 7 week high of $1.5896/£1 against the US dollar. In a speech to the Hull Chamber of Commerce, Monetary Policy Committee member Adam Posen said that the central bank should start pumping more money into the economy in order to avoid a prolonged slump of the sort that Japan saw in the 1990’s. The markets were not expecting the negative comments and they contrasted sharply with his colleague Andrew Sentance who stated that the Bank didn’t need to restart the Quantitative Easing programme. Sterling hit a low of 1.1634/£1 and $1.5720/£1 following Posen’s comments despite strong data elsewhere. The UK’s trade deficit showed a stark improvement, jumping from -£9.6bn to -£7.4bn which shows that exports are improving. In addition, a survey by the CBI showed a marked increase in sales volume amongst retailers which was positive. However, this data was surpassed by the panic that the unexpected comments made. Today, we have lending data and consumer confidence figures. Speak to a trader now to stay abreast of the volatility.
In the USA, the US dollar suffered yesterday as concerns remained over further Quantitative Easing by the Federal Reserve. This is expected to be announced at the end of the Fed’s next meeting on November 2-3rd. Gold yet again hit a record high today, and US bond yields followed suit as investor confidence plummeted and investors looked for safer haven assets to invest in. Consumer confidence fell in September after poor business conditions and weak employment figures. This, combined with the fact that house prices fell to within touching distance of multi-year lows in July saw the US dollar drop further. Get in touch now to ensure you take advantage of this volatility.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Tuesday, 28 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.578
Sterling rose against the US dollar to hit a 7 week high of $1.5867/£1 as the US currency struggled to shake off concerns that the Federal Reserve would ease monetary policy further to stimulate the flagging recovery. The movement is clearly more down to US dollar weakness than sterling strength, as sterling’s continued weakness against the euro shows. Sterling continued to languish around the 1.1750 mark against the single currency, as the pound continued to track the euro’s recent strength against the US dollar. UK data didn’t help either, with a survey from property market researcher Hometrack showing that UK house price growth has fallen by 0.4% in September – the lowest rise for 18 months. However, the impact of this was limited, as a flagging housing market has already been priced in to sterling’s value. In terms of data today, the main release is the trade balance figures. Investors are desperate for exports to increase and start driving a ‘rebalancing’ of the economy from debt led growth to export led growth, and this figure will give a good idea of the situation. Additionally, the final GDP figure for the 2nd Quarter is released. This should remain unchanged at 1.2%. Call in now to ensure any unforeseen surprises don’t end up costing you more than they should do.
In the USA, gold hit an all time high of $1,300 per ounce and demand for US treasury bonds shot up. Further US bond auctions later this week are expected to see similarly high demand. The jump in demand for these ‘safe haven’ assets is as a direct result of the market expectation of further easing of US monetary policy by the US Federal Reserve. There was no real US data released yesterday, and today sees US consumer confidence which is expected to drop off marginally on last month. Call in now for a live price.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Monday, 27 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.580
Sterling rose against the US dollar towards the end of last week and in early trading so far today. Sterling reached a high of $1.5842/£1 – a 6 week high – after poor US housing data added to an already weaker US dollar. Strong business sentiment in Germany helped the euro jump against sterling after the figures came in far better than expected. So far today, UK house prices have fallen by 0.4% in September according to a survey by property market researcher Hometrack. This is the 3rd consecutive decline in prices and the largest drop in 18 months. Analysts cited continued uncertainty regarding the economic outlook and concerns over the impact of the coming spending cuts and tax hikes. The rate of decline in house prices is likely to fall as new supply coming onto the market moderates and demand falls. For the rest of the week, keep an eye out for GDP data and consumer confidence figures. Call in and speak to one of the team to ensure you are protected.
