Graph and download economic data for U.S. / U.K. Foreign Exchange Rate in the United Kingdom (USUKFXUKM) from Jan 1791 to Jan 2017 about academic data, United Kingdom, exchange rate, and rate.

Daily foreign exchange operations by the Bank of England between 1952 and 1995. Copied from manuscript records at the Bank of England archive. There is a "read me" tab with more details on the data. The data is linked to the following publication which you can cite if using the data Naef, Alain. 2022. An Exchange Rate History of the United Kingdom: 1945–1992. Studies in Macroeconomic History. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. https://www.cambridge.org/core/books/an-exchange-rate-history-of-the-united-kingdom/68B7E57D9884394B815C76D48ACD3FB6. If you just want to use the data to run econometrics or as a control variable, there is a ready to use tab with the plain simple data. If you do so, be aware that Black Wednesday (16 September 1992) is an outlier by many standard deviations. If you want to dig more, there are more granular forms of data. The licence is public domain, so no restrictions whatsoever.

United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: US Dollar data was reported at 1.273 USD/GBP in Oct 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1.304 USD/GBP for Sep 2018. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: US Dollar data is updated monthly, averaging 1.622 USD/GBP from Jan 1975 (Median) to Oct 2018, with 526 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2.438 USD/GBP in Oct 1980 and a record low of 1.082 USD/GBP in Feb 1985. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: US Dollar data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bank of England. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.M007: Foreign Exchange Rates.

August 2024 marked a significant shift in the UK's monetary policy, as it saw the first reduction in the official bank base interest rate since August 2023. This change came after a period of consistent rate hikes that began in late 2021. In a bid to minimize the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bank of England cut the official bank base rate in March 2020 to a record low of *** percent. This historic low came just one week after the Bank of England cut rates from **** percent to **** percent in a bid to prevent mass job cuts in the United Kingdom. It remained at *** percent until December 2021 and was increased to one percent in May 2022 and to **** percent in October 2022. After that, the bank rate increased almost on a monthly basis, reaching **** percent in August 2023. It wasn't until August 2024 that the first rate decrease since the previous year occurred, signaling a potential shift in monetary policy. Why do central banks adjust interest rates? Central banks, including the Bank of England, adjust interest rates to manage economic stability and control inflation. Their strategies involve a delicate balance between two main approaches. When central banks raise interest rates, their goal is to cool down an overheated economy. Higher rates curb excessive spending and borrowing, which helps to prevent runaway inflation. This approach is typically used when the economy is growing too quickly or when inflation is rising above desired levels. Conversely, when central banks lower interest rates, they aim to encourage borrowing and investment. This strategy is employed to stimulate economic growth during periods of slowdown or recession. Lower rates make it cheaper for businesses and individuals to borrow money, which can lead to increased spending and investment. This dual approach allows central banks to maintain a balance between promoting growth and controlling inflation, ensuring long-term economic stability. Additionally, adjusting interest rates can influence currency values, impacting international trade and investment flows, further underscoring their critical role in a nation's economic health. Recent interest rate trends Between 2021 and 2024, most advanced and emerging economies experienced a period of regular interest rate hikes. This trend was driven by several factors, including persistent supply chain disruptions, high energy prices, and robust demand pressures. These elements combined to create significant inflationary trends, prompting central banks to raise rates in an effort to temper spending and borrowing. However, in 2024, a shift began to occur in global monetary policy. The European Central Bank (ECB) was among the first major central banks to reverse this trend by cutting interest rates. This move signaled a change in approach aimed at addressing growing economic slowdowns and supporting growth.

Graph and download economic data for U.S. Dollars to U.K. Pound Sterling Spot Exchange Rate (DEXUSUK) from 1971-01-04 to 2025-06-27 about United Kingdom, exchange rate, currency, rate, and USA.

United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Australian Dollar data was reported at 1.747 AUD/GBP in Nov 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1.790 AUD/GBP for Oct 2018. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Australian Dollar data is updated monthly, averaging 2.061 AUD/GBP from Jan 1975 (Median) to Nov 2018, with 527 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 2.982 AUD/GBP in Sep 2001 and a record low of 1.294 AUD/GBP in Oct 1976. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Australian Dollar data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bank of England. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.M007: Foreign Exchange Rates.

This report analyses the exchange rate between the Great British Pound (GBP) and the Euro (EUR). Along with the US dollar-to-GBP exchange rate, the euro exchange rate is one of the most important rates for the UK economy. With reference to Office for National Statistics (ONS) data, the European Union accounted for 47.2% of UK goods exports – value at current market prices, seasonally adjusted – in 2020, while the EU bloc was the origin of 53% of UK imports in the corresponding year. Historical data in respect to the GBP-EUR exchange rate, as analysed in this report, is sourced from the Bank of England (BoE). Meanwhile, estimates are afforded by IBISWorld, with reference to the conditioning assumptions for the sterling effective exchange rate as published by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). The figures represent the annual average exchange rate over each financial year (i.e., April through March) and are expressed as the representative euro (€) value equal to one pound sterling (£).

