Sterling strengthened marginally against the US dollar yesterday after better than expected data globally helped to improve risk appetite and gave support to the pound. Manufacturing sector activity in the UK improved by more than expected but still showed the sector contracting, pointing to signs of a ‘double-dip’ recession in the coming months. Whilst sterling has benefited against the euro due to the European debt crisis, many feel that this ‘safe haven demand’ is glossing over cracks in the UK economy that could see it enter recession again in 2012. Either way, ensure that you take advantage of better exchange rates as sterling was in a similar position against the euro at the start of 2011 but failed to reach those levels again until December.

In the euro zone, the euro strengthened slightly against the US dollar and sterling yesterday after German unemployment figures came in far better than expected. Data showed that unemployment fell by 22,000 – 13,000 more than had been expected. Despite this boost to risk appetite, persistent worries over high sovereign debt levels in the region and a lack of solutions to a crisis that is now entering its 3rd year are set to keep the euro under pressure. Out today there is services activity figures so call in now for a live price.

In the USA, better than expected manufacturing figures saw the US dollar slip off as risk appetite increased. In addition, data showed an increase in spending on construction. The minutes from the Federal Reserve’s recent meeting yesterday evening showed that the Fed will now publish its interest rate forecasts in a bid to become more transparent. Call in now for a live exchange rate.

Elsewhere, tension is increasing in the Gulf as new US and EU sanctions take their toll on the Iranian economy. The Iranian riyal has fallen by nearly 40% against the US dollar in the last month as investors scramble to move savings into US dollars to protect themselves. There were also concerns as Iran threatened to take action against the US Navy if it moves an aircraft carrier back into the Persian Gulf, which has seen oil prices jump on fears over supply. Call in now for a live exchange rate.

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