By: Rimi
Published on: Mar 10, 2025
Introduction
The British pound (GBP/USD, GBP/EUR) faced downward pressure on Monday, retreating slightly from last week’s rally as markets digested policy moves by former US President Donald Trump and a strengthening US dollar. Investors are closely monitoring global economic developments, including trade tensions, geopolitical risks, and central bank policies, which are driving currency fluctuations.
The pound fell 0.2% against the US dollar in early trading, hovering just below the $1.29 mark. Despite this dip, the pound has gained approximately 2.3% against the dollar over the past five sessions. Meanwhile, the dollar index (DXY), which measures the greenback against a basket of major currencies, edged 0.1% higher, reflecting renewed demand for the world’s reserve currency.
Sterling also lost ground against the euro, extending its decline from the previous week. The euro has been buoyed by positive economic data and a recent quarter-point rate cut by the European Central Bank (ECB). Recent inflation data showed eurozone price rises slowed to 2.4% in February, down from 2.5% in January but still above the ECB’s 2% target.
Over the weekend, Donald Trump declined to rule out the possibility of a US recession in 2024, adding to market jitters. In a Fox News interview, Trump stated, “I hate to predict things like that. There is a period of transition because what we’re doing is very big. We’re bringing wealth back to America. That’s a big thing. It takes a little time, but I think it should be great for us.”
These comments come amid heightened caution in global markets. Last week, investors retreated from the dollar due to concerns over new US import tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, as well as Washington’s decision to pause military aid to Ukraine.
Amid geopolitical and economic uncertainty, gold prices continued their upward trend, with spot gold ticking up to 2,911perounce.Goldfuturesalsorose0.22,911perounce.Goldfuturesalsorose0.22,920 mark. The precious metal has gained nearly 2% over the past week, driven by its status as a safe-haven asset.
Gold has been one of the standout performers in 2024, hitting fresh highs almost every week, according to Bloomberg. This rally reflects growing investor caution as they navigate a complex global economic landscape.
Oil prices remained stable on Monday after a dip last week, as traders awaited further clarity on OPEC+ production plans and the Trump administration’s next moves. Brent crude rose slightly to trade above 70abarrel,whileWestTexasIntermediate(WTI)hoveredjustbelow70abarrel,whileWestTexasIntermediate(WTI)hoveredjustbelow67.
Concerns about global economic growth persist, particularly after disappointing data from China. Consumer prices in China fell at the fastest rate in 13 months, highlighting deflationary pressures and weak consumer spending. Susannah Streeter, Head of Money and Markets at Hargreaves Lansdown, noted, “Deflation continues to stalk the Chinese economy, with consumers super-cautious about spending. Efforts to stimulate growth through lower borrowing costs have so far underwhelmed.”
OPEC+ has also tempered expectations of a production increase in April, following extensive output cuts. This cautious approach is helping to support oil prices despite broader economic concerns.
The pound is under pressure against both the dollar and euro amid global economic uncertainty.
Gold prices are rising as investors seek safe-haven assets.
Oil markets are in a holding pattern, with traders awaiting signals from OPEC+ and major economies.
Geopolitical risks and weak economic data from China are adding to market volatility.
Stay tuned for further updates on currency markets, gold, and oil prices as global economic conditions evolve. For more insights and analysis, subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media.
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