Home / Business and Economy / Pound Soars to 2-Month High on US Rate Cut Bets
Pound Soars to 2-Month High on US Rate Cut Bets
23 Dec
Summary
- Sterling reached its highest point against the US dollar in over two months.
- The Bank of England's recent rate cut was a close five-to-four decision.
- Inflation remains above the 2% target, currently at 3.2%.
The British pound experienced a significant rise, reaching its highest level against the US dollar in over two months. This appreciation to $1.3457 occurred as markets evaluated the future trajectory of interest rates on both sides of the Atlantic.
Speculation that the US Federal Reserve might enact interest rate cuts more rapidly than anticipated has placed downward pressure on the dollar. In contrast, the Bank of England's recent move to lower interest rates to 3.75% was a close call, with a five-to-four vote.
Concerns persist as inflation remains above the 2% target at 3.2%, leading to questions about how quickly the Bank of England will proceed with further rate reductions. A slower pace of rate cuts could temper hopes for cheaper mortgages amid an economic slowdown.
