The Basics of EUR/USD Trading
- Trading Hours: Sunday 22:05 (GMT) to Friday 21:50 (GMT)
EUR/USD is the most actively traded currency pair in the world, representing the exchange rate between the European Euro (EUR) and the US Dollar (USD). Because it pairs two of the largest and most stable economies, EUR/USD is known for its high liquidity and typically experiences tight trading spreads. This means that traders can enter and exit positions with minimal cost, making the pair particularly attractive to scalpers and algorithmic trading strategies that rely on quick, frequent trades.
The EUR/USD pair is influenced by a wide range of factors including economic data releases, geopolitical events, and central bank policies from both the Eurozone and the United States. As a result, it is often considered a barometer for global economic health and investor sentiment.
Comparing the Eurozone and US Economies
Monetary policy plays a crucial role in shaping the EUR/USD exchange rate. The two central banks that most directly impact this pair are:
- The European Central Bank (ECB):
The ECB’s primary mandate is to maintain price stability across the Eurozone by controlling inflation. It tends to take a more cautious and conservative approach, focusing on preventing inflation from rising above its target levels. This often results in more predictable and steady monetary policy decisions.