Vincent Mivelaz
Swissquote Bank Ltd
Although it should stay in the background looking forward, the Bank of England monetary policy meeting already provided solid arguments that rate cuts could be explored in 2020 as the central bank is becoming more and more dovish in the midst of headwinds from both Brexit, the global economy and not to mention the growing dissent of its board members. Even if general election polls continue to confirm the lead of the Tories with a 10% advance, despite insensitive comments from Conservative party MP Jacob Rees-Mogg, it appears that sterling appreciation potential should be restrained in the event of worsening economic conditions, albeit positive Brexit outcome.
Six months after elections of EU Parliament members, the United Kingdom is set for intense electoral debates against the backdrop of Brexit, a lasting obstacle for the BoE whose long-standing hawkish stance seems to be eroding. Considering that close to 30% or two out of nine officials were willing to reduce the 0.75% Bank Rate, unchanged in 15 months, in order to limit downside risks to growth and that other MPC members seem open to that possibility, the focus of attention is expected to turn towards 1Q GDP growth and whether it matches the BoE outlook. The BoE now expects the British economy to grow by 1% in 2019, up from 1.3% in August and 1.50% in May, and by 1.60% in 2020, up from 1.30% in August, in a baseline scenario where both the slowdown in global growth and Brexit uncertainty would significantly reduce. Yet that remains to be seen, as uncertainties on the Brexit side following a potential Brexit deal ratification would face additional impediments due to the transition period coming thereafter and which would require a deeper, practical discussion on the definitive EU – UK relationship, with an initial deadline set for 31 December 2020. In these circumstances, we see little upside potential for GBP above March 2019 range for now as election poll deadlines should remain dominant.
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This report has been prepared by Swissquote Bank Ltd and is solely been published for informational purposes and is not to be construed as a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any currency or any other financial instrument. Views expressed in this report may be subject to change without prior notice and may differ or be contrary to opinions expressed by Swissquote Bank Ltd personnel at any given time. Swissquote Bank Ltd is under no obligation to update or keep current the information herein, the report should not be regarded by recipients as a substitute for the exercise of their own judgment.
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