EUR/USD crashes below 1.0800 as ECB signals rate cuts before Fed

Data current as of 4/1/2024

Key points

• EUR/USD goes from above 1.0900 to below 1.0800: (0:38)
• ECB policymakers say "moderate" rate cut coming: (2:23)
• ECB says cuts could come "before the US": (4:25)
• Euro Area inflation nears 2% target: (5:44)
• Powell says Fed not rushing to cut US interest rates: (8:06)

EUR/USD goes from above 1.0900 to below 1.0800

The euro dipped to a new low since mid-February, falling below the 1.0800 mark against the US dollar following a dovish stance from multiple European Central Bank (ECB) officials. This decrease reflects market reactions to ECB policy signals, highlighting the sensitivity of forex rates to central bank communications and anticipated monetary policy shifts.

ECB policymakers say "moderate" rate cut coming

ECB's Francois Villeroy has indicated a likely interest rate cut this spring, a decision set to be made independently of the Federal Reserve's actions. This announcement underscores the ECB's proactive approach to adjusting monetary policy in response to prevailing economic conditions, highlighting a divergence in monetary policy strategies between the EU and the US.

ECB says cuts could come "before the US"

Robert Holzmann of the ECB recently posited that Europe might implement interest rate cuts ahead of the United States. This statement signals a potential shift in the global monetary policy landscape, with the ECB possibly taking a lead in adjusting rates. When global economies began hiking rates in 2022, the US led the charge - and markets assumed the US would be the first to cut in a similar fashion.

Euro Area inflation nears 2% target

Inflation in the Euro Area is approaching the ECB's 2% target, raising concerns among ECB policymakers that inflation rates could surpass this benchmark before interest rate adjustments take effect. Historical context for this rational can be seen in 2021 where Euro Area inflation hovered around 0%, far from the central bank's growth target. This situation presents a challenge for the ECB, as it strives to balance growth and price stability amidst fluctuating inflationary pressures.

Powell says Fed not rushing to cut US interest rates

Conversely, Fed Chair Jerome Powell emphasized a cautious approach towards reducing interest rates, expressing confidence that inflation rates would decline steadily before any need to adjust monetary policy. Powell's stance indicates a more patient Federal Reserve, contrasting with the ECB's readiness to cut rates, and showcases differing central bank perspectives on managing inflation and economic recovery efforts. Recent US PCE inflation data appears to align with Powell's stance - stair stepping lower to 2.8%, as expected.

How to trade EUR/USD

1. Open an account to get started, or practice on a demo account
2. Choose your forex trading platform
3. Open, monitor, and close positions on EUR/USD

Trading forex requires an account with a forex broker like tastyfx. Many traders watch major forex pairs like GBP/USD and USD/JPY for potential opportunities based on economic events such as inflation releases or interest rate decisions. Economic events can produce more volatility for forex pairs, which can mean greater potential profits and losses as risks can increase at these times.

You can help develop your forex trading strategies using resources like tastyfx’s YouTube channel. Our curated playlists can help you stay up to date on current markets and understanding key terms. Once your strategy is developed, you can follow the above steps to opening an account and getting started trading forex.

Your profit or loss is calculated according to your full position size. Leverage will magnify both your profits and losses. It’s important to manage your risks carefully as losses can exceed your deposit. Ensure you understand the risks and benefits associated with trading leveraged products before you start trading with them. Trade using money you’re comfortable losing.