In the USA, data was mixed last week with unemployment claims unexpectedly jumping from 453,000 to 465,000. However, later on data was released that showed existing home sales had increased from 3.8m to 4.1m. New home sales data on Friday was poor which saw the US dollar finish the week poorly – especially with the prospect of further Quantitative Easing looming. Out this week, there is 3rd quarter GDP released on Wednesday which could see some significant volatility in the build up to the announcement.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Friday, 24 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.566
Sterling rose against the euro yesterday as Euro zone data came in worse than expected and cast doubts over the validity of the region’s recovery. European Purchasing Manager’s data (which shows how much companies are buying) came in far worse than expected causing concerns that the business outlook for the region is looking poor. Sterling rose to 1.1799/£1 on the news and left Wednesday’s 4 month low behind. However, according to Spencer Dale (chief economist at the Bank of England), the UK faces “substantial headwinds” attributable to government spending cuts and tight lending conditions. This leaves a distinct possibility that the Bank of England will inject further money into the economy to stimulate growth. One question needs to be asked though – is the bank’s negative rhetoric a ploy to keep sterling weak and drive exports and a rebalancing of the UK economy? We shall have to wait and see… There is no data out today, so speak to a trader today to avoid missing out on sentiment based trading.
In the USA, data was mixed yesterday. Initially, the US dollar fell against the Japanese yen as the number of unemployment claims unexpectedly jumped from 453,000 to 465,000. However, later on data was released that showed existing home sales had increased from 3.8m to 4.1m. The US dollar recovered a lot of the ground lost against the euro in the last few days, but with the prospect of further Quantitative Easing looming it is hard to see the US dollar going much further at the moment. Out today, there is new home sales data – speak to a trader now to minimise your losses.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Thursday, 23 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.566
Sterling fell to a 4 month low against the euro yesterday of 1.1662/£1 and a 2 month low against a basket of major currencies after the minutes of the Bank of England’s recent interest rate meeting showed that the Monetary Policy Committee were more willing to consider a fresh round of Quantitative Easing. Members voted 8-1 to hold rates with Andrew Sentance yet again standing alone in his call for an interest rate hike of 0.25%. The general consensus was that there were risks on both sides and stood ready to respond in either direction, with many feeling that it was more likely that they would need to inject further stimulus in the coming months. There was one upside today for sterling. The pound jumped against US dollar early this morning and broke the $1.57/ £1 barrier but this was more a function of a relatively weaker US dollar than sterling strength. Out today we have mortgage approval data which is expected to show a decline. Speak to a member of the team to protect yourself in case sterling drops even further.
In the USA, the financial markets were digesting the impact of the Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision that was released on Tuesday evening. There was a slight change in the language used, which effectively ramped up the level of readiness for an increase in the ‘accommodation’ level that the Fed provides. Effectively, this prepared the markets for more quantitative easing without actually altering monetary policy. In terms of data, there is weekly unemployment claims and existing home sales data. Speak to a member of the team to protect yourself against adverse market movements.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Wednesday, 22 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.569
Sterling fell to a 2 month low against the euro yesterday after stronger than expected demand for Irish and Greek government bonds eased concerns over European sovereign debt. Ireland sold 100% of the 1.5bn worth of bonds on offer and Greece managed to sell 390m worth of bonds – 72% of what was on offer. This saw sterling hit a low of 1.1810/£1 as the single currency surged on the strong sentiment that was generated by the bond auction. Sterling wasn’t helped after data was released showing that UK public sector borrowing hit a record high for August as interest payouts on UK government bonds shot up as a result of stubbornly high inflation. The data showed that the UK public sector spent £15.3bn more last month than it took in. In terms of today, there is yet more risk that sterling will drop in the form of the minutes of the Bank of England’s recent interest rate meeting. With concerns that the Bank are considering further Quantitative Easing, investors are keen to cast an eye over the discussions and thoughts of the decision makers. Speak to a trader now to protect yourself against further movements.
In the USA, despite the US dollar coming under significant pressure on Monday ahead of yesterday’s Federal Reserve interest rate decision, the announcement turned out to be a bit of a damp squib. There had been concerns that a further round of emergency stimulus would be pumped into the economy, but the Federal Reserve issued an almost identical statement to last month stating that “additional accommodation would be given [to the economy] if required” i.e. they would pump further money to stimulate as and when it was required. Early reaction following the announcement saw risk appetite improve and sterling strengthen by a cent on the day to just over $1.56/£1. Call in now and speak to one of the team about how best to take advantage of economic events such as interest rate announcements.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Tuesday, 21 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.551
Sterling fell to a 7 week low against the euro yesterday after poor UK data highlighted a slow UK recovery. Data showed that lending to businesses dropped for the 5th consecutive month in July and mortgage approval data showed the lowest number of new mortgages in over a year. Figures also showed that monetary supply – or the amount of money in the economy – dropped by 0.2% in August. All of this led investors and analysts to question the UK’s recovery further and saw renewed calls for an additional round of Quantitative Easing from the Bank of England to stimulate the economy. This saw sterling drop to 1.1887/£1 before recovering marginally to end the day above 1.19/£1. Against the US dollar, sterling slipped to a low of $1.5526/£1 despite holding firm above the $1.56/£1 level over the weekend. Out today, there is key public sector borrowing figures which are highly anticipated and will cause sterling movement. Make sure you don’t miss out by speaking to one of the team today.
