Pound Tumbled Against Dollar after BoE Releases

The pound-euro (GBP/EUR) exchange rate is rising and is on track for a sixth straight week.

The pound is pushing higher after stronger-than-expected UK retail sales added to signs of economic momentum.

Sales rose 0.4% MoM, defying forecasts for a decline, while consumer confidence climbed to its highest level since August.

Flash PMI data also showed UK business activity growing at a 21-month high.

The euro softened after disappointing PMI figures. While eurozone manufacturing contracted at a slower pace, weaker services growth dragged the composite PMI below expectations, suggesting the region’s economic recovery remains fragile.