Euro Held Steady Amid Economic Uncertainty – Tuesday, 18 November

The euro was trading around $1.16 as the week began, with investors looking ahead to insights from European Central Bank (ECB) speeches and awaiting delayed US economic data for indications on Federal Reserve policy. Market sentiment is being influenced by factors such as Eurozone inflation, trade dynamics, and economic growth forecasts.

  • The euro held around $1.16 at the start of the week.
  • ECB Vice President Luis de Guindos expressed confidence in Eurozone inflation converging toward the ECB’s target.
  • De Guindos also cautioned about tariffs, sovereign debt, and sudden shifts in market sentiment.
  • The European Commission raised its Eurozone growth forecast for 2025 to 1.3%, up from 0.9%.
  • The upward revision for 2025 growth is attributed to a surge in exports to the US ahead of potential tariffs.
  • Eurozone growth is expected to slow to 1.2% in 2026 before rising to 1.4% in 2027.

The stability of the euro at a specific value suggests a degree of equilibrium in the market. Confidence in inflation reaching its target offers a positive outlook, though potential risks need to be considered. The improved growth projection for the Eurozone, spurred by exports, highlights potential for economic expansion, although this growth is not anticipated to be sustained in the following year before improving once again. This indicates some uncertainty and a potentially fluctuating economic landscape for the currency in the medium term.