In the USA, the US dollar has been under further significant pressure yesterday ahead of today’s Federal Reserve interest rate decision. Concerns that a further round of emergency stimulus will be pumped into the economy saw gold reach a record high – testament to the level of uncertainty and concern that is prevalent in the marketplace. Aside from the interest rate decision, today sees new build housing data and building permits figures. All in all a lot in the pipeline, so make sure you have protected yourself by speaking to one of the traders ASAP.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Monday, 20 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.564
Sterling slipped against the US dollar on Friday, coming off an earlier 5 week high of $1.5730/£1 but holding firm above the $1.56/£1 level. A lack of UK data on Friday left sterling at the mercy of movements in other currencies and as concerns over Euro zone sovereign debt resurfaced, riskier currencies came under renewed pressure. In the last few weeks, huge swings between positive and negative sentiment mean that sterling is generally tracking the movements between euro and US dollar. It is a relatively quiet day on the economic calendar with the key data being the August mortgage approvals figure. The figure is expected to come in at just under 50,000 – historically a figure that does not correlate with a sustained house price boom. A lot of data points to further slowing in the sector. Later in the week, there is public sector lending figures and the Bank of England Monetary Policy Committee’s minutes from their recent meeting. Ensure you are protected over the coming weeks by speaking to a trader today.
In the USA, the US dollar has been under significant pressure over the weekend and in Asian trading today ahead of a busy week of data. The key area of concern for many is Tuesday’s Federal Reserve meeting in which many are expecting the Fed to start printing money again after stubbornly high unemployment figures and a run of poor data. The idea was raised at last month’s policy meeting and could be implemented this week. Housing data is the only real data released today, so call in ahead of tomorrow’s meeting to ensure you are covered.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Tuesday, 7 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.538
Sterling has had a difficult seven days with the release of poor UK economic data raising significant concerns on the UK’s recovery. On Thursday we have the Bank of England meeting and sterling is being undermined by the worry that the BoE may revisit their programme of quantitative easing given the poor data. This has been on hold since the last quarter of last year and in the past when utilized has led to sterling losing value. Given these worries I would suggest you get in touch to minimise your risks in these highly volatile times.
As highlighted yesterday economic data out of the US has been mixed and a bit like the UK the markets are wondering what this means with regard to quantitative easing. The Federal Reserve meets later this week and just like here in the UK the markets are nervous as to what may happen. So this week although starting quietly on the data front could have a highly volatile ending and hence the need to minimise your risks by getting in touch now.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Monday, 6 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.538
Sterling suffered last week as fundamental data showed signs that the UK recovery is abruptly running out of steam. Purchasing manager data gives a bearing on how much companies are buying and is a useful tool in gauging the relative health of the economy. This came in at the lowest level for 9 months. In addition, Nationwide house price data showed that house prices dropped by 0.9% last month – the second consecutive monthly drop. New construction orders also fell by 14% on Friday which added further concern to investors over the growth prospects in the UK economy as the spending cuts take effect. It is a busy week this week, with manufacturing data, wholesale inflation, retail sales and the Bank of England interest rate decision. There is likely to be significant volatility and the outlook doesn’t look ideal for sterling strength. Call in now to ensure that you have protected yourself and your upcoming payments.