Graph and download economic data for Real Broad Effective Exchange Rate for United Kingdom (RBGBBIS) from Jan 1994 to May 2025 about broad, United Kingdom, exchange rate, currency, real, and rate.

United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Euro data was reported at 1.127 EUR/GBP in Nov 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 1.120 EUR/GBP for Oct 2018. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Euro data is updated monthly, averaging 1.343 EUR/GBP from Jan 1999 (Median) to Nov 2018, with 239 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1.717 EUR/GBP in Apr 2000 and a record low of 1.034 EUR/GBP in Dec 2008. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Euro data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bank of England. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.M007: Foreign Exchange Rates.

The benchmark interest rate in the United Kingdom was last recorded at 4.25 percent. This dataset provides - United Kingdom Interest Rate - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Monthly Avg: South African Rand data was reported at 18.178 ZAR/GBP in Nov 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 18.857 ZAR/GBP for Oct 2018. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Monthly Avg: South African Rand data is updated monthly, averaging 7.246 ZAR/GBP from Jan 1975 (Median) to Nov 2018, with 527 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 23.507 ZAR/GBP in Jan 2016 and a record low of 1.424 ZAR/GBP in Nov 1976. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Monthly Avg: South African Rand data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bank of England. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.M007: Foreign Exchange Rates.

United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Hong Kong data was reported at 9.985 HKD/GBP in Oct 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 10.205 HKD/GBP for Sep 2018. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Hong Kong data is updated monthly, averaging 12.117 HKD/GBP from Jan 1977 (Median) to Oct 2018, with 502 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 16.101 HKD/GBP in Oct 2007 and a record low of 7.958 HKD/GBP in Feb 1977. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Hong Kong data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bank of England. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.M007: Foreign Exchange Rates.

In May 2025, global inflation rates and central bank interest rates showed significant variation across major economies. Most economies initiated interest rate cuts from mid-2024 due to declining inflationary pressures. The U.S., UK, and EU central banks followed a consistent pattern of regular rate reductions throughout late 2024. In early 2025, Russia maintained the highest interest rate at 20 percent, while Japan retained the lowest at 0.5 percent. Varied inflation rates across major economies The inflation landscape varies considerably among major economies. China had the lowest inflation rate at -0.1 percent in May 2025. In contrast, Russia maintained a high inflation rate of 9.9 percent. These figures align with broader trends observed in early 2025, where China had the lowest inflation rate among major developed and emerging economies, while Russia's rate remained the highest. Central bank responses and economic indicators Central banks globally implemented aggressive rate hikes throughout 2022-23 to combat inflation. The European Central Bank exemplified this trend, raising rates from 0 percent in January 2022 to 4.5 percent by September 2023. A coordinated shift among major central banks began in mid-2024, with the ECB, Bank of England, and Federal Reserve initiating rate cuts, with forecasts suggesting further cuts through 2025 and 2026.

Foreign Exchange Reserves in the United Kingdom increased to 203483 USD Million in May from 200944 USD Million in April of 2025. This dataset provides - United Kingdom Foreign Exchange Reserves - actual values, historical data, forecast, chart, statistics, economic calendar and news.

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Foreign Exchange Market Size 2025-2029

The foreign exchange market size is forecast to increase by USD 582 billion, at a CAGR of 10.6% between 2024 and 2029.

The Foreign Exchange Market is segmented by type (reporting dealers, financial institutions, non-financial customers), trade finance instruments (currency swaps, outright forward and FX swaps, FX options), trading platforms (electronic trading, over-the-counter (OTC), mobile trading), and geography (North America: US, Canada; Europe: Germany, Switzerland, UK; Middle East and Africa: UAE; APAC: China, India, Japan; South America: Brazil; Rest of World). This segmentation reflects the market's global dynamics, driven by institutional trading, increasing digital adoption through electronic trading and mobile trading, and regional economic activities, with APAC markets like India and China showing significant growth alongside traditional hubs like the US and UK.
The market is experiencing significant shifts driven by the escalating trends of urbanization and digitalization. These forces are creating 24x7 trading opportunities, enabling greater accessibility and convenience for market participants. However, the market's dynamics are not without challenges. The uncertainty of future exchange rates poses a formidable obstacle for businesses and investors alike, necessitating robust risk management strategies. As urbanization continues to expand and digital technologies reshape the trading landscape, market players must adapt to remain competitive. One significant trend is the increasing use of money transfer agencies, venture capital investments, and mutual funds in foreign exchange transactions. Companies seeking to capitalize on these opportunities must navigate the challenges effectively, ensuring they stay abreast of exchange rate fluctuations and implement agile strategies to mitigate risk.
The ability to adapt and respond to these market shifts will be crucial for success in the evolving market.

