The euro U.S. dollar exchange rate dipped late on Tuesday as the dollar strengthened. The exchange rate fell from its highest level for the euro in almost 8 months. From a $1.1294 peak to a low of $1.1194 before stabilizing at $1.1215.
| What do these figures mean? |
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When measuring the value of a pair of currencies, one set equals 1 unit and the other shows the current equivalent. As the market moves, the amount will vary from minute to minute. For example, it could be written: 1 EUR = 1.12829 USD Here, €1 is equivalent to approximately $1.13. This specifically measures the euro’s worth against the dollar. If the U.S. dollar amount increases in this pairing, it’s positive for the euro. Or, if you were looking at it the other way around: 1 USD = 0.88789 EUR In this example, $1 is equivalent to approximately €0.89. This measures the U.S. dollar’s worth versus the euro. If the euro number gets larger, it’s good news for the dollar. |
The dollar strengthened after the U.S. Federal Reserve voted to increase the U.S. interest rate by 0.25%. In a show of confidence in the U.S. economy, the Fed gave an upbeat statement saying that economic growth “has been rising moderately so far this year.” The Fed made no mention of the weaker data over winter and also downplayed recent weak inflation data. Federal Reserve Chair, Janet Yellen, made it clear that the monetary policy committee’s expectations were essentially unchanged since the last meeting in March. This was actually a more positive outlook than investors were expecting, which has helped to increase interest rate expectations going forward. When interest rate expectations increase so does the value of the currency, which is why the dollar rose.
| Why do raised interest rates boost a currency’s value? |
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| Interest rates are key to understanding exchange rate movements. Those who have large sums of money to invest want the highest return on their investments. Higher interest rate environments tend to offer higher yields. So, if the interest rate or at least the interest rate expectation of a country is relatively higher compared to another, then it attracts more foreign capital investment. Large corporations and investors need local currency to invest. More local currency used then boosts the demand of that currency, pushing the value higher. |
With the big hike decision out of the way, the market will refocus on U.S economic data. Today sees the release of initial U.S. jobless claims in addition to U.S. industrial production figures. If these numbers are strong, then the dollar could be further supported versus the euro, bringing the euro U.S dollar exchange rate even lower for the euro.
| Why does strong economic data boost a country’s currency? |
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| Solid economic indicators point to a strong economy. Strong economies have strong currencies because institutions look to invest in countries where growth prospects are high. These institutions require local currency to invest in the country, thus increasing demand and pushing up the money’s worth. So, when a country or region has good economic news, the value of the currency tends to rise. |
Euro looking for a deal at Eurogroup meeting with Greece
Meanwhile eurozone data has also been impressing investors. The euro had a strong start to the previous session after employment data for the block beat analysts’ initial forecasts. The eurozone experienced a rise in employment both on a yearly basis and a monthly basis. Industrial production also showed a solid increase in April.
Looking ahead, investors will be watching for any developments at the Eurogroup meeting. Time is ticking for the group of eurozone finance ministers to strike a deal with Greece in order to unlock the next tranche of bailout money. Greece needs these funds in order to meet a repayment deadline with its creditors in July. Whilst there is still plenty of time, the markets will be keen for the agreement to be done. Should Greece fail to strike a deal at this meeting, the euro could come under some pressure as concerns pick up over Greece’s economic stability.
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This article was initially published on TransferWise.com from the same author. The content at Currency Live is the sole opinion of the authors and in no way reflects the views of TransferWise Inc. |