In the USA, Friday’s Non-Farm Payroll figures showed that the US economy shed only 54,000 jobs last month beating analyst expectations of a 100,000 drop. Despite significantly beating expectations and seeing a slight surge in risk appetite, the fact remains that the US economy is still shedding jobs at a significant rate as the employment rate edged up to 9.6%. There is no data out today, as US markets are closed for the Labour Day public holiday. As a result, expect relatively thin trading so call in now to ensure that you get the best price on your foreign payments.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Friday, 3 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.541
Sterling fell against the euro and US dollar yesterday as weaker than forecast housing and construction data added to concerns that the UK recovery may be faltering. House price data showed that house prices fell by 0.9% last month against an expectation of a 0.3% drop. Construction PMI data also came in much worse than expected. This added to the view of many analysts and investors that the recovery that the UK has seen over the first half of the year is not sustainable and the UK will follow the USA in faltering after an initial period of recovery. After a period of weak data, there are also concerns that the new austerity measures will impact on UK growth. After briefly recovering against the US dollar on Wednesday, a German bank was responsible for selling large quantities of sterling which saw sterling fall against the US dollar and drop to a 3 week low against the euro. Ensure you don’t miss out if sterling drops any further by speaking to a trader today.
In the USA, unemployment claims fell marginally from last week coming in at 472,000 – a 6,000 drop from last time. Pending home sales data also showed a surprising jump showing 5.2% more than last month against an expectation of a decline. All eyes are on today’s Non-Farm payroll data. After a shock 131,000 decline in July, the general consensus is for another 100,000 drop in the level of employment this month. The employment rate is also released at the same time. Both of these figures have a market moving effect so get in touch sooner rather than later to take advantage of the volatility before and after the release.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Thursday, 2 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.540
Sterling hit a 3 week low against the euro yesterday after UK purchasing manager data came in sharply lower than was expected. The survey asks business purchasing managers whether they have bought more or less this month, and is a key indicator of business activity. It dropped by nearly 3 points on last month to hit the lowest level since November last year. Sterling fell to 1.2007/£1 as a result and struggled against other currencies such as the Australian dollar. Against the US dollar however, sterling broke through a key technical level which saw it hit a high of $1.5444/£1 – above the key 200 day moving average level of $1.5434/£1 which is watched so closely by many traders. However, sterling has shed these gains this morning to drop to $1.5390/£1 as poor data released this morning increased demand for US dollars. The Nationwide house price index showed that house prices have dropped by 0.9% last month sparking concerns over the health of the UK recovery. There is construction sector data released later today which sees further potential for sterling to fall. Call in now for a live price.
In the USA, whilst manufacturing purchasing data showed an improvement that was better than expected, the ADP non-farm payroll figures came in a lot worse than expected. There was an expectation that the figures would show that the US econo9my added 20,000 jobs last month, but the data showed a drop of 10,000 sparking fears that Friday’s ‘main’ non-farm payroll data will be worse than expected. Out today, there is further Unemployment data in the form of the US claimant count and pending home sales data released. Fed Chairman Ben Bernanke also testifies to the Senate. Call in now for an exchange rate.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Wednesday, 1 September 2010
USD/GBP - 1.540
Sterling fell across the board on Tuesday as concerns over the global economy sent jitters through financial markets. Sterling dropped to a 5 week low of $1.5327/£1 – breaking through the 200 day ‘moving average’ which means there is likely to be further downward movement. Sterling also hit the lowest level against the Swiss franc since January 2009 and fell significantly against the Japanese yen. The Swiss franc, US dollar and Japanese yen are all ‘safe haven’ currencies and the extent of the demand for these safer holdings shows the level of poor sentiment that is prevalent in the global economy. Despite data showing that UK mortgage approvals increased and consumer credit improved last month, there was a clear feeling yesterday that the best of the UK data has already been seen and it is now a ‘high risk’ currency to invest in. In terms of data released today, there is manufacturing data which is expected to show a mild decline. Call in now to ensure you do not buy when the market has fallen further.
