UK Election Impact on the Pound

Economics and Policies 12/07/2024
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Introduction

The British Pound has seen a significant rise over the past week following the Labour Party's decisive victory in the recent election. This win has boosted market confidence in the UK's future policies, contrasting sharply with the recent uncertainty in France. On Monday, the pound reached 1.2848 against the US dollar, its highest since June 13, before slightly dipping below 1.28 on Tuesday. The pound rose for eight consecutive days from June 27 to July 8, marking the longest winning streak since 2020.

 

The Labour government is expected to bring stable financial policies after 14 years of Conservative rule, enhancing the pound's attractiveness to investors. British government bonds and major stocks have also performed well post-election. Labour's promises include not increasing taxes or National Insurance, reducing carbon emissions, building more houses, and lowering migration.

Long-term Effect on the Pound

The British Pound may continue to strengthen as the Labour Party implements plans to grow the UK economy. The anticipated stability from the new government is likely to attract more investment, benefiting the pound. In his first speech as Prime Minister, Keir Starmer promised a calmer and less disruptive political environment, providing hope for reduced volatility in UK politics.

 

A critical event for the pound in 2024 will be the government’s autumn statement. Labour inherits a country with high taxes, high debt, low productivity, and a weak economic recovery. This statement will be a major test for the UK's first female Chancellor, Rachel Reeves.

"The Labour Party's election win boosts the British Pound, promising stability and growth amid previous uncertainty, attracting investor confidence."

Currency Volatility

At Global Gateway Services, we understand that currency volatility can impact your financial plans. To protect yourself or your business from unpredictable market fluctuations, leverage our expertise. Here’s how we can help:

 

Forward Contracts: Secure peace of mind by locking in exchange rates for future transactions. Whether you're planning international payments or investments, forward contracts provide stability by eliminating uncertainty over future exchange rate movements. Rates can be locked in for up to one year.

 

Rate Alerts: Stay informed with our rate alert service, designed to notify you when your desired exchange rate is met. This proactive approach allows you to capitalise on favourable market conditions without constant monitoring, ensuring you never miss an opportune moment.

 

Market Orders: Take control of your currency exchanges with market orders that allow you to preset buy or sell rates. This automated execution ensures your transactions are carried out at optimal rates, mitigating risks associated with fluctuating markets.

Conclusion

These tools provide you with greater control and stability in managing currency risk. By partnering with us, you can strategically safeguard your finances and ensure secure currency exchanges tailored to your needs.

 

If you are concerned about how the election might affect you or your business, contact us today to explore how our specialised knowledge can work for you.