What will be the Size of the Foreign Exchange Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2019-2023 and forecasts 2025-2029 - in the full report.
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In the dynamic and intricate realm of the market, entities such as algorithmic trading, order book, order management systems, and liquidity risk intertwine, shaping the ever-evolving market landscape. The market's continuous unfolding is characterized by the integration of various components, including sentiment analysis, Fibonacci retracement, mobile trading, and good-for-the-day orders. Market activities are influenced by factors like political stability, monetary policy, and market liquidity, which in turn impact economic growth and trade settlement. Technical analysis, with its focus on chart patterns and moving averages, plays a crucial role in informing trading decisions. The market's complexity is further amplified by the presence of entities like credit risk, counterparty risk, and operational risk.

Central bank intervention, order execution, clearing and settlement, and trade confirmation are essential components of the market's infrastructure, ensuring a seamless exchange of currencies. Geopolitical risk, currency correlation, and inflation rates contribute to currency volatility, necessitating hedging strategies and risk management. Market risk, interest rate differentials, and commodity currencies influence trading strategies, while cross-border payments and brokerage services facilitate international trade. The ongoing evolution of the market is marked by the emergence of advanced trading platforms, automated trading, and real-time data feeds, enabling traders to make informed decisions in an increasingly interconnected and complex global economy.

How is this Foreign Exchange Industry segmented?

The foreign exchange industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Type

  Reporting dealers
  Financial institutions
  Non-financial customers


Trade Finance Instruments

  Currency swaps
  Outright forward and FX swaps
  FX options


Trading Platforms

  Electronic Trading
  Over-the-Counter (OTC)
  Mobile Trading


Geography

  North America

    US
    Canada


  Europe

    Germany
    Switzerland
    UK


  Middle East and Africa

    UAE


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  South America

    Brazil


  Rest of World (ROW)

By Type Insights

The reporting dealers segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is a dynamic and complex ecosystem where various entities interplay to manage currency risks and facilitate international trade. Reporting dealers, as key participants,

Foreign Exchange Rate: BCB: Bid: against Maldivian Rufiyaa data was reported at 0.247 BRL/MVR in Jun 2019. This records a decrease from the previous number of 0.254 BRL/MVR for May 2019. Foreign Exchange Rate: BCB: Bid: against Maldivian Rufiyaa data is updated monthly, averaging 0.169 BRL/MVR from Jul 1998 (Median) to Jun 2019, with 246 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 0.330 BRL/MVR in Sep 2002 and a record low of 0.099 BRL/MVR in Jul 1998. Foreign Exchange Rate: BCB: Bid: against Maldivian Rufiyaa data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Central Bank of Brazil. The data is categorized under Brazil Premium Database’s Interest and Foreign Exchange Rates – Table BR.MG002: Foreign Exchange Rate: Central Bank of Brazil.

United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Monthly Avg: New Zealand Dollar data was reported at 1.991 NZD/GBP in Oct 2018. This records an increase from the previous number of 1.980 NZD/GBP for Sep 2018. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Monthly Avg: New Zealand Dollar data is updated monthly, averaging 2.499 NZD/GBP from Jan 1975 (Median) to Oct 2018, with 526 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3.624 NZD/GBP in Oct 2000 and a record low of 1.698 NZD/GBP in Oct 1976. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Monthly Avg: New Zealand Dollar data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bank of England. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.M007: Foreign Exchange Rates.

United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Danish Kroner data was reported at 8.359 DKK/GBP in Oct 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 8.373 DKK/GBP for Sep 2018. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Danish Kroner data is updated monthly, averaging 10.916 DKK/GBP from Jan 1975 (Median) to Oct 2018, with 526 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 15.461 DKK/GBP in Jan 1981 and a record low of 7.698 DKK/GBP in Dec 2008. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Danish Kroner data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bank of England. The data is categorized under Global Database’s UK – Table UK.M007: Foreign Exchange Rates.

United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Monthly Avg: Euro data was reported at 1.171 GBP/EUR in Apr 2025. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1.194 GBP/EUR for Mar 2025. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Monthly Avg: Euro data is updated monthly, averaging 1.208 GBP/EUR from Jan 1999 (Median) to Apr 2025, with 316 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 1.700 GBP/EUR in Oct 2000 and a record low of 1.087 GBP/EUR in Mar 2009. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: Monthly Avg: Euro data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bank of England. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.M007: Foreign Exchange Rates.

United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: New Zealand Dollar data was reported at 1.940 NZD/GBP in Oct 2018. This records a decrease from the previous number of 1.967 NZD/GBP for Sep 2018. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: New Zealand Dollar data is updated monthly, averaging 2.497 NZD/GBP from Jan 1975 (Median) to Oct 2018, with 526 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 3.670 NZD/GBP in Aug 1992 and a record low of 1.669 NZD/GBP in Oct 1976. United Kingdom Sterling Exchange Rate: New Zealand Dollar data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by Bank of England. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.M007: Foreign Exchange Rates.