Market Brief: July 24, 2026

The British Pound remains under pressure despite better-than-expected retail sales data, while tensions in the Middle East continue to support oil prices. Meanwhile, European economic indicators are in focus as traders look for signs of economic momentum.

What's on the calendar

Today, several key economic indicators are set to be released across Europe. In the UK, retail sales for June surprised on the upside, rising by 1.0% month-over-month, defying expectations of a decline. Looking ahead, the Eurozone will release its Flash Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) data, with France and Germany's manufacturing and services sectors under the spotlight. These indicators are expected to show slight improvements from previous readings. The UK will also release its Flash Manufacturing and Services PMIs later in the morning.

What's moving

The British Pound is struggling near three-week lows against the US Dollar, trading around 1.3300, despite the unexpected rise in retail sales. This suggests that broader market dynamics, possibly including global risk aversion and central bank expectations, are weighing on the currency.

In the commodities market, Brent crude oil prices have surged past $100 per barrel due to escalating tensions in the Middle East, which threaten supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea. This geopolitical risk is keeping oil prices elevated despite other market pressures.

Bottom line

Today's market is shaped by a mix of economic data and geopolitical tensions. While the UK retail sales data provided a positive surprise, the British Pound remains weak, highlighting broader market concerns. Meanwhile, oil prices are buoyed by Middle East tensions, underscoring the impact of geopolitical factors on commodity markets.

This brief is a snapshot of public commentary at the time of writing — not financial advice.