02.02.202607:57:23UTC+00Euro Holds Near Four-Year High Ahead of ECB Rate Decision

At the beginning of February, the euro remained steady at approximately $1.185, slightly below the four-year high of $1.20 reached just a week prior. It is widely anticipated in the markets that the European Central Bank (ECB) will maintain interest rates at their current level during Thursday's meeting, paralleling the recent decision by the Federal Reserve. This comes as policymakers evaluate the effects of a depreciating US dollar and an influx of low-cost Chinese imports on inflation projections. Since June, the ECB has maintained a stable monetary policy, and investors foresee no significant alterations in the near future. This outlook is supported by signs of resilience in the eurozone economy, with inflation hovering near the target rate. Although officials describe the current policy as being "in a good place," looming risks are emerging. ECB policymaker Martin Kocher recently cautioned that a continued strengthening of the euro might compel the central bank to implement rate cuts. Concurrently, fellow ECB member François Villeroy de Galhau highlighted the recent depreciation of the dollar as a significant factor influencing the ECB’s future policy directions.