EUR/GBP Rate & Comments for 5th October 2010

EUR/GBP - 1.153

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 Euro zone, despite jumping in overnight trade after strong demand from Asia, the single currency slipped by 0.9% yesterday against sterling and US dollar. Concerns over the economies of Portugal, Ireland and Greece saw confidence slide. The Irish government yesterday said that the Irish economy will grind to a halt this year, and Greek budgetary forecasts show that the country expects a contraction of 2.6% next year followed by a 4% contraction in 2010. It seems that after a month of inexplicable euro strength, the markets seem to have recognised that there are still significant issues being faced. Out later today there is retail sales data, so call in and ensure you are buying at the right time.

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