In the USA, yesterday saw poorer than expected purchasing manager data with the Chicago PMI figure showing a decline from 62.3 to 56.7. The minutes of the FOMC interest rate meeting were also published yesterday which did not show anything unexpected. The attention now shifts to the ISM index – another measure of purchasing managers’ sentiment towards the economy. This is expected to show a decline, and the ADP non-farm payroll figure is expected to show a much more modest 20,000 increase in monthly private employment. Call in now to ensure you don’t buy at a poor time.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Tuesday, 31 August 2010
USD/GBP - 1.542
Sterling’s movement last week was dictated by risk sentiment as sterling suffered on increased risk aversion at the start of the week but benefitted towards the end of the week due to gains in global stock markets. UK quarterly growth was revised upwards which is encouraging due to the fiscal consolidation which will take place. However a closer look at the figures revealed this revision was largely down to an 8.5% increase in construction output which will be very difficult to sustain for the remainder of 2010. This has seen many analysts argue that growth is very likely to slow later in the year. This week is a fairy quiet week for data in the UK. Call in now to speak to a trader about your risk management strategies.
The euro has been little changed overnight against sterling and the US dollar. German unemployment figures will headline the European economic calendar today, with expectations calling for jobless claims to fall 20,000. The unemployment rate is expected to remain unchanged at 7.6%. This is a further sign that the euro is being supported by the good performance of Germany whose export economy is benefitting from the Euros weakness against the US$. Call in now for a live exchange rate.
The US dollar continues to move with risk appetite after a series of negative data since the beginning of June. Today is a busy day in the US for economic releases with consumer confidence and the Federal Open Market Committee minutes for August released later tonight. Call in now to ensure you do not miss out on any favourable movements.
Elsewhere, the Bank of Japan has tried to address the recent appreciation of the Japanese Yen by expanding its special loan programme. In Australia retail sales and building approvals both showed better than expected figures overnight.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Friday, 27 August 2010
USD/GBP - 1.552
Sterling benefitted from improved risk sentiment as gains in stock markets gave investors the confidence to seek higher returns elsewhere. Sterling reached $1.5545/£1 against the US dollar as the FTSE 100 gained 1% through the day. Today sees the release of GDP data in the UK and a surprise to the upside could benefit Sterling. Get in touch now to speak to our traders so you can plan ahead accordingly.
The US dollar continues to move with investor risk appetite and today the focus will be on GDP data as well as the Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke’s speech at the central banker summit in Jackson Hole.
Exchange rates change every second - call Smart Currency Exchange for a live up-to-the-minute quote. For individual requirements, visit the SmartCurrencyExchange.com website and for companies visit the SmartCurrencyBusiness.com website.
Weekly Update on GBP, EUR, USD & Commodity-Backed Currencies
Smart Resources
SMART RESOURCES FOR INDIVIDUALS
Free Reports - Make sure to collect your copy!
For overseas property buyers: "Why Overseas Property Buyers Lose Money... and how YOU can avoid it" Get the report here!
For anyone relocating from the UK to another country: "How you could save £20,000 when relocating from the UK to any overseas location!" Get the report here!
Currency Quotation
Are you interested in a currency rate for euros, US dollars or any other currency? If so, please fill out our Smart quotation form.
Smart Articles (For Clients & Press)
Read recent articles published in a variety of publications or request information on our Smart Press page.
Main Smart Currency Exchange Website (for individuals)
Get information on all the Smart services, educational resources and access to our FAQ's plus much more! Visit main website here.
SMART RESOURCES FOR COMPANIES
Currency Report
Have you read our 10-page Currency Report 'Why UK businesses unknowingly lose £££'s on making and receiving international payments...And what they can do to avoid it!" Get the report here!
Currency Quotation
Are you interested in a currency rate for euros, US dollars or any other currency? If so, please call 0808 163 0102 fill out our Smart quotation form.
Smart Articles (For Clients & Press)
Read recent articles published in a variety of publications or request information on our Smart Media page.
Main Smart Currency Business Website
Get information on all the Smart services, educational resources and access to our FAQ's plus much more! Visit main website here.
Disclaimer
Exchange rates can move very quickly. The above rates are valid at a moment in time. We have no crystal ball and we recommend that if an exchange rate works for your budget then don’t wait for an even better exchange rate - Murphy’s Law says the rate will go against you and cause you maximum pain! Suggestions should not be taken as advice or fact.
© 2005-2010 Copyright Smart Currency Exchange Ltd THIS PUBLICATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE ADVICE WITHIN THE TERMS OF THE FINANCIAL SERVICES ACT (OR ANY SUBSEQUENT REVISIONS, ADDITIONS, OR AMENDMENTS).