- EUR/USD edges higher to around 1.1610 in Monday’s early European session.
- The US and Iran announced a framework deal for peace.
- ECB’s Nagel said the central bank is ready to hike again in July if necessary.
The EUR/USD pair gains traction to near 1.1610 during the early European trading hours on Monday. The reports that the US and Iran have reached a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz improved risk sentiment, supporting the Euro (EUR) against the US Dollar (USD). The US Federal Reserve (Fed) interest rate decision will be in the spotlight later on Wednesday.
Washington and Tehran have announced a framework deal for peace, which will be signed in Switzerland on Friday. US President Donald Trump said the US is lifting its naval blockade on Iranian ports and that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen after the agreement is signed.
The Fed is widely expected to keep its benchmark interest rate unchanged at a target range of 3.50% to 3.75% at its upcoming policy meeting on Wednesday. Traders will closely monitor the press conference and take more cues about how new Fed chair Kevin Warsh will lead the US central bank into its next era. Any hawkish remarks from Fed officials could lift the Greenback and act as a headwind for the major pair.
Last week, the European Central Bank (ECB) hiked its key interest rates, saying “the war in the Middle East is generating inflation pressures.” This marks the first rate increase since September 2023, after seven consecutive meetings where interest rates were kept on hold.
ECB Governing Council member Joachim Nagel said on Friday that the central bank is prepared to raise interest rates for a second straight meeting in July, if the shock from the war in the Middle East requires it.
