Pound Surges to Six-Month High Amid US Treasury Bond Plan
The British pound has reached its strongest level since mid-February, trading above $1.36 in the final full week of August. This comes as the US dollar faces pressure following the US Treasury's plan to at least double its purchases of longer-dated government bonds.
Investors are awaiting details on Iran sanctions and Fed Chair Kevin Warsh's remarks at Jackson Hole, which are expected to offer insights into the interest rate outlook.
In the UK, money markets continue to price in a Bank of England rate hike by year-end, with another quarter-point increase fully anticipated by early 2027. Recent data showed UK inflation accelerating to 2.9% in July, the highest since March, while core inflation exceeded expectations at 2.6%.
Despite these positives, the UK remains vulnerable to high inflation driven by the Iran conflict.