empty
11.04.2025 12:42 PM
The ECB May Cut Interest Rates Twice

The euro is showing a sharp rally against the U.S. dollar. The EUR/USD pair has already reached a three-year high and shows no signs of slowing down.

Meanwhile, according to a survey of economists, officials at the European Central Bank are likely to cut borrowing costs several more times, though they are ultimately expected to follow the lead of the U.S. Federal Reserve.

This image is no longer relevant

Respondents anticipate consecutive quarter-point rate cuts in April and June, after which the deposit rate is expected to settle at 2%. Economists warn that U.S. trade policy poses significant risks, threatening to undermine eurozone economic growth. Escalating protectionist measures, including the imposition of tariffs and trade restrictions, could severely disrupt supply chains and reduce demand for European goods. Uncertainty in U.S. trade policy is creating instability in financial markets, deterring investors and complicating long-term planning for European businesses. Additionally, aggressive fiscal policies aimed at boosting domestic demand in the U.S. could strengthen the dollar, making European exports less competitive.

A key concern is the erratic attempts by the U.S. president to reshape the global order. His trade war has already roiled financial markets, fueled fears of a major economic collapse, and left world leaders unsure of how to respond.

The temporary truce proposed by Trump yesterday — a 90-day pause — provides time for negotiations, allowing the European Union to delay countermeasures. However, the U.S.-China standoff continues to intensify. The biggest challenge for the ECB in this situation is having to maintain the appearance of being in control in the face of Trump's unpredictability.

Clearly, the ECB is now operating in a radically different environment as U.S. tariffs become a reality, and the eurozone's monetary policy must adapt accordingly. Against this backdrop, the Governing Council is expected to cut rates by another 25 basis points at its April 17 meeting, ahead of a series of cuts likely later this year.

The latest inflation report from the eurozone indicates that rate cuts are not only possible but necessary — if not now, then when? Recent statements from policymakers suggest that many are open to a pause in April, but a significant number also support further easing.

Most survey respondents expect rates to reach neutral territory only by the third quarter of this year. While half of them pegged the neutral rate — one that neither restricts nor stimulates growth — at 2%, nearly as many economists believe it is already above that level.

Technical Outlook on EUR/USD

At present, buyers need to focus on reclaiming the 1.1325 level. Only then can the pair aim for a test of 1.1388. A break above this level could open the path toward 1.1427, although such a move would be difficult without support from major players. The ultimate bullish target would be the 1.1485 high. If the pair declines, I expect strong buyer interest only around the 1.1260 level. If there is no support there, it may be worth waiting for a retest of the 1.1217 low or opening long positions from the 1.1155 level.

Technical Outlook on GBP/USD

Buyers of the pound must reclaim the nearest resistance at 1.3047. Only then can they target 1.3108, which could be a tough level to breach. The final bullish target is the 1.3156 level. If the pair declines, bears will attempt to regain control at 1.2985. A successful break of this range would significantly damage the bullish outlook and push GBP/USD down toward the 1.2929 low, with the potential to reach 1.2866.

Jakub Novak,
Analytical expert of InstaForex
© 2007-2025
Select timeframe
5
min
15
min
30
min
1
hour
4
hours
1
day
1
week
Earn on cryptocurrency rate changes with InstaForex
Download MetaTrader 4 and open your first trade
  • Grand Choice
    Contest by
    InstaForex
    InstaForex always strives to help you
    fulfill your biggest dreams.
    JOIN CONTEST

Recommended Stories

AUD/JPY. Analysis and Forecast

The AUD/JPY pair is regaining positive momentum after a modest pullback the previous day. However, spot prices remain confined within a multi-day range due to mixed fundamental signals, trading near

Irina Yanina 14:39 2025-06-20 UTC+2

USD/CHF: The Pair Struggles to Gain Momentum Amid Conflicting Forces

At present, USD/CHF shows no clear intraday direction and fluctuates within a narrow range just above the 0.8155 level, reflecting market uncertainty during the European session. The Swiss franc

Irina Yanina 14:36 2025-06-20 UTC+2

The Euro Will Retain Its Strength and Investor Interest

During her speech, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva stated that she sees the potential for the euro to play a broader role globally.Her remarks came amid growing geopolitical instability

Jakub Novak 11:25 2025-06-20 UTC+2

Euro Slightly Rises After Lagarde's Speech

The euro saw a modest recovery after European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde stated that expanding trade within the region could help offset losses resulting from global fragmentation. Her optimistic

Jakub Novak 11:10 2025-06-20 UTC+2

Donald Trump – A Mastermind of Geopolitical Uncertainty (A Potential Correction in Oil and Gold Prices)

Six months into Donald Trump's presidency, it seems he has already thoroughly exhausted the world with his "brilliant" initiatives, groundbreaking actions aimed at making America great again, and his vivid

Pati Gani 09:49 2025-06-20 UTC+2

The Market Tries to Extinguish the Fire

Markets are digesting Donald Trump's announcement that a decision on U.S. strikes against Iran will be made within two weeks. The White House could have acted at any moment

Marek Petkovich 09:01 2025-06-20 UTC+2

What to Pay Attention to on June 20? A Breakdown of Fundamental Events for Beginners

There are very few macroeconomic reports scheduled for Friday. The only report of the day will be the UK retail sales report. No economic data will be released today

Paolo Greco 07:45 2025-06-20 UTC+2

GBP/USD Overview – June 20: The Bank of England Didn't Surprise

The GBP/USD currency pair traded relatively calmly on Thursday, given the fundamental backdrop available to the market. On Wednesday evening, the Federal Reserve announced the results of its latest meeting

Paolo Greco 07:16 2025-06-20 UTC+2

EUR/USD Overview – June 20: Summing Up the Fed Meeting

The EUR/USD currency pair traded relatively calmly on Wednesday and Thursday. Recall that the results of the latest 2025 Federal Reserve meeting were announced on Wednesday evening, but we didn't

Paolo Greco 07:16 2025-06-20 UTC+2

USD/JPY. Analysis and Forecast

The Japanese yen is showing weakness against the stronger U.S. dollar, with the USD/JPY pair reaching a new monthly high. This rise in the dollar against the yen is mainly

Irina Yanina 20:12 2025-06-19 UTC+2
Can't speak right now?
Ask your question in the chat.
Widget callback
 

Dear visitor,

Your IP address shows that you are currently located in the USA. If you are a resident of the United States, you are prohibited from using the services of InstaFintech Group including online trading, online transfers, deposit/withdrawal of funds, etc.

If you think you are seeing this message by mistake and your location is not the US, kindly proceed to the website. Otherwise, you must leave the website in order to comply with government restrictions.

Why does your IP address show your location as the USA?

  • - you are using a VPN provided by a hosting company based in the United States;
  • - your IP does not have proper WHOIS records;
  • - an error occurred in the WHOIS geolocation database.

Please confirm whether you are a US resident or not by clicking the relevant button below. If you choose the wrong option, being a US resident, you will not be able to open an account with InstaForex anyway.

We are sorry for any inconvenience caused by this message.