Euro Holds Firm Amid Policy Divergence – Thursday, 28 August

The Euro is currently trading around $1.166, near its recent four-year high of $1.18 reached on July 1st. Investors are closely watching the European Central Bank’s (ECB) policy decisions, incoming economic data from the Eurozone, and ongoing developments in international trade relations, particularly between the EU and the US.

  • The euro has been changing hands around $1.166, not far from a four-year high of $1.18 on July 1.
  • The ECB has already cut rates more than the Fed and has now signaled a pause, citing strength in the Eurozone labor market.
  • German business morale reached a 15-month high in August, supporting positive activity data and diminishing the likelihood of further rate cuts this year.
  • Fed Chair Jerome Powell suggested a potential US rate cut in September, highlighting a divergence in monetary policy between the Eurozone and the US.
  • The EU-US deal indicates that most European goods will face 15% tariffs, but autos, pharmaceuticals, and chips may be exempt from increased US tariffs.

The currency’s strength appears underpinned by a perceived pause in the Eurozone’s monetary easing cycle, supported by positive economic indicators, particularly in Germany. This contrasts with signals from the US Federal Reserve suggesting potential rate cuts. The situation with international trade introduces complexity, with details emerging on tariff impositions. The interplay of these factors will likely contribute to future fluctuations in value.