Published: 25/02/2026 By ECAP
ELECTORAL RECKONING
The British pound is subdued as political and monetary policy risks converge. Ahead of the Gorton and Denton by-election, markets fear a heavy defeat for the Labour Party could reignite leadership speculation and heighten concerns over fiscal direction, keeping sterling vulnerable. Alongside this, a dovish tone from the BofE governor and expectations of potential rate cuts have added pressure, reinforcing a softer near-term outlook..
The Euro faced difficulty gaining momentum amid heightened trade uncertainty after tariff plans disrupted market sentiment. The EU’s pause on approving its trade agreement with Washington added to confusion, limiting support for the single currency. Ongoing concerns about the Russia-Ukraine conflict further weighed on its appeal. Attention now turns to Germany’s GfK consumer confidence, fourth-quarter GDP data, and Eurozone inflation figures, which may drive volatility.
The US Dollar gained modest support following stronger US ADP employment data, showing an acceleration in job growth through early February. The upbeat labour figures reinforced expectations that the Federal Reserve will keep interest rates on hold for longer. However, investor caution persists ahead of potential geopolitical action in Middle East which would have wide ranging impacts on global markets.Data supplied by GC Partners