Article Image 31375

Eurozone recovery: what you need to know

Despite the global economic slowdown, the eurozone has enjoyed a positive start to 2016 – its economy’s growth has surpassed predictions for the first quarter and outperformed both Britain and America. Indeed, the bloc's overall GDP has exceeded the pre-crisis levels of early 2008. Although these figures should encourage further confidence in the eurozone, the path towards stability and continued expansion may still prove rocky.

Deflation: a major concern

Although the eurozone has managed to escape deflation in the past, its inflation rate has now dropped to -0.2% – this is four points below the 2% goal set by the European Central Bank (ECB).

While high inflation is problematic, low inflation comes with its own set of issues. A deflation makes people more likely to hold onto cash in the hope that prices will drop further. People spend less, which can have a far-reaching economic impact given that consumer spending accounts for 70% of the economy. Companies feel the pinch and prices decrease – which perpetuates the deflation cycle – and unemployment rises. In short, deflation can cause serious economic destabilisation.

Low inflation rates have put the eurozone's recovery in danger before, and could do so again.

Portugal: the next Greece?

Last month, Portugal narrowly avoided having its bonds downgraded to 'junk' status. Currently, only one of the four credit rating agencies recognised by the ECB has given Portuguese bonds an investment grade rating. If Portugal loses its investable status, the ECB would no longer be able to purchase the country's bonds in the name of quantitative easing. Portugal’s current debt crisis would likely solidify and a knock-on effect would be felt by the rest of the eurozone.

Potential 'Brexit'

One unexpected consequence of Britain’s referendum on leaving Europe is a potential boost for eurozone economies. A recent report by French economist Mathilde Lemoine speculates that sterling could rapidly fall by up to 34% against the euro. It also notes that clearing houses dealing with euro-denominated businesses may immediately be required to relocate from London to the continent. The report concludes that eurozone GDP could be boosted by 1.3% over two years, at the expense of the UK economy.

What about international money transfers?

The eurozone’s strong performance means that those making an international money transfer from euros into sterling or dollars may find the rates in their favour – use our money transfer comparison tool to find out.

If Britain votes to leave the EU and Lemoine's predictions come true, those with euro-denominated assets could reap the benefits. Meanwhile, people dealing in sterling may be hit. Check in with our blog to keep up to date with eurozone news.

Comparison tool

Sending Currency
Buying Currency
Send USD Receive

Latest Articles

Chloe Rogers

Your site is top, thank you. I was going to use my bank and but came across you on Forbes site, I am glad I did. I went on and used Torfx very good service got the rate right, saved me money compared to many others you list, they even helped me get an aussie bank account. Once again thank you for help!

Pryjin Prakash

I was looking to compare alternatives to get the best exchange rate - You provided exactly what I was looking for.
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.

Spain property

MAKING OVERSEAS PAYMENTS FOR BUYING PROPERTY IN SPAIN

When purchasing a property in Spain, we explain all the steps involved in the purchase. We can demonstrate how to make the most of your money when making the international payments to cover the purchase price and fees and how to avoid exchange rate risks.

Market Insights

Sign up for our newsletter.

Thank You for subscribing to our Newsletter

You have successfully signed up to our Newsletter