Article Image 28767

What the global stock market turbulence really means for you

The world economy is now more interlinked than ever before – a monetary policy change in one country could lead to inflation in another. Most recently, China’s economic slowdown has affected global stock markets. This has gone on to devalue emerging market currencies and prices of major commodities like oil. But how exactly will this impact you? And crucially, for how long?

Markets in context

This stock market turbulence is a reflection of uncertainty – investors are worried that the Chinese economy is in a worse state than previously thought. This matters because its weakness might hurt economies elsewhere, especially in countries with growth models that rely heavily on Chinese demand.

As the world’s second largest economy, China produces 15% of global GDP but drives 25% of global GDP growth. Its manufacturing industry is a huge consumer of raw materials, particularly oil, which is why commodity prices are also falling. If your country is a net exporter of oil, this could lead to significant revenue shortfalls. This could mean decreased government spending on things like affordable housing or health care. However, consumers in oil-importing countries are likely to experience an increase in disposable income, as fuel and energy costs fall.

Currency costs

The yuan’s recent devaluation – reportedly in a bid to stimulate Chinese exports – has since wiped off more than $5tn in global stock prices. European luxury goods stocks and car makers have been hit, as their exports are now more costly for Chinese consumers given the weaker yuan. If your country is a heavy importer of Chinese goods, this could mean falling prices as Chinese imports become cheaper. However, your central bank could also engineer a currency devaluation to stay competitive in the import-export market. The value of your currency would then fall, resulting in higher import prices and consequently, more expensive goods and services for you.

Will the turbulence be long-term?

If the stagnation spreads, there is a risk of a broader, global economic slowdown and in an extreme situation, a crisis. The question to ask is this: are recent market movements just a correction reflecting China’s shift to slower growth, or does it show a Chinese economy entering recession? We'll be keeping you updated on any further developments.

This turbulence could affect the rates on your next international money transfer. It's often a good idea to use a broker to fix your trade at good rates in advance, by using tools like ‘forward contracts’. Try The Money Cloud’s free broker comparison tool to find the best foreign exchange rates today.

Comparison tool

Sending Currency
Buying Currency
Send USD Receive

Latest Articles

Richard Wilson, London

The site was so easy to use and I found how much I could save straight away. Thank you.

Andy Ferguson

Format is very organized and incredibly informative. All the information is right there and it is all pertinent to what I need to know. Great work.
regular overseas payments

MAKING REGULAR OVERSEAS PAYMENTS FOR YOUR BUSINESS

If your business makes regular overseas payments, the costs associated with fees and exchange rates can mount up. We show you the best methods for saving money and taking advantage of superior exchange rates. Demonstrate the considerable savings your business can make over time.

Paying for your overseas tuition fees in foreign currency

PAYING FOR YOUR EDUCATION ABROAD – OVERSEAS TUITION FEES

Overseas university or secondary school tuition and living expenses are not only expensive but also currency conversion takes large portion of your budgeted funds for your child's studies. We show you how you can make the most of the money you are investing in your child’s future.

Market Insights

Sign up for our newsletter.

Thank You for subscribing to our Newsletter

You have successfully signed up to our Newsletter