Thursday 6th November 2014
The Sterling/Euro exchange rate has rocketed today, following comments by the European Central Bank (ECB) president Mario Draghi, as I predicted could well happen in my post earlier this week.
Central Bank Decisions and the Pound/Euro exchange rate
Both the UK and EU central bank announced their latest decisions on interest rates today. There were no surprises, with both keeping their benchmark rates on hold. However after the EU decision, the president of the European Central Bank (ECB), Mario Draghi, said in a press conference that the bank stands ready to give the Eurozone further economic stimulus "should it become necessary". Mr Draghi said: "Should it become necessary to further address risks of too prolonged a period of low inflation, the Governing Council is unanimous in its commitment to using additional unconventional instruments within its mandate."
Markets have taken this as a negative sign for the Eurozone, and the Euro weakened accordingly. As you can see form the chart below, there was a significant spike of around 1 cent, bringing the GBP/EUR rate to within a cent or so of the highest it’s been in 6 years.
What next for Pound/Euro?
To me the trend is just repeating itself. Many times over the last few months we have seen rates reach this level, before dipping back off again. Without anything on the horizon likely to strengthen the Pound, I think there is a good chance we could see the rate drop back again. If you need to buy Euros, I would consider locking in a rate now while it’s so good. You can fix the current rate for up to 2 years and only lodge 10% of what you want to convert.
Euro sellers have a tougher decision. Longer term forecasts suggest the rate getting to €1.30, but short term you could see moves in your favour. If you need to buy or sell Euros, or indeed any international currency then click below to make a free enquiry on the rates I can source for you. I can help with bank to bank transfers from amounts from £5k to £5m. I’m afraid I cannot help with cash or holiday funds.
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Labels: Currency, Draghi, ECB, Exchange Rates, Foreign Exchange, GBP/EUR, getting the best exchange rates, Pound/Euro, When to Buy